The holiday season is finally upon us, and whether you love it or abhor it, Christmas shopping is undoubtedly in your near future. Rather than spending hours at a crowded mall, try exploring some of these unique and local stores in Clarington this holiday season. Not only will you be supporting local businesses, but these stores may have exactly what you’ve been looking for to surprise and spoil your loved ones this Christmas.
1. Rosemary Jenkins Pottery:
Rosemary Jenkins creates unique pottery pieces that are functional and beautiful. Mainly open by appointment (don’t let this deter you!), her store is located in Enniskillen and she has beautiful pottery pieces and paintings to explore. To view her pieces online visit www.rosemaryjenkinspottery.ca.
2. Timeless Essentials:
Located in Enniskillen, Timeless Essentials specializes in natural and handmade bath and body care products. They use a high-quality glycerin base combined with natural pigments and essential oils to create beautiful and affordable soaps. They also have a completely scent and colour-free line for sensitive folks. Visit their website at www.timelessessentials.ca.
3. Orono General Store:
The Orono General Store is the perfect place to purchase your Christmas treats and goodies this holiday season. With a wide variety of items, from butter tarts and pies to traditional candy, I am confident that you can find something to satisfy the sweet tooth on your Christmas list. They also offer a variety of gluten-free options for those with wheat allergies. Visit them at 5331 Main Street in Orono.
4. Van Belle Flowers & Gifts:
Van Belle Flowers & Gifts has a wide array of Christmas presents for you to peruse this holiday season. Gourmet gift baskets, home décor, seasonal gifts, and women’s apparel and accessories are just the beginning. Van Belle Flowers & Gifts is celebrating over 50 years of business in Clarington and is your perfect one-stop shop this Christmas season. Visit them at www.vanbelleflowers.com or visit them in Bowmanville.
5. A Gift of Art:
Located in Newcastle, A Gift of Art is a local gathering place for artists where they can display and sell their work, as well as offer lessons to aspiring artists. Whether you want to purchase an artistic creation for someone on your list or give the gift of art lessons, A Gift of Art is sure to have the perfect present for your aspiring artist. Visit www.agiftof-art.com to learn more or stop by their location at 187 King Avenue.
6. Bella’s Special Teas:
Nearly everyone has a tea lover on their Christmas list and Bella’s Special Teas is the ideal place to shop for them, with a wide variety of green, black and herbal teas. Located on Silver Street in Bowmanville, Bella’s Special Teas specializes in luxury and organic teas that will impress even the most discerning of tea drinkers. To view a full list of their products visit http://www.bellasteas.com.
7. Country Chic Shabby Chic Vintage Boutique:
A unique combination of country, vintage collectibles and shabby chic influences, this boutique is sure to have a one-of-a kind present for everyone on your Christmas list. Owner Rhonda Melanson adds her own special touch to recycled country home furniture and décor to create unique and distinctive pieces. Visit her website http://countrychicbowmanvile.blogspot.ca or visit the store in person on Bragg Rd. in Bowmanville.
8. Gather:
Located in the heart of downtown Bowmanville, Gather is the perfect place to shop for the fashionista on your Christmas list. Specializing in unique styles and fashion designs, you can also find jewelry, accessories, gifts and toys. They also have an in-house brand that is designed by the owner and made locally. Stop by the store to check out their new styles or visit them at www.facebook.com/gathergoodthings.
9. Violet Door Books and Gifts:
Violet Door Books and Gifts started out as just a bookstore and has grown into much more. Containing a variety of new and used books (they can special order books not in stock), they also offer locally made items including body care, honey, jewelry and hand-knit scarves – not to mention numerous products specializing in health and wellbeing. Visit them at www.violetdoor.com or at 185 Church St. in Bowmanville.
10. Hoopers Jewellers:
Looking for something that shimmers and sparkles this Christmas season? Hoopers Jewellers is the perfect place to buy a gift for that special someone in your life. Family owned and committed to offering exceptional service and fair prices, visit them at 39 King St. West in Bowmanville or view their website at http://www.hoopersjewellers.com.
Best of luck in your Christmas shopping endeavors. Merry Christmas!
