It's a short drive, with plentiful, free parking, so why not shop St. Albert's downtown for your Christmas gifts? From decadent chocolates to jewelry, clothing and books, you'll likely find a unique gift for everyone on your list along and around historic Perron Street.
At Candy Bouquet, owners Gisele Sinclair and Kathie Fisher create assortments of candies, fine chocolates and gummies in sweet bouquet arrangements – perfect for at home centrepieces, corporate functions and Christmas parties. Small, festive ceramic containers or large, candy-filled tubs – small at about $45 to $67 for large – can be customized to suit any taste, according to Sinclair. Whether that is all chocolate or half sugar-free, they can help match whatever the preference.
The $3 candy-filled Christmas treat bags are likewise a popular item at this time of year, especially for children’s gifts at the office party, or as stocking stuffers at home.
“We've been downtown for 13 years, and Christmas-time is always busy. And who doesn't love a little chocolate?” Sinclair said.
Interest in new age pursuits – mind, body, spirit – has grown tremendously over the years, and longtime downtown business Crimson Quill has grown along with it. Offered at price points for all budgets – from herbal and green teas to artisan jewelry, high-end leather-bound journals, new-age crystals, statues, books and music – the products at Crimson Quill are well-loved by loyal and new customers.
“Shoppers tell me they love the smell of my store,” laughed owner Deb McGee, pointing to the incense and soaps. “All the Christmas stock is in, so now is the best time to shop.”
Looking for Snowpinions – the wee snowman keepsakes, armed with a written opinion, of course – or the latest offering from cult favourite Thug Kitchen? For three generations, the family-owned and run Bookstore on Perron has offered the best in books and giftware. At Christmas the store can be a one-stop shop: Alberta-made Rocky Mountain Soaps – this year, it's the limited edition sugar plum and vanilla candy cane hand and body wash – sport books by hockey players of old – Gordie Howe, Don Cherry, Grant Fuhr – woodsy home decor, perennial child favourites such as the Elf on the Shelf – book with plush toy – and even edible cards for the family dog –made of 100 per cent natural rawhide.
“We hope December is good and crazy,” said store sales manager Angela Chatwin. “People don't realize we carry some of these sought-after products – like the Thug kitchen cookbook – it's a little racy, but so funny to read even if you don't cook.”
For those who love to linger under the mistletoe, Chatwin points to Kissing Krystals – beautiful and decorative glass balls with mistletoe accents and attached messages wishing strength, peace and health. “It's a lovely gift between husband and wife or two friends,” she said.
The Bookstore on Perron also supports local, including the trilogy from St. Albert author Corinne Jeffery – Arriving, Thriving, Choosing – about the pioneer life on the Canadian prairie.
