Because of pandemic restrictions on travel, the holidays will likely take place close to home this year, perhaps inside next to a tree trimmed to perfection, maybe with some pets lounging in the warmth of a cozy fire.
On Prince Edward Island – we can say “on the Island” now that the Atlantic Bubble has burst - a saunter through any of the major stores will supply a tree and a complete set of colour co-ordinated ornaments if that’s your jam. Similarly, a wardrobe refresh is as close as a trip to the malls and large stores in Charlottetown or Summerside.
But locally-owned shops have what it takes, too. Spots like the Little Black Dress in Summerside can help put together a festive outfit or two to help you feel festive. The consignment shop on Water Street recycles top-notch clothing for women and men and offers one-on-one fashion consultations by appointment.
Owners Shawna Perry and stylist Chalene Merrett have assembled two from-day-to-night holiday looks. Each look comes in at less than $200, including accessories and skincare.
“Not only do these pieces look great paired as we have them, but they are closet staples and would work well with so many other complimentary items you may already have in your closet,” said Perry.
Perry also featured a range of sizes; the jeans are a 26, while the dress is size 14. And because Little Black Dress is a consignment shop, every outfit will be unique.
“Everything is one of a kind,” said Perry. “Chances of showing up at a holiday dinner wearing the same dress as someone else is extremely unlikely when you shop consignment."
Perry also features local artisans in her shop and included items from Jaxon Natural skincare and Enchanted Rose Creations jewelry.
For the trees
Speaking of ornamentation – how to dress a tree?
Nancy Lopes at Cottage Industry says it’s a personal preference.
“Gauge what your style already is,” said Lopes.
The Charlottetown shop features three full-size trees, each resplendent in a different theme. Nautical decorations greet customers at the door on a tree covered in sea-stars and delicate glass whales.
In a nook near the rug samples is a tree covered in fluffy wool animals marching up and down the branches – a 2020 trend, she says, “everybody is carrying them."
Lopes’ favourite tree is next to a living room suite of white leather sitting on a cloudy grey rug. The tree is twinkling with mini lights. Garlands of birch-bark stars dance between larger wood and bark stars, balls painted with happy penguins, and large matte gold and silver musical bells hung on jute ropes. Here and there are glass stars, edged in brass foil.
Customer Darla Gallant was shopping for a few holiday items.
Christmas style to her means white lights, sparkle and twinkle, and some glitter.
For her home, she anticipates a rustic feel for the season.
“This year, I feel a more woodsy decor, probably because we’ve been in (so much),” she said.
Don't forget the pets
At Blue Ribbon Pet Supply, owner Colin Scales wanted to do something a bit extra special for the holidays and brought in some tempting treats for the first time.
S’mores, lumps of coal, organic gingerbread, and fancy iced cookies are all specially made for dogs.
For your feline friends, a felted red wool Santa-hat-shaped cat house is ready for a furry napper.
To Scales, Christmas looks like a happy warm pet and he has a lot of coats and treats to help keep them cozy.
“Have fun, especially this year,” said Scales.
