We are nearing the holiday season and Port Alberni is home to a wide range of local shops, boutiques, gift and specialty stores for all your shopping needs. The road closure this past summer has had a lot of people reflecting that everything we need is right here in our Valley. It’s not essential for people to travel out of town to do holiday shopping or treat themselves to some new wardrobe pieces. When you choose to shop small, you are directly impacting and supporting local families in our community.

Gayles:

Gayles Fashions has recently celebrated their 40-year anniversary this past Fall! This fashion-forward boutique is owned and operated by a fabulous mother-daughter duo who have a keen eye for style and exceptional customer service. Shopping at Gayles is like having your own personal shopper curate your wardrobe by helping you pick out pieces that complement and make you feel good. Gayles has a wonderful range of clothing from casual to dressy with lots of unique pieces for all personalities.

Bronze and Blush:

Bronze and Blush is a beautiful new boutique store in the heart of North Port. Owned and operated by one of our famous local bakers (Terrie of Mountain View Bakery), Blush and Bronze is the perfect little shop for all your gifting needs. Blush and Bronze specialize in glamorous, one-of-a-kind dresses, timeless children and baby clothing as well as luxury candles, body products and so much more. This is definitely a small shop with a big presence!

Klubhouse For Kids:

Klubhouse has been a premium children’s clothing and toy shop since 2003. Port Alberni has watched this little store evolve over the years but one thing has always stayed the same – excellent customer service and warm staff that truly care for the children and families of our Valley. Every nook of this shop displays essentials and luxuries from newborn until age 8. Included on their shelves are dress-up costumes, books, learning toys and a large selection of the famous, must-have Jellycat stuffed toys.

McLellan & Co.:

McLellan & Co. is a brand new addition to our shoppable storefronts in the Valley but has been a well-known brand for several years. Owner Meagan has been running a popular market where, alongside other local vendors, showcased her expertise in home décor. This past September, McLellan & Co. officially opened up their boutique which features upscale décor, kitchenware, apparel and self-care items. McLellan & Co. is an excellent spot for special gifts but also the perfect place to purchase a little something for yourself or your home.

Boundless Beauty:

Boundless Beauty is a brilliant clothing boutique dedicated to curvy women and maternity. Since 2016, Boundless Beauty has offered trendy and affordable plus-sized clothing up to 6X. The ladies in-store are dedicated to making women feel comfortable and confident in their shopping experience by assisting with style recommendations. Boundless Beauty also offers a range of quality, plus-sized consignment pieces in store. Whether you are looking to dress up or down, this boutique has got you covered from dresses to swimwear and accessories.

Witchy Woman Supply Co.:

Witchy Woman Supply Co. has transformed from a homemade candle business to a tiny shop in the Harbour Quay into a funky gift shop at the corner of 3^rd and Argyle. There is a little of everything in this unique store which features gifts, clothing and additions from various local artists. Witchy Woman Supply Co. prides themselves on new products arriving weekly, and a friendly, inclusive shopping experience.

Port Alberni is known to radically promote local business, there are so many more we could add to the list and we will include them in a future post. It’s amazing how many small shops are popping up every year, each with their own special spin on shopping in the Valley. Shopping small has a big impact on our community, keep it local this holiday season.

Written by: Stephanie Wakelin