Small Stores Give Big

The best gifts come in small packages, and so do the best retail experiences. This holiday season, get out of the big-box stores during Ciao! magazine’s annual Boutique Week!

From Dec. 5-14, Boutique Week retailers will be offering special promotions, discounts, gifts and treats that are sure to brighten your festive spirit while shopping. Shop at any retailer at The Forks and receive a free gift with a purchase over $25. As part of this shopping event, Boutique Week shoppers can enter a draw for a Grand Prize Shopping Spree provided by all participating stores.

“Neighbourhood stores are what give each city its local flavour,” says Ciao! publisher Laurie Hughes. “The dedication to high-quality products and service is a reflection of Winnipeg’s passionate local retailers.”

Hop on board a VIP shopping tour on Dec 5, 6, 11, and 12, and avoid the hassle of driving and parking. Tours begin with a wine and hors d’oeuvres reception at The Forks, swag bags included!

For more information and a list of participating retailers, go to ciaowinnipeg.com. 

Eaton's Fairytale Vignettes

Many Winnipeggers share a favourite Christmas memory that involves a shopping trip to Eaton’s and a visit to the 9th floor annex to gaze with wonder at the Eaton’s Fairytale Vignettes.

When Eaton’s closed its doors in 1999 a private citizen ensured the relocation of the delicate and delightful vignettes. Many non-profits were interested in the display but the Eaton’s Fairytale Vignettes were eventually donated to the Children’s Museum.

Now over 13 years later you can fall in love with the vignettes again at the Children’s Museum located at 45 Forks Market Road in Winnipeg. They are on display until January 5, 2014 and the display is free with a Children’s Museum admission.

Sleeping Beauty

Snapshots of the vignettes do not do them justice.  Walking through the displays and pushing the little button that activates their motors is a walk down memory lane.  These detailed and vibrant vignettes have been part of Winnipeggers’ hearts for over 40 years, however, the actual age of the vignettes is unknown.  

Cinderella

The Elves and the Shoemaker

Although the vignettes are old and their movements seem chunky the experience at the Children's Museum feels the same way it did when they were on display at Eaton's.

Little Red Riding Hood

Old Mother Hubbard

Rumpelstiltskin

Three Blind Mice

The Emperor and the Nightingale

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

The Eaton’s Fairytale Vignettes were refurbished and restored in 2006 and again in 2010.  The vignettes might look simple but maintaining the motors, displays, and dolls is a large task. Thankfully community support has allowed the vignettes to continue, hopefully, for years to come.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

The Owl and The Pussycat

Displays not pictured include: Rub-A-Dub-Dub, Humpty Dumpty, The Little Match Girl, Goldilocks and the Three Bears, and Hansel and Gretel.