There’s a kind of magic that lives in a small Christmas shop. It’s not just about what’s on the shelves—it’s about what’s in the air. The smell of fresh pine, the sound of soft holiday music, the laughter of families searching for just the right ornament. That’s the kind of magic you can’t mass-produce, package, or put on sale in a warehouse store.

Running a holiday shop has been part of my life for more than two decades. It started as an extension of my family’s tree farm, which goes back four generations. We’ve been planting, growing, and harvesting Christmas trees long before I was old enough to hold a pair of gloves properly. But opening the Christmas shop brought something different into the experience—something more personal, more creative, and more connected to the people who walk through our doors.

More Than Just a Shop

People often ask me what it’s like to run a seasonal business—especially one so tied to tradition. And the truth is, it’s not just a shop. It’s a feeling. When people come to visit us, they aren’t just shopping for decorations. They’re looking for a moment. A memory. A spark of nostalgia or a new tradition to start with their kids.

There’s something deeply emotional about the holidays, and I see it in every interaction. A grandparent picking out an ornament that reminds them of their childhood. A mom choosing stockings for her baby’s first Christmas. A teenager laughing over silly gnomes with their siblings. These aren’t transactions. These are stories being written in real time.

That’s what sets small shops apart. We’re not just selling a product—we’re part of someone’s tradition. We’re part of their holiday.

The Personal Touch Still Matters

In a world of one-click purchases and overnight shipping, small businesses have had to fight hard to stay relevant. I get it—convenience is king these days. But what you gain in speed, you often lose in soul.

At our shop, we take time to wrap gifts with care. We remember repeat customers by name. We help people find just the right piece for that awkward mantle or that hard-to-shop-for aunt. And when something goes wrong, we’re here to fix it. No customer service line, no ticket number—just real people who care.

That kind of personal connection might not always be flashy, but it’s lasting. People come back because they feel seen. They feel valued. And in today’s world, that’s becoming more and more rare.

Handmade, Heartfelt, and Homegrown

One of my favorite parts of curating the shop is choosing pieces that feel real. I love finding handmade items—ornaments crafted by local artists, hand-poured candles, knitted scarves. These are items with stories behind them. And I’m proud to support other makers and small businesses through the products I offer.

There’s beauty in imperfection. In the slight curve of a hand-carved wooden angel. In the brushstrokes of a painted ornament. These little details are what make a home feel lived-in and loved, especially during the holidays. When you buy something from a small shop, you’re not just decorating your house—you’re honoring craftsmanship, time, and care.

Tradition in a Changing World

Running a holiday shop isn’t easy. Every year brings new challenges—weather, economy, shifting trends. And with so many big-box stores and online giants in the game, it can feel like an uphill battle. But I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

There’s a reason people still seek out places like ours. In a world that moves too fast, small holiday shops offer a pause. A breath. A chance to slow down and remember what this season is really about.

It’s not about having the biggest tree or the most lights. It’s about connection. Family. Comfort. And joy. Those things don’t come in a box with a barcode. They come from moments. And that’s what we try to create every day we’re open.

Why We Keep Going

I’ve faced my share of setbacks over the years—personally and professionally. Life doesn’t always go as planned. But this shop, and the people who walk through it, have been a source of strength and purpose. Every season, I’m reminded why I do this. Every kind word, every smile, every “this is perfect!” from a customer—it all adds up. It makes the hard work worth it.

I also think about the example I’m setting. For my daughters. For young women who want to start something of their own. For anyone who’s ever felt like their little idea couldn’t make a big impact. The truth is, small businesses do make an impact—every single day.

We build community. We support families. We give back. We create jobs. And yes, we make magic.

If you’ve ever wondered whether small shops still matter in this big, fast-moving world, I’m here to tell you—they do. More than ever. We may not be able to offer same-day shipping, but we offer something better: connection, care, and a little bit of Christmas magic.

So this year, when you’re picking out a gift or looking for something special, consider visiting a small holiday shop. Step inside, breathe in the scent of pine, and let yourself feel the warmth of something real. Because behind every handmade ornament, behind every smiling face at the counter, there’s a story—and a person—who’s poured their heart into making your season bright.

And that, to me, is what the holidays are all about.