Local shops get into the spirit of the season

Babar En Ville, located on Greene Ave. is among the many merchants looking to make the holiday shopping that much easier.

As they are celebrating their second anniversary throughout the month of December, shoppers will be treated to a wide variety of sales throughout the store. One of the biggest sellers this season is perfect for Star Wars fans, both young and old. It is the Star Wars Guide to the Galaxy, a beautifully engineered paper pop-up book that takes readers on an incredible journey.

Maya Byers at Babar also makes sure there is something unique in her store. During the holidays, one corner of the shop is completely dedicated to fair-trade products. This year’s selection includes hand-knit toys from Kenya and beautiful crafted Christmas ornaments from South Africa.

“I like to support fair trade. We are one of the only stores doing it on Greene Avenue,” Byers said.

At Courval Lingerie, there is less of a Christmas theme in their products.

“The holidays for us are from Christmas right until Valentine’s Day,” said Vanessa Brott.

She noted that this season, lounge wear is the ideal gift for moms, wives and girlfriends. It is one of their biggest sellers, and something that every woman can enjoy. Another great gift choice is one of their warm polar housecoats for those long winter nights.

If lingerie and lounge wear is not up your alley, L’Esprit du Sud on Victoria has unique jewellery from Provence. It is the only store in Canada to carry the pieces. The store also offers skin care and bath products by Côté Bastide, which for your convenience, can be gift wrapped in a basket. There is something distinctive for everyone.

Other hot gifts this season are not for humans at all; they are for the four-legged family members.

Little Bear, on Ste. Catherine Street, corner Greene Avenue, is experiencing their busiest season of the year. They carry dog clothing, toys and specialty products. With over 60 styles of dog coats, there is something for everyone’s dog from Chihuahua to Great Dane. Custom fittings are possible.

“We see 30 to 40 dogs a day, trying on coats,” said Chuck Altman, who has been running the store for the last five years.

They also sell toques for humans, which proceeds from the sales go to support breast cancer research.

If you cannot make it down to the store during this busy season, their web site is updated frequently and orders can be made online at www.littlebear.ca.

Even if you do not have a dog, dog gifts are a hot trend this season. “A lot of people are tired of bringing a bottle of wine to someone’s house.” Altman suggests bringing something for the host dog instead.

Evelyn Couture at Bark and Fitz cannot agree more. “What better gift to give someone who has everything than a gift for their dog?”

Along with clothing, Bark and Fitz offers holiday cookie gift boxes, already wrapped up. It has been one of the most sold gifts so far.

If one wants to give the gift of charity this season, Bark and Fitz is also hosting a fund raiser this Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. For $25 your dog or cat can have their picture taken with Santa Claus. The photographs are 5 by 7, professionally done and in colour. Proceeds go to the SPCA Monteregie, a local non-kill shelter.

Couture suggests that if you want to participate at the event, you will need to make an appointment by calling 514-483-3555. There are still spots available.

There are lots of places in Westmount to get unique and hot holiday gifts this season. It’s time to get out there and start shopping.