Christmas Spirit Shines Year-Round at Bonavista Store

In Bonavista, Newfoundland, a unique retail experience awaits those who cherish the festive season. Gina Little has transformed her love for Christmas into a thriving business with the establishment of Christmas 1497 Bonavista Inc., a shop dedicated to all things Christmas, open every day of the year. Three years since its inception, the store has become a beloved destination for both locals and tourists seeking to immerse themselves in holiday cheer.

Visitors to the store can expect to experience the spirit of Christmas regardless of the month. “When you come in here — if you come in July, you come in February — you’re getting the Christmas spirit,” Little shared during an interview with CBC Radio’s The St. John’s Morning Show. The store plays festive music year-round, creating an atmosphere that some may find unusual, but Little’s staff embraces it wholeheartedly. “The ladies that work for me are fantastic. They don’t complain about the music,” she noted.

Capturing the Essence of Christmas

Christmas 1497 offers a diverse range of decorations and gifts, each appealing to different tastes and budgets. Little remarked on the nostalgic connection many customers feel, stating that certain items remind them of past holidays with family. “The vintage ones are I think my favourite,” she said, highlighting their popularity. Bows have also emerged as a favored choice this season, with Little encouraging customers to express their personal style. “If you love the reds and golds? Go for it. If you love the pinks and greens, there’s so much different variety that you can do,” she advised.

The store attracts a wide array of visitors from across the globe. Little expressed her joy in seeing customers leave with a smile, especially those who come in feeling down. “We have a lot of repeat customers. I love the people that come in, and they’re having a hard day, and they listen to a bit of Christmas music and go around, and they tell me they feel better when they leave,” she said.

A Dream Realized

Little’s journey to open a Christmas store was fueled by her passion and a long-standing dream. Initially uncertain about the viability of such a niche business in Bonavista, she ultimately decided to pursue her vision. “The way our town has grown in the last 10 years, with online now being accessible, I thought I’d give it a shot,” she reflected.

While Little has experienced success, she acknowledges the challenges of operating a year-round Christmas shop, especially during the off-season. “Any new business starting up, it’s a struggle anyway, but especially when you do a unique store that’s year round,” she explained. Despite these hurdles, she remains optimistic and committed to making her venture work, stating, “It’s very hard, but we’re making it work so far and I’m open to continuing to make it work.”

As more consumers seek local shopping options, Little hopes her store can continue to spread holiday joy beyond the traditional season. With a blend of nostalgia, unique offerings, and a welcoming atmosphere, Christmas 1497 Bonavista Inc. stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Christmas spirit.