Only 10 more shopping days ‘til Christmas, but if you live in Lake Oswego, there is no need to panic. From stocking stuffers to getting your gift wrapped, local retailers have you covered. Last week I focused on gift shops in the downtown core. This week, I’ll take you out and about Lake Oswego. Discover the treasures that lie right in our own backyards right here in Lake Oswego. And discover the difference in shopping local where small business owners do more than try to make a sale—they try to make a friend who will come back again.
PAPER CAPER. Owner Suzanne Roberts emphasizes service, fun and the unusual in her card and gift selection. Stocking stuffers abound including an entire bacon-lover’s themed section complete with gummy bacon and bacon toothpaste to bacon mints and gumballs. The Lego head lamp is a popular choice for kids and the Frasier Fir aromatic collection of candles and soaps with their heralded ‘smell of Christmas’ fit the bill for the perfect hostess gift. Behind the scenes, Roberts employs two employees eight hours a day to custom wrap gift packages for customers. Customers buy the wrapping paper at her shop, and her elves go to work, creating works of art that double as gifts. 16829 SW 65th Avenue in the South Lake Center, Lake Oswego. (503) 620-9460. http://www.facebook.com/PaperCaperLakeOswego
PASHA BOUTIQUE Owner Heidi Schultz sets out to offer distinctive fashion and gift ideas for women at reasonable prices. In addition to clothing, you’ll find home décor and fashion accessories, many crafted by local artists such as painter Blenda Tyvoll and 14 year-old jewelry designer Tatiana Dyler. For the holiday-minded there are Mod Candy Cane glasses and not-your-ordinary Santa hats. 101 S. State Street, #140G, Lake Oswego. (503) 636-0120. https://www.shoppasha.com/catalog/
PASTICHE FRAME SHOP AND GALLERY. Ramona Martinson’s store is for the adventurous shopper who likes fun surprises. Walking into this eclectic mix of repurposed and new home décor and gift items, you can rest assured the person on your gift list is going to receive something unique. Popular items so far this season include glass lanterns, vintage ornaments and a wide selection of Santas. 16780 Bryant Rd., Lake Oswego. (503) 636-0208.
WESTLAKE GIFTS. In the current economy, owner Cathy Kusler finds her customers spending more time at home with family and friends so she has stocked her card and gift shop with items catering to that trend. If you’re hosting a holiday get-together, check out the musical European party style crackers or cocktail napkins that say, “I’ll be home for Christmas (and in therapy the day after).” Looking for something to do with your kids? Ravensburger jigsaw puzzles are in high demand. There are plenty of choices for tailoring your gift to your recipient. Take your pick from Beaver and Duck serving dishes, ornaments and playing cards. Someone stuck in a job they hate because of the recession? How about the book, 50 Jobs Worse Than Yours to make him feel better. Woof ‘n Poof plush characters are perfect for the person who loves to decorate for the holidays and Kusler offers a wide selection. 14535 SW Westlake Drive, Suite C, Lake Oswego. (503) 684-2535.
YOURS TRULY PERSONALIZED GIFTS. Steve and Shirley Weiss look like elves at work, embroidering one of their hottest holiday gifts—personalized Christmas stockings. Promising a quick turnaround of two-three days, they can put the message or initials you want on just about any metal, glass or fabric. From swords to underwear, they’ve done it. When my son played basketball for the Lakeridge Pacers, they embroidered the Lakeridge logo on a Pacer blue tie which he wore on game day. It was a Christmas present hit. Lake Place Center, 333 S. State Street, Suite P, Lake Oswego. (503) 675-7865.
Where’s your go-to place for last minute holiday shopping in Lake Oswego? Spread the word by leaving a comment.
One of my favorite stores is Consigning Women on the corner of McVey and South Shore . . . it’s convenient, classy, and has amazing customer service. I found an awesome Chloe handbag for myself, and a beautiful cashmere scarf for my mom for Christmas!