A unique Christmas emporium filled with handcrafted decorations and festive spirit
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Nestled on the top floor of Cullen Antiques, the Gallimaufry Christmas Shop offers a whimsical escape reminiscent of a festive wonderland. With its towering twiggy angels, charming wine cork reindeer, and oversized bells, this shop is a treasure trove of unique decorations that stand out even among the antiques below.
The creator of this enchanting space, Noreen Phillip, has dedicated over 30 years to crafting unforgettable Christmas experiences.
A journey of festive creativity
Originally from Inverness, Noreen has traveled the globe with her husband, a former Gordon Highlander, gathering inspiration from the best holiday decorations worldwide.
After relocating to Turriff, she decided to channel her extensive experience into creating a magical Christmas atmosphere in the northeast of Scotland. Noreen’s passion for the holiday season is evident, as she recalls a recent customer’s astonished reaction upon entering the shop: “H*** s***!” The sheer beauty and variety of the emporium left her speechless.
Handcrafted treasures and family involvement
This year marks Noreen’s first holiday season in the former Cullen church, and she has transformed the top floor into a vibrant showcase of festive goods sourced from around the world. However, her most popular items are those crafted by her own hands. Noreen specializes in bespoke decorations, including Highland-themed wreaths and quirky ornaments that reflect her unique style. Her creativity knows no bounds, as she often sets up spontaneous workshops at home to create mulled wine spices, cork reindeer, and Christmas oils.
A community affair
The Gallimaufry Christmas Shop has become a family affair, with Noreen’s sister-in-law contributing wax melts, her son crafting bottle openers from whisky staves, and her daughter designing jewelry. This collaborative spirit adds to the shop’s charm, offering a delightful mix of rustic and elegant items that cater to every taste. Noreen cherishes the connections she has made in the community, stating, “When we arrived here, we didn’t know anybody. But now I know loads of people’s faces. So it’s been really special.” Victoria Pearce, operations manager at Cullen Antiques Centre, praises the shop as a fantastic addition to the area, noting its unrivaled offerings in Moray.
The essence of Christmas
Noreen’s love for Christmas is palpable as she gazes at the twinkling fairy lights adorning the shop. Her passion stems from childhood memories of helping her mother create a festive atmosphere in their home. Noreen recalls, “My mum loved Christmas and went into a lot of bother with it. The whole house was always well decorated, and the Christmas table was magnificent.” This tradition of warmth and hospitality continues in her own home, where she transforms the space into a magical setting for her family each year.
Visit Gallimaufry Christmas Shop
The Gallimaufry Christmas Shop is open six days a week from 10 AM to 4 PM, except for Mondays, inviting visitors to experience its enchanting offerings. With its unique blend of handcrafted decorations, festive spirit, and community involvement, the shop promises to be a highlight of the holiday season for all who enter.
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