Funky finds in downtown Riverview
Published Friday July 18th, 2008
Morning Glory has become the place to go for unique and trendy items, from baby shower gifts to Christmas ornaments to home decor
The brightly painted exterior of Morning Glory Giftware & Collectibles, located at 402 Coverdale Road, Riverview, provides a small clue of the visual feast contained within. Inside, the two storey building is full of eclectic giftware and home décor items.
"I'd describe our product as country with a homey motif," says Kelli Stevens, who owns the shop along with her mother, Ruth Phillips.
The mother and daughter team first opened Morning Glory Florals in Stoney Creek in 1996, then moved the business to its current Riverview location in 1997.
Due to Kelli's development of Renaud's disease, which prevented her from being able to work in the refrigerated units where flowers are stored, they discontinued selling flowers in 2003 to concentrate on giftware and collectibles.
Visitors to the shop are greeted by the delightful aroma of scented candles and an artfully arranged visual symphony of unique gifts, rustic home décor items, and a generous assortment of Willow Tree inspirational collectibles.
The upper level of the property contains a Christmas section, a baby section, a bath section, and an area with a large assortment of prints.
"There's something for everyone's taste," says customer Elan Saniga. "I've decorated a lot of peoples' homes with items from Morning Glory."
The upper level has a number of themed rooms including a Christmas room with tree ornaments, wall ornaments, wreaths, candles, mangers, snowmen, and angels; a baby room that offers mugs, teddy bears, plaques, photo frames, and angels; and a bath room featuring candles, starfish, mobiles, plaques, and glass balls.
The remainder of the upstairs contains a selection of decorator art flags, photo frames, and a large array of tasteful framed prints.
On the main level there are metal items such as stars, milk cans, and wall sconces that hold flowers; rustic wood furniture such as stools, cabinets, and benches painted in warm colors; candles; garlands; baskets; a selection of greeting cards; a modest display of jewellery; and a wide assortment of inspirational plaques.
One of the inspiration plaques features a quote by Abraham Lincoln that is one of Kelli's favorites: "Whatever you are . . . be a good one".
This also appears to be her business philosophy.
"We focus on customer service and are known for our friendly staff," says Kelli. "We also offer special touches such as gift-wrapping at no charge." Addition services include preparing fruit baskets and gift baskets.
The majority of customers are from the local area, as well as throughout New Brunswick and the Maritimes.
Morning Glory's suppliers are mostly from the States; however, the rustic painted furniture - which Kelli says is a very popular seller - is from a Maritime supplier. "We're constantly trying to find more local suppliers," says Kelli.
Morning Glory Giftware & Collectibles is open Monday through Saturday and Kelli plans to hold a special Christmas Open House this year from Nov. 6 to 9.
"I have a fun job," says Kelli. "I help people find items that reflect who they are and that they can use to personalize their home."
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