Occasions Gifts Unique

One of Siloam's premier shopping institutions, Occasions Gifts Unique has graced University Street for as long as I've resided here. It's well known and well loved, so I'm sure most of you are already familiar with this fabulous place, but I thought it was certainly worth a review for those of you who are newcomers.

Occasions is the sort of place that transports your mind and senses the moment you enter. For starters, it smells heavenly! And all around, everywhere you look, are treasures galore. I often glance around the shop and think, "So this is how I should decorate!" There are gorgeous vignettes set up along the various passages through the store, each with a different theme and color scheme, offering a myriad of decorating possibilities.


The shop has a wide variety of merchandise, sure to please any discriminating shopper. Some of their best sellers are candles and a variety of diffusers by WoodWick, Trapp Private Gardens and others; hand soaps and lotions by Camille Beckman, AHAVA, Upper Canada Gourmet Kitchen and Cucina; and also jewelry, purses, chic reading glasses, wall art and out-of-this-world paper goods.


They have an extensive baby section with adorable gifts, clothing and accesories. They also have an amazing array of kitchenware- ceramic canister sets, enamelware collanders, casserol dishes and nesting bowls to name a few items. It's the sort of shop that changes all the time and always offers a new treasure to be found. (For you Brides-to-be, Occasions offers Bridal Registries.)


Another customer favorite is the bulk coffee (whole bean or freshly ground). Samples are available for guests while they browse the shop (today's delicious flavor- cinnamon nut swirl). There are numerous flavors to choose from, such as Swiss Chocolate Orange, Cafe Cookie, Gingersnap and Fudge Brownie. Yum!

I have relied upon Occasions for many gift-giving opportunities- not only is their gift selection ideal for finding the perfect gift for just about anyone, but they also offer complimentary gift wrapping. I think this is one of the specialties that Occasions is known for. Their gift wrapping is generous and gorgeous, guaranteeing the gift will be a big hit.


Owner Linda Gregory and manager Valerie Jones have really refined the art of choosing exceptional and tasteful decor and specialty items. They also place a premium on customer satisfaction and care. They truly fulfill Occasions' tagline: "We'll make yours special."


Be on the lookout for Christmas merchandise to arrive in the next few weeks (it's never too soon!), and also make sure to take advantage of the annual Yellow Barn Sale taking place all day Friday and Saturday, October 9th and 10th. The famed Yellow Barn is located out on Dawn Hill Road- just follow the signs from Mt. Olive. The sale offers a wide variety of clearance items, all within the charm of a quaint country farm, complete with horses and loveable dogs. For me, the Occasions Yellow Barn Sale really kicks off the fall season. You won't want to miss it!

Special thanks to Occasions salesperson Edie Butts for her time and expertise.