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Merritt Event – 2020 Blogging Awards Gala on March 6th

Merritt Event – Awards Gala – Best of the Nicola Valley 

2020 Blogging Awards Gala – “The Bloggies”

“The Merritt event will be a fun filled night of awards, prime rib dinner, live entertainment and a featured keynote speaker. Our guest speaker is Canadian Influencer and Social Media Personality Matthew Bailey of Must Do Canada.”

This Merritt event is a semi-formal gala celebrating the best 2019 positive stories and experiences in the Nicola Valley. All the ticket and activity details are listed below. 

Come join us at the first annual 2020 Blogging Awards Gala in Merritt BC Canada.

Merritt Event Celebrates the Nicola Valley

The semi-formal gala celebrates the many positive stories and experiences of 2019. Each one shared by our Experience Nicola Valley bloggers! There are 7 trophies to be awarded at the gala. The award categories are as follows: 3 “People’s Choice Award” categories (business , individual/event and non-profit), as well as, 4 blogger categories (Best Picture, Top Guest Blogger, Top Story of the Year and Top Story Teller). 

The Bloggies

The 2020 Blogging Awards is to be held at the Canadian Country Music Hall Of Fame on March 6th. Doors open at 5:30. Event starts at 6 PM. Do not be late, as the prime rib dinner is served prior to the award ceremony starting. However, there will also be a cash bar on site for the entire night. Besides the 7 trophies to hand out, and the prime rib dinner… there is more. We are fortunate to have Matthew Bailey, of Must Do Canada, as our guest keynote speaker. Matthew is a Canadian Influencer and Social Media You Tube Personality based out of Calgary , Alberta. 

blogging awards merritt event

2020 Blogging Awards also known as “The Bloggies”

 

matthew bailey - keynote speaker

Matthew Bailey – 2020 Blogging Awards Keynote Speaker

Keynote Speaker Matthew Bailey

Matthew is the creator of “Must Do Canada“. He has been featured in Our Canada Magazine (front cover photo and six-page spread), the Calgary Herald, and the Toronto Star to name a few. Matthew will be sharing his story and experiences about blogging, and social media. Matthew has traveled to 42 countries and 6 continents. We look forward to the many insights Matthew will be sharing with the community at this Merritt event about travel and content marketing. 

 

 

blogging awards stu tammy

Story telling songs and covers provided by Stu and Tammy

Merritt Live Entertainment

Since Experience Nicola Valley is a story telling platform, we invited a local musical duo to the 2020 Blogging Awards to entertain us with story telling songs.  We are happy to present as our featured artist for the evening, Stu and Tammy. Stu will be telling stories through songs (written by himself). And along with Tammy, they will play some of our favorite cover songs. Come and join us for a night of music, stories and dance. 

 

2020 Blogging Award Categories and Nominees

merritt event blogging awardsPeople’s Choice Nominees
(Individual/Event)

(Ellen Miller) Nicola Valley Women’s Fair
Don Loewen Saddlery
Open Mic Night

People’s Choice Nominees
(Business)

Game On Sports
Boston Pizza
Mary’s Corner Cafe

People’s Choice Nominees
(Non Profit)

Seniors Centre 
Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame 
Nicola Valley Food Bank 

Top Guest Blogger Nominees

Amber Papou
Meagan Preston
Manuel Olguin

Best Picture Nominees (Blogger)

Julie Pollard (Fall in the Nicola Valley)
Diane Lavoie (Boston Pizza)
Tania Stewart (Nicola Valley Rodeo)

Top Story Nominees (Blog)

Melvina White (George Jones)
Diane Lavoie (Things To Do In Merritt)
Tania Stewart (A-P Ranch)

Story Teller of the Year Nominees (Blogger)

Tania Stewart
Tom Reynolds
Melvina White
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Bloggies Food Bank Drive

Just telling stories makes us hungry. So, just imagine how hungry some of our fellow Merrittonnians are when times get tough. We here at ExperienceNicolaValley.com and ExperienceMerritt.com like to help where we can so…. when you come to the 2020 Blogging Awards Gala please bring 1 food item. There will be a box at the entrance which you can place your item in. All donations will then be delivered to the Nicola Valley Food Bank. 

Location of Merritt Event

Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame
2025B Quilchena Ave
Merritt BC Canada

Date: March 6th, 2020
Time: 6PM to 9PM and beyond
Doors Open at 5:30

Where to Buy Tickets ($20 per person)

(limited quantity available) 

D & D Emporium
2070 Quilchena Ave
Downtown Merritt in between Fields and Creative Comfort
Tuesday – Friday  10 AM to 5 PM
Saturday 11 Am – 4 PM
250-378-9223

Canadian Country Music Hall Of Fame
2025B Quilchena Ave
Downtown Merritt
Wed – Fri 12 Noon to 4 PM 
250.378.9569

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Miss Vicki’s Petals and Plants – Merritt BC Flower Shop

Merritt BC Flower Shop 

Miss Vicki’s Petals and Plants Flower Shop

“Opening and running a flower shop feeds my soul,” Miss Vicki.

The Merritt BC Flower Shop called Miss Vicki’s Petals & Plants is located in downtown Merritt BC Canada. The flower shop serving the Nicola Valley opened on October 20, 2018. Equally as important, Vicki, calls the Nicola Valley  her home. When asked, “Why open a flower shop in Merritt,” Vicki adamantly replied, “I wasn’t going anywhere, this is my home.” Thank goodness because Miss Vicki’s Petals & Plants is truly a welcomed delight and is surely is an appreciated ambassador for Downtown Merritt.  

“The timing was right. I used to work in the florist department at Save on Foods here in Merritt,” Miss Vicki.

Merritt flower shop

Vicki’s attention to detail makes giving flowers that much more special.

Miss Vicki’s Petals & Plants in Merritt BC. being very picturesque.

The sights and smells make any visit to Miss Vicki’s Petals & Plants a special experience. The colorful blooming flowers and plants covering the walls and floors of her shop is a journey of rainbow colors and fairy tale scents. Go ahead, visit this Merritt flower shop and take a deep breath. Along with all the vibrant colors you are always welcomed with a warm smile from “Miss Vicki”, the stores proprietor. 

miss vickis flower shop

Colors, care and flair all part of the Miss Vicki’s experience

flower shop in merritt bc canada

That extra touch and personal service goes a long way

Further more, Miss Vicki gives back to the Nicola Valley Community. 

As a result of Miss Vicki’s passion for the Nicola Valley, she is constantly donating to many organizations, charities, non-profits, and fundraising events through-out Merritt. One such example of Miss Vicki’s fundraising efforts is her commitment to improving patient rooms at Nicola Valley’s Gillis House. Secondly, she also donates to our very own “Merritt Centennials“ with a free give away at every game. Thirdly,  this flower shop in Merritt has donated towards many organizations in lieu of silent auctions, the Nicola Valley Food Bank, Winter Solstice Powwow, Lower Nicola Indian Band Christmas Tree, and countless others.

“I believe in Merritt and our Downtown Businesses,” Miss Vicki!

MerrittMissVicki's

The colorful bird is an added touch of passion often given to her customers

Recycling is key for this Merritt flower shop..

PetalsandPlantsVicki's

A treasured Rubber Ducky.

Vicki and Dee are very adamant about “Recycling“. They are aware of the damage and added pressures people can cause on our eco-system and environment. They are working  to decrease landfills by recycling, reusing, and continually creating beautiful works of flower-art by recycling clients favourite or personal objects. In fact, Vicki encourages her customers to bring in a personal sentimental object to be the focus of their flower arrangement.  For example, a special favourite tea pot can turn into a floral center piece.

Shopping for a Single Rose or Planning your Wedding?

In fact Miss Vicki’s Petals and Plants in Merritt BC can accommodate just about every occasion the Nicola Valley offers. Along with a vast selection of smaller flower arrangements, Miss Vicki’s is able to also provide larger beautiful centerpieces for their customers.  Specializing in their customer’s needs clearly indicates that Miss Vicki’s Petals and Plants will go beyond what your needs are including a last minute bouquet of flowers, a handcrafted gift or a floral arrangement for your event.  

“Over the Moon with the support we have received from the community,” Dee.

merritt bc canada flower shop

Miss Vicki’s Petals and Plants delivers when it comes to the finished floral arrangement

As a result of curiosity.

Dee, who works with Vicki,  joined the Merritt flower shop team two years ago. In fact, while browsing in Miss Vicki’s shop one day she turned to Vicki and asked if she was hiring part time? Dee has 35 years of experience creating and arranging beautiful flower art work. While both are talented flower-ologists (not a real word) there is no hiding the respect and unity between these two very personable ladies.

Merritt Miss Vicki's flower shop

“Over The Moon!” Dee explains how they cater to their customers.

The behind the scenes of a flower shop

Dee is often found in the back, creating beautiful flower arrangements. Her specialty, since Dee brings a lot of knowledge and talent to the floral business. Having lived in the Nicola Valley for the past 13 years her love for the community shows through her talent with outstanding floral creations. Truly exemplary!  

Furthermore every Friday while listening to Q 101 radio in Merritt, contestants can win a bouquet of flowers from Miss Vicki’s. Tune into Q101 for more details. 

Q 101 flower contest

Q101 contestant winner Marg.

Additionally Miss Vicki’s Petals & Plants showcases a wide variety of local artists.

This Merritt flower shop is also a big supporter of the local art scene in the Nicola Valley.  The fact that Miss Vicki’s shop has numerous one of a kind hand-made artifacts is a testament to how special this shop really is. Additionally, you will be amazed at the number of local artisans within our community who’s works are on display in her shop. Consequently I found myself perusing through Miss Vicki’s shop finding an abundance of treasures. 

“There is so much talent within the Nicola Valley. It is truly amazing and wonderful,” Miss Vicki.

birding in merritt bc canada

Detailed Tiny Cabin.

artisan works in merritt bc

Painted Wooden Houses.

first nation nicola valley smudge kit

Smudge Kit.

missvicki's plants

Body Haven Soaps. Made with Natural ingredients.

 

Furthermore schedule enough time to take in everything.

Indeed Miss Vicki’s Petals & Plants in Merritt BC Canada could be your one stop shop for floral and art. You will find cards handcrafted by Denise Weisse. There are custom built wood projects from Steamer’s Junk. A wooden bowl crafted by Reece. And the list goes on and on.

Missvicki'spetalsplantsmerrittbc

Miss Vicki’s own Artisan craftsmanship.

Next you will be enchanted with an array of glass birds & gorgeous flower pots.

Betty Pockrant flower pots.

Spice up your home or garden with more color.

Kay Schlosser Butterfly’s.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

miss vicki'spetals

Lavender is in the air at this Merritt flower shop

Understand that flowers can spark creativity.

Did you know that Van Gogh and Manet were inspired by flowers!? Miss Vicki and Dee every day create masterpieces. In fact Miss Vicki and Dee explained to me that on many occasions someone has come into the shop to help clear their anxiety or depression. Additionally it has been shown that indoor plants can help reduce stress levels. Makes sense!

Desk Buddy perfect for your office or bedside.

To clarify flowers can improve your mood.

Here is another fact for you to digest. Did you know that flowers & plants in your bedroom helps people get a better sleep because of the natural aroma and their release of oxygen.  Subsequently, the time I spent in Miss Vicki’s shop made me feel exhilarated and a calmness came over me, as if I  just had a mini vacation in a spring garden.

 

 

Accordingly having Plants & Flowers in your home.

Plants help purify the air reducing harmful chemicals throughout your home. Additionally, flowers help save money by having no need for air fresheners. Also flowers are environmentally friendly while purifying your air.  

Merritt Miss Vicki's

An assortment of plants.

In fact the number of local artisans crafts that are displayed throughout is magnificent & numerous. 

For instance you can find Twin Willows Glass Arts, Bev’s Baggage Denim, Vicky’s Whimsical Yarns, Squirrels New Chapter, Electric Art by Andy, Creations by Irene, Don Loewen, Twin Willows Glass Arts, and countless more.

Merritt Vicki's Flower Shop

Warez Du Bees. Raw & Creamy Honey.

merritt flower shop gifts

Gifts can make a flower arrangement

 

Furthermore plants & flowers improve productivity.

Without a doubt people (animals) are more productive and have a higher level of concentration if they’re near plants. It is said that having plants in your home or work space will allow you to be more focused throughout the day.

Missvicki's

“Kumma” Teddy Bear in Finish. Shop dog.

 Contact Us

MISS MISS VICKI’S PETALS & PLANTS FLOWER SHOP

Address: 2052 Quilchena B,
Merritt BC, Canada
V1K 1A4
Phone: 250-378-5575

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Merritt Clothing Store – Spaner and Webb – #getspanered

Spaner and Webb

Local Merritt clothing store and fashion accessories

“The selection of quality clothing, accessories, jewelry, shoes and much more decorate the walls and floors of this beautifully crafted and clean retail store right here in Merritt BC.”

Spaner and Webb is a locally owned and operated Merritt clothing store and fashion accessory retail outlet and online store operating, right here, in Merritt, BC, Canada in the Nicola Valley. Local residents Chandelle Agar & Chris Heppner are the co owners of Spaner and Webb. 

“We bought the store in 2018… I wanted to get out of what I was doing… I haven’t looked back and I absolutely love it, just love it.” Chandelle Agar

Merritt Spanered Since 1961

The first Spaner and Webb clothing store opened its doors in 1961. At the time, co founders Charlie Webb and Morris Spaner,  operated it as a menswear store only. Later down the timeline the store was purchased by Jim Emmons and Jim Irving. However, in 1981 Jim Irving and Brenda Irving bought out Emmons share of the business. Then in 2018 Chandelle Agar & Chris Heppner came along and “put their stamp” on Spaner and Webb and here we are today. 

Chandelle Agar

Chandelle Agar – co owner of Spaner and Webb

Quality Merritt Clothing Store

The selection of quality clothing, accessories, jewelry, shoes and much more decorate the walls of this beautifully crafted and clean retail store located right here in Downtown Merritt BC.  So much to select from. Brand after brand after brand of merchandise.  Browsing the shelves and racks at this Merritt clothing store I came across a whole line of brand names like Dex, C Mol, Guess, Fox, Westcoastees, Dakine, Doc Martens, Element, Hippy Tree, Joe Cool, Oakley, and Wild Outdoors Club. When deciding on what brands to stock her shelves with Chandelle shares, 

“We are trying to give what younger people like and what older people like and trying to find the middle too because we are trying to cater to everyone.”

Fashion 101

I am a simple shopper. I like adventure clothes and, for me, they have to be functional outdoors. Being a rookie in fashion brands, I am naive in the field of labels. So you can imagine why the brand “Wild Outdoors Club” caught my attention. How could it not, adventure is my passion. And so, I poked around a bit more in store and online, shuffled the deck as they say, checking out shirt after shirt. “Explore More”, ‘Take Me To The Mountains” and then I came across the “Built For Adventure” T-shirt. As karma goes, the “Wild Outdoors Club” line of clothing pretty much describes my adventure motivations in a t-shirt line. 

spaner and webb mens clothing

“Built For Adventure” shopping in the Men’s clothing section.

Personal Service Goes A Long Way

Entering Spaner and Webb, I was greeted by country music playing on the sound system.  The ambiance was inviting. I felt myself toe-tapping on the rustic hard-wood floors as I began looking around and taking photos.  On my arrival, co owner, Chandelle Agar, was busy serving and interacting with the customers shopping in her store. Some where looking at foot wear, while others were trying on clothing to find the right look. Chandelle was always available when assistance was required. 

 “I am learning new things everyday, meeting new people. You have no idea who is coming through the door.” Chandelle Agar

shopping merritt

Personal and friendly Spaner and Webb service

Discover Your Merritt Clothing Store

One by one, I began to take photos as I walked around the store making note of the many brands Spanner and Webb provides Merritt BC. How lucky are you to have so many famous brand names I thought to myself. So very lucky, selection is a good thing. Rack after rack, shelf after shelf, display after display were men and women clothes to browse, try-on, buy and take home. Where to start? That is where Chandelle comes in with her always growing knowledge of the brand name clothing and fashion industry. Come and visit Spaner and Webb and ask her.  

women's clothing in merritt

Selection of women’s clothing at Spaner and Webb

Women’s Clothing and Accessories

The Spaner and Webb line of women’s clothing includes a selection of coats, jackets, dresses, leggings, jewelry, lingerie and active wear. The jewelry available in this Merritt clothing store covers many gametes of the clothing accessory matrix.  I saw accessories like earrings, bracelets, rings, necklaces and watches on display to compliment any casual and formal occasion.

shopping in downtown merritt

Shopping for shoes at Spaner and Webb

Men’s Clothing in Merritt

On the men’s side Spaner and Webb also has a good selection of coats, jackets, hoodies, jeans, shorts, belts, shoes, boots and adventure wear. In fact, during my visit, a “Merrittonian” was kind enough to allow us to take a photo of him while he was shopping for shoes for his children. Thank you for being our model. If you are reading this, you rock! 

“Come in and join us! It is fun here!” Chandelle Agar

Accessorize Merritt

It is not all about clothes in this Merritt retail business either. Another important aspect of Merritt fashion is to have a complimentary line of accessories to compliment your work and/or play day. In life, add-ons of any sort, can make or break a night out, road trip, dinner date and/or adventure. Some of the add-ons which caught my eye at Spaner and Webb were the backpacks, belts, gloves, sunglasses, boots, and hats. They had scarves too but I don’t do scarves.  

online shopping in merritt

Spaner and Webb have online shopping

Shop Online For Merritt Clothing

Spaner and Webb shopping is now available through their new online store (www.spanerandwebb.ca). Meaning, you can still shop Spaner and Webb from the comforts of your own home, after hours, from anywhere in the world. If leaving the house is not in the works, then fire up the laptop and place your order online. It is fast, and convenient. Mind you, shopping in store, is the only real way, in my opinion, to experience the whole Downtown Merritt experience. Travelers make note of this. 

“We are now selling online. It is a learning process. I want to see Merritt grow.” Chandelle Agar

One can also find a selection of clearance items on sale on the  Spaner and Webb website and in store. Access Spaner and Webb online and participate in any current contest and follow current trends through their “best selling merchandise feed”.  Check out their shipping and return policy and then shop till you drop.

What About Hard To Buy Merrittonians

No worries because Spaner and Webb also provides Gift Certificates for that “hard to buy” person or special occasion. Forget about sizes, colors, style and what they like and what they do not like. Go the safe route if you do not know… and pick up a Gift Certificate. Let the “hard to buy” person enjoy his/her own shopping experience at Spaner and Webb. This way you know you got them what they like. 

Experience Downtown Merritt

So now you are looking and feeling pretty sweet in your new digs you just bought at Spaner and Webb.  You have that fashion savvy thing going on. What now? Why not continue your Downtown Merritt experience over a lunch, enjoy a walk-about or poke your head in a store and meet some of the other local store owners. I have, and believe me, many are good people and a joy to be around.

Spaner and Webb is an easy walking distance from many coffee shops and restaurants including Mandolins Cafe, Canada Cafe, Kekuli Cafe, Mary’s Corner Cafe to name a few. And no downtown visit is complete without visiting the signature attraction in town – The Walk Of Stars and the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame. 

Thank you Chandelle at Spaner and Webb for your time and hospitality. 

Remember Nicola Valley that #merrittmatters on social media.

Contact Us

Spaner and Webb
2032 Quilchena Ave
Merritt, British Columbia
250-378-5714

Website / Facebook

#GetSpanered

Merritt clothing and accessory store in the Nicola Valley

#shoplocalmerritt on social media 

 

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