Tag Archive for: Services

Nicola Valley Food Bank

Not Just  a Food Bank

Serving the Community on Merritt BC Canada

One of the more important social services in Merritt is the Nicola Valley Food Bank.  Therefore this organization is instrumental in filling a gap where people have to decide between shelter or food.  There are many people in the Merritt area who do not have enough financial support or low paying jobs that can’t make ends meet and therefore rely on the Nicola Valley Food Bank located in Downtown Merritt BC Canada.

 

Nicola Valley Food Bank Shelving

Nicola Valley Food Bank Shelving–Tom Reynolds Photo

The Program of the Nicola Valley Food Bank

Of course the main function of the Nicola Valley Food Bank is to provide nutritious food to those in need.  However, there is more to the food bank than just the delivery of food.   The food bank has created many successful partnerships in both the non profit sector and the business sector. It is these alliances that  go along way to make the system work.

Sharing with other organizations

One of the organizations the Food Bank works with is Ask Wellness  which is a national program to help improve the lives of people.  One of their major focuses in Merritt is the housing component.  Many of Ask Wellness’s clients also are those of the Nicola Valley Food Bank.  By working together the two groups can see that the clients are properly fed with nutritious food.

The Merritt Soup Kitchen is another group that the Food Bank Deals with.  Sometimes one organization or other will get a donation of food that is greater than can be used immediately and therefore there is an exchange of the excess so nothing goes to waste.

School District 58 and Strong Start work with the  Food Bank to provide food for the Strong Start Program.

The Business Community is on Board

Certainly, the major grocery stores are on board with the food bank.  When Wal Mart, No Frills and Save-on-Foods have products that are reaching their “best before date” they send them to the food bank.  While these items are ending their retail life they still are OK to eat.  While these big companies are contributing greatly there are a number of other businesses that chip in such as Starbucks, Dollar Tree, Pharmasave, A&W an now Mr Mikes.

No Frills Supports Food BsankNo Frills Supports Food Bank
Dollar Tree Supports Food Bank

Dollar Tree Supports Food Bank

A&W Supports the Food BankA&W Supports the Food Bank Mr Mikes Supports the Food Bank
Save on foods supports Foo Bank

Save on foods supports Foo Bank

 
Walmart Supports Food BankWalmart Supports Food Bank Starbucks supports Food BankStarbucks supports Food Bank Pharmasave Supports the Food BankPharmasave Supports the Food Bank

Nicola Valley Food Bank Staffing and Volunteers

The success of any not for profit is in its staff and volunteers and the Food Bank is no exception.  Derlanda Hewton is the General manager and her enthusiasm and vision have filtered to the staff and volunteers.

At the time of my visit to the Food Bank, the following were the staff and volunteers.  Vanya Beck was the Administration assistant and intake person.  She has a reassuring personality that works well with the clients.

Keith Walliser is on the food desk and he brings a world of knowledge to the Nicola Valley Food Bank because of his many years in the grocery store business.  Also on staff are Edwin Feldman, inventory Clerk and Henry Krause, Driver.

Volunteers are Georgina Johnny, driver and on call, Brenda Fahlman and Rosemary McNeil, both portion control.  Finally, we have Ashley Davey.

Fund Raising

Like most non profits fund raising brings a significant amount of money (or food) for the operation of the  Food Bank.  Therefore community groups such as the Merritt Centennials put on food drives during their season.  Out right donations from people are also greatly appreciated

This year the Food Bank participated in a national fund raising event called the “Coldest Night of the Year”.  Consequently this fund raiser is catching on and should be bigger next year. The Centennials supported this event in a big way.

21-22 Merritt Centennials

21-22 Merritt Centennials-Tom Reynolds Photo

Future Plans for the Nicola Valley Food Bank

The current location of the Nicola Valley Food Bank is strategically located to serve its clientele but unfortunately it is too small to meet the needs of the organization and therefore are looking for a larger space.

They wish to add an education centre to teach things such as selecting nutritious foods, cooking nutritious foods and household budgeting.

In addition they need more space for preparing the Christmas hampers.  Each year they have had to go and find a space that is large enough for this task and be reasonably priced (free is best).

Lastly, these are ambitious goals and if you want to be apart of that apply to be on the Board of Directors or take all the action in by volunteering at the Food Bank.  Call Derlanda Hewton at 250.378.2282.

Nicola Valley Food Bank

Merritt British Columbia Canada

Nicola Valley Travel and Tourism Guides

nicola valley talk show

“Experience Community Program” is a small and rural community authentic content marketing program.  Therefore it is a product of the EH? Canada Marketing Group.  Contact us today to bring this award winning community program to your region. 

Campsites and Campgrounds in the Nicola Valley

Tips That Will Improve Any Merritt Campground  Trip

Campground Summer Adventures in Merritt, Canada

When  visiting Campsites and Campgrounds in Merritt BC Canada, make your next outdoor adventure easier with these simple camping tips. Moreover, with good planning anyone can make camping a memorable outdoor experience in the Nicola Valley. Knowing that camping connects you with nature, allows you to recharge your batteries while relaxing with family and friends. Experiencing camping in Merritt BC with these useful tips will improve your any camping trip.

Campsites and Campgrounds in Merritt BC Canada

Family Camping. Photo by Robert Neil

Water skiing in Merritt BC

Water skiing. Photo by Robert Neil.

Safety In Our Campsites and Campgrounds in Merritt BC Canada

Albeit, I love to camp around Merritt BC for all the mountains, scenery and activities we will experience. But safety is always my priority while out in the backcountry. The likelihood to observe all kinds of wildlife is truly a magical experience which I encourage. However,  I ask that you treat wildlife with the respect they need and deserve. My motto is that I am a guest in their home, and very privileged to be welcomed. Moreover, try and do some research on the campground you will be visiting.  A good source of information is the Experience Merritt website for campsites and campgrounds.

Summer Adventure on Nicola Valley’s Lakes

Dream summers. Photo by Tania Stewart.

Family campgrounds in the Nicola Valley

Memories are made camping Photo by Tania Stewart.

Carry bear spray, ensure it is accessible, and know how to use it before heading out on the trails. 

BC wilderness camping

BC Camping. Photo by Tania Stewart.

Stay respectful of the “Wilderness and Others”

It is important to always be considerate of all backcountry environments when visiting our campsites and campgrounds in Merritt BC Canada. Please… always keep your campsite clean. Leaving food out will attract all kinds of wildlife, including unwanted pests such as wasps, bears and more. Importantly, wildlife is also attracted to items that have an odor such as garbage, unwashed dishes, stoves, coolers, dog dishes, and toiletries. My toothpaste even? Yes, and shampoo, deodorant, skin cream, shaving lotion, suntan lotions, and baby diapers (especially used) will attract wildlife. Very important to always wash, and put away dishes, pots, and all garbage while storing your toiletries in air-sealed containers.  

Camping in Merritt BC Canada

Bear aware. Picture by Tania Stewart.

Wildlife in Merritt BC Canada

Wildlife Goat. Photo by Robert Neil.

Bear Aware in Our Campgrounds in Merritt BC Canada

If you knew how many bears are put down every year due to our lack of understanding and carelessness, you would cry.  It is important to know that carelessness can be a death sentence for a bear and its cubs. Did you know that much of our human-sourced food is rich in calories and that it is on a bear’s wish list to sustain itself hibernating in the winter months.  Therefore, garbage foraging for a bear is like us ordering take-out. It is easy and they lose their fear of us, associating us with food. Unfortunately, eating these foods brings bears and people closer together. Over time, bears lose their natural fear of people and start to associate people with food. Save our Bears by being wildlife aware.

Campsites in Merritt BC

Summer camping! Photo by Tania Stewart.

Family campground and campsites

Camping & Kids! Photo Tania Stewart.

“WHILE OUT IN THE BACKCOUNTRY, STAY RESPECTFUL OF ALL WILDLIFE!” TANIA STEWART

Wildlife Law

Do not feed the BEARS!  Furthermore, this applies to all animals.  And did you know that feeding wildlife in a national park or historic site will get you charged under the Canada National Parks Act? Whether feeding them directly or indirectly by leaving unattended food or garbage for them to sniff out and find. So put away your food. 

Merritt fishing in the Nicola Valley

Wes David and the Fishing the Wild West TV Show. Photo credit Wes David.

Campsites in the Nicola Valley

Alleyne Lake. Photo Tania Stewart.

Wildlife Photo’s

Albeit it is exhilarating to see a moose, bear, deer, or even a fox while visiting our campsites and campgrounds in Merritt BC. Capturing that photo or video can make your day. It has made mine on many occasions. Distance and respect for wildlife are key, this is their home. Make sure to share your amazing shots to on our websites or tag us on Facebook at @experiencenicolavalley!

Birdwatching in Merritt BC Canada

Wildlife capture. Photo by Tania Stewart.

Nature Walking/hiking

Hiking on the trails while camping is the best. Being aware that the best time to set out on a hike or picnic is best served after breakfast and before the supper bell rings. Equally, just like us, wildlife/animals are active early morning and around sunset.  Furthermore, never go alone, carry a lot of water, make noise, bear spray, bug dope, and know your surroundings. 

Sightseeing in Merritt BC Canada

Hiking Trail. Photo by Robert Neil.

Give wildlife space-Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings-travel in groups

Campfires while Camping in the Nicola Valley

Always check and be up-to-date on fire bans and restrictions when visiting our valley. Call or google wildfire gov for updated information.  British Columbia is a large geographically diverse province. Therefore, decisions on when and where to implement fire bans and restrictions are made by B.C.’s six regional fire centers. Wildfire prevention starts with us and one little match could ignite our backwoods. So be mindful of your fires, cigarettes and other flammable items.

Report Fires

Important to always make sure your campfire is out. And in some cases put out a negligent camper’s fire. Always report any fire. Therefore we can continue to enjoy our great outdoors and bask in its tranquility, 

“There’s no wi-fi in the mountains, but you’ll find a not better connection.” Unknown

Mosquitoes 

Campsites and campgrounds in Merritt BC Canada are truly one of the best ways to take a vacation. But the Mosquitoes! Take along a few bundles of sage the next time you go camping. Then, when the sun is setting and the campfire is going, burn a bit of sage with your fire. Or for a longer-lasting effect, set the stage on fire and let it smolder and smoke by the edge of the campfire. Moreover, mosquitoes are repelled by sage smoke and are a lot healthier than bug spray. 

Organizing Skills

Keeping your food secure and organized is important while camping. Organizing with storage is life-saving not to mention less stressful. Using bins, and sleeping bags for storage in tents,  Keeps your site organized and odor-free. Important leave no trace you were there. 

How to Find Amazing Camping Spots

Simply go to Experience Nicola Valley  and for all the information you will need to plan your camping trip to your specific summer adventure. Looking for a fishing adventure, speed boating one or a kayaking drift. Choosing the right campsite is the first step, getting there is the fun part, and the rest is just a load of memories. 

Campgrounds in Merritt BC Canada

Camping, campsites in the Nicola Valley Canada

Tire Shop in Merritt – Nicola Valley BC Canada Mechanics

Fountain Tire Merritt – Tire Service in the Nicola Valley

Tire shop and mechanic service in the valley of Merritt

Fountain Tire is a preferred tire shop in Merritt BC Canada. This local mechanic automotive service station takes care of commercial and light car and truck automotive repair. And of course Tires, lots of tires. Fountain tire Ltd (Merritt) opened in Merritt in 2008 by Larry Ruttan.

tire shop in merritt

Fountain Tire New Owners

In 2021 Jamie and Sheila Hatch will become the new owner/operators of Fountain Tire (Merritt) in British Columbia Canada. Jaime moved to Merritt from Drayton Valley, Alberta in 2018. He worked as assistant manager. Soon after Sheila and the kids followed.

Jaime is a red seal journeyman mechanic and has been in the industry for over 23 years. However, when he is not at work, he enjoys fishing, hunting and spending time with family. Therefore they have settled nicely into the Nicola Valley, so much so, they are members of the Merritt Speedway. Subsequently, their daughter, Megan, is a race car driver.

Merritt Speedway Stock Car Racing is well know in the Nicola Valley for its sense of community and family for over 30 years. The speedway is looking forward to when we can race again.

Sheila says, “The advantages of operating a tire shop in Merritt are that you meet so many different people from many walks of life. This community has a sense of family, everyone looks out for each other.”

fountain tire

Sheila continues with, “And for us, because Merritt has several highways coming into it, we are able to assist those who need help when travelling through our beautiful valley. We have had the pleasure of helping out the travelling talent that come for various music festivals that run each year. Never a dull moment and Oh ..the weather!”

tire man in merritt

Brandon Hatch of Fountain Tire Merritt Photo Credit: Sheila Hatch

Meet the Owners

Sheila and Jamie Hatch, the owner of Fountain Tire Shop in Merritt, and their son Brandon, are like most of us, surviving Covid-19 by planning to get involved in community events. In other words they are really putting themselves out there expressing that we are all on this road together.

Fountain Tire Staff

Communities need to stick together to survive hard times. There is strength in numbers. At the tire station they have 7 staff in addition to 2 more red seal journeyman mechanics. 

Tires For All Seasons

Whether you need tires for the highway, bush, logging truck or racing they have a wide assortment of quality tires. Tires for a range of budgets that best suit their customers. Fountain Tire in the community of Merritt BC is known to go the extra mile for their customers. Most importantly get them back on the road safely and in a timely manner.

Who is Fountain Tire?

Fountain Tire Ltd. is a Canadian company, founded in Wainwright, Alberta by Bill Fountain. The first store opened in 1956. As a result they have stores from B.C. to Ontario.

Contact Information

website: www.fountaintire.com
facebook: merrittfountaintire
email: f132@fountaintire.com
Phone: 250-378-2442

Tire Shop in Merritt

Nicola Valley Mechanic Station

“Experience Community Program” is a small and rural community authentic content marketing program. It is a product of the EH? Canada Marketing Group. In other words contact us for more information on how to start this program in your community. media(at)ehcanadatravel(dot)com

Merritt BC Hotels –  Motels and Inn Accommodations In The Nicola Valley

Hotel places to stay in Merritt BC Canada

“When your community is a central base camp for year round adventures in the region it sure helps that you can provide hotel accommodations servicing all price points. And Merritt Hotels do just that.” 

 

Merritt BC hotels, motels and inns are just some of the accommodations available to visitors who come to explore, visit or stay the Nicola Valley for adventure, business, events, shelter and/or just to connect with family. However… what some may forget, is that our Merritt BC Canada hotels, motels and inns are also community ambassadors and sanctuaries for evacuated families during forest fire alerts and for contractors on infrastructure and Provincial economic development projects.

Therefore, it is also important the contributions of other accommodations in Merritt BC including the campgrounds, vacation homes, cottages, fishing resorts, guest ranches and bed and breakfasts. Many of which, already, have an Experience Nicola Valley blog written about them. That was then. This is now. Today,  we are discussing some of our larger accommodations suitable for events, corporate events, emergency shelter and contract workers.

Merritt BC Hotels – Motels – Inns

Times have changed. Therefore, the rules for operating a hotel, motel and inn have changed because of COVID 19 , climate change and travel habits. Consequently, hotel accommodations have to adjust to a changing environment. Nicola Valley hotels have to practice and encourage physical distancing, as well as, put in place a solid game plan when it comes to safety and cleaning protocols. Moreover, many of the Merritt BC hotels have implemented safety protocols and physical distancing measures. Most importantly, it is always best to phone or visit the website of your selected hotel destination to check in on the exact measures they are taking. However we are not here to discuss safety protocols and community ambassadors. We are here to share with you the selection of  larger hotels and motels operating in and around Merritt, BC, Canada for your next visit to the valley. 

We Have the Bed for You

Merritt hotels, inns and motel accommodations are unique in their own way. Therefore it is easy to come to the conclusion that there is a pretty good selection of hotel rooms and/or self contained suites in the Nicola Valley. In short there are economical, as well as,  high end suites where comfort, amenities and luxury are your selling features. No matter your needs and wants, the Nicola Valley hotel accommodations are able to satisfy your comfort levels and pricing preferences.

Above All It Is Location 

When it comes down to price point, Merritt has you covered as well. And if it comes down to amenities… the Nicola Valley has got that one covered too. Location? Got it covered. In short we can find you the right room in the right spot at the right time. For example there are hotels and motels at the top of the hill within walking distances to restaurants, coffee shop, liquor store, a pub,  and big box stores.  On the other hand, down the hill, there are Merritt hotels and motels near Downtown Merritt shopping, restaurants, pubs, retail stores and coffee shops. See… we got you covered. 

A List of the Merritt BC Hotels and Motels To Clarify My Point

Firstly click THIS LINK for quick access to a full list of Nicola Valley hotels and motels with description, website links, booking features,  and more

Merritt bc hotel

Best Western in Merritt BC Canada

Best Western Plus – Merritt

3969 Crawford Ave.
Merritt, British Columbia, Canada
V1K 1C4
Phone: +1 250-378-0700

Featured Merritt Hotel : https://experiencenicolavalley.com/best-western-plus-merritt-accommodation/
Photo Credit: Laurie Turmel

comfort inn merritt british columbia

Comfort Inn and Suites – Merritt

3713 De Wolf Way
Merritt, British Columbia, Canada
V1K 1C4
Phone: 1 250 315-0237

Featured Merritt Hotel : https://experiencenicolavalley.com/hotels-in-merritt-bc-comfort-inn/
Photo Credit : Julie Pollard

Ramada Hotel – Merritt

3571 Voght Street 
Merritt, British Columbia, Canada
V1K 1C5
Phone: 1 250 378-3567

Featured Merritt Hotel : https://experiencenicolavalley.com/places-to-stay-in-merritt-bc-ramada/
Photo Credit: House Member

Consequently, I have had the pleasure of staying with this hotel accommodation on my visits to the region for work and research. As a result I was fortunate to meet the manager, Gurpreet, who is one of the nicest people you will ever meet in town.  Lastly, the hotel accommodation is clean, quiet and serves up some morning breakfasts! There is also a swimming pool with a huge slide for kids. 

intown suites
Intown Inn and Suites

2201 Voght Street
Merritt, British Columbia, Canada
V1K 1B8
Phone: 1 250-378-4291

Photo Credit:  ehCanadaTravel.com


Super 8 – Merritt

3561 Voght St
Merritt, British Columbia, Canada
Phone: 1 250-378-9422

Photo Credit:  Johanne Schmidts


Quality Inn – Merritt

4025 Walters St
Merritt, British Columbia, Canada
V1K 1K1
Phone: 1 250.378.4253

Featured Article – https://experiencenicolavalley.com/indian-restaurants-in-merritt-bc-mughal-gardens/
Photo Credit:  ehCanadaTravel.com

merritt hotel accommodations
Merritt Desert Inn

2350 Voght Street
Merritt, British Columbia, Canada
V1K 1B8
Phone: 1 250 378 2254

Photo Credit:  ehCanadaTravel.com

Consequently, I have had the pleasure of staying with this Merritt hotel accommodation on some of my first visits to the region for work and research. However, it is now under new ownership, of which our team has not stayed with. Moreover, the accommodation includes a restaurant, conference room and pub. 

quilchena hotel

Quilchena Hotel and Resort

Planet Mine Rd
Quilchena British Columbia Canada
V0E 1S0
Phone: 1 250.378.2611

Photo Credit:  ehCanadaTravel.com

Merritt BC Hotels and Motels in the Nicola Valley

ExperienceMerritt.com

 

Nicola Valley BC Canada

Nicola Valley Hotels, Motels in and around Merritt British Columbia, Canada

Merritt British Columbia Canada Top Travel Guides

Racing in the Nicola Valley with Merritt Printing

Merritt Printing plays many roles in the Nicola Valley supporting businesses and events

2020 has been hard on many business, and that is why more than ever it is important for all of us to support local small businesses

 

Racing in the Nicola Valley and Merritt Printing have both brought people together in Merritt BC and beyond for many years, not only to watch racing but in support of racing. Locals, out-of-towners and racers bring their family members and best buddies, some join the racers in the pits, most take a seat in the stands. All are reading and buying items printed by Merritt Printing. 

2020 has brought about many changes to the world, and it hasn’t spared anyone or anything.  Racing has been delayed or cancelled, fans are left out, all are waiting and hoping. The effects reach even further, it affects services and businesses all over town.

Racing in the Nicola Valley

Grass growing on track surface at Merritt Speedway 2020

Merritt Printing and Racing in Nicola Valley

You would not believe what just one business, like Merritt Printing, provides for Merritt Speedway.  Merritt Printing is located at 1951 Garcia St and is actually three businesses in one.

1951C Garcia St. – The Engraving and Sign Shop 

Merritt Printing

Some of the items Merritt Printing provides Merritt Speedway

The Merritt Printing engraving and sign shop designs, creates and manufactures items for many Nicola Valley businesses and events including awards, signs, custom decals, custom t shirts and cups, plus many other items. Then there are the  USB’s, key chains, shopping bags, buttons, the list goes on. As well, there is something we utilize a lot of at the track is 50/50 tickets.

Marketing Racing in the Nicola Valley

Services provided by the print shop to Merritt Speedway are sponsor signs, decals, magnets, bumper stickers, year end awards and championship jackets.  Plus all those signs that tell you what to and not to do, you know the ones.  A big seller at Merritt Speedway.

1951B Garcia St. – The Office Supply Store.

All your office needs are available here includes pens, pencils, art supplies, invoice books, paper, printer inks and toners. If it’s not in store, its only usually a day away, that’s pretty good for our little town.

Oh, and office furniture too, such as desks, chairs, filing cabinets, lamps, and more. 

1951A Garcia St. -The Print Shop

Merritt Printing in Nicola Valley

Printing jobs for Merritt Speedway

The services provided at the print shop are vast. The talented staff at the shop, can perform many jobs for your business and/or events.  Bring the item with you or email it in, it can be done. 

For simpler jobs like scanning and emailing projects, the staff is always available to assist and get it done. Bigger jobs like business cards, brochures, menus, custom invoice books, lock out tags and much, much more are designed and printed in house.

Laminating is another service provided by the print shop, whether it’s a pocket card or a two foot wide by six foot item, it is all possible at Merritt Printing. If in doubt, just ask!

Racing in the Nicola Valley Printing

The amount of paper printed for the track is surprising. Print jobs include membership & car registration forms, membership cards, schedule cards, rule books, and full colour race day programs.

Support Your Small Businesses in Merritt BC

Sadly, that is just one business of many that the Merritt Speedway utilizes and one that is not getting orders from the track this season. 2020 has been hard on many business, and that is why more than ever it is important for all of us to support local small businesses.

We want to keep these services in town, not lose them to out of town sources. Come and visit Merritt Printing, you will be surprised at the many services they are supplying Merritt businesses. Drop in to the sign shop and say hi to your local Experience Nicola Valley Blogger, moi. 

Shop Local Merritt, you’ll be glad you did.

Check out Merritt Printing

1951 Garcia St. Merritt B.C.  V1K 1B8  250-378-6808

website:   www.merrittprinting.ca     

email:  merrittprinting@telus.net   

www.facebook.com/MerrittPrinting/ 

 

Empty stands at Merritt Speedway

Merritt British Columbia Canada Top Travel Guides

Looking for Things To Do in the Nicola Valley? 

Shop Local in Merritt, BC – Vision Quest Optical and Gifts

“Come Downtown and Buy Something!” 

Shop local in Merritt, BC

Decorative BC designed drum bag

Jeanine Gustafson, owner of Vision Quest Optical and Gifts, encourages people to shop local in Merritt BC and support our businesses. That’s the message she would like to send out to the people who live in the Nicola Valley.

Vision Quest is an eclectic shop right on the corner of Quilchena and Voght Street, a corner everyone passes when they are downtown Merritt. Jeanine has a prime location on the main block, and fills her windows with a lively display all year round. If you pop in to see what’s there, you’ll find jewelry, gems, glass frames, toys, cards, books and local art.

On the Quest for Vision Services? Glass Frames? 

Jeanine is an optician with 30 years experience and her shop began as a way for her to offer optical services to the people in the community. You can find a room full of diverse frames for children, women, and men in Vision Quest shop, and Jeanine can help you find a frame you like and fulfill your prescription. She offers one more great choice in the community before a person decides to head off for Kamloops or to online services. Definitely worth checking out!

Looking for Local Art? 

Shop Local in Merritt, BC

Bead Jewelry Galore

Over the ten years Jeanine has been providing options for vision care, she has expanded the offerings in her shop. Vision Quest is full of art, crafts, and jewelry created by about 40 local artists. 

All year round there are gifts, mementos, and useful items to choose from: cards by Marilyn Lytton, blankets from Amelia Washington, handmade soap from Les Keys, baskets and beading from Charles McKay. 

Jeanine herself creates feather earrings and other jewelry. There are painted tiles and jewelry by Pauline Ouellet, cards by photographer Heidi Koehler, beading by Ashala Harvie. And beautiful pained rocks by local artist Georgina Beatty! 

1st Nations Art 

Jeanine says the majority of the artists showing their work at Vision Quest are 1st Nations from the Nicola Valley, and some

Shop Local in Merritt, BC

1st Nations Art

from nearby regions like Lillooet. Her contacts also provide her with 1st Nations items designed in BC to satisfy her visitors from other provinces and countries. Look for beautiful designs on drum bags, a red lampshade, beaded earrings, medallions, baskets, cards…

The prices at Vision Quest are reasonable and range from about $5 to…more. I was very taken with a gorgeous across-the-shoulder bright turquoise suede bag, for just over $100. 

The local work in Jeanine’s lively, full shop is worth a leisurely search.

But I will admit that the jewelry, especially the gem jewelry, at Vision Quest often draws me through the welcoming doors on Quilchena Avenue.

Gems and Trinkets Galore!

Shop Local in Merritt, BC

Gems and Jewelry

Jeanine’s windows are full of her jewelry, hanging or displayed in photo frames. And once you are in the shop, the jewelry is displayed in every cabinet, and in every nook and cranny. Amethysts, rose quartz, topaz, garnets, you name it. There are simple pendants to elaborately set jewelry, rings, earrings, bracelets in all shapes and colours.

There is also a diverse assortment of costume jewelry and a variety of pretty bags for storing your gems and trinkets.

What else? 

Jeanine carries local books from local authors when possible, fun toys for kids, guitar pics…

And a good supply of beading supplies: seed beads, gem beads, and others, and lots of supporting items like thread.

Business in Merritt 

I asked Jeanine what support she gets from the community. And her reply, “I am still open.” 

Shopping Local in Merritt, BC

Tiny decorative painted bird houses

In my opinion, with years of experience in owning a retail business myself, ten years is a success story!

Jeanine Gustafson is the owner of Vision Quest, renting her prime location from the local owners of the building. She has been open for ten years and is very familiar with what works downtown, and what doesn’t. She talks about how she is supported by the City of Merritt’s policies and attention. 

What Works? 

Shop local in Merritt, BC

Hand made baby moccasins

Jeanine talks about other businesses and organizations which are supportive. For instance, she mentions how helpful the Open Door was to her. And comments on the support that Work BC has given to people she knows. 

“All sorts of fun people come in!” 

Jeanine enjoys the people who come in. She has regulars who pop in for tea and chats. She serves a steady flow of people coming in for optician services. And she welcomes all the visitors to town who make their way through her doors.

As we know, Merritt attracts people from all over the world. Jeanine often acts as an ambassador and tells people where to go in town, and what is happening locally. She has stories she shares with visitors, things I didn’t know about the history of some of the surrounding buildings and I’ve lived here for a lot longer….

What do you enjoy the most?

I asked Jeanine what she enjoys most about her business. After a moment’s thought, she describes the fun she has setting up

Shop local in Merritt, BC

Feather earrings by Jeanine Gustafson

the Christmas windows! Jeanine possesses the considerable Christmas village collection of the late Marguerite Kempin, a long time resident of the valley. It takes Jeanine a month to set it up, with no days off! And it will take a month to take down, ready for the next display! So it was great to hear that is a favourite part of her shop experiences.

I enjoy the Christmas window! And I know others who do too, some who take their grandchildren downtown to view it all.

Have you seen it? Whoops, it may be too late for this year. But the next display in Vision Quest’s display windows, on the corner of Voght Street and Quilchena Avenue will be there soon. Stroll by! Pop in!

Vision Quest is open Tuesday to Friday 10am-6pm, Saturday 11am-5pm. Closed Sunday and Monday.

But Jeanine is open on Mondays in the summer months. She says Monday is a busy day in Merritt in the summer!

And how will she keep going in the slow months? Jeanine’s message to the locals: “Come downtown and buy something!”

Now that’s a positive message that supports all the shops in Merritt!

Thanks, Jeanine! Good visit! 

Shop local in Merritt BC

Blue suede bag

 

Contact Jeanine Gustafson at Vision Quest visionquestoptical@gmail.com 

Vision Quest Optical and Gifts Facebook

More on the arts and culture scene in the Nicola Valley

And if you want to see more local art visit our local Arts Gallery at the heritage Courthouse on Nicola Avenue. 

And visit our Nicola Valley Arts Council site, to see what’s happening in the arts in our valley.

The NVCAC is also on Facebook. 

And check out my Creative Community Facebook page.

Shop local in Merritt, BC

Shopping at Vision Quest

.