Christmas shopping already?
Coquitlam's Place des Arts opened its annual Christmas Boutique on Monday - a week ahead of schedule for customers to take a peek and purchase the hottest handmade items in town.
And, best of all, every one made by a local artist.
The Boutique is an extension of the Maillardville facility's year-round gift shop, featuring treasures like hand-sewn leather goods by Olivia Wong, wooden folk-art pieces by Elann Currie, felted hats and fascinators by Ilona Marshall, etched-glass stemware by Ingrid Davitt, and brightly coloured fused-glass serving dishes by Josée Carriere
As well, Christmas cards and ornaments, bees wax candles, jewellery and ceramics are also on sale.
The Boutique's grand opening on Nov. 17 at 7:30 p.m. will coincide with the launch of Place des Arts' popular Positively Petite exhibition, of which the crafts can also be bought.
Well-known miniaturists Maarten Meerman and Tiffany Hastie are among the artists displaying their wares for the annual show, which runs until Dec. 16.
Viewers can see the tiniest 2D and 3D creations made by nearly 30 artists working with a variety of media. Also exhibiting are Gary Wilderman (carved-stone sculptures); Wendy Gould (watercolour and ink); Carolyn Bruce (jewellery); and Joan Grisley (pottery).
Meanwhile, the Boutique and exhibit will be featured prominently during the next Family Day on Nov. 20, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., where participants can make lanterns and get ready for Heritage Square's Light up the Square: A Lantern Affair, on Dec. 3.
Parents and kids can join three drop-in art workshops - mini-walnut owls, miniature greeting cards and pop bottle lanterns - during the festivities.
Admission is by donation; however, reservations are recommended by calling 604-664-1636 by Nov. 15. Place des Arts is located at 1122 Brunette Ave., Coquitlam.
