As a New Yorker married to a Glaswegian (living in NYC), I feel the pressure from my American family to bring them presents from Scotland. Since I refuse to walk the Royal Mile buying tartan tshirts, tins of fudge, and scottie dog trinkits, I'm always looking for nice wee shops where I can get unique gifts.
Imagine my delight in finding Ae Fond Kiss one rainy morning in Glasgow. After 5 minutes in the shop, I announced to my husband that he might as well just leave me there, because I knew I'd be able to find something different for each of my family members. He left, and I took out my list to do some serious shopping.
The owner, Karen, was pure sunshine. She helped me narrow down my selections and made other recommendations based on what I told her about my family. She chatted with me as I shopped, and I had so much fun I actually stayed for a few hours! I left with the feeling that I'd made a new friend. Some people would say, "She's just doing her job, trying to sell more." Sure, of course she is. I would much rather prefer handing my credit card to a lovely, friendly, local shop owner, than to an unattentive teenager at a store in a mall. Wouldn't you?
Some of my treasure:
A handmade ceramic birdfeeder unlike any I've ever seen
Porcelain ornaments stamped with inspirational sayings perfect for my friends and family
Unique baby clothes
Handmade journals
Cute stocking stuffers like magnets and keychains, bracelets and charms
Beautiful cards handmade by the owner, herself a talented artist
While I didn't buy any jewelry, I still perused the jewelry display cases quite thoroughly. There was so much beautiful and unique jewelry made by artists. Next time I'm in Glasgow, I'm making a beeline for Ae Fond Kiss to buy MYSELF a lovely piece as a keepsake for my favorite second city.
I understand that her stock changes quite frequently, so check it out, then check it out again. You won't be disappointed. read more