At first glance Fantastic Variety may look just like your average junk store. Well, it is that,…read moreplus a little bit more. I've managed to decorate my home with some pieces from there that I've also seen in more prestigious home wares shops like Provincial Home Living and Homeart. The beauty is because the shop isn't pretty, and because the stock is just stacked together in bulk, you'll get the same item at Fantastic Variety for half the price. Last week I was pleased to pick up some bamboo sticks of different lengths and sizes to go into a large wooden vase that's been empty in my living room for about six months. The same pieces were at Homeart and would have cost me $10 more for the same amount. They've also currently got some lovely French pieces; old hat boxes and war style letter boxes with French art and war stamps printed on them. To accompany the collection, French Bordeaux clocks of assorted sizes are also in stock. From $10 to $20, similar decorative clocks are available at Provincial Home living for more than double the cost. And unlike most cheap rip offs, these collections at Fantastic Variety are pretty good, to the naked eye at least you can hardly tell the difference and they'll make your space look just as effective, particularly if you're decorating on a budget. Some of my other fave items here are the assorted varieties of Japanese hanging lanterns, as well as bamboo door runners. My husband has a unique collection of islander wooden masks, and the lanterns and door runner have really added to the effectiveness of our 'tribal room'. Since relocating to a bigger premises within the centre, I've noticed the range in store getting more stylish and of higher quality. The store owners have also gotten a lot better at merchandising their best stuff and so you can see the value of some of their pieces in the window displays which have been quite fetching of late. So, if you're in the mood for some interior decorating on a budget, check out Fantastic Variety first. The window displays might even give you some good ideas and at least you'll be able to cost compare if you do go elsewhere.

Generally this gift shop is just like any other quality present finding shop filled with…read morecollectibles, flasks, frames and an assortment of adorable homewares. But recently they've truly outdone themselves with the vast and magnificent range of Christmas decorations and collectibles on offer. I must say I'm a sucker for the festive season, particularly since I've had kids I really love getting into the spirit with them and decorating the house. This year I'm going to Cards and Gifts Galore to purchase my daughter her own Christmas memorabilia keepsakes. The front display is of a white Xmas, with singing and musical Santa's, white Xmas trees and other trinkets perfect for the Xmas tree. For as little as $1.00 these are the best Xmas keepsakes I've found for quality and price. Similar to the range at Myer but half the price!

Christmas is less then seven weeks away folks!…read more The thought of heading to a shopping centre in December and aimlessly battling crowds in the hope that something, no anything will pop out at you and scream YOUR AUNT WILL LOVE ME is stressful at best. I may be able to help. If you have any or all of these dilemmas then Raging Earth is the place to head: -If your in the market for cheap gifts that look more expensive then the price tag then this shop in Plenty Valley Westfield is your new friend. -If you live in the outer North-East suburb of Mill Park or South Morang Raging Earth is a convenience store to grab a few things to make your house look even better. -If you don't know what to get your Mum, Grandma or really any female relative over 30, chances are something from here will delight them. Yes, Raging Earth is somewhat a glorified $2 shop, but in the best way possible. They have a great selection of Buddha statues, candles, photo frames, jewelry, home decor idea's and nick knacks type things. This really is your best bet for random gifts. Bonus points for the friendly staff who relieve you of anything you may be carrying while you look around their store!

If you or your nearest and dearest are looking for crystals, spiritual books or astrology,…read morenumerology, tarot readings and the like then this beautifully stocked shop in creative Eltham may be for you. While not exactly my cup of tea I have been here to find presents for my astrologically inclined Mum and she has loved everything I have found her. Beautiful crystals, candles, books and jewelery, all of which make great presents. The staff here are friendly, helpful and are involved in Melbourne's astrological 'scene' and know what will appeal to family and friends of all ages. Shekinah is located on the terrace behind the plaza that is home to Coles, if your having trouble finding it just ask a passerby, most locals will be happy to point you in the right direction.

If you like shower your home with gifts then this is the store for you. There is a great mix of…read morefunctional kitchen and bathroom home ware as well as pieces for your house. Looking for a little something for your Mum, Grandma, Mother-in-law? Then you will find it here. Well made and unique photo frames, platters, bowls, tangines, mugs, canvas art. Fake flowers, jewelery stands. Statues. If you have no idea what to get someone then head here for inspiration and advice. The bargain table reduces quality home wares to discount prices-which is always good for my kitchen!

Melody Nelson is a great little nook of surprises, full of things you didn't realise you wanted…read moreuntil you saw that it existed. Full of little knick-knacks, thing-a-ma-bobs and trinkets, it's an especially good place to visit if you're gift shopping (particularly as it bills itself as a gift shop). The goods are sourced locally and from Europe, and range from leather gloves, dresses, fancy hats, scarves and cushions through to brightly coloured and chunky potato peelers, rainbow water glasses and cute little tea sets. It's the sort of shop where you go around making little noises of approval as you browse. It's not cheap, but also not all that expensive and the things are nice. It's always worthwhile to drop in if you're in the area.

Personal passionate and tempting. This is about the best service and delightful chocolates when I…read morefirst walked into the shop. Then the smell of coffee hit me and my taste senses were in overdrive. The coffee was a perfect interlude to the day and the chocolate choices amazing. Made with care it all complimented the ambience of being away from the main drag at Ivanhoe. Will be back on my journeys and no doubt will leave with gifts of chocolates for loved ones.

Presence on Puckle is a delightful giftshop/variety store, with plenty to tempt you, and not just…read morefor purchasing presents!! At the moment they've a major emphasis on the spring racing carnival, with the largest range of fascinators I've seen in the North, as well as jewellery and other accessories. And if you're looking at sprucing up your kitchenware range, Presence on Puckle has you covered, with brands including Maxwell and Williams and Bacarrat. Not your usual junky giftshop, they have a spattering of almost everything gifty, but only if its of high quality. The perfect place to purchase presents for people you like, or to spoil yourself!