It’s always difficult to find a place to shop for the holidays that doesn’t involve long lines, crowded malls, crabby clerks, and boring merchandise. No one likes to buy another sweater or one more pair of socks for the people on their shopping lists. So don’t. If the thought of beginning your holiday shopping is almost unbearable, make it easy on yourself and come to The Peoria Art Guild for all your gifts. The Peoria Art Guild is the place to shop for every person on your gift-giving list.
In the Gallery Store, you can find beautiful glass ornaments, elegant ceramic pieces, fun jewelry, gorgeous scarves, and much more. Every item in the Gallery Store is made by a local or regional artist, so the recipient will certainly be getting a one-of-a-kind gift. To make the experience even better for shoppers, gift-wrapping is available, and the staff is competent, friendly, and helpful.
You can shop any day Monday through Saturday, but there are some special sales and events you may want to note on your calendar. Every Tuesday throughout November and December, The Peoria Art Guild Gallery Store offers a 15 percent discount to seniors ages 55 and up on their entire purchase. November 20 is the Members’ Only Sneak Peek to the Annual Crimson Door Exhibit and Sale from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. On this day-and for the entire week following-Peoria Art Guild members receive 25 percent off their purchases in the Gallery Store and in the Gallery. Anyone who isn’t a member of the Guild can join at the time of purchase.
On November 26, The Peoria Art Guild participates in Yule Like Peoria, which is a great opportunity for residents of the community to tour the downtown area and experience all that Peoria has to offer. Finally, December 11 is the Annual Trunk Show, in which eight local professional artists set up shop in our gallery and sell their holiday gifts. This year’s artists are Chuck Flagg (ceramics), Amy Furgiuele (jewelry), Lisa Garrison (fiber), Stephen Knight (ceramics), Robert LaBonte (wood), Nancy Slevin (jewelry), Hiram Toraason (glass), and Jack & Shirley Wohlstadter (mixed media 3D). Most items at the Trunk Show will be under $100, so it will be a wonderful opportunity to shop.
The Peoria Art Guild is located on the corner of Harrison and Washington in downtown Peoria. A parking lot is attached to the building, so there’s no need to drive around searching for a parking space. Holiday hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Wednesday; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Thursday; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday and Saturday. For membership information or questions regarding the Gallery Store, call 637-2787. We can’t wait to help you find the perfect gift for that hard-to-shop-for person. AA!
