During the last decade, stores that feature holidays all year round have become increasingly popular. Such is the case with "It’s a Small World Christmas Haus" or as its more popularly known The Christmas Store. As you drive into Kimmswick this will be one of the first houses you see a block left at the head of Elm Street and unlike many of the shops in Kimmswick this is a new building designed specifically as a Christmas themed shop. The floors are stressed wood with a few area carpets to give the feel of an old time Christmas and soft lighting is used throughout.. The outside is painted a brick red color, counterpointed with soft blue railings and trim and a full porch extends the length of the building. Very distinctive.
As you step through the front door, cares of the everyday world slip away. Look to your left and there are several lighted Christmas trees full of ornaments. On the right is a cozy fireplace scene. Through a large central opening you can see even more charming merchandise in the next room. The cashiers dress in shopkeeper outfits from the mid-1800s and stand ready to be of service.
While the store’s ambience is mid 1800’s, there is a balance of primitive, traditional and modern Christmas items. I saw some of the latest lighting strands technology as well as handmade primitive ornaments. There are many different types of Santas and including several different styles of St. Nickolaus. Snowmen abound in many many different types, sizes and styles. The shop also maintains a large stock of nutcrackers and Christmas incense smokers. Among the named collections they carry you might recognize are Byers Carolers, Inge Glass, Possible Dream Santas and Mill City Music CD’s. A word about music -- soft instrumental music, not necessarily Christmas oriented except during the holiday season, plays in the back ground year round. This music is for sale and when Christmas is upon us, they carry a wonderful selection of Christmas CD’s. If you’re looking for "Babies first Christmas", or "First Christmas Together," or "Brides Ornaments," or frankly just about any kind of ornament, the shop will personalize it for you.
I’ve been to this shop many times and I definitely recommend off season if possible. During the Candlelight Walk in Kimmswick you can barely wiggle through the aisles -- and of course you want to be careful because there are ornaments hanging everywhere! However, not to worry. Most people who visit the shop seem to be in a friendlier mood than normal. "Excuse me," and "can I help you," are heard frequently. That’s probably not an accident. After all, we’re just a little more caring towards others when Christmas is on our mind. So, when you visit Kimmswick, be sure and stop in for a dose of brotherly kindness and a bit of nostalgia as well at The Christmas Store.
Store hours: Closed Mon; Tues-Fri 10am-4pm; Sat 10am-5pm; Sun 11am-5pm. Phone # 636-464-0779.