Ladybug Boutique, Victoria, BC

The Ladybug Boutique started out as Scandinavian Weaving in Market Square on Johnson Street in downtown Victoria thirty years ago when a nice Swedish lady named Victoria opened a small shop to sell her weaving. About a year later an equally nice Danish lady named Birgitte joined her and a great partnership was born! Over the years the ladies expanded into Candles, Giftware and Scandinavian Specialties’ from Christmas Nisser to craft-paper, flags, mugs, Danish iron and glass, cookbooks and traditional Swedish, Danish and Finish jewelry With the move fifteen years ago to Mattick’s Farm in Cordova Bay the name changed to “The Ladybug Boutique” in honour of Victoria’s lifetime fondness for lucky ladybugs. After three years of operation in Vancouver as well, the two decided that retirement might be worth contemplating, so on the day of the twentieth anniversary the store officially passed into the safe hands of Michael and his sister, Ilse. Michael and Ilse have kept up the traditions of the store, but have also added new flavours to the mix over their ten years. The addition of more handmade products from local artisans as well as selected collectables have kept the store different and interesting. Victoria and Birgitte follow the evolution with interest and Victoria is still happily pitching in at Christmas. The familiar faces of long time staff members Leslie, Mary, Betty, along with the addition of Judy, continue to ensure that customers are welcomed to “The Ladybug” with enthusiasm and good cheer. As we always say: “If you can’t find the perfect gift, at the right price, in this store, you’re not looking hard enough!”