TIS the season to be jolly - after you've spent hours in dozens of shops, with dozens of bags buying dozens of different gifts for different people. Which gifts to buy, and where? For the stressed Christmas shoppers, the ideal gift might be just one shop where they could find presents for all.
Miraculously, such a shop exists. Situated in one of Glasgow's most attractive shopping centres, Princes Square, Illuminati offers a wide range of quality gifts which are ideal for Christmas and all year round.
``We are celebrating a decade of successfully serving the Glasgow shopper,'' said merchandising manager Stephen Fleming, who has been with Illuminati since it was founded in 1986. ``Our celebration coincides with the centenary of one of our most popular suppliers, Moorcroft Giftware, so we've planned a special event for our customers.
``Illuminati is the premier stockist of Moorcroft Giftware and table lamps. On Wednesday John Moorcroft will visit Illuminati between 12pm and 4pm to sign the Bryony vase, which costs #115, and other Moorcroft pieces. Customers can telephone to order in advance.''
John's father William Moorcroft, an artist and potter, founded the business in 1897. His style and technique soon became synonymous with his name and his work had gained international recognition by the early 20th century.
Moorcroft Pottery is a unique form of ceramic art, handmade and hand decorated. The method of production developed by William Moorcroft remains almost exactly the same, producing brilliantly coloured pieces renowned throughout the world
Available this Christmas are designs from the Oberon range, first introduced in 1994, and jugs from the Tribute to Charles Rennie Mackintosh range.
``We've been selling Moorcroft pieces for seven years, including lighting and clocks,'' said Mr Fleming. ``It's a much sought-after line in Glasgow as it lends itself to typical art nouveau Glasgow homes. ''
Moorcroft is just one of many products stocked by Illuminati. The shop is a tribute to Charles Rennie Mackintosh, and his designs can be seen on a host of wonderful gift ideas. ``We have a comprehensive range of silver and gold jewellery including rings, brooches and bracelets from Orkney-based manufacturers Ola Gorie and Ortak,'' said Mr Fleming. ``We also have an exclusive range of Charles Rennie Mackintosh watches by Carrick, these make ideal Christmas gifts.
``The mugs and storage jars are made by Dunoon ceramics and we also stock an exclusive black and white, fine bone china range, made by Wren. Our mirrors, photo frames and clocks are very popular. They are fashioned from a variety of materials - copper, silver and pewter, black ash and mahogany - to suit any decor. The stained glass is made by local crafts people.''
The shop prides itself on supplying its customers with contemporary designs and is always on the look out for new designers and their work; ``We're well known by local crafts people and artisans,'' said Mr Fleming. ``This is reflected in the quality and range of our merchandise.
``We've recently introduced a hand-crafted range of Charles Rennie Mackintosh furniture, made from American Oak. This is designed by the same local craftsmen who created the furniture for the Art Lovers' House in Bellahouston Park. Our Mackintosh place mats were specially designed for the Charles Rennie Mackintosh Exhibition by Castle Melamine.
``We have several new gift ideas in for Christmas, home fragrances such as Aromatique Smell of Christmas and aromatherapy products from Neal's Yard of Covent Garden. Glassware from the Isle of Wight, featuring the Golden Mosaic range, includes perfume bottles/atomisers, vases, paperweights, candlesticks and lighting, all inset with 24 carat gold.
``Shoppers will be interested to know that we are now the only city centre outlet for Liberty products. We stock a range of its diaries, address books, cosmetic bags and stationery, all ideal for Christmas.''
Once you've bought your gifts, you needn't go elsewhere for wrapping and cards. Illuminati has it all, including Woodmansterne Charity Christmas cards, wrapping and ribbons.
Illuminati is keen to provide an appealing shopping environment for its customers. There are many products to feast your eyes on, all attractively and clearly displayed. `
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