Christmas in the Country Studio Tour 2025
On November 2nd, I took part in the Christmas in the Country Studio Tour 2025 which featured small local businesses in Dundas and Stormont Counties. The annual event is hosted by Diana Saunders also known as “Farmer Di.” This year I headed west to Morrisburg and Iroquois.
My first stop was at Crafty Creations Cards & More in Iroquois where I was warmly greeted by Darlene in her kitchen-turned-make-shift studio. On display were handcrafted greeting cards, gift tags, mason jars recycled into flower vases and pet treat containers, handmade soaps, and much more. You can find her at the Christmas Market in Long Sault hosted by the Friendly Circle Seniors Club on November 15th.
From there, I visited La Gitana’s Pop-Up Shop in Morrisburg. Artist Donna Plant showcased her watercolour and ink artwork, and an assortment of unique handcrafted cards, jewellery, key fobs, and Christmas ornaments. Her spouse, Edward Plant, also had photographs on display. Look for Donna on December 6th at Winter Wonders Chrismystical Market at the Leo Boivin Community Centre Arena in Prescott, Ontario.
A business that celebrated its grand opening just last month, situated at the Morrisburg Shopping Plaza, was next on my list. Uligans Uncovered, co-owned by Jennifer McIntyre and her daughter, specializes in unique blends of loose-leaf teas and roasted coffee from the Happy Goat Coffee Company. All products are organic and Ontario-sourced. Of special interest was a tea called “Mapletosh” created in honor of South Dundas and inspired by the MacIntosh apple and sweet maple.
A short walk took me to the Seaway Crafters Guild, a gift shop that features locally sourced and crafted products. The innovative shop also features in-store made products. Various sizes of 3-D printers are on-site ready to create custom pieces and a sewing room in the back ensures that the creativity keeps flowing. There are a variety of gift ideas for the hard-to-buy-for person in your life.
Last on my list, but certainly not least, was Canaan Mohair Spinning & Weaving Studio situated on Ault Island. Shirley Browsky, a Fibre Designer keeps very busy handweaving items, creating felt art, spinning, and offering workshops. She explained the process of felting used to create her artwork. The shop displayed a beautiful array of colourful vests, scarves, and signature hats and wraps. From May to June, when she is not in her shop, Shirley can be found at the McDiarmid Home in Upper Canada Village doing what she does best.
It was a beautiful morning for a country drive, and I was happy to get a head start on my Christmas shopping, and maybe a little something for moi.
