Where to Find the Best Holiday Decoration Shopping in the St. Louis Area

It's that time of year again, and if you are interested in having the best decorated house on your street, here are a few places to find interesting and beautiful pieces.

We'll start with my personal favorite, Holiday House at 612 S. Main St. in St. Charles. This particular shop has been around since I was a kid and is literally wall-to-wall ornaments and decorations. I think that first time visitors will be surprised at how much can be fit into such a small store. Excellent stop, full of original pieces that you probably won't find anywhere else. Special Holiday hours throughout December will be 9:30 am to 9:00 pm Wednesday through Saturday.

As far as huge stores with a greater selection of less pricey items, a staple for all decorating needs is Garden Ridge. With 2 locations in the area, Bridgeton and Fenton, the (possible) drive is very well worth it. You will find literally hundreds of fun pieces, an awesome ornament selection, and discount prices on faux trees. Highly recommended for the one stop shopper. Garden Ridge is open from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm every day but Sunday, when the store is open from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Another superstore is Michael's Arts and Crafts. For silk flowers and faux greenery, it doesn't get any better than St. Louis's most popular arts and crafts store. With several locations from St. Charles to South County, it's guaranteed to be a short drive to a vast selection for the *crafty* decorator. Hours of operation are 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Monday - Saturday and 12:00 pm 6:00 pm on Sundays.

If you're looking for specialty or high end ornaments and decorations, Traditions and Treasures in Kimmswick, although quite a drive for some, is well worth the trip. A smaller, more personal feel is the best way to describe the store's environment. Also, Traditions and Treasures boasts a wide selection for all of your holiday needs. Hours of Operation are Tuesday - Friday 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Saturdays 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Sundays 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. Closed on Mondays.

Old Time Pottery in Florissant is known for its incredible deals on home decor year round, and the Holiday Season is no exception. Particularly for the bargain-hunting crowd, the prices alone are worth checking out. Huge selection, knowledgeable staff, very low priced faux trees and outdoor light sculptures, just an all around great holiday shopping destination. Located in the Grandview Plaza Shopping Center, Old Time Pottery is open from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm daily and special holiday hours are 7:00 am to 10:00 pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

As far as outdoor lighting, there is one service that cannot be beat. Holper's Holiday Lights will not only design, but install and uninstall outdoor lighting for the Holidays. Wonderful service and what a great time saver for anyone too busy to spend a weekend hanging lights. They also have a wonderful selection of original and special lighting. Holper's Holiday Lights telephone number is 636-940-7378.

This time of year is certainly full of excitement and joy for many, but with everything there is to get done, I hope I've helped save you some time by mentioning these shops. I like to head to the Cherokee Street antique shops around this time of year, I've found a lot of really eclectic decorations at fair prices, but you have to really dig to find something great. So, for people who don't have time or don't like to shop, I highly recommend these stores.