THE VICTORIA REVIEW
Debra Thomlinson is passionate about her store Avalon Books and Treasures. Located in the Market Square complex in downtown Victoria, she curates an eclectic array of inventory.
Avalon Books and Treasures was established back in 1970, giving it the distinction of being Victoria’s Oldest Occult Boutique. Originally, when the doors opened, it was known as an apothecary and metaphysical bookstore. Over the years Avalon has grown into much more. This past October, they celebrated 50 years in business in Victoria.
With the tourism industry non-existent, and a good portion of their pre-COVID business was derived from out-of-town visitors, there certainly was a challenge for the store to continue operating.
Because of the pandemic, the store was closed for a short time. This allowed Debra and her business partner to refurbish and rebrand the shop. The store was re-launched in early June 2020.
This incarnation of Avalon is very impressive. No longer just an apothecary and bookstore, Debra has adjudicated an incredible selection of local BC artisans and the goods they’re producing.
This is a win-win situation she’s created, giving artisans the opportunity to be in the retail market. Because of this, the store is full of exceptional quality items hard to find in many other places.
Still offering herbal apothecary and loads of books, one of the collections that stick out is their Tarot section. Debra spends a lot of time sourcing out rare tarot decks that are hard to find any where else, and collecting books on tarot.
Today a visit to Avalon will certainly pique curiosity. Debra’s inventory is, in her words, “a fine-tuned Artisan collection.”
Some of the items you will find include chocolate creations from their own local chocolatier; fine silver jewelry by their own local silversmith; delicious herbal teas; bars of luscious soaps; brand name vintage clothing designs including Gucci, Armani, Coach (more selection added every single day); as well as a stunning collection of crystals, beauty products, and gifts galore exclusive to Avalon.”
When asked about how the pandemic has affected business, Debra surprised me by telling me that it is 4 times busier now than before they closed to refurbish.
Another interesting fact she shared is that the demographic of her clientele has changed as well. Now she rarely sees anyone over 45 years old shopping at Avalon.
Weekends get pretty busy, she said. With COVID restrictions only 4 customers are allowed at a time inside the store. If you do end up going down on the weekend and encounter a line-up, be confident knowing it will be worth it when it’s your turn to get inside.
If you want something unique as a gift for someone special… or maybe even just for yourself, check out Avalon Books and Treasures. It’s certainly worthy of a visit.
Other services they offer include psychic readings, tarot card readings and herbal consultations.
You can find them at #62 -560 Johnson Street (lower level of Market Square). They can be reached by phone at 250 380 1721. Their website is https://avalonstreasures.com/. Find them on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Avalonbooks2/. Follow them on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/avalonartscollective/.
Currently, you'll find them open Weds- Sunday from 12 to 5, but as of March 8, summer hours kick in and they’ll be open 7 days a week from 12 to 5.