New Mexico Shopping

All the Trimmings

The Shop, A Christmas Store, has been an
institution in the City Different since 1977. Rick Griego began working in the store shortly thereafter, and in 2002, he and his wife, Janice, purchased the business. Although it must seem an obligation for these two to say they enjoy celebrating Christmas all year round, they embody the holiday spirit as they greet their customers—some of whom return yearly to purchase an ornament from one of the more than 30 New Mexico artists the couple feature in the shop.

Kimo DeCora, of Isleta Pueblo, incorporates typical Pueblo pottery designs in his ornaments. For the past 18 years, this well-known miniature artist has created each of his ornaments by hand. Because they are hand-painted, each bell ($20), cross ($24), pot ($20), ball ($28), wedding vase ($24), and disc ($10) he creates is one of a kind.

David Gallegos, of Albuquerque, has been hand-carving wooden ornaments in the shape of New Mexico churches and destinations for 24 years. Now he creates 22 designs, including (from top) Isleta Pueblo’s St. Augustine Church, San José de Gracia in Trampas, and an Indian Pueblo ($14.95 each).

Jil Gurulé, of Alameda, taught herself to form clay figures and has sold her ornaments in The Shop since 1984. Her glittering figures include (from top) Our Lady of Guadalupe ($30), Blessed Kateri ($18), Señora Huestos ($18), and San Judas Taddeo/Patron Saint of Lost Causes ($26). Gurulé also creates a limited–edition ornament each year.—Ashley M. Biggers

116 E. Palace Ave.; (800) 525-5764, (505) 983-4823; www.theshopchristmas.com

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