A Monkey Tree Emporium

A Monkey Tree Emporium has been a destination for shoppers for close to twenty years. Owner Odile Gagne opened her business in March 2001. The shop’s name stems from the artificial plants and trees she originally sold.

Odile says, “I liked the fun name, and to accompany it I wanted to carry entertaining products to make people laugh.”

Over time, A Monkey Tree evolved to sell home décor and gifts, and as the store grew it moved locations three times. The original storefront was located on First Avenue between Moncton and Bayview Streets.

After nine years on First Avenue, an opportunity arose to relocate to Moncton Street.

“I was very happy I did. Five years later, I wanted to expand. As luck would have it, right at that time almost double the square footage became available across the street. I said to myself, it’s now or never. The timing was perfect,” says Odile.

Step inside and you will find a diverse range of products from fashion to home décor, gifts, kitchen items, cookbooks, and a great selection of cards.

Odile says, “We carefully select products and support local artisans whenever an opportunity arises.”

A Monkey Tree is the only Richmond store that retails internationally renowned Vancouver artist Sid Dickens’ Memory Blocks. After purchasing one, you may quickly find yourself becoming a “Sid” collector.

From Salt Spring Island, Cedar Mountain Studios’ art blocks beautify any room.

Manufactured in Kelowna, Barefoot Venus makes body care products with eye-catching retro packaging. Bonus, the products smell as fabulous as they look.

Stocking stuffer alert! Canadian company Tru Earth’s Eco-Strips offer an eco-friendly alternative to traditional liquid and powder laundry detergent in a sheet format.

Odile says, “The creative component is everything from buying to merchandising, window displays, and participating in community events. It was so rewarding last year when we won the Steveston Merchants Association’s Scarecrow Crawl.”

After the event, the prize-winning owl scarecrow was donated to The OWL (Orphaned Wildlife) Rehabilitation Society in Delta.

The holiday season is upon us. Odile says, “Every year we love transforming the store, starting with our Christmas themed window. Inside the shop, you will find festive decor, Christmas trees filled with ornaments, and locally made condiments including my own apple jelly from trees in my garden. Throws, scarves, and cozy socks make you feel warm and at home. Everyone is in a happy mood and it makes the ambience even cozier.”

She adds, “Loyalty has been established over Kelly Krull the years. Some customers stop by periodically while others come in every week, even if it is just to take a peek as part of their morning walk.”

Approaching twenty years in operation is a milestone for any business. Odile says, “What I find most rewarding is being supported by an amazing community that has shopped here since day one. They have helped me grow the store. Now some of their kids shop here. How fun is that?”

Kelly Krull, the store’s manager, has been with A Monkey Tree for almost three years. Odile credits her as being a great addition to the shop. Kelly manages the front of store duties while Odile focuses on working behind the scenes. Rounding out the team are Emilie Roberston, Sierra Louie, Victoria Mul, and new addition MacKenzie Hughes.

2020 has been a challenging year for all business owners. To keep customers and staff safe, customers are asked to sanitize upon entering and wear a mask.

She remarks, “Should the pandemic get worse, A Monkey Tree’s website is available for curbside pick-up. We are ready to FaceTime and shop for you — just call us and we can arrange everything, even a delivery. We encourage people to continue to shop locally to support a vibrant and strong Steveston village.”

Being part of a small community offers merchants the chance to establish special relationships with their clients. Case in point, Odile recalls an example of Kelly going the extra mile for a customer. She shares, “Many locals don't have cars, and one day a customer came in to ask if we sold kettles and unfortunately we don't, but Kelly went out and bought one. The customer was thrilled and the next time she encountered Kelly in the village she shouted out, “There is Kelly Kettle!” and that's how new friendships begin, by helping each other.”

“Steveston is such a special place where you know all the faces. People respect and look out for each other. It’s home. That’s why going the extra mile comes naturally,” Odile concludes.

A Monkey Tree Emporium

3851 Moncton Street Richmond, BC V7E 3A7

Telephone 604-448-9234

www.amonkeytree.com