39 WWW.CHARLESTONWOMENPODCAST.COM | WWW.READCW.COM | WWW.INSTAGRAM.COM/CHARLESTONWOMEN “A big part of our experience is thanks to our incredible sales associates,” Brittany says. “They are passionate and stellar at what they do. Without their dedication and expertise, the magic our customers feel wouldn’t be possible.” Trees overflow with unique adornments and a menagerie of holiday delights, including hand-painted, locally made pieces and blown glass treasures. Holiday enthusiasts rely on the shop for classics like Byers’ Choice Carolers, JingleNog Polish Blown Glass, Old World Christmas, Possible Dreams Santas and Mark Roberts Fairies. The curated selection celebrates craftsmanship and the Lowcountry’s rich cultural heritage along with seasonal gifts, collectible dolls, centerpieces and thoughtful keepsakes. This year brings an exciting exclusive collaboration with Enesco and Jim Shore: a new collectible Santa ornament featuring Charleston’s iconic Rainbow Row. “Designing exclusive collectible items with Frenchie, like our ‘Hospitality Santa’ series with Byers’ Choice, is so special,” Brittany says. “It’s rewarding to create something lasting together that will be cherished for generations.” love and gratitude,” says Brittany Wilson, CEO of Charleston Christmas Collectibles. “When we carry that gratitude into kindness and share love with others through small gestures, the spirit of Christmas stays alive all year long” The legacy began in 1970 when Brittany’s grandmother, Frenchie, became one of the first proprietors to open a store in the renovated City Market. Brittany began working alongside her while studying at the College of Charleston. Together, they attended annual wholesale markets to curate the shop’s offerings. This tradition cemented Brittany’s love for retail and connecting with people. In 2015, Brittany took the helm, bringing fresh ideas and designing exclusive ornaments reflecting the beauty and charm of Charleston, while her grandmother maintains ownership of the business. “The greatest business lesson my grandmother taught me is resilience and adaptability,” Brittany shares. “She always says the only constant in business is change. Whether economic shifts, natural disasters or product transitions, she’s taught me to stay positive and focus on what matters most: our values and the genuine relationships we’ve built.” Those relationships remain at the heart of Charleston Christmas Collectibles. Whether visiting for the first time or returning each year, guests are transported into a welcoming world of nostalgia, where favorite memories resurface and everyday hustles fade away. The journey hasn’t been without challenges. Running a store inside one of Charleston’s oldest buildings means adapting to crowds, flooding and ongoing renovations. Still, the joy of celebrating the magic of the holidays and the pride in maintaining Charleston’s oldest Christmas store alongside her grandmother outweigh any hurdles Brittany has faced. “Looking ahead, my biggest hope is to continue building on the foundation my grandmother laid, keeping our traditions alive while finding new ways to create,” Brittany says. “I hope the shop remains a place where people can feel the magic of Christmas year-round, and a place that evolves so future generations can enjoy it just as much as those who came before.” Located inside the Great Hall of the Charleston City Market at 188 Meeting St., the shop welcomes visitors year-round to rediscover the joy, beauty and spirit of Christmas. BUSINESS For more information, visit charlestonchristmascollectibles.com or call (843) 722-8002. “ The greatest business lesson my grandmother taught me is resilience and adapability Hospitality Santa series with Byers’ Choice Store Manager Carrie Smith, left, helps a customer
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