Victoria Lavender Store

I’m a lavender nut from Vancouver and was visiting a friend who lives nearby, so we stopped here so I could do some shopping. Ironically, I’d just returned from Provence where I didn’t have time to shop for lavender products, so was looking forward to the Sydney version.
As we entered the store, there was that wonderful scent of lavender that I love so much, and I could feel my credit card wriggling in happy anticipation of some action.
The saleswoman at the front entrance was busy on a phone call and was unable to acknowledge us with a wave, smile, or nod as we entered. However, a few minutes later, when I committed the capital crime of not seeing the sample sticks to access the hand cream sampler, she was able to divert her attention from her phone call to shriek, «USE THE SAMPLE STICKS!!!» Unfortunately, I did not see the sample sticks until just after I ever so lightly touched my fingertip to the already open jar for a small dab. I apologized, however my friend and I were made to feel uncomfortable as the woman spent her time glaring at us while she continued her phone conversation.
I am truly, truly sorry I didn’t use a sample stick. I understand the need for hygiene. I also understand their open sample jars and bottles are susceptible to contamination by any staff or visitor who might sneeze or cough whilst in the store, whether into a tissue or not.
My credit card did not come out to play, it stayed in my wallet. Luckily, there are other stores, both bricks & mortar and online, that sell lavender products and that is where my card will be playing this afternoon.
Some Canadian retailers cry the blues because consumers choose to cross border shop or shop on line, well — wake up, be polite, smile/​nod/​wave when someone enters your store and you might make a big sale, especially during the Christmas shopping season.

If you’re a lavender nut like me, you simply must go here. This stop is an offshoot of Victoria Lavender Farm, just off Pat Bay Highway.
The moment I opened the shop door I was knocked off my feet into heaven by the incredible scent of lavender, and it was fun watching other customers react the same way.
Alan, the owner, stocks a dreamy range of beautifully packaged and inspiring lavender products, from lavender-​infused teas and cake mixes to bunches of decorative lavender, and a wide range of of lavender body care products.
During my visit yesterday he excitedly introduced locally made biscotti, made with lemon, blueberry and lavender.
This January everything in the store is ¹⁄₃ off the regular price, so naturally I got completely carried away shopping.
Get in there and stock up! And if you’re lucky, the resident collie dog, Max, will sniff your butt.