By David F. Rooney
One of Revelstoke’s most vibrant and colourful downtown shops, Talisman Fibre and Trading Co., is closing its doors at the end of April, says its owner, Janet Pearson.
A sales decline that began, almost imperceptibly, in 2008, coupled with a sense that the retail business has completely taken over her life contributed to her decision, Janet said in an interview at the Modern on Saturday.
“I want to have a life again,” she said. “I’ve geared my life completely around the store. We haven’t had a proper family vacation in years. The kids are heading out (daughter Annie has already left home, Claire graduates from RSS this year and her youngest daughter, Eva, is in Grade Nine) and I’d like to spend more time with them while I can. And we’d like to spend more time with my mother-in-law (85-year-old Elizabeth Hemming).”
The Talisman sells colourful, high quality clothing, rugs, pillows, fun jewellery and other items — many of them handmade. Janet and her staff were always upbeat and friendly and the shop on Mackenzie Avenue had a positive and happy atmosphere. It is popular with the younger men and women who have moved to Revelstoke and attracts many of the visitors who come here. And what began as a slight drop off in business in 2008 with the Great Recession hasn’t been reversed, Janet said, adding that sales flattened out as Revelstokians drove out of town to do their shopping.
“This is something that has been eating at me for some time,” she said.
And, sadly, she has decided to close the business for good at the end of April.
In the meantime, all clothing is on sale at 50% off and, as of the end of March, there will be no more consignments for sale.
“If you have store credit or a gift certificate you had better use them now,” Janet said.
What’s next for Janet?
“I hope some other doors and opportunities will open up for me,” she said.
