Life in Big Canoe, Real Estate in the Mountains

Living just out of reach of Atlanta has it’s advantages. The biggest advantages  are the lack of traffic, plenty of elbow room and a true spirit of community. The disadvantages do exist but most of them revolve around the darting out for last minute gifts during the holidays. There are ways to get around it but for this working girl, mom, agent, and wife, thinking ahead is the key. My first year I tried stocking up several of my favorite wines to share with friends and family but that only ended up with empty bottles and silly  blog posts. The next year I decided to give homemade baked goods to my friends like I used to do in the good old days when my cell phone wasn’t a “stop, drop, and roll” accessory. Needless to say burnt baked goods don’t win friends and influence people in the real estate world. So, how do the full timers of Big Canoe make it through the holiday shopping frenzy? We turn to Chris.

Who is Chris? Chris is one step under Santa but he shows up all year long. He does not wear a red suit or drive a flying sleigh. Instead he wears a brown suit and drives a brown UPS delivery truck that is sometimes seen on the side of the road with the hood up and smoke coming out of it. He shows up at your doorstep on time with a big smile, boxes, and usually a few dog cookies for the pups. Chris is Big Canoe’s version of the King of Queens.

Home delivery is very convenient but sometimes ordering online just isn’t personal enough. For truly last minute dashes out for something special I say “GO LOCAL LOCO”! Many of these boutiques are locally owned. Here is a list of local stores and art vendors:

• Bears, Oh My-located in the center of Big Canoe Village. Barb is the owner and an absolute doll! Cards, candles, books, jewelry, thoughtful gifts, and of course bears! It’s a fun place to take visitors also. 706-268-1539
• Cynthia Aiken Interiors- Love this store! Cynthia has somewhat of a French Country flair and a wide assortment of gifts and accessories available. 770-893-1500
• Taylors Children’s Wear and Gifts (706)253-9510 – 1011 Camp Road Jasper, Ga. 30143 Taylors has a super selection of nicely priced children’s special occasion clothes, shoes, and accessories. As an added bonus there is also an adjoining gift shop for all the ladies in your life featuring; charms, jewelry, handbags, special dolls, girly toys, and whatnots.
• Sackets- For the horse lovers and western fans. Wide selection of boots, western clothes, and accessories.
  100 Shelby Ln. Jasper, GA  30143-6213 (Atlanta, GA Metro Area) 678-454-4677
• Bargain Barn-Great place for the guys on your list! Hunting, fishing, camping, canoes, kayaks, and Harley accessories. I think they even have plaid flannel shirts too!
• Daisy-Cool clothes, faboo shoes, and very hip jewelry. Quick note: If you are full figured like me then stick to the shoes and jewelry.  40 Mark Whitfield Street #E Jasper, GA PH 706-253-6996
• Wildcat on a Wing- Loaded with all kinds of art Wildcat will make your heart soar! Handmade yard art, bird houses, wind directionals, furniture, jewelry, beautiful glass, and much more.  (770)735-6923 Located on Hwy 5 in Ballground.

Still can’t find the perfect gift? How about a cabin or home in the North Georgia Mountains? I’ll be here through the holidays. Wishing you peaceful shopping this season!

Karin Elliott
Independent Broker Associates