The corner of Claressa and Crescent (the C.C. in C.C. Gallagher) pulses with mellow music and welcoming laughter. Whether looking for a special piece of jewelry, the perfect gift for a friend, a new piece of pottery, or one of C.C.’s private label gourmet items – it is always a joy to simply walk through the door of C.C. Gallagher.

The constantly changing displays are surrounded by vases and flowers and tables and teas. What was previously an old bank vault serves as a stronghold for an impeccable selection of fine wines and gourmet items. Display cases containing unique creations from jewelry designers, pottery makers and artists are part of the store’s unquestionable, one-of-a-kind flair.

Books on style, spirit, humor and travel are everywhere you turn. Greeting cards that make you smile, chuckle or sigh share space with oil-on-canvas originals. Bubble bath, body lotions, soaps and scents say “give yourself a special treat” while videos on yoga, relaxation and balance reply “treat yourself well always.”

The café offers a tasty variety of muffins, scones, croissants and evilly decadent desserts to be enjoyed on the patio along with your cup of java (or espresso or latte or mocha or glacier or tea…the list goes on.) The lunch menu boasts fresh sandwiches and salads, foccacia bread, and homemade soups that are 100% vegetarian.

Always on the look out for items that improve the quality of life as well as express life’s beauty, the shelves at C.C. Gallagher are stocked with quality conscience purchases – dealing with businesses that are environmentally aware and keeping in mind that our world needs our care.

Santa Catalina Island is a special place, with its natural beauty and easy pace. If you find yourself on a leisurely stroll through the friendly streets of Avalon, make sure to visit C.C. Gallagher. Take time out to enjoy the sights, the sounds, the scents – the simple pleasures.