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For 60 years, the Scandi Shoppe has brought Scandinavian culture and tradition to Connecticut. Originally founded by Siv Harvey, the shop has evolved from a small gift store in Ellington to a beloved destination in Broad Brook, now run by Harvey’s granddaughter, Olivia Smith. The Scandi Shoppe offers everything from handcrafted Scandinavian treasures to food and more.
In 1957, Harvey came to Connecticut from Sweden and began working as a nanny. After meeting her husband and starting a family, she decided to bring a piece of her homeland to her new community. Together, she and her husband opened the Scandi Shoppe, where she ran her thriving business for over 30 years.
“It was really quite amazing, her operation,” said Smith. “Back then, the shop was like a mini department store, and girls would even come in to do their bridal registry here.”
When Harvey decided to retire, she couldn’t stay away for long. She reopened a smaller version of the shop in her home, continuing to offer the Scandinavian products her customers loved. Eventually, she passed the torch to Smith, who had grown up helping in the store. When it became clear that her grandmother was ready for full retirement, Smith knew the family legacy had to continue.
“The idea was lit, and we couldn’t let it go. It was too much of a legacy that she created,” Smith said.
After finding a new location in Broad Brook, Smith and her family set to work renovating the property. The Scandi Shoppe reopened its doors in November 2020, blending traditional Scandinavian charm with a modern flair. According to Smith, their most popular items vary throughout the year, but their food is always a customer favorite. They’ve also expanded their holiday offerings to help shoppers find the perfect gifts for everyone on their list.
“We’ve expanded beyond just offering Scandinavian items during the holidays. About 90% of our products are still Scandinavian, but we’ve also added women’s and children’s clothing, gifts, jewelry, bath items, books, and more,” said Smith.
One of the Scandi Shoppe’s most cherished holiday traditions is their Santa Lucia celebration, which symbolizes bringing light to the darkest days of winter. This year’s event will take place on Dec. 14 and will feature a procession where young girls dressed in white gowns and wearing lighted crowns sing Christmas songs, embodying the spirit of Saint Lucia, the Swedish beacon of light.
After the procession, attendees can enjoy a festive fika with coffee, sweets and glögg, a traditional Scandinavian mulled wine.
“Many churches used to hold Santa Lucia processions, but it’s dwindled a little bit,” Smith shared. “We always draw quite a crowd, and it’s wonderful to see people from Sweden or children of Swedish immigrants who love the tradition and participate. They often get a little tearyeyed during the procession. It’s quite beautiful.”
This year, as the shop celebrates its 60th anniversary, Smith is looking toward the future with a mix of humor and hope. When asked about her next goals for the store, she responded with a laugh, saying, “I like to keep those close to my heart. Really, I hope the shop just continues to grow and that we can be here for the next 60 years, passing it down within the family. I truly believe it’s a happy place for people and brings them joy, so I hope that continues.”
Smith’s mother, Mary-Ellen Trueb, couldn’t be prouder of her daughter’s efforts in continuing the family legacy.
“Since Olivia first opened the store, one of the most common remarks we hear is that it feels like stepping into a Hallmark movie,” said Trueb. “I think that’s one of the greatest compliments because people watch Hallmark movies during the holidays to feel good, and they’re equating that feeling with being here. It really is the highest compliment.”
As the holidays approach, the Scandi Shoppe is ready to welcome visitors into its warm and inviting space. It has become more than just a store and is a true community hub, with events, workshops, and cultural celebrations that bring people together to share in the Scandinavian way of life. From festive holiday gatherings to workshops on Nordic crafts, the shop creates a space where everyone can experience the warmth and hospitality that define Scandinavian culture. Whether you’re looking for a special gift or simply want to soak in the festive atmosphere, the Scandi Shoppe brings joy to every visitor.
THE SCANDI SHOPPE IS LOCATED AT 149 ROCKVILLE RD. IN BROAD BROOK,
DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON, THEIR HOURS WILL BE WEDNESDAY TO FRIDAY FROM 11 A.M. TO 5 P.M. AND SATURDAY AND SUNDAY FROM 11 A.M. TO 4 P.M. FOR THOSE UNABLE TO VISIT IN PERSON, THE SCANDI SHOPPE ALSO OFFERS ONLINE SHOPPING WITH SHIPPING OPTIONS, MAKING IT EASY TO SHARE A PIECE OF SCANDINAVIAN CHARM WITH LOVED ONES NEAR AND FAR.
THOSE INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT THE SCANDI SHOPPE OR PLACING AN ONLINE ORDER CAN VISIT SCANDI-SHOPPE.COM.