Also serving the communities of De Luz, Rainbow, Camp Pendleton, Pala and Pauma

Lavender Dreams: a magical labor of love

Tucked away in Jackson Square, visitors can discover Lavender Dreams, a magical, whimsical hideaway of a shop best known for distinctive gifts that relate to a thematic garden-style décor.

“I’ve always wanted to be unique and I have wanted my shop to be different from everything and anything else that you see,” said owner Melissa Ross. “I’ve had people come in on their lunch hour not wanting to buy anything but tell me they are there to get a ‘good feeling.’”

Over the last five years, this quaint shop has transformed in many exciting ways. Aside from lovely angel and fairy trinkets and sculptures, Lavender Dreams now provides wonderful body products for those who aren’t afraid to pamper themselves.

“Our skincare products come from France and all evolve around the garden scents,” said Ross. These fine body products range from body lotion, hand lotion and bubble baths to fragrant mists.

In different nooks inside the shop, visitors will find intricate and detailed perfume bottles and jewelry. However, the most popular items at Lavender Dreams, explained Ross, are her sculptures, body care line and candles.

Looking ahead, Ross is excited about Lavender Dreams’ upcoming facelift. It will include mini French, Italian, Old World and whimsical venues.

Before Ross opened Lavender Dreams, she was a chef. “I used to be a private cook for people in Rancho Santa Fe and in La Jolla,” she said. “I started cooking privately for people and did it for about ten years.”

After settling in Fallbrook, Ross became an avid gardener and joined the garden club.

“I realized how many people who lived in Fallbrook were there because of the land and loved working in their yards,” she said. “So, I envisioned having a garden shop with things that would make your house, garden or patio more beautiful.”

Like a tree, Ross’ vision bloomed into fruition and branched out into other fun gift areas. “We have more gifts and more home décor, but these gifts do fit into a garden theme that can be placed inside or out,” she said.

Ross’ landlord, Betty Jackson, told Ross years ago that in Fallbrook a business builds its clientele based on relationships. Through the years, Ross has realized what words of wisdom she received from Jackson.

“I have built a lot of relationships with my customers,” she said. “I have to say that, to me, this has meant more to me than anything – it feels good.”

For whatever reason someone visits Lavender Dreams, they are there because they will find something unique, said Ross.

“I like the fact that when a customer leaves here, their gift is wrapped up pretty,” she said. “I started this type of wrapping five years ago.”

What Ross loves most about her business is how her dream became a reality and has created a relaxing environment for everyone – including the people who work with Ross.

“I have had the same women, who are my friends, help me with my shop,” she said.

When Ross is working at Lavender Dreams, she admits that it doesn’t even feel like work: “It’s a labor of love.”

Lavender Dreams is located at 119 North Main Avenue, Suite A. It is open Monday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call (760) 451-2343.

 

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