This Thanksgiving, with the pandemic and political climate, I find myself looking for those who are celebrating blessings in their lives. In my quest, I met Sharon and Sean Taylor of Grand Junction who live each day in gratitude. They are grateful for their shop, Taylor’s Croft, and the community they have built around all things Celtic.
Walking into the shop felt like I had sailed across the Atlantic. With Scottish music playing in the background, Sharon welcomed me, speaking in her lovely Scottish brogue, making the shop’s motto, “Authentically Scottish, Authentic Scotland,” obvious. She is passionate about sharing the culture of her homeland and helping people learn about their Scottish ancestry. She bridges the gap from shopping online, without guidance from a true Scot, to the authentic Scottish experience.
Sharon, grew up in Cumbernauld, near Stirling; her extended family is still there. In 2014 she started selling items from Scotland, England, and Ireland online. When her Uncle Hugh, a larger than life Scotsman, piper and preacher, passed away, she decided to open the shop in his memory, making Taylor’s Croft a labor of love. There were challenges along the way, yet Sharon’s passion for the Western Slope and for her homeland kept her going.
Relying on her faith, she persisted, receiving keys to the shop on her birthday in January 2020. Taylor’s Croft, is much more than a shop, it's a community hub for those who love Scotland and the UK. You can learn the Gaelic language with others who love Scottish culture, schedule a time to enjoy Scottish high tea with friends, host a Scottish Wedding or Hand Fasting, take bagpipe and drumming lessons, and so much more.
There are beautiful items available including a variety of gift items, custom handmade kilts, and authentic bagpipes. Sean plays and teaches the bagpipes which he learned from Uncle Hugh. Their pipe and drum band, the Glenfinnan Highlanders, performs at regional events. In 2019 they started the annual “Grand Valley Scottish Games and Celtic Festival,” drawing crowds from all over the region. The next festival, May of 2021. Put it on your calendar now.
I found items from the Outlander series, including the riding coat Claire wears. There are items from “Game of Thrones,” “The Vikings” and “Downton Abbey.” For ex-pats, she carries favorite foods. If something you desire is not in the shop, Sharon will get it for you. Sharon, Director of the St. Andrews Society of the Western Slope, feels honored to be the unofficial Scottish ambassador to the region. She relishes giving back to the community and has been recognized for doing so. Most recently, Sean was honored with a plaque and moving letter from “Compassionate Friends” for his service.
On November 28th, from 1:00-3:00pm, and every Saturday until Christmas, the Grand Valley will be treated to a Celtic Christmas in Taylor’s Croft. You can have your picture taken with Father Christmas while enjoying hot chocolate and shortbread. They will be open on Sundays throughout the holiday season.
The best part of Taylor’s Croft that you won’t get that anywhere else, is Sharon and Sean; their faith and commitment to the Grand Valley is remarkable. I recommend going to the shop to listen to Sharon tell stories; her Scottish lilt is enchanting, her knowledge of Scotland is unlimited, and her stories are inspiring.
