Who are Behind the Shades?

The Victoria Lamp Shade Shop is a unique independent business situated in the heart of Vancouver Island. They make custom made shades for the locals as well as for other customers and business’ across Canada. But who runs the shop itself?

Greg and Guylaine Spiro are a couple who moved to Victoria from Quebec. Much like the rest of us that have moved here from elsewhere, they were taken by the beauty of the mountains, of the ocean, and of the accessibility of two other major cities. Let alone the rest of the island. Victoria is a city that is full of people with unique ideas. Greg and Guylaine fit right in in this artistic community.

When they saw that The Victoria Lamp Shade was available for purchase, they saw it as great opportunity to do something different. It was a whole new challenge for the both of them. After seeing the work that it entails, they found it to be very diversified and provided a creative outlet.

They have currently owned the store for sixteen years and enjoy every minute of it. About twelve years ago they opened up a retail outlet in Vancouver where their 22 year-old daughter Allison works. However, all the shades are made here at the Victoria location. Greg and Guylaine ship the finished shades to the mainland and provide the people there with unique looking shades.

Their favorite thing that they like most about designing the shades is the creative aspect. Based on the fact that they make everything from hand means that every part of the shade is analyzed in great detail. Every shade request is completely different from the rest. It provides them with a challenge every time. They are constantly learning new skills. Both Greg and Guylaine enjoy working with their hands and find this work perfect for doing just that.

They are super friendly and are open to hearing what suggestions you have in regards to designing you the perfect shade. With Greg’s good sense of humor and Guylaine’s friendly persona, all customers are guaranteed a pleasant visit when visiting the Victoria Lamp Shade Shop.