Ladies and gentleman, this is your captain speaking. Welcome to GVA — Gardner Village Air. Put your tray tables in the upright and locked position. We’re about to takeoff and… Hold the phone! This flight isn’t of the tray-tabled variety, and there shall be no “fasten seatbelt” lights. This flight ...

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It’s often said one shouldn’t reinvent the wheel. That isn’t the case at Gardner Village. Where wheels once turned to power one of the earliest flour mills in Utah, they now turn to both honor that history and add to the historic atmosphere. The MILL-ion Dollar Idea Okay, so perhaps Nancy Long’s ...

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Hello and thanks for hopping by! We're so happy you're back for Part 2 of our Easter at a glance. Last post, we shared a favorite tradition, delicious dessert for your gathering, family-friendly activities, fab photo ops, and more! Today, we have even more sweet eats, your source for children's ...

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Spring has sprung, which means good things are hoppenin’ at Gardner Village! From adorable spring photo ops and new baby animals to an egg-ceptional egg tree, bursting with color and the sweetest Easter treats, The Village is alive with things to see, do, and taste! You can even take the ...

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Toss out those common décor misconceptions. When it comes to making a spring statement with your bedding, Layers Bedding is here with a permission-granted approach that’s as freeing as it is inspiring.     BED 1: Make Velvet Spring Ready The buzz is… FUZZ! Velvet, to be exact. This textured treat, often thought of as ...

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Sure, it’s nearly Valentine’s Day, but that’s not why there’s lots to love at Gardner Village. At least not the ONLY reason. All month long, you’ll fall head over heels for the heartfelt photo ops, date/girls/family night activities, and darling gifts, décor & more you’ll find in our shops. Let’s ...

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Have you had a chance to check out a calendar today? Notice anything fun about the date? That’s right, it’s 2.2.22! This date is too much fun to ignore, so we’ve compiled a list of Gardner Village news in twos. Take a look!     22... Years of WitchFest this Year Getting straight to the point, we ...

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One camera. One year. One BEAUTIFUL Village view! To capture that, our Social Media Manager, Brooke Woolf, made a point of capturing a picture of the same shot down our main path month by month. She started with a picture in February 2021 and took her finale photo this week! ...

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Just because winter at Gardner Village looks like a scene straight out of a Hallmark movie doesn’t mean the holidays should have all the fun. Now is THE perfect time to stop and shop. Believe it or not, the snow (and snow-themed decor) is putting on quite a show!  There's Snow ...

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With all the snow we’re getting this year, it’s time to get our cozy. Take classes at Willow Hill Yarn Company. Whether you want to learn a bit about knit or the way of crochet, you’ll have a (yarn) ball of INDOOR fun. Plus, you’ll walk away with the coziest ...

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‘Twas the week of Christmas, And all through The Village, Elves bundle up to avoid winter chillage.   Every building, dressed up. The hat’s on the tower. Let’s stroll and bask in this magical hour.   Take in each festive sight. Look up high and down low. Every detail’s designed to put on a show.   Time to visit the shops.  Admire the ...

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The elves are back in town! Have you made a recent trip to Gardner Village? There are numerous friendly faces waiting to greet you.   Our free Gardner Village Elf Displays add a whimsical touch to the holiday season. It's like taking a trip to the North Pole without having to catch ...

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It’s official — the Santa hat is in position upon the water tower. Let the holiday season begin! Some may look at this as a time of added to-dos and over spending, which can feel overwhelming. To counter that, we thought we’d present you with a list of ChristMust-Dos that ...

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This time of year, it’s quite common to hear of magic in the air, but our friends at Mystique Dining and The Prestige: Parlour of Magic take that expression quite literally. Make this the year you spread a little of that magic and start a wonderful new tradition!   HOLIDAY TRADITION IDEA #1: Kick ...

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We’re always sad to see WitchFest end. Fortunately, magic and memories remain, thanks to two special guests who visited Gardner Village for the first time this year AND who traveled across the country to be here. Meet Pam and Tracy, best friends who, for nearly 30 years, have made a point of seeking out new ...

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Just because WitchFest is nearing an end doesn’t mean the  pumpkin play has to stop. Enjoy the picks of the patch at Gardner Village. Here are just a few of the GREAT pumpkin treats you’ll discover when you visit: THE HAPPIEST PUMPKIN PHOTO OPS Whether you're photographing your lil pumpkin or want a ...

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Look your best during WitchFest and all fall long with seasonal styling from Soulstice Day Spa & Salon. They have a spellbook full of ideas, whether you’re looking for a quick Grab & Go touch for the kiddos or a more dedicated time to unwind alone or with friends. Check ...

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Welcome to the Wild Witch West! Ricochet Canyon is now open. Just in time for WitchFest, this happy spot takes what used to be Six Hags Witches Adventure and adds SO MUCH to it for our youngest guests and their families. The Train Shoppe at Gardner Village is behind this rootin' ...

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For many of us, fall = family photo shoots. If you’re looking for a single stop loaded with unique backdrops, Gardner Village is it! We even have an on-site photo studio to capture the magic for you. The professionals at Camera Shy love sharing their favorite photo spots with clients. They’ve been a ...

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There’s a reason Gardner Village is a popular backdrop for photographs. It’s like a secret garden in the middle of Salt Lake County. You turn off the busy highway and find yourself greeted by pioneer wagons, children taking pony rides, water wheels, and quaint retail shops located in historic buildings. Enjoy ...

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So much of what makes Gardner Village special has to do with the passionate people who work here. With more than 200 employees in all, including shop owners and staff, the restaurant crew, event planners, grounds keepers and decorators, management team members, contractors, witches, fairies, elves and more, the happy ...

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A magician never reveals his secrets… Or does he? Today, we’re sharing the magic behind the magic at The Prestige: Parlour of Magic. What is it that makes this one of the most memorable nights out in Utah? Let’s make our way towards that answer by first answering a couple of ...

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It's no secret we take great pride in our Utah roots at Gardner Village. Preserving and honoring the past is something we do all year, but July is an extra fun time to celebrate our state. From treats and games to Americana photo ops and even facials, here are a dozen ...

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Our Woodland Fairies aren’t the only ones taking flight right now. The Gardner Village shops are in full fairy motion with fun make-and-take projects, special events, and fanciful fairy merchandise. From fairy parades and unicorns to train rides and crafts, let’s take a look at what’s in store for you ...

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Last week, we introduced you to our 2021 Woodland Fairies. Have you had a chance to visit? Did you see them? Seeing is believing, after all. Actually… it’s the other way around. When you believe in the fairies and look closely, they’re known to reveal themselves to you. It’s a ...

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We’ve entered an extra enchanting season here at Gardner Village. With the blossoming trees and blooming flowers, the Woodland Fairies enjoy a little spring fling of their own. It’s the one time of year they lift the curtain that otherwise keeps them concealed, giving humans a glimpse into their whimsical ...

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It's our 41st year in business! While the big 4-1 isn't your typical milestone, it feels extra significant, as it seems to be a year focused on connection. If there’s one thing we’ve learned these past four decades, it’s that business is about so much more than profit margins and inventory. The people who ...

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Gardner Village springs to life this time of year. Just in time for the longer days and upcoming Easter weekend, baby animals are joining our family at The Farm, fresh chocolates and the best of basket fillers are made daily at Chocolate Covered Wagon, and we’ve even got your family ...

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Spring is in the air at Gardner Village. Literally. While we’re still waiting for the beautiful blossoms to brighten the skies, there’s a new burst of color for you to enjoy — The Easter Tree!   Can you guess how many bright eggs are dangling from this tree’s branches and in the ...

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Where can you get all of the ingredients for an extra special Valentine’s Day and week in one simple, centrally-located stop? Gardner Village, of course. From dining and shopping to memorable activities and heartfelt gifts, we have everything you need to plan the perfect romantic rendezvous. 1. Start with lunch a ...

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Heart-shaped doilies… Red and white baker’s twine… Lace and other lovely trimmings… Such happiness can only mean one thing — love is in the air at Posh Paperie and its sister store, Pine Needles!   While classes have been put on a COVID hold at these sweet shops, it doesn’t mean you can’t get ...

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Creativity heals. Whether you play with paper, fancy fabric, or yearn for yarn, creative expression is good for the soul. Between the gray days and the ongoing pandemic, self care is crucial, so we’re continuing our posts on easy project ideas to try at home and fun classes to take at ...

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We’d be lying if we said we’re sad to see 2020 go. It hasn’t been the easiest of years, but there has been one BRIGHT silver lining... YOU! When we weren’t sure what the future would hold for our small, locally-owned shops, restaurants and event venues, you continued to show up. ...

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A little hocus, plenty of pocus, a wave of a wand, and… voila! A special new place to enjoy time together in Utah is now open. Please join us in welcoming The Prestige: Parlour of Magic to Gardner Village.   This newest addition to Gardner Village has plenty of tricks up its sleeve, ...

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20 years of shenanigans, 20 years of joy, 20 years of memories... It can only mean one thing — 20 years of WitchFest at Gardner Village during 2020!  To mark this magical milestone, we’ve asked for your help. Thanks for submitting your images and memories. We love being a part of your ...

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Get outta town! Oh... wait... That's not quite as easy as it sounds these days. Fortunately, Gardner Village puts those vacation vibes right in your own backyard. Whether you drive or make a bigger day of it with a train trip on TRAX, a visit to Gardner Village is the ...

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Mark your calendar for magic — the Woodland Fairies have landed at Gardner Village!   Gardner Village is currently open Mon.-Sat. from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Find current hours of operation here.) Now's the time to sWING by and say hi to your favorite winged women.   WHAT CAN WE EXPECT? If you’re new to the ...

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Any time is a lovely time to visit The Farm at Gardner Village. You're supporting a private, 501c3 nonprofit animal rescue while experiencing memorable farm activities — pony rides, egg gathering (when available), petting, feeding, etc. Of course, a springtime trip to the The Farm means something extra special… baby animals! Many of The Farm’s residents are ...

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Why should Easter eggs have all the fun? At Willow Hill Yarn Company, you can give dye a try on yarn!  On Saturday, March 28, 2020, Willow Hill is offering their popular YARN DYEING CLASS. It's typically only offered twice a year, so you don't want to miss this chance to try something ...

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It’s easy to see how Utah’s own silo experience is often compared to and rivals the well-known Waco destination. Like Texas’ famous Magnolia Market, the Gardner Village is rich with history, making it a truly unique backdrop to your shopping, dining, and event going.  Believe it or not, the original Gardner ...

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Psssttt… Valentine’s Day is just two days away. Never fear. Even if you haven’t made any plans, you can still come out on top in the date department. We have three memorable ideas that will leave your someone special feeling smitten. (P.S. These ideas also make great group date plans ...

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Hello, learners! Let’s review our 2020 class syllabus thus far. In the spirit of a new you in the new year, we’ve experienced yarn-based learning with the talented team at Willow Hill Yarn Company and discovered a world of vibrant creative courses at The Art Cottage. Today, let’s explore the paper-crafting ...

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Today, our New Year, New You exploration continues with a look at classes offered during 2020 at Willow Hill Yarn Company. If you long to know more about needle arts, you’re in luck! The kind and extremely talented team at Willow Hill Yarn Company loves sharing their passion for knitting ...

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Hello! And happy 2020! There’s something wonderful about a new calendar year and what it does for our ambition, isn’t there? As the busy holiday season settles into the remaining winter months, inspiration seems to set in. It’s an ideal time to slow things down and show ourselves some long ...

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Who needs a shelf when you have Gardner Village? It’s THE place for those elves to hang out this time of year.  The elves pulled in and set up camp last weekend, just in time for the Christmas season (and just ahead of the snowfall!).  Santa’s elves didn’t waste any time getting ...

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With a name like Gardner Village, we had better know gardening. ;) In all seriousness, there are hundreds of unique plant species at Gardner Village. It requires much work and know-how to keep them looking their best. This is your chance to learn from the experts. The Village property management ...

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Today, we’re handing the blog reins over to you. This is a look at what makes Gardner Village special to you. In your words, with your amazing photos, we'll take a tour of The Village. The following photos and captions come from recent visitors who’ve posted to Instagram using #gardnervillage. From ...

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Just in time for the July 4th holiday, Gardner Village has released a brand new historical scavenger hunt.    Download your FREE scavenger hunt here. Follow the clues on the waterwheel to find your answers. With all ten in place, it’s payoff time — free, freshly-pulled salt water taffy from Chocolate Covered Wagon. ...

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School’s out … Now what? Never fear, Gardner Village has your back with an entire catalog of ideas to share with your children. It's your chance to create your own cool summer camp experience. If we handed out merit badges, you could fill a full sash with the options available. Take ...

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When the Wishing Bridge at Gardner Village gets this full of colorful wish ribbons, it can mean only one thing—the Woodland Fairy Festival is nearing its end. The last day to enjoy the fairy fun before our bitty residents take flight for another season is June 15, 2019. This leaves ...

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It’s a regular spring scene around here. From brand new baby animals at The Farm (sooo cute!) to fresh spring decor in nearly every store, a trip to Gardner Village is a surefire way to cure even the worst case of spring fever.  With spring comes Easter prep. Whether you’re planning ...

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Hello, again! Ready for the third and final (for now) installment of your Gardner Village class pass? The past two weeks have taken inside classes from my seat as a student. In Part 1, I mentioned taking a class is a wonderful way for parents to re-charge when they’re feeling ...

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As the Gardner Village blogger, I’ve observed and written about many classes over the years. As a Gardner Village fan, I’ve also taken many classes while off the clock. This got me thinking—is the class experience any different if the blogger isn’t crashing the party to report on things? The ...

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Old Man Winter, you sure are putting the “old” in your name. Enough with your frigid days and wind-filled ways. It’s about this time of year that we become VERY ready for spring. Of course, being in Utah, it’s nearly impossible to know if winter’s end is around the corner ...

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Cupid may have flown the coop for another season, but there’s always time to put a little magic back into your relationship. With the wave of a wand, Mystique Dining transforms the usual date night into a night of mystery and excitement.  Enjoy a five course meal AND a Vegas-quality magic show ...

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Riddle me this, Romeo. How do you show your sweetheart a good time beyond dinner reservations at your usual spot? The answer to this puzzle—A Great Escape Utah. It’s your chance to escape the ordinary Valentine’s Day date and unlock the secret to a truly memorable experience.    Choose from one of ...

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Want to feel like Cinderalla or her Cinderfella this Valentine’s Day? No need to contact your fairy godmother or seek a giant pumpkin in the off season. Gardner Village has you covered with a romantic carriage ride, a delicious three-course dinner for two, decadent chocolate covered strawberries, and some of the ...

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Is “try something new” a 2019 goal you hope to achieve? There’s something very rewarding about stretching yourself, especially when it includes creative play. Gardner Village offers a full course catalog of creative class options. From chocolate sweetness and fairy gardens to fabric art and flower arranging, there are many artistic ...

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You never know what a day of shopping at Gardner Village will get you. For Careen Densley, it got her a 22-year career that she’s loved beyond measure.    “I was shopping at Metal Merchant, a former store here at The Village,” Careen recalled. “Another customer asked my opinion on something, so ...

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As the Gardner Village elves prepare to welcome THE Jolly Old Man himself, we want to pause and wish you and yours a merry and bright holiday season.  Whether you're rocking around the Christmas... uh, water wheel?... or you're quietly reflecting on what this season means to you, we hope your heart ...

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Halloween may be over, but there is still magic in the air at Gardner Village. Introducing… Mystique Dining at Gardner Village!  This exciting outing proves you don’t need a magic wand to experience an enchanting night out. It’s as if they’ve tossed some family fun and a little Las Vegas ambience into a ...

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It’s no secret, witches love crafts. With access to fabric, yarn, paint, and more, the Gardner Village witches can often be found getting their witch-craft on. Now’s your time to join them! Whether you’re looking for a new hobby to take on or you simply want a Halloween worthy project ...

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Every day is Pioneer Day at Gardner Village. After all, in 1853, one of the original Utah Mormon pioneers, Archibald Gardner, built the mill that currently sits at the heart of The Village. What was once an industrious flour mill in Utah is now home to Archibald’s Restaurant and CF Home. The ...

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It’s no secret Gardner Village values our history and preserving the past. Much time and energy went into relocating the old buildings that now call The Village home. Seeing the sampling of Utah history in one spot is special!    The focus is easily on the structures, but the look back in ...

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Calling all history buffs (and families looking for something unusual, free, and fun to do this summer!). School may be out, but that doesn’t mean you can’t give your kiddos an undercover history lesson, disguised as a day of play. Take a trip through Utah’s history with the newly-updated Gardner ...

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With school ending, you might be wondering what you can do with your kiddos or grandkiddos this summer. Let Gardner Village inspire you and make a fairy garden. Children and adults alike will adore this magical activity and the end result is such fun! Here are a few tips to ...

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Think you have what it takes to escape?!  “I’m obsessed with mystery shows, and this was like experiencing one in real life!” Bailey Martin exclaimed as she and her Stansbury High friends escaped with just two minutes to spare. They were the first group to successfully complete Malcolm’s Missing Millions room, ...

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Easter’s a hoppenin' thing at Gardner Village. From fancy children’s frocks, darling decor, and tasty treats to photo ops, Easter brunch, and more, your hunt for a one-stop Easter spot is over.  Holiday Prep From decorating your house to dressing your egg hunters, you’ll find fresh ideas in bloom at The Village.  Easter ...

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If it’s miles and miles of heart you seek, Gardner Village is on the beat. From a truly original date destination to your spot for heartfelt gifts and home decor, this spot is red hot!    A Valentine’s Date to Remember Why settle for ordinary dining this Valentine’s Day or weekend when you can ...

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“Archibald Gardner, the mill builder, was known as the poor man’s friend.” Ruth Widdison Dawson read these words with great pride in her voice. “God never placed a truer man on earth. A sturdy oak standing alone in the field. A giant among men.” She was reading from The Life ...

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Before our elves roll out for another all-important night of magic up north, we want to thank you for the magic made right here this year. You’ve made 2017 one to remember! From our fancy fairy friends to those wacky witches to every enchanting elf, we’ve loved creating year-round memories with you and being a part ...

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The moment of truth has arrived. Does your name fall on the Naughty list or did you make Nice during 2017?    Now’s your chance to put in a good word with the big man up north. The elves have set up camp for another year at Gardner Village.   Think you’re an elf-spotting ...

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Gardner Village wasn’t always the "village" you see today. There was a time it was an old flour mill, sitting on otherwise open land.    It took founder Nancy Long’s vision, much hard work, and even a small newspaper ad to make The Village what it is today. Yes, a classified! This ...

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Throw that confetti. Twirl that baton. One of the most highly-anticipated parades of the year is in town—the Salt Lake Parade of Homes! And CF Home Furniture & Design at Gardner Village is on parade throughout one of the gorgeous dwellings.  On the parade route, you’ll find this awesome abode!    Inside, items from ...

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July is an extra special month in Utah. Not only do we celebrate our independence as a nation, but we also honor our state’s unique history. At Gardner Village, we’re all for shouting hip-hip-hooray on July 24th in celebration of our pioneer heritage. After all, we have one of the original ...

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Step inside this happy Gardner Village shop, and you'll not only discover gorgeous art and home decor...   You just might discover your own creative potential! You see, beyond being a store where you can add pretty pieces to your life, many of which were made by local artists, The Art Cottage is also ...

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Q: How many people does it take to change the lightbulbs at Gardner Village? A: With tens of thousands of bulbs outside alone, you’d think it would take an army, but the reality is it’s a small crew of talented people who keeps The Village looking lovely.    Say hello to the Property ...

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There’s an extra dose of magic in the air at Gardner Village in the springtime. Flowers are in bloom. The sun is shining. And it simply feels SO good to be outside again, enjoying the fresh air! So it’s no wonder the Easter Bunny loves to hop in as he prepares ...

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Is a baby or wedding shower in  your future? Your friends at Pine Needles in Gardner Village have a quick decor idea to try. Dress up the entry window, space over the gift table, or another area of party focus with raindrops! This display, made by store owner Sandy Workman, brought a fresh feeling ...

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Alas, it's time for our sweet elves to pack up for another year. The chocolate bars are loaded and the Christmas gear is packed. It's time for them to return home to the big man up north. Before they go, they want you to know how much they loved seeing ...

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Looking for a memorable place to host your next holiday shindig? How does a brand new (yet still historic!), beautifully designed, unique-to-Utah space sound? Pretty nice, right? Oh, did I mention the space is FREE to reserve? That’s right! During December, you can book any of the events spaces inside ...

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Woot! Do you hear that? Listen carefully. I think it’s the sound of a train whistle blowing in the distance. Or maybe it’s sleigh bells I hear. It must be one or the other, because the Gardner Village Elves are back in town for Christmas 2016! Wanting to get a jump ...

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Let’s talk tables. This month, the table serves a key role in our celebrating. It’s the place we gather with those we love to give thanks and enjoy a bounty of blessings. Being such a prominent ingredient in our Thanksgiving celebrating, it’s no wonder we want it to look gorgeous. ...

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Today, we’re in for a very cool treat! Two special guests are here to give us an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the future of Gardner Village. There have been some big things in the works over the past several months that actually began several years ago. Join Gardner Village co-owner, ...

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If you’ve visited our website, you’ve probably seen this: It’s an invitation to stay connected with us online through our various social media channels. These symbols are far from foreign these days, but what do they actually mean where Gardner Village is concerned? Let’s find out! Consider this your key—both an ...

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This Pioneer Day, we pause to remember one of Utah's original pioneers, Archibald Gardner. Not only is he a rich part of Gardner Village history but also state history. Gardner helped settle Utah in 1847 and later went on to open the first flour mill in West Jordan, Utah, in 1853. Gardner had ...

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