P.E.I. newcomer opens gift & decor shop to encourage positivity during pandemic

A store owner at the Confed. Court Mall, Maria Woo, moved to PEI less than two years ago. She hopes Islanders visit her store for more than just gifts, but meaningful discussions.

Yakosu Umana photo.               

By Yakosu Umana

In a period of low morale, Maria Woo hopes to lift spirits with her gift shop, and Christian faith.

Woo moved to PEI, Dec. 2019. She is from Hong Kong. 

She lived in China for 20 years but left because she prefers the western lifestyle in Canada.

It’s a lot like home, she said.

“We’re (Hong Kong) more closer to the British, the western world. China has a very different culture, so it’s not the same.

“Some people think it’s the same but it’s not really.”

Before moving, Woo had visited Canada on several occasions. 

She likes the social institutions here such as the education system, Woo said. 

“I really like the education system here, it’s more creative. Not just feeding you with knowledge, but at the same time wants you to think and digest it.”

She has a nine-year-old son.

“When you have a child, you always search a good place for education, and them to grow up,” she said.

Woo came to PEI through Canada’s Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). 

The program aims to bring skilled workers, businesspeople and students who can contribute to a province’s economy.

Opening a gift shop was what felt best in these times, Woo said.

“Because of COVID, there have been so many negative feelings. So I start selling balloons, pop-up cards, happy things.

“I just want to bring more positive feelings.”

Yakosu Umana photo

Yakosu Umana photo

The store’s name is 'Fun n Grace'.

Asides gifts and home decor, Woo plans to have Christian literature for children and adults.

She said her faith in God has helped her journey to PEI, and opening her store.

“God has prepared everything. I met a lot of nice people searching for the right place.

“I’m just very lucky that my Lord (God) has been there for me. I don’t have to worry.”

Yakosu Umana photo

Her gift shop is for business, however, she is using it as an opportunity to meet Islanders and offer free counselling if needed.

“Sometimes people may be very smart, but at a certain point of life they get confused.”

She took counselling courses when she studied Theology, she said.

“I’m quite good with knowing people’s sadness or problems. This is something I have to do for my Lord.”

Her faith motivates her to spread joy in people’s lives, Woo said. 

“It’s part of my service to God.

“I want people to feel happier, and it's not just emotions but something deeper.”

Submitted by Maria Woo

Woo opened Fun n Grace, Feb. 1.

It is located at the main level of the Confederation Court Mall, Unit 152.

For more on Fun n Grace, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/Funngracepei