As The Shopping Channel celebrates another Birthday on the air, I find myself also reflecting upon some of my favourite moments, both on-air and off.

February is also my anniversary of 17 years with this crazy and wonderful channel. Since the passing of Ted Rogers, I have often looked at an 8X10 photo I have of one of my favourite moments of all time, for me personally. Our 15,000 square foot Toronto Outlet Store opened in 1999 and I was fortunate enough to not only be there when hundreds of viewers joined us for the grand opening, but I was also the emcee for the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

So, there I was, cameras from other television networks all around us, hundreds of people in the store and 3 prominent shopping ambassadors standing beside me: Rael Merson was the President of The Shopping Channel at the time (left), Joan Rivers held the scissors to cut the ribbon (joking out loud that the scissors would also be for sale later in the store) and Canadian media legend, Ted Rogers (whom I was meeting for the first time) were ready to officially open the store.

I simply had to introduce them, watch the ribbon being cut and put a wrap on what had been a very successful and fun day! Over 600 people were waiting outside our doors by 9am for free giveaways. We began broadcasting from the store at 7am and Joan Rivers, Carol Smith (crafts) and Jerome Alexander (cosmetics) all appeared live with their shows at the store. Security was tight, alright. Extra tight around Joan, as there had been some, shall we say, strange phone calls received at The Shopping Channel pertaining to her visit with us. The Mariachi Band outside kept everyone entertained and several of the Hosts were there also.

Here’s to many more wonderful memories!

Love, 
Norm Murray

Happy 22nd Birthday The Shopping Channel!

I couldn’t be more excited to join in the celebration! I am truly grateful to be part of this huge network of gifted, kind and caring individuals.

Heck, it’s already felt like an ongoing fiesta for me. Imagine waking up, driving to work and then seeing beautiful little treats, gifts and gems with your name on them at your desk for you to get familiar with before your next show!

That is only one part of the joy, the second and foremost are the people at The Shopping Channel.
A birthday is a splendid time in anyone’s life and a remarkable opportunity to look back at the distance you’ve come, to celebrate your strengths, feel the love and warmth of those around you who are happy to have you in their lives.

Just like many viewers opening their packages from The Shopping Channel throughout the year — either gifts to themselves or something carefully chosen for someone close to them to enjoy. A birthday holds that same magic ….a special warmth, a pause, like a shot of sunshine nestled into 364 regular days! It’s the feeling that all of your life is a gift.

It sure is for me now at The Shopping Channel. It has been a fast paced ride thus far! I dash from set to set, meeting with various people, buyers, vendors, researching products, meeting so many open and interested faces. I have been learning so much.

A birthday is also a special time, when friends and loved ones gather around…when you realize you make a difference to others. I’m certain that The Shopping Channel has made that kind of a difference to many viewers and has brought joy into many lives! I look forward to helping you achieve more of that specials magic this year too.

It’s going to be a fantastic weeklong celebration! May everyone’s wishes come true this year at the Shopping Channel. I know my wish came true, to be sharing this next year with you!

Tiffany Jones
Host-in-Training

Before going on-air late last week, Orlena took some time to record her favourite memories from her first year at The Shopping Channel:

Our Birthday Week Event runs until February 8th. Celebrate with us! Find out more at theShoppingChannel.com.
 

Join us as our guest of honour, during The Shopping Channel’s Birthday Week celebration. What do our party planners have in store for you?

Birthday Week Specials
Shop never-seen-before specials on some of your favourite brands. Including: Diamonelle, Spanx, Dr. Rey, Ojon, Proactiv, Joan Rivers, Smashbox, Aloette, Dr. Ho, Elizabeth Grant & Skinn.

Win a Trip to St. Vincent & the Grenadines
Watch our live broadcast from February 2nd to 8th and you could enter to win a trip for two to the Caribbean. For full contest details visit theShoppingChannel.com

Our TV Hosts blog about their favourite memories
Visit us back here throughout the week as our TV Hosts share their favourite times from the past 22 years.

Join the conversation! Click on the Comment link below to share your own fav The Shopping Channel moments.