A Touch of Magic

Written by: Mary Jane McCall

Issue: 2025, May 2025

Photographed By: Susan Renfro

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Bevan Schiffli

It’s no surprise that Highlands often makes its way onto so many Best Small Town Shopping lists.

For such a compact downtown area we pack quite the punch offering something for everyone.

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One of the most charming and unexpected pleasures is finding that eclectic little shop that stands out for its uniqueness and abundance of small-town charm. Natural Selection at 361 Main Street is such a find.

There’s a touch of magic in this store (and we mean the good kind, think modern-day flower child vibe) but this flower child is sophisticated and in touch with nature, loves fair trade and repurposed items, might be interested in tarot or botanical healing and fragrances, and is always on the lookout for the unusual.

Owner Bevan Schiffli has created this magical space full of unexpected treasures that beg a closer look. Jewelry that is unique, often functional, and sourced from small businesses; candles; nature-themed items; incense; flower essences by Romany Botanicals; tarot cards; t-shirts that she designed; home décor items; gift items; fun fake tattoos; vintage items and clothing; regionally and carefully sourced CBD products including full spectrum; and such cute mushroom merchandise that we anticipate a local resurgence in the power of the simple mushroom to bring a touch of whimsy into everyone’s life.

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All that mushroom power isn’t entirely random as Bevan’s husband, Sam Faust, who is the Executive Banquet Chef at Old Edwards, moonlights as a mushroom farmer, operating Blue Valley Mushrooms.

Bevan credits a lot of her success to Sam and all her family and friends, who encouraged her to follow her dream and open this shop and supported her through a rather challenging opening season in 2020 as it coincided with the pandemic.

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That she survived that rocky start and thrives today is a testament to the power of her vision, dedication, and propensity for finding the perfect items to sell. No mass market items here – these are carefully and lovingly chosen.

You’ll be as taken by Bevan’s warm personality and good energy as you are this fascinating little shop. Treat yourself to a little escape from the everyday and visit this slightly mystical world gently scented with herbs and incense and overflowing with unique treasures.

Natural Selection is open Monday-Saturday from 11:00 A.M. until 5:00 P.M. and on Sundays from Noon until 5:00 P.M.

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