News

It has been 36 years since Betty Woods Gimarelli first started producing The Portland Ornament, and throughout her 25 years as Artist/Designer and founder of the company, she produced nearly 100 different ornament designs celebrating the heritage of our beloved cities of Portland and Seattle, as well as offering a wide variety of custom and commission pieces.   As Betty’s family and stewards of her legacy, we are especially excited to announce that we have added to this year’s website several of her previously sold out ornaments from her private collection.  All of these hard-to-find exceptional ornaments capture a unique perspective in loving detail and...

We are proud to continue selling limited supplies of the Portland Ornament, Seattle Ornament and Specialty Ornament series.  Betty Gimarelli brought joy to so many customers with 25 years of speciality ornaments, and we hope you will be able to adorn your annual Christmas tree with these wonderful gifts for years to come. Complete your collection, or start anew.  We welcome you to the family!

Dear collectors and friends, Two years ago today, Betty passed away following an unexpected diagnosis of terminal cancer. Since then, we've enjoyed continuing the Portland Ornament tradition with you and your families. Especially during the Christmas season, we remember how much Betty loved her clients and collectors, and how much joy you brought during the holidays. Today, we're offering a 1990 Portland Ornament from Betty's personal collection to raise money for the James & Betty Gimarelli Memorial Scholarship Fund. The ornament, numbered #4,854 of the 5,000 limited edition, will be offered through a sealed-bid auction with a minimum bid of $100....

On December 20, 2013, Betty passed away following an unexpected diagnosis of terminal cancer just two weeks ago. Her husband, Jim, also diagnosed recently with a terminal illness, passed away only hours before. Betty so cherished her many loyal customers... she looked forward each year to hearing from you, and knowing that so many appreciated her artwork. She loved this city and showing off its many treasures. After 25 terrific years, it seems only fitting that this year's ornament celebrated the "wonderful life" that she shared with Jim, her family, and all of us. Thank you for playing a part...