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TOOELE — For many families, going to Vario’s Christmas Tree Lot, located at 381 W. Utah Ave, is a decades-old holiday tradition. But after 66 years, the Varios made the difficult decision to shut down the beloved business this season.
In years past, Pat and Julie Vario’s backyard would be filled with Christmas trees. But this year, the only trees present are those that have been planted.
“It’s really hard. I kind of knew this was coming last year,” said Pat Vario.
The Varios wanted to continue selling Christmas trees this year, but their supplier in Oregon told the couple there aren’t enough trees to go around due to recent droughts and wildfires.
Unfortunately for the Varios, the tree shortage isn’t a temporary problem.
“Everyone I’ve talked to in the tree business said this is (how it’s) gonna be like the next five to eight years,” Pat Vario said.
But what makes the Varios the saddest isn’t the end of their family tradition, it’s the end of seeing the joy on their customers' faces.
“These customers have been coming since their grandparents were here,” Pat Vario said while pointing to a photo of some of their longtime customers.
The couple keeps photos of customers—many just like to have their picture taken with their tree, said Julie Vario.
“This is so cute; look at the family, look at how happy the kids are,” Julie Vario said as she pointed to another photo.
And through all the ups and downs, Pat Vario is most grateful for the customers who made the seasonal business possible.
“I’m really fortunate that I had the loyal customers that I had,” he said. “That’s who I thank.”
While the tradition may be over, the memories will continue to stay with the Varios.
“That’s all you have left when you get older is memories,” Pat Vario said. “Better hope you have more good ones than bad ones.”
