Shop local for unique Christmas gift ideas

Shopping locally is not only the best way to find creative, one-of-a-kind presents for friends and family this holiday season. You’ll also be supporting Canada’s small business community. Here are some unique Christmas gift ideas from independent retailers and local artisans that are sure to delight everyone on your list.

[Photo Credit: perfectlab]

With most of us spending more time indoors these days, beautiful floral bouquets are a great way to brighten up your home. Many independent florists offer subscription services for those who want to send seasonal, handmade arrangements on a monthly – or even weekly – basis. Shop local and support your neighbourhood flower shop by giving a gift that keeps on giving throughout the year.

For a gift that’s truly one-of-a-kind, why not commission a talented illustrator or painter to create a custom work of art that will leave a lasting impression? Whether it’s an illustrated family portrait, a geographic map of their favourite neighbourhood haunts, or even a quirky painting of their beloved pet, personalized pieces by local artists are a truly unique Christmas gift idea for anyone on your list.

Canada is home to an incredible array of small regional vineyards, craft breweries and cideries, and artisanal distilleries. Instead of visiting a big-box retailer to pick up festive booze for holiday gifting, shop local for Christmas 2020 and purchase a bottle of premium handcrafted whisky, a case of biodynamic natural wine, or a six-pack of craft lager from an independent producer in your city.

Artisanal jams, jellies, chutneys, and pickled vegetables are a great way to add flavour to a cheese board – and they make a lovely hostess gift or gourmet goodie for your favourite foodie. You can source jars of homemade spreads, sauces, and preserves from your local farmers’ market or independent retailers in your neighbourhood.

Protective face masks are part of everyday life now, making them a good Christmas gift idea for a Secret Santa exchange or a practical stocking stuffer for kids and adults. Shop local in-person or online for handmade face coverings in a variety of prints, colours, and styles that are both fashionable and functional. If you’re looking for added glitz and glam, mask chains are the statement-making accessory for Christmas 2020.

Candle-making isn’t just a hobby for homesteading folk, it’s a booming industry in Canada with dozens of independent purveyors across the country – including Toronto’s Lohn, Vancouver-based Woodlot, and Milk Jar Candle Co. in Calgary. Small-batch candles are a good gift idea for Christmas 2020 as they instantly transform an indoor space into a cozy and inviting oasis. Infused with natural oils and fragrances, scented candles come in a variety of luxurious aromas that range from bright citrusy tones to sweet florals to rugged and woodsy.

Canada’s museums, galleries, zoos, and performing arts centres have been devastated by the impact of COVID-19. If you’re looking for a good Christmas gift idea that supports the community, consider giving back to a local cultural institution by purchasing an annual membership or subscription package. Investing in an experiential gift from an educational and entertaining destination will provide a fun outing for kids and families, giving them a chance to make memories for years to come.