The Canadian Creative Gift Guide 2020
As 2020 comes to a close and we head into the holiday season, I’ve taken a lot of time to reflect. So much has changed, and while it feels like that’s mostly for the worse, what’s changed for the better is that we’ve started to give small and local businesses the spotlight they so greatly deserve. More support is being given to these businesses now than ever before, and as a global population, we’ve come to realize that we are the ones that keep these companies afloat. Engagement between countries has become more limited due to the pandemic which has caused a shift towards keeping things more ‘in-house’. In my eyes, that is a good thing. As a Canadian, I feel proud of all of the amazing products and services offered by my fellow Canucks, and this year my gift guide is going to reflect that.
Below you’ll find some of my recommendations for last-minute gifts to give to your loved ones this holiday season. The images have been borrowed from the brands listed, and I only take credit for compiling the list. As Christmas creeps up on us, take time now to be more mindful of your spending. Choose to purchase your gifts locally to not only support those in need but to help reduce the environmental impact caused by shipping and the importing of commercial goods. Many of your favourite retailers have search filters that allow you to find what you need from Canadian businesses, Etsy is a great example of this. It doesn’t take much effort, but this small change makes a big impact.
UNDER $50
Embroidery Kits from HookLineTinker
Greeting Cards from Sabina Fenn
Home Goods from Rose City Goods
Coffee Subscriptions from 49th Parallel Coffee Roasters
$50-$100
Skincare Bundles from Province Apothecary
Cheer Up Care Packages from Parcelly
Activewear from Mary Young
Luxury Lighting from Merchant of York
$100+
Accessories from Vitaly
Vegan Leather Handbags from ela Handbags
Pelee VQA Ontario Wines from Pelee Island Winery
Canvas Wall Art from Bouclair
Have you finished all of your holiday shopping yet? Or are you like me and you’re waiting till the very last minute to have everything arrive before Christmas? I promise everyone will get their gifts in time… (if you’re reading this, Adrian). Sometimes the best gift ideas come when you’re down to the wire! I hope some of these suggestions spur some inspiration for you. Next year, I’ll be back to shooting everything in person, but this year I thought it was worth crediting Canadian businesses for all of the hard work they do to remain in operation! See also my 2019, 2018, and 2017 (for the men in your life) gift guides for some other ideas.
