Shopping local is something we hold near and dear to our hearts and this year, more than ever, small businesses need our support. Whether it’s someone’s side hustle or a passion project coming to fruition, local brands offer a special touch when it comes to giving sure-to-impress gifts this holiday season. Below, 10 Vancouver-based brands we’re putting on our own Santa lists this year. —Vicki Duong
virani collective. The accessory that none of us could have anticipated needing—the mask chain—has been a fun way to accessorize our pandemic look while helping to flatten the curve. Virani Collective Mask Chains (from $24) add a bit of shimmer to your #ootd and come with an extension to convert to an glasses chain.
hudson and oak. We’ve all been spending more time at home this past year, so why not give something that is both functional and stylish? These Scallop Cylinder planters ($110) from Hudson and Oak, available in a wide range of colours, are designed with a unique custom fiberglass compound that’s more durable than terracotta or ceramic and a third of the weight.
legends haul. If you’re really looking to pamper the local foodie in your life, check out the assortment of curated gift boxes from Legends Haul. From $40, each features a mix of perfectly selected groceries for whatever you’re craving. There’s even a Night in Italy box ($115) bursting with all the ingredients needed for the most delish pasta night at home.
petal & posy. Another reason to shop local is that it’s extra personal and made with extra love—case in point, handmade earrings. Each pair of Petal & Posy earrings is made by hand with polymer clay, which is ultra lightweight and easy to wear all day (read: easy on the lobes). Our personal fave? The Hypercolor Daydreamer Studs ($36) are the pair we’re hoping to get this Christmas.
k soon. Some gifts give in multiple ways—like jewelry from K SOON, that donates 25 per cent of each sale to support BIPOC charities. Not only does founder and designer Amanda give back to her community, she also aims to lessen the environmental impact of production by upcycling her materials. For something playful, consider the Juliet Necklace ($61) made with upcycled quartz, imitation pearls and iridescent beads, featuring a mix-metal floral clasp.
brand + iron. Lighting a candle is a good way to add a welcoming aroma, and our faves are natural and burn clean. Brand + Iron is a Vancouver co that pours its candles in small batches. As the temperature drops, we’ve been loving the Tobacco & Vanilla ($30 at Much & Little) that boasts a warm blend of charred tobacco and comforting vanilla.
tight club. Working out at home doesn’t mean sacrificing community. Since closing the doors to its physical studio, Tight Club has gone digital with TCTV. Designed to let you get your sweat in when your schedule allows, this is a training program you can do virtually via a monthly membership ($45) that yields access to three live-stream and five pre-recorded classes per week, plus a library of 50-plus workouts. Best of all, it’s designed to be a full-body program, no guesswork required!
beaucoup bakery. When in doubt, go with chocolate. In line with its famous Parisian-style pastries, Beaucoup Bakery is offering bonbons in boxes of six or 12 ($15/$30), in familiar flavours like its rosemary chocolate cookie with dark chocolate ganache and raspberry brioche with caramelized white chocolate. This might be something worth gifting yourself!
jackson rowe. For the newborns in our life experiencing their first holiday season, we are fans of the Oh Baby Gift Box ($99) from Jackson Rowe. Each box contains five gender-neutral items for a little, all from local brands, plus an extra gift just for mama.
somerset moss. When it comes to skin care, gifting can be difficult because it’s so personal. Not so with Somerset Moss Facial Mist ($55)—a botanical blend suitable for all skin types and versatile enough to be used multiple times a day for a refresh. Tip: spritz it inside a cloth face mask for a fresh scent and refreshed skin.
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