12 Canadian Shops and Makers that You Should Support this Holiday Season
I think we can all agree that 2020 has been a bit of a dumpster fire. One of the most heartbreaking parts about this year has been witnessing the closure of so many amazing local shops.
As a result, we'll be buying local as much as possible this year. Our aim is to support small everywhere possible over the Christmas Season, and I hope that you will too!
Remember: Every time you support small, that maker does a little happy dance on the inside (and sometimes on the outside, too!).
Keep Scrolling to discover Canadian shops and makers pumping out unique products this Christmas!
Upstairs Downstairs Studio
Racing "Up and down the stairs with armfuls of pots from the wheel to kiln", Upstairs Downstairs Studio owner Telfer Carpenter creates one of a kind ceramics in Wolfe Island, ON. The To-Go cups would make the perfect gift for the coffee or tea drinker in your life! Custom orders are also available.
Besseha Jewellery
Besseha Jewellery cultivates beautifully minimalistic pieces of jewelry in Toronto, ON. I've personally bought multiple pieces from Besseha and I've never been disappointed! Each piece is elegant and beautiful - the perfect gift for the fashionista in your life.
Drinking Dog & Co.
Handmade candles poured in Vancouver - what could be better? How about handmade candles that have your dog's photo on them? You heard that right! Drinking Dog & Co hand-pours soy candles with a twist: Proceeds of every candle go to Charity Organizations in need, and they also have custom candle options available. For the months of November and December, 10% of proceeds will be donated to HugABull advocacy and rescue.
Bella & Coop
Originally a small storefront in Caledonia ON, Bella & Coop's amazing style and textile options for fashion and home brought people in from far and wide. Mother and Daughter duo Michele and Remi hand pick each item in store to be beautifully yours! While also sporting clothing, Bella Coop also carries gorgeous homewares, stationary, and more.
Lake Life Studio
Located near the shores of Lake Huron is a glass fusing workshop - Lake Life Studio. Here you'll find Lake Life Studio's owner, Justine Goulet, handcrafting one-of a-kind glassware pieces. In addition, you'll find a constellation of cotton goods, soaps, mugs, and so much more. Check out their Artisan Boutique, with over 25+ Canadian makers featured (each carefully picked to make you feel inspired!).
A Greener Place
Located in Dundas ON, A Greener Place is full to the brim with zero waste gifts. You're bound to find some magical environmentally conscious goodies in this shop. In fact, A Greener Place carries everything from pre packaged gift boxes, unpaper towels, children's toys, and more. Give the gift of sustainability and eco-consciousness this year!
Maker House Company
Maker House Company is a curated collection of over 200 Canadian makers (you heard that right, 200!). Located in Ottawa, this special shop features unique cards, ornaments, gourmet food, and DIY kits. Some top sellers: Whiskey Barrel Aged Maple Syrup, Beeswax Candles, and the Holiday Hygge Embroidery Kits. Have a look at what they have to offer and cross a few names off of your list - and perhaps even indulge in a little something for yourself. We won't tell!
Wildly Apparel
Are you ready to give the gift of the world's softest t-shirt? You're in luck, because Wildly Apparel pumps funky designs out of Vancouver, BC that look and feel fantastic. This shop also carries pins, prints, and ladies tees as well. Joe and I both have t-shirts from this shop, and I would 10/10 recommend them in terms of fit, material, and the amazing customer service Wildly Apparel provides.
Beasts and Blossoms
Painting original pieces out of Hamilton ON, Beasts and Blossoms creates watercolor paintings that are sure to make any art-lover's heart stop. This shop features paintings and prints of various Northern Canadian Landscapes that look like something you'd find in the pages of National Geographic. Artist Laura Shannon also paints custom pieces and commissions for those looking for something customized.
Made for the Lake Co.
There's something about cottage gear that's cozy, aesthetic, and welcomes adventure. After working in Toronto for 10 years, owner Jackie Saik quit her job and moved to Muskoka ON, where Made for the Lake Co was born. Apparel, hand drawn lake maps, patches and assorted goods can all be found here for the cottage-goer in your life.
Lace and Twig Inc
I'm absolutely in love with Lace and Twig Inc mugs! I received one as a gift myself, and I was so happy with it that I needed to know where to find more. I was stoked to find out that Lace and Twig Inc feature gift boxes, wine accessories, and pre-made gift options. Makers Bryan and Cathy are packaging up these little wonders out of Kingston, ON.
Sunrae Studio
"Reconnecting nature through wearable art," Sunrae Studio creates jaw dropping pieces of jewelry, hair accessories, and coasters using pressed wildflowers and botanicals. Located in Southern Ontario, you're bound to find a piece in their collection that someone on your gift list will cherish forever. All pieces are hand made with love, and are packaged plastic-free.
Looking for more ideas?
Check out our list of 10 Cheer-Proof Gifts for Dog Lovers this Christmas
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