Sure, online shopping for the holidays from the big guys is the easiest and most enticing option for many of us.
And it’s always a simple solution to pick from the world’s biggest brands.
But this type of holiday shopping doesn’t really show your city or neighbourhood much love. Nothing against the big guys (nobody ever said no to a Prada purse under the tree, after all), but there are plenty of amazing small companies in Toronto that have plenty of gift-worthy options too. Not convinced? We even created a list of 9 reasons to shop local for the holidays.
Ready to channel your inner ‘localista’ this season? Here are some of the best local Toronto gifts for everyone on your list.
Quintessential Canadian Gear From The Tuck Shop Trading Co.
Tuck Shop Trading Co. is a luxe yet cozy line of ready-to-wear weekend gear and accessories that’s inspired by the great Canadian outdoors. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or just trekking around the city, you can rep your Toronto pride with their famed “City of Neighbourhoods” toques.
Packages to a Local Yoga or Pilates Studio
With the New Year comes a renewed focus on health and wellness for most of us pavement-pounding young professionals. Help your friends and family get a headstart on their resolutions with a class package at one of the city’s yoga or pilates studios like Moksha Yoga, Yoga Tree or Fine-Tune Pilates. Maybe they’ll even let you tag along to a class or two?
Products for the Pooch From Loyal Canine Company
Don’t forget your dog this holiday season. The Loyal Canine Company’s curated collection of carefully formulated products includes things like a nose moisturizer, paw protector, and first-aid ointment, as well as soap on a rope, coat conditioner, and fur freshener. Taking inspiration from the worlds of fashion, grooming, and vintage racing, the brand brings a new perspective to the pet industry and is totally affordable – all their holiday gift sets are under $44.
Holiday Bling From Shay Lowe Jewellery
Gift the gift of sparkle and shine with the always conversation-provoking jewellery from Toronto designer Shay Lowe. Perfect for the ladies on your list who are always out on the town, she offers a stunning collection of necklaces, bracelets, and earrings that turn a simple dress into a statement-making outfit.
Gift Cards to Amazing Toronto Restaurants
Some of the best gifts are those that allow you to take in the tastes of the city. That’s why a gift card to some of Toronto’s beloved restaurants – like Gusto 101, Playa Cabana or Levetto – are bound to ignite the culinary cravings of the foodies on your list. Speaking of Gusto, its parent company, Gusto 54 just launched an online culinary and lifestyle boutique that brings together the ‘best of’ items that they’ve discovered through the years and feature within their restaurants.
Grooming Products From Beards and Beavers
For both the refined and rugged gentlemen on your list, Beards and Beavers offers organic, high-end beard oils and grooming products. Started by a Toronto couple, the brand has become a quick favourite among the city’s in-the-know guys who love their beards.
Fresh Flowers From Citizen Bloom
Citizen Bloom – the on-demand flower delivery service – is great for last minute hostess gifts this season. It’s not just about the Christmas tree; flowers are equally as important during the holidays. You can either order them to arrive at the host’s place or to your desk so that you can head out at 5PM, gorgeous and perfectly packaged blooms in hand.
New Shades From Holly Eyewear
The stylish female on your list can never have too many pairs of glasses or sunglasses. Hit Yorkville’s designer eyewear spot, Holly Eyewear, to shop an assortment of well-curated sunglasses that fit every occasion of her jam-packed lifestyle, from client meetings to tropical vacations.
Unique Items From the Etsy Makers Market
Stop by the Makers Market in partnership with Etsy at the Evergreen Brickworks to scoop up some unique gifts from talented local crafters, artists, and makers. Now through December 23, the market offers holiday décor, handmade accessories and original art for every gift-giving need.
Adorable Baby Gear From Mini Mioche
Spoil the babies on your list with gear from Mini Mioche. The store is bursting with cuteness and features organic, eco-friendly clothing made right in Toronto. You’ll find everything from outerwear and footwear, to onesies, dresses and swimwear for newborns up to 8-year-old kids.
A Curated Basket of Goodness From the St. Lawrence Market
Aside from restaurant certificates, another no-fail gift option includes a gift basket of goodness from the St. Lawrence Market that’s curated by you. Not only does a trip to the city’s iconic market offer a fun experience in itself, you can feel good about the fact that you’re supporting the friendly vendors you meet with your gift.
Unique Undies for Him From YoSox
YoSox isn’t just about their fun, colourful socks anymore. The Toronto-based brand has now branched into undies, with their YO UNDIES Collection, featuring six of their best-selling designs. Perfect for mixing and matching with the socks (another great gift idea), the new undies are as much as a conversation starter as the socks are.
A Unique Girls’ Night Out Purse From MIN
The event-hopping fashionista on your list (or any female, really) can never have too many handbags for a night on the town. Stylish, fun and unique, a handbag by local brand MIN is the perfect girls’ night out accessory.
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