"It's the holiday season....and Santa Claus, is comin' round....the Christmas snow, is white on the ground...". Ok, so maybe the Christmas snow isn't exactly here yet, but the carols are on, holiday baking has started, and we are EXCITED for the holiday season to officially launch this week! One of our favourite parts of the season (besides curling up on the couch to watch The Holiday with a big mug of hot chocolate), is hitting up all the fantastic boutiques here in town! It is always my mission every year, to support as many small local businesses as possible, and we are so spoiled here on the West Coast to have an overabundance of fantastic options! So, to officially kick off the season, we've rounded up some of our favourite local gifts that can be found right here in Victoria! So whether you're shopping for your best friend who always throws together the best charcuterie platters, or your co-worker who you know has a sweet tooth, we've got you covered! Have a read below, and let us know in the comments, if we are missing any must-have items in the city!
A Modern Bodger cheese board: For the charcuterie connoisseur in your life
These stunning boards come in all shapes and sizes, and are an absolute staple in the kitchen! Each one is made by hand, and the craftsmanship that goes into them is stunning. And pair it with a Gift Card to Charelli's, and you'll be sure to get an invite to the next wine & cheese night at your friends place!
Where to buy: Nicholas Randall or Online.
Wester Maple Cheeseboard, $102
A Tara McHugh Flora Gift Box For the one who needs some quality R&R time
This gorgeous box includes a Lindsay Remple water colour print tea towel, Drizzle honey, 9" tapered hand dipped pure Canadian beeswax candles from Beeswax on Salt Spring Island, and Tara Mchugh Flora tea tin. She has lots of other gift boxes to pick from.
Heart of the Home Gift Box, $89.95
First, We Brunch Recipe Book for the foodie
This brunch book that features recipes from local Victoria spots is the perfect gift for your brunch squad. Tons of local eateries are feature with lots of stories about how they opened and life in Victoria.
Where to buy: Ruth & Dean
First, We Brunch by Rebecca Wellman, $27.95
'Modern Baby' Clothing for the new mama
And for the trendiest little one in your life, this local Victoria mother & daughter team make organic and stylish clothing, accessories, and blankets. We can't get enough of all the adorable pieces!!
Where to buy: Online or Amelia Lee or Finn & Izzy
Bloom Organic Knotted Headband, $14
Organic Geo Tree Leggings. $38
Hand-picked Macarons for the coworker with a sweet tooth
This is one of our favourite little gifts for when you are in a pinch. Bon Macaron Patisserie on Broad Street makes so many delicious flavours that you can handpick the perfect flavours to put in one of their adorable gift boxes.
Where to buy: Bon Macaron Patisserie
The Honey Tobacco Collection for the new age Martha Stewart
This cozy scent is Picot Collective's signature fragrance that can be purchased as a hand-crafted body mist, candle, body butter, and roll-on scent.
Where to buy: Pigeonhole or Online
Honey Tobacco Body Mist, $40
Honey Tobacco Candle, $40
Pendleton Blanket for your S.O.
What's more perfect than a real wool blanket for you and your significant other to curl up in by the fire.
Where to buy: Nomad on Government Street
Motor Robe - Acadia Plaid, $135.99
Monthly Subscriptions
The gift that keeps on giving! Surprise someone special with these monthly subscriptions of flowers, socks, or coffee that treat them every month.
Where to buy: Online (click on the image to take you to the website)
Thorn & Thistle Flower Subscription, Starting at $150
Sock Fancy Sock Subscription, $12/month
The Roasters Pack: Starting at $26.95
Professional Photo Session for the new family
Spoil some of your favourites with a family photo shoot with a professional, so they will have memories that last a lifetime. There are so many fantastic photographers that offer family sessions, so just reach out to your favourite local photographer to see about their family packages!
Jesse Holland Photography
Nomad Camping Mug, $14.39
Murchie's Hot Chocolate, $7.95/tin
Advent Calendars
We know chocolate is a classic, but why not mix it up this year? Create your own 12 days of growlers advent calendar for your favourite brewery lover, or check out the David's Tea 24 days of tea for the tea lover in your life!
Click on the picture to to take you to their websites.
Driftwood Brewery Growlers, $19 for growler with beer
David's Tea 24 Days of Tea, $45