Canadian Small Shop Holiday Gift Guide
It is officially November, so you know what that means? It’s time to think about all things CHRISTMAS! I know a lot of people aren’t quite ready to hear the dreaded C-word yet, and probably strongly disagree with me when it comes to how early I decorate (I may or may not be decorating… today), but in my opinion, you really can’t start shopping for the holidays too soon – in fact, I like to start shopping in October so it takes the pressure off in December when I’ve got to spend tons more on food!
This blog is wholeheartedly one of my favourite blogs to write every year because I am so passionate about supporting small shops year-round, but especially during the holidays & hey, if it makes it easier for you to find gift ideas, then it’s a great thing for everyone! So, without further ado, let’s get into my biggest Canadian Small Shop Holiday Gift Guide, ever!
* I would like to respectfully acknowledge that all featured brands, including myself, live and work on traditional and unceded Indigenous lands across the country that is now known as Canada.
01. Flowers T-Shirt | 02. Hoop Earrings | 03. Decorative Pillow | 04. Digital Art Print | 05. Phone Grip | 06. Headband | 07. Hair Bow | 08. Doormat | 09. Toque | 10. Northern Woods Spray | 11. Candle | 12. Dog Sticker | 13. Affirmation Cards | 14. Candle Stick Holders | 15. Stone Plant Holder
BBxCollection
♥️ WOMEN-OWNED | INSTAGRAM · WEBSITE
DISCOUNT CODE · EMILY15 FOR 15% OFF
📍 OTTAWA, ON
If you’re shopping for someone this holiday season who’s got a flare for the sarcastic, and loves a good graphic tee, check out BBxCollection for a wide assortment of cute and funny tees, crewnecks, hoodies and even more. The owner, Megan, has even brought in other small (and large) brands into her shop! Unfortunately, her brick & mortar shop closed this past year, so it’s more important than ever to shop small.
Pokoloko
♥️ ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS · ETHICALLY MADE | INSTAGRAM · WEBSITE
DISCOUNT CODE · EMILY FOR 15% OFF
📍 OTTAWA, ON
If ethically sourced and made products are important to you and/or who you’re shopping for, Pokoloko has a ton of great options to get cozied up in including sweaters, scarves and even some gorgeous home good as well!
* Please note, much of the items can be unisex, but are mostly shown on female models.
Clementine HFG
WOMEN-OWNED | INSTAGRAM · WEBSITE
DISCOUNT CODE · EMILY FOR 15% OFF
📍 KINDERSLEY, SK
Whether you’re looking for your dream shacket, a cozy sweater, a graphic tee or even the perfect accessories, I highly recommend checking out Clementine HFG’s wide array of all things clothing, hats, jewellery and everything in between. Additionally, Clementine also has the most beautiful home decor, and if you follow me on Instagram, you might have seen some of their pieces in my home!
Malvados
WOMEN-OWNED | INSTAGRAM · WEBSITE
📍 VANCOUVER, BC
Got a beach lover in your life? Or even someone who loves to cozy up at home during the cool winter months (it’s me, I’m the cozy-up-at-home-in-winter girl!), well then Malvados has something for them, including the cutest, most comfortable flip flops for all of your beach adventures, sandals for day-to-night & the coziest slippers. I have a few pairs that were gifted to me by them, and I can confidently say, they’re so worth it.
Mad About Style
WOMEN-OWNED | INSTAGRAM · WEBSITE
📍 WINNIPEG, MB
After discovering Mad About Style from the fall 2023 Jilly Box in the form of a the Grace Midi Dress (the dress so I nice, I bought 3 of the 4 patterns available 😂), I have quickly fallen in love with their beautiful selection of capsule-style clothing. If you’re shopping for a fashion-lover this holiday season, check them out!
Chelsea King
WOMEN-OWNED · MADE IN CANADA | INSTAGRAM · WEBSITE
📍 BRITISH COLUMBIA
Ahhh, where my scrunchie obsession began, with Chelsea King! Since I fell in love with Chelsea King scrunchies back in 2017, they’ve expanded to include so many other beautiful hair accessories, including hair clips, claw clips and headbands.
Quince Straw Bags
WOMEN-OWNED · MADE IN CANADA | INSTAGRAM · WEBSITE
📍 OKANAGAN, BC
One of my favourite bags in my collection (yes, collection) is my straw bag from Quince. The straw bags & hats are perfect if you’re shopping for someone who lives for summer, and hanging on the beach.
Little Knot Co.
WOMEN-OWNED · MADE IN CANADA | INSTAGRAM · WEBSITE
📍 OTTAWA, ON
Yes, another scrunchie brand — what can I say? I love my scrunchies! Little Knot Co. is my go-to place for all of my fun, seasonal scrunchies (especially for Halloween & Christmas!), but also everyday scrunchies as well. Plus, if you have thick or very long hair, the oversized scrunchies are perfect for you!
Birch Jewellery
WOMEN-OWNED · MADE IN CANADA | INSTAGRAM · WEBSITE
DISCOUNT CODE · EMILY20 FOR 20% OFF (VALID UNTIL DEC 3, 2023)
📍 OTTAWA, ON
Are you a nature and jewellery lover? Look no further than Birch Jewellery! I came across Birch Jewellery on Instagram this past year and I instantly fell in love with the beautiful, nature-inspired jewellery pieces offered from this small shop. I even treated myself to one of their adorable Mini Travel Jewellery Cases for my European honeymoon this past summer!
Flourish Stonewear
WOMEN-OWNED · MADE IN CANADA | INSTAGRAM · WEBSITE
📍 OTTAWA, ON
If you’re shopping for someone who loves unique, kiln-fired ceramic and porcelain jewellery, I highly recommend checking out Flourish Stonewear for all of your needs. They have everything from studs, to statement earrings and even rings and necklaces!
Zen Moissanite
WOMEN-OWNED · ETHICALLY MADE · MADE IN CANADA | INSTAGRAM · WEBSITE
📍 WENDOVER, ON
Though the time to order a ring for a holiday proposal has passed for this year, if it’s something you’re thinking about doing next holiday season, or just after the holidays, check out Zen Moissanite (this is where my engagement ring is from!). Moissanite is ethically sourced, making it better for the planet & for people!
Melanie Auld
WOMEN-OWNED | INSTAGRAM · WEBSITE
📍 VANCOUVER, BC
If you follow me on Instagram, you may have seen a necklace that I wear on a near daily basis that features 4 charms that represent important things in my life; well, that necklace is from Melanie Auld! Featuring something for everyone, regardless of style, preferences or price points, Melanie Auld jewelry is classic and guaranteed to be a loved gift this year.
The Ten Spot
FEMALE-FOUNDED | INSTAGRAM · WEBSITE
📍 TORONTO, ON + ACROSS CANADA
Slightly different from the other businesses on this list is The Ten Spot — the company is female-founded, but each location is franchised, a lot of them by women! There are several locations across Canada, so if there’s one near you, why not treat someone you love to a gift card or one of their branded polishes.
Freon Collective
WOMEN-OWNED · MADE IN CANADA · SUSTAINABLE · ECO-FRIENDLY | INSTAGRAM · WEBSITE
📍 TORONTO, ON
Continuing on the beauty train, if you’re looking to take your makeup off at the end of the day with a more environmentally conscious option that throw away cotton rounds, Freon Collective has exactly what you need. And, there’s even reusable nail polish removal pads to go with your new non-toxic nail polish!
Eralume
WOMEN-OWNED · MADE IN CANADA · NON-TOXIC · ECO-FRIENDLY | INSTAGRAM · WEBSITE
📍 BARRIE, ON
Eralume is a brand I come across after receiving their Northern Wood Outdoor Spray in the Fall 2022 Jilly Box, and I instantly fell in love! My favourite part was that this product could be used on dogs (and my dog seems to attract all of the bugs). Eralume has everything from bath & body to home cleaning products, so if you’re shopping for someone who wants non-toxic, eco-friendly products in their home, this is your shop!
Rainsford Company
WOMEN-OWNED | INSTAGRAM · WEBSITE
📍 TORONTO, ON
One of my favourite home decor shops that I’ve come across on social is Rainsford Company, which has the most gorgeous array of traditional, farmhouse style pieces that are perfect for any home. In fact, this is where I got my market tote that you’ll see featured on my Instagram from time-to-time!
Bode Goods
WOMEN-OWNED · MADE IN CANADA | INSTAGRAM · WEBSITE
DISCOUNT CODE · EMILY10 FOR 10% OFF
📍 KELOWNA, BC
Is there a place that means the world to you and you’d love to have a piece of art to commemorate it on your walls? Look no further than Bode Goods for hand drawn maps! Though there is a large selection already, the highlight of this small business is the option for custom maps, making it a great gift for just about any holiday or occasion. I’m even looking into having a map done of the grounds where I’ll be getting married!
Hudson & Oak
WOMEN-OWNED · MADE IN CANADA | INSTAGRAM · WEBSITE
📍 VANCOUVER, BC
Buying for a plant lover this holiday season? I can almost promise that a beautiful planter from Hudson & Oak would make the ultimate gift that they’re sure to love! Plants not really their thing, but you still want to gift something lovely for the home? Well, don’t worry because Hudson & Oak also started offering modern and simple dinnerware!
Bluum Maison
WOMEN-OWNED · BIPOC OWNED | INSTAGRAM · WEBSITE
📍 LONDON, ON
Another brand I came across from the Fall 2023 Jilly Box is Bluum Maison. Their stunning table runner & cloth napkins were featured in this season’s box, and I can honestly say it’s the most beautiful table runner & napkin set I’ve ever seen. The fabric is soft, and looks amazing on any table! If you’re shopping for someone who loves to host, or even decorate their home, check out Bluum Maison.
Coussins Elegance
WOMEN-OWNED · MADE IN CANADA | INSTAGRAM · ETSY
📍 SAINT-JEAN-SUR-RICHELIEU, QC
Coussins Elegance is a shop that I just happened to randomly stumble across while looking through Etsy this past year, and when I laid eyes on their gorgeous, handmade pillow covers, I knew I needed to include the on this years gift guide. Though I don’t have any of these pillow covers in my home yet, I definitely plan on purchasing some in due time!
Linen & Grace Art
WOMEN-OWNED | INSTAGRAM · ETSY
📍 ALBERTA, CANADA
Digital prints are easily one of my favourite ways to change up my space when I feel like I’m in need of a little change, or to even switch up the art on my walls for certain holiday seasons! Enter Linen & Grace Art, which I stumbled across on Instagram this past year. Since I came across this small shop, I’ve purchased three different prints – one for my dining room, and two for my bedroom. If you love vintage-style art, check out this shop!
BD Imaging
WOMEN-OWNED · LGBTQIA2S+ OWNED · MADE IN CANADA | INSTAGRAM · ETSY
DISCOUNT CODE · EMILY10 FOR 10% OFF
📍 OTTAWA, ON
I have to say, this shop is owned by one of my best friends, but I promise I wouldn’t include it if I didn’t actually love the products! BD Imaging creates the most adorable LGBTQ+ inspired stickers, earrings and pins, all hand drawn my bestie! Plus, you may even notice a Freddie sticker in there… 😉
Love Powered Co.
WOMEN-OWNED | INSTAGRAM · WEBSITE
📍 CANADA
If you find yourself looking for a gift this season for someone who just has everything, I highly recommend checking out Love Powered Co. Their shop features affirmation cards, that I’m a firm believer that everyone can benefit from! We all fall into a space on not knowing our worth, or maybe even feeling a little low, and using these cards can help boost your mood, and get your mind thinking about all of the amazing things about yourself that you probably aren’t remembering on a daily basis!
Livingston Co.
WOMEN-OWNED | INSTAGRAM · WEBSITE
📍 KINGSTON, ON
Know someone who’s always dropping their phone, or just loves a stylish phone accessory? Livingston Co. has amazing geode phone grips that you can add to phone cases or even on the back of your tablet case to make it more comfortable to hold it. There are tons of colour options and even gold, silver and rose gold rimmed options!
Smellies
WOMEN-OWNED · MADE IN CANADA | INSTAGRAM · WEBSITE
📍 MONTREAL, QC
Another brand that I came across in recent years is Smellies Scents, after I purchased one of their collaboration candles with one of my favourite influencers, Alex Centomo last year. If you love a good sized candle at a great price, Smellies is the place to shop!
Cocopups
WOMEN-OWNED · MADE IN CANADA | INSTAGRAM · WEBSITE
📍 WOODSTOCK, ON
If you’re looking for a new seasonally appropriate bandana for your dog (or cat!), I can’t recommend searching through the Cocopups website enough! With extremely cute options for both male and female pets, it’s inevitable that there’s something you’ll love! There is even an option to customize your bandana and add snaps.
Fluff Pet Care
WOMEN-OWNED · MADE IN CANADA | INSTAGRAM · WEBSITE
📍 WINDSOR, ON
Wanting to upgrade your dog’s ID tag to something a little more unique and special? Check out Fluff Pet Care for something that represents your dog’s personality! We have one for Freddie that has a forest-like design on it to represent how he’s a Bernese Mountain Dog and his breed originates from the Bern Mountains.
Pooch & Tabby
WOMEN-OWNED · MADE IN CANADA | INSTAGRAM · ETSY
📍 TORONTO, ON
Another amazing pet-focused brand I’ve loved through the years is Pooch & Tabby, which has the most beautiful fabric collars for dogs & cats. There are tons of fabric options, colours and patterns, and there’s even Rifle Paper Co. designs, and there’s even options between black, nickel and brass hardware, as well as the option to get a matching leash!
Cheeky Berner Co.
WOMEN-OWNED · MADE IN CANADA | INSTAGRAM · ETSY
📍 L’ORIGNAL, ON
Last, but certainly not least is Cheeky Berner Co.! I must admit, having a Berner myself, the name of this shop pulled me in, and the owner has some Berners of her own (duh)! If you’re looking for seasonal, or even the most beautiful neutral bandanas, this shop is your go-to place to find what you’re looking for! I have one of their gorgeous neutral bandanas for Freddie, and I think it’s easily my favourite bandana for him to wear, year-round.
And there we have it! That is the complete Canadian Small Shop Holiday Gift Guide for 2023! I have been impatiently counting down the days for this blog to launch because I’m just so proud of how many amazing small shops I get to feature in this one blog. I can confidently say that I am so excited to finally share it with all of you, and I hope that this blog can provide some inspiration to shop small, not just during the holiday season, but year-round!
* Note: Some links and linked products featured in this blog post are commissionable links. Should you purchase a product with these links, I will make a small commission at no additional cost to you.
