It’s that time of year again, folks! Where shoppers and those who only shop during the month of December head to the mall to pick out the perfect Christmas gifts for their loved ones. For most, this a daunting and stressful task. I for one, have trouble not simply buying the same old sweaters, socks, or pajamas year after year for the same people on my list. Well, this year I put my foot down! I vowed to find inspiration in my gifts from the amazing city that I live in. So without further ado, here is my list of gift ideas for every type of Vancouverite on your list!
Grouse Mountain Boarding Passes
There is no denying Vancouverites’ love for the great outdoors. Most of us wait all year in anticipation for the fresh snow to cover our mountains so we can finally hit the slopes! Grouse Mountain offers several different packages to fit everyone’s budget and is sure to delight the athletic, daredevil on your list. This is also a great idea for newcomers to the hills who want to give boarding or skiing a try! Grouse offers lessons for beginners or, simply, for those that need a refresher!
“Women and Children First” T-shirt, Aritiza
The Vancouver-established boutique, Aritizia, is on the lips of every fashionista this time of year. There is no denying us West Coast gals love this iconic brand, started right here in our own city. Help the less fortunate by buying this limited edition La Notte t-shirt. Proceeds will go to the Cause We Care Foundation, a Vancouver-based charity helping single mothers in poverty.
“The Dirty Apron” Cooking Classes
Great for foodies, fine diners, or those who just want new meal ideas, The Dirty Apron offers dozens of cooking classes that are sure to whet the palate of everyone on your list. With themes such as “Mamma Mia: The Original Italian Class”, “Oh La La: The French Class”, and “Ocean Fling: The Ultimate Seafood Class”, there truly is something for everyone! Owned and, mostly, taught by former Chambar Sous-Chef David Robertson, the classes are 3 hours long and very hands on. Can you say Yummy?!
“The Only” Bag by Erin Templeton
Born and raised just outside Vancouver, Erin Templeton has been designing and making leather goods since the nineties. She uses recycled leather and each piece is designed and made right in her studio. Visit her shop, located in Chinatown to view her timeless pieces that focus on structure and defy trends. “The Only” Bag is my favourite from the Winter 2013 collection so if someone could kindly pass that information on to my mom it would be great!
“Streets: East Van” Tee, Sharks and Hammers
Wearing our city with pride on hoodies, toques, and t-shirts is nothing new (Dipt, anyone?) but this t-shirt from Sharks and Hammers boutique in Gastown takes a different spin on things and loudly represents East Van’s most famous streets. For the artist or hipster on your list, this t-shirt shows just the right amount of Vancouver pride with a little bit of edge. There’s no place like home.
Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies, Beaucoup Bakery
When you have a party to attend and need a last minute hostess gift, or need a treat for a work Christmas function, food is always a welcome gift. These peanut butter sandwiches from Beaucoup Bakery may just replace the tired Christmas fruit cake forever! Truly, these cookies are to die for and are a treat that everyone will enjoy. Just make sure to buy a lot – they are addicting, I would know.
Boots from Dayton Boots
Seriously, what else screams Vancouver than a pair of authentic, hand-made, Dayton boots? These are sure to excite any guy on your list and will last him forever! Original, tough, stylish, yet classic, all at once, these boots are a great investment. With tons of designs to choose from, there is sure to be the perfect style to fit that special guy on your list.
Edible Canada, Granville Island
This right here is at the top of my Christmas list! All I want is dinner at this famous spot that uses local products and highlights Canadian food. After I want to stock up on all the goodies in the retail store that are made in B.C and other parts of Canada. This will be a great experience for any foodie on your list! Bonus: who else are they going to take to go with them but you? Win-win!
Vancouver TheatreSports League, Granville Island
Located on Granville Island and averaging two shows a night, this is the perfect gift idea for the goofball on your list. Let them enjoy a night out full of laughs on you. With affordable ticket prices and a licensed venue, this gift is sure to bring the laughs in a big way! Something different but something every Vancouverite needs to experience!
Local art, Ayden Gallery
For the artist or lover of the arts, an original piece from Ayden Gallery in Tinseltown Mall is the perfect idea! With a bunch of local artists to support, and something to fit everyone’s budget, Ayden Gallery has a ton to offer. A one-of-a-kind piece that will be treasured for years will be great in the home of any Vancouverite!
Written by: Micaela Monk
