The holidays are here and that means shopping for loved ones, secret Santas, and a little treat or two for yourself. Whether you’re searching for a souvenir or looking for something truly unique, Vancouver-made gifts are sure to fill anyone on your list with joy. Besides supporting local artisans, visiting stores with local goods often means avoiding crowded shopping malls. For a shopping experience that’s both pleasant for you and pleasing for those on your “nice” list, we have a five recommendations for places to shop for presents with a distinct Canadian and West Coast flair.
Granville Island
Granville Island
Food items, art, spirits, jewellery, and even whimsical brooms can be found at one of our favourite spots – Granville Island. The shopping district is overflowing with local craftspeople, artists, growers, distillers, brewers, musicians and eateries. Whatever that item is on your list, you can find it on Granville Island, from locally made honeys and salts, to works of art expertly crafted from glass, metal, wood and textiles, there is no better place to find an authentic West Coast creation.
Giving Gifts
4570 Main Street
Giving Gifts is your one-stop-shop for locally made, fair trade, and eco-friendly products. Divided into five rooms, the shop offers items from over 100 local makers who are making a difference through their creations. The store brings local brands together and provides a space to sell their goods. Products here range from fancy sweatpants to reusable snack pouches with adorable prints. Other items you can find here include clothing, items for babies and kids, stationary, home décor, body care and items for living waste-free.
The Eastside Flea
550 Malkin Ave
Touted as Vancouver’s hippest vintage and artisan market, the Eastside Flea is a spot for perusing collectables, upcycled items, and locally made goodies all while enjoying live vinyl deejays. More than 40 vendors set their tables up at Eastside Studios and in the outdoor courtyard. The Eastside Flea is also dog friendly (just like us!) so bring your four-legged buddy and don’t forget to grab lunch from one of the on-site food trucks.
The Garden
868 East Hastings Street
As the name infers, The Garden is lush with plant life. Located just east of Chinatown, the store serves up an excellent latte and homemade cookies to die for, but they also offer a tightly curated range of gift items, from fancy beauty oils to enamelled key chains and artisanal vegan chocolates. The amazing studio space is also used for events, so check out their online calendar.
Much and Little
2543 Main St
Full of eclectic gifts and locally made clothing, visitors to Much and Little on Main Street might just leave with something they never knew they needed. The store is packed with beautifully curated everyday items along with women’s fashion from local designers. Some items come from outside of Canada, but each has a story to share and all are made with attention to form and function. Pieces are timeless and beautiful and make a perfect gift for anyone on your list (or yourself!)
Don’t shop until you drop! Get some rest and relaxation at The Burrard. Check out our bookings page for great rates!
Photo Credits:
Feature Image – The Eastside Flea: The Eastside Flea website
Strolling through Granville Island: Granville Island Facebook page
Shelves of Candles and Cacti: Giving Gifts Instagram page
The Eastside Flea: The Eastside Flea website
The Garden: The Garden Instagram account
Much and Little: Much and Little Facebook page