Shopping local is the easiest way to find unique gifts that delight and impress. Luckily we’re located in a fabulous neighbourhood that offers so much in the way of small business shopping. Take a look through this gift guide for some of the coolest local businesses to support this holiday season, right here in Hintonburg and Wellington West!
Aurelius
The foodie in your life will love anything bought here. Aurelius is my personal go-to for the highest quality oils and vinegars (the balsamic is out of this world)!
Perfect for gift-giving, Aurelius has Oil and Vinegar 200mL two-packs that come in a carry case with ribbon, ready to be given. You can choose between two delicious flavour combimations with blood orange or Tuscan herb infused olive oil, and lemon white or garlic balsamics.
If you're looking for something really special, consider this stunning Textured Ceramic Oil/Vinegar Dispenser. It's handmade by Montreal-based artist Jacques Benoit and is available in four colours. This one is guaranteed to impress!
A Curated Nest
As the name implies, this sweet little shop features a stunning array of curated picks. They have a gorgeous selection of vintage and vintage-inspired home décor pieces and their Christmas collection gives me all the warm cozy nostalgic feelings that I love most about the holiday season.
Holiday decorations don't get more charming than these Vintage Dome Winter Scenes. With a large selection of characters, from the cutest silver pig to Christmas trees, you can make sure your gift is just right!
If you love to gift ornaments, A Curated Nest is the place to go! They have the sweetest range of woodland themed tree decorations including geese, deer, and stunning birds, not to mention the prices are more than fair!
Lot 7
Shop owner, Bobbi Jo, has impeccable taste and it shows through the home décor items she sells. With the cutest tea towels, throw pillows and decorations, Lot 7 is a one stop shop when it comes to finding gifts that impress. Stop by to see the range of new and vintage pieces that bring any room to the next level.
For the most elegant on your list, these striking flower ornaments will impress. They look equally gorgeous on the tree or in a wreath and pair beautifully with warm rustic colours.
These golden stars are a classic that will be brought out year after year. Their sleek and simple design means they'll fit in with any style of decor whether it be modern or traditional.
Shop Lot 7 in store and be sure to follow on Instagram @lot7ottawa for new product updates!
Malenka Originals
Malenka Originals is the place to go for all things home decor and DIY. Owner Katrina is an expert when it comes to upcycling and is passionate about sharing her expertise with others. Be sure to stop by her shop in Hintonburg to pick up supplies for your next project and pick up some tips along the way.
These Cavallini & Co. Vintage Paper Posters are unique gifts that can be hung on the wall for all to see. With a design for everyone, from Octopus Oceanography to Fine Cheeses (my personal favourite), this is a gift that feels personal. Plus you have the option to buy an accompanying Sustainable Wood Hanging Kit!
For the friend who always talks about flipping that old chest of drawers or sprucing up a shelf, give them the push they need! The Annie Sloan Chalk Paint is a fan-favourite, and the Fusion Mineral Paint is an upcycling must-have.
Bloomfield’s
For those lucky enough to have a green thumb, a plant from Bloomfield’s would make a perfect gift. If they’re a little more plant challenged like me, Bloomfield’s specializes in stunning floral arrangements, fresh and dried, that don’t require a long-term commitment! Stepping into their store is like stepping into a world of its own, with leaves and greenery everywhere – truly magical! Make someone's day with a hand-tied floral arrangement.
Victoire
For the one on your list who loves all things cool, colourful and independently designed, a gift from Victoire Boutique is guaranteed to please. Not only do they have amazing indie designer clothing brands, they also carry a variety of funky homeware and gift items! Take these for example:
For the friend who hikes Pink Lake on the weekends and spends their summers at Lac Philippe, this Gatineau Hills magnet shows you know them well. Plus it's locally designed in a collaboration between Victoire and Nadyne the designer behind Girl From Away!
This Flower Anthurium makes a personal gift for a friend or loved one. What is a Flower Anthurium you ask? It's a heart shaped flower that sympolizes hospitality, kindness and warmth, plus it never wilts!
Maker House Co.
Maker House offers the best of Canadian-made products. From art prints to kitchenware its all produced with the principles of quality and authenticity in mind. Shop here for the one on your list that loves unique, artisan-made pieces.
This Whiskey Barrel Aged Maple Syrup represents all things good and cozy in the world. Picture a hot stack of buttermilk pancakes on Christmas morning with berries and whipped cream and this syrup drizzled over them...I'm drooling just thinking about it!
For the mixed drink enthusiast, this Caesar Pleaser Gift Box is guranteed to please. It comes with classic spice caesar mix, organic sea salt cocktail rimmer and the cutest caesar themed tea towel.
JV Studios
My favourite thing about JV Studios is the range! Their jewelry selection is fantastic, with the daintiest pieces you can imagine, but if you move to the back of the store you’ll find the cheekiest card selection.
Gift something extra special this year with these sweet Herkimer studs designed by store owner Jasmine Virani. They're timeless and will be treasured for a long time to come!
Is jewelry not what you're looking for? Check out their unique puzzle selection! Here you'll find puzzles unlike any other, from festive kitties with hats, to an illustration of the perfect bookshelf (it's very satisfying). Great for spending a cozy afternoon in over the break, these puzzles make a fabulous gift.
Kindred
With a definite ethereal feel in the store, Kindred is all good vibes. Here you’ll find crystals, moon tea and high-vibe jewelry, as well as yummy candles and lovely ceramics.
For a conversation-starting gift this Breast planter will do the trick! This latest trend in ceramics celebrates the female form, making it perfect for those who value making their home space personal and unique.
Perfect for the friend who loves all things celestial, this magical print illustrated by Melina Lamoureux from BC, is a great choice. It's printed on high-quality 100-lb paper, and measures 8.5"x11".
Be sure to check out each of these stores online or in person in the Hintonburg/West Wellington area and happy shopping!