The Great Canadian Gift Guide

Designers across the country will preach the beauty of a simple string of wood beads arranged on a coffee table or bookshelf. Etsy shop StringforPearls makes a gorgeous version conditioned with beeswax and organic coconut oil. It’s the perfect gift for the home body who has everything! Wood Garland, $60

For the glam gift giver, look no further than Black Rooster Decor, a sparkly haven for all thing’s chic on Toronto’s east end. These retro inspired coasters are perfect for the cocktail master in your midst. Cocktail Coaster Set, $70

Help encourage a sense of calm around the holidays by gifting a sleek Vitruvi diffuser, with a few essential oils to tie it all together. Choose from calming scents like lavender and eucalyptus, or opt for a festive scent like spruce. You’ll garner nothing but goodwill as your recipient enjoys the peaceful mindfulness this gift imbues! Black Stone Diffuser, $110; Essential Oils, starting at $10

For gift delivery on the double, Toronto-based Tonic Blooms offers a variety of gorgeous bouquets and gift packages, all with a two-hour delivery option. The Winter, $64

If living in one of Old Faithful Shop‘s two gorgeous locations is out of the question, we’ll settle for a nifty set of knives from their enviable array of kitchen tools. Opinel Knife Set, $70

Stumped for gifts? Indigo always delivers. Whether you snag a hot new read off Heather’s Picks, or something from their peruse-worthy lifestyle shop, you’re bound to find gifts and stocking stuffers for everyone on your list. This year, we’re treating family members from coast-to-coast to personalized Province Mugs. Alberta Mug, $12

And for the word nerd on your list, this tote-ally awesome canvas bag is the perfect patriotic present! It’s part of Indigo’s Read the North campaign, supporting Canadian authors and their works. With Canadian authors like Chris Hadfield and Margaret Atwood donning pieces from the collection, your word nerd will be in great company. Read the North Canvas Tote, $7

Art & Manufacture

makes beautiful ceramics out of Quebec, that would seamlessly fit into any kitchen. The classic white and blue colour combo is traditional, while modern designs make it the perfect accessory for contemporary spaces. And like every good hostess knows, you can never have too many serving dishes! Large Ceramic Plate, $130

With a gift as gorgeous as this, why not order a baker’s dozen and make it your signature present of the season? Bakers will adore it, and those less inclined around the kitchen will feel inspired by it. Maple Rolling Pin, $95

These beautiful candles are handmade in small batches, using premium soy wax in a Vancouver studio. They’re a great way to personalize your gift giving: each candle is named after a neighbourhood in Vancouver or Toronto! Vancouver Candle Co., starting at $20

For those in the know, Cambie is a Toronto go-to for gorgeous textiles, like super soft blankets from Lima and ultra bright pillows. The Alpaca blend blanket is a Cambie classic, and comes in so many colours, it’s easy to find a matching blanket for every room in your home, er, we mean, your friends’ homes… Cambie Blanket, $110

Give the gift of a little holiday shimmer in the form of this beautiful pitcher from Homesense (also known as gift-giving Mecca). The great thing about gifting copper items for the kitchen is they match with virtually everything, so your recipient can easily adopt it into daily use! Hammered Copper Jug, $25

Is your candle feeling a little lacking? Top it with a decorative matchbox, handmade in Vancouver by artist Olga Bajus and sold at Hyperlink CodeThe Cross, one of the most jaw-dropping shops in all of Canada. Frida II Icon Matchbox, $17

What greater gift could you give than the gift of soft, luxurious bedding? It’s so insanely thoughtful, and something people long for, but don’t always invest in. For the best of the best, head to Toronto’s Au Lit Fine Linens. Their gift set includes a handbook on how to care for the bedding, plus one of their signature 100% silk sleep masks! Satin Sheet Set, $495

Stinson bowls are a classic Canadian gift, but we’re especially crazy about this ebonized oak version, that would look so chic on a marble countertop. Score this beauty at Provide in Vancouver, or through their online shop. Stinson Studios Round Bowl, $189

Hudson’s Bay Company

stripes are the unofficial uniform of all Canadians, and with their ever-expanding HBC line, it’s easy to show off your stripes in every room of the home. New to their line this year is a gorgeous Espresso set that’s perfect for open wood shelves in need of a little colour. Be warned though, this is one of those gifts that’s tough to give a way. Best to buy two sets! HBC Espresso Set, $45

This playful party straw tea towel from BRIKA is perfect for your favourite hostess. Gift it with a delicious seasonal tea, or a bottle of bubbly, and you’ll guarantee invites for years to come. Party Straws Tea Towel, $26