It’s that joyful time of year, and we’re all on the quest for gifts that resonate. Whether you’re shopping for the style maven, the homebody, the culinary whiz or the daring explorer, we’ve wrapped up an eclectic mix of unique, local and eco-conscious gems that whisper “I know you!” Read on for next-level finds that you’ll be excited to give—and receive (wink, wink, loved ones).

 

For the Happy Homebody

Ah, the ones who’ve mastered the art of “indoorsy.” For those who think that home is where the pants aren’t, these gifts are a snug fit.

1. Natural Flow

Serve in style with this minimalist, modern and natural Pure freeform pitcher ($48). Great for the host who loves to keep things organic and hygge. pure-design-shoppe.myshopify.com

 

 

2. Earthy Ambiance

Gingerwood saffron incense ($26) captures the essence of sunbaked terracotta and blossoming Arabian roses. nineteenten.ca

 

3. Cozy Traditions

Métis moccasins ($160) by Manitobah are a testament to Indigenous artistry, blending traditional craftsmanship and
contemporary design. manitobah.ca

 

4. Spa Day, Every Day

With its unique, handmade weave design, you can bring the at-home spa experience to any sink with this minimalist Ferm Living ceramic soap tray ($35). A little luxury for the one who cherishes their bath time. oldfaithfulshop.com

 

5. Bathing Beauty

Wrap yourself in coziness with this contemporary Karam Turkish linen robe from Obakki ($210). Handwoven on century-old looms and made to last, it’s ideal for the relaxation ritualist. obakki.com

 

6. Warm Fuzzies

Bring glam to your relaxation routine with this Love and Lore faux-fur hot water bottle ($35). Perfect for those chilly nights when you need a little more comfy heat (and your cat refuses to cooperate). indigo.ca

 

7. Love at First Blush

Set hearts and rooms aglow with the Cross Decor and Design’s blush ribbed 10-inch taper candles ($55). They’re the perfect pick for the pashmina-draped Renaissance soul in your social circle. thecrossdesign.com

 

8. Luxe Bedding

Elevate bedtime with the luxurious touch of this muslin quilt (queen, $300) from Silk and Snow. Made in Portugal from 100-percent natural cotton, these quilts feature a uniquely woven fabric that allows for a cool sleep. The design is minimalist, modern and exudes a natural, biophilic and organic vibe. silkandsnow.com

 

For the Stylish Trendsetter

Always a step ahead in the fashion game, they turn heads wherever they go. From minimalist jewellery to maximalist decor, these gifts are for those who live life in vogue.

1. Posh Plush

Embrace winter with the Rising jacket ($198) from Aritzia’s Wilfred Free collection. Its long, oversized silhouette and cozy sherpa fleece will have you feeling both runway-ready and like your childhood plushie. artizia.com

 

 

2. “Hi Barbie” Heels

Step into the Barbie Dream House world with these vibrant pink Milah shoes by Camper ($220)—a must-have for the style icon who can’t say no to pink. gravity pope.com

 

 

3. Golden Ears

Bang and Olufsen’s Beoplay HX headphones ($649) are a symphony of style and sound. They’re wireless, noise-cancelling and oh-so soft, but it’s the gleaming golden finish that will strike a chord with the stylish audiophile in your life. bang-olufsen.com

 

4. Elegance in the Bag

A statement piece for the self-proclaimed “fashionista” or the sophisticated minimalist—the Karla leather bag by Marimekko ($405) is a sophisticated take on the sling.marimekkovancouver.com

 

5. Houndstooth Hug

Wrap your giftee up in style with the lambswool oversized scarf ($125) in olive houndstooth from the Coast Goods. A timeless pattern meeting cozy comfort, it’s made from a naturally insulating, breathable and hypoallergenic textile that’s beautifully soft—a true treat for the chilly-chic set. thecoastgoods.ca

 

6. Cosmic Karma

For the friend who is perpetually peeking at their horoscope, this gold zodiac pendant ($110) by Vancouver’s Leah Yard Designs offers a charming personalized touch. Plus, it’s a gift that keeps on giving: five percent of all jewellery proceeds are donated to the Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre. leahyarddesigns.com

 

For the Master Planner

They live for lists, thrive on organization and their DIY game is strong—and these gifts are their organizational dreams come true.

 

1. A Colourful Year

Give the enthusiastic planner a vibrant look at the months to come. This oversized, rainbow Spectrum wall planner ($62) is for the type-A maximalist who loves to plan in style. muchandlittle.com

 

2. Dream Journal

Vancouver’s Hemlock and Oak presents a stylish, sustainable lined notebook ($42). With its cloth-lined cover in seven  whimsical shades, it’s the gift that says “thoughtfully planned.” hemlockandoak.com

 

3. Write in Style

Take note! The Caran d’Ache 849 Paul Smith pen ($75) is here to get your giftee’s creativity flowing. For the avid writer or the design enthusiast, this Swiss-designed pen offers a touch of elegance to every jot and title. shop.vanspecial.com

 

4. For the Artsy Crafter

Unleash the genius in your artistic friend with the Cricut Joy Xtra Smart cutting machine ($300). Whether it’s for scrapbooking, card-making or any DIY project, this is the ultimate crafting tool. canada.michaels.com

 

5. Genius in a Bottle

Meet the LARQ PureVis self-cleaning insulated bottle ($155)—a first-of-its-kind water bottle that cleans itself and the water inside it with a touch of a button, using UV-C LED tech to zap away bacteria and viruses. Plus, its double-walled insulation keeps your giftee’s drinks icy cold or toasty warm for hours. simons.ca

 

For the Culinary Connoisseur

They’re the masters of the kitchen, turning every meal into a gourmet experience. Whether they’re hosting a dinner party or savouring a quiet evening with a glass of wine, delight their culinary hearts with these gifts.

1. Gourmet Drama in a Pinch

This is more than salt—it’s culinary couture! Black Hawaiian sea salt ($11) from the Silk Road Spice Merchant in Calgary is infused with activated charcoal, offering a stunning onyx glow and healthful detoxifying properties. It’s a consummate dash of dramatic flair for the self-proclaimed gourmet chefs in your life. silkroadspices.ca

 

2. Sip in Style

Let them enjoy their favourite wine with this earthy and rustic wine sipper ($24). Perfect for the entertainer who loves to pour freely. puredesignshoppe.myshopify.com

 

3. Swoon-worthy Spoon

Hand-hammered, beautifully shaped and shiny as heck, the Fog Linen Work brass spoon ($32) is a must-have for the host who appreciates the finer things. shopneighbour.com

 

4. Sicilian Elixir

Volpi ($49) isn’t just any extra virgin olive oil—it’s straight from Sicily’s renowned Mandranova farm, and it’s the secret sauce behind Caffè La Tana’s famous famiglia of Vancouver eateries (hello, Pepino’s and Savio Volpe!). caffelatana.ca

 

5. Get Your Sparkle On

Go from faucet to fancy with the sleek copper Aarke Carbonator 3 ($350) sparkling-water maker. With its polished bronzed allure (also available in 12 stunning colourways), this chic countertop companion brings the sparkle. bestbuy.com

 

6. Plate Expectations

Why serve dessert on anything less than fabulous? With these scalloped dessert plates by Malaika ($82), even a pie crust seems swanky. A must-have for hosts who believe in a little plate drama. goodeeworld.com

 

7. Festive Feast

Add a touch of holiday glam to your loved one’s kitchen with the latest Le Creuset Noël round Dutch oven ($475). That golden knob? It’s a showstopper! Whether they’re cooking up a hearty winter stew or preparing a family roast, this beauty—available in artichoke green and matte white—will have them covered. lecreuset.ca

 

For the Adventurous Explorer

Wanderlust runs in their veins. Whether your giftee is jet-setting across the globe or planning their next local escapade, these gifts will be their perfect companions.

1. Travel Protection

Inspire organized adventures with these colourful and ultra-durable polycarbonate Hightide NÄHE hard-shell cases ($68). Neatly stow valuables (fragile eyeglasses, medications, cords, tech gear…) so your giftee and their things can arrive with ease.outnaboutboutique.com

 

2. Picnic Year-Round

Who said picnics are just for summer? The recycled-wool TBCo picnic blanket with straps ($195) is lined with waterproof material, so it’s sustainable and un-rainable. thecoastgoods.ca

 

3. Tabletop Globetrotter

Help them explore the world from their coffee table with Assouline’s travel book series (from $150 each). Each book is a journey, filled with vibrant photography and rich tales from around the globe, Costa Smeralda to Cairo. The colourful, handcrafted linen covers make them a stylish addition to any shelf. detailsbymrk.com

 

4. Travel Light, Travel Right

For the one who travels in style and needs everything just right: the Monos Carry-On Plus ($305) suitcase is sleek, modern and designed with the minimalist traveller in mind. monos.com

 

5. Campfire Delights (No Campfire Required)

Bring the magic of toasted marshmallows indoors with a s’mores maker from Williams Sonoma ($69.95). Ideal for family nights or cozy get-togethers—enjoy the warmth of a campfire with a stainless steel grill-top fuel can, and create just-right ambiance with four mini roasting sticks and a handy sectioned ceramic dish filled with fireside fixings, all without dodging any smoke. williams-sonoma.ca

6. Nature’s Close-up

Get them up close and personal with Mother Nature with these Standard Issue binoculars ($125) from Walrus. The pastel mint field glasses are just right for your birder brother or for anyone who loves to explore the great outdoors. walrushome.com 

 

This article was originally published in the November 2023 issue of Western Living magazine.