Gift Local - My 2018 Handmade In Ottawa Gift Guide
Christmas shopping can be such a pain. I fully understand the desire to get it all done & over with in one fell swoop. Sure, it's easy to hop on over to the nearest mall, follow the crowds and grab whatever is on sale. But why not instead hit up your local craft fair or independent boutique for something hand-made with love?
Supporting local artisans, especially around the holiday season, has always been important to me. It gives me a chance to get to know the people in my community and see the talents they hold. There's something so charming and wholesome about gifting something handmade to a loved one, and I hope to share that feeling with you all!
I've put together a shopping list of some of my favourite locally-made products to put under the tree this year. Best of all, they're all under $50!
Supporting local artisans, especially around the holiday season, has always been important to me. It gives me a chance to get to know the people in my community and see the talents they hold. There's something so charming and wholesome about gifting something handmade to a loved one, and I hope to share that feeling with you all!
I've put together a shopping list of some of my favourite locally-made products to put under the tree this year. Best of all, they're all under $50!
Beauty
 |
| source |
Purple Urchin Bath Bomb 6 Pack - $28.50 CAD
You've likely seen the iconic purple packaging of Purple Urchin's soap at local restaurants around town, or even in a friend's bathroom. It's something I feel is synonymous with Ottawa, and I've personally grown to be a big fan of all things PU.
If the person on your list loves bathtime as much as I do, add this to your cart ASAP. Made with all natural, vegan ingredients with scents from mimosa to to maple lemon, this set of handmade bath bombs will be a total hit!
 |
| source |
Hoppy & Poppy All The Jingle Ladies Holiday Gift Sets - Starting at $10 CAD
The girlboss duo behind this brand are some of the sweetest ladies you'll meet, and their product line is just as fabulous! Their handmade cosmetic range includes everything from lip scrubs to facial serums, and make the perfect present for someone who needs extra pampering this holiday season.
Choose from an assortment of super affordable gift sets, all customized to suit different skin types and personalities!
Fashion
BBxCollection Holiday Tees - Starting at $23 CAD
Perhaps you'll recognize these tees from my own Instagram feed. Made in Ottawa by fellow blogger and resident girl boss, Maggie of The Brash Brunette, these tees are perfect for that special sassy someone. They're fully customizable, too! Get one with glitter or foiled text and you'll shine brighter than the sequins on everyone else's ugly Christmas sweater.
Perhaps you'll recognize these tees from my own Instagram feed. Made in Ottawa by fellow blogger and resident girl boss, Maggie of The Brash Brunette, these tees are perfect for that special sassy someone. They're fully customizable, too! Get one with glitter or foiled text and you'll shine brighter than the sequins on everyone else's ugly Christmas sweater.
Birch Jewellery Tassel Earrings - $48 CAD
Who doesn't love jewellery for the holidays? Any piece from local maker Samantha of Birch Jewellery, are sure to please. I love these particular tassels for the glitzy druzy contrasted with the brushed finish of the brass, and metallic leather for that edgy touch. They even come in a variety of other colours, too!
Uptown Sox - Starting at $12 CAD
As much as we all groaned about finding socks in our stockings as kids, I honestly cannot get enough pairs as an adult. My husband has become a bit of a sock aficionado, as well (seriously, his sock drawer is bursting at the seams with bold patterns and comical designs).
I discovered Uptown Sox at the 613 Flea Christmas market; they have an assortment of styles for men & women, and even offer a Sock Of The Month subscription service
Who doesn't love jewellery for the holidays? Any piece from local maker Samantha of Birch Jewellery, are sure to please. I love these particular tassels for the glitzy druzy contrasted with the brushed finish of the brass, and metallic leather for that edgy touch. They even come in a variety of other colours, too!
 |
| source |
Uptown Sox - Starting at $12 CAD
As much as we all groaned about finding socks in our stockings as kids, I honestly cannot get enough pairs as an adult. My husband has become a bit of a sock aficionado, as well (seriously, his sock drawer is bursting at the seams with bold patterns and comical designs).
I discovered Uptown Sox at the 613 Flea Christmas market; they have an assortment of styles for men & women, and even offer a Sock Of The Month subscription service
Blackett & Co Soy Candles - $20-22 CAD
Hand-poured with 100% natural soy wax and infused with only the best essential oils, these sleek & stylish candles are a beautiful gift for just about anyone on your shopping list. I personally love 'Victorian Christmas' because I'm a sucker for citrus scents. It's festive without being overbearing, and I look forward to burning it after the Christmas tree is packed away.
VersaTile Designs Ottawa Map Coasters - $48 CAD
Ottawa is the city of neighborhoods, and now it can be a part of your home! Gift this set of intricate coasters to that next door neighbor that always shovels the driveway for you. Or set these out at your next holiday cocktail party and have guests place their drink on the coaster with their street!
Hand-poured with 100% natural soy wax and infused with only the best essential oils, these sleek & stylish candles are a beautiful gift for just about anyone on your shopping list. I personally love 'Victorian Christmas' because I'm a sucker for citrus scents. It's festive without being overbearing, and I look forward to burning it after the Christmas tree is packed away.
 |
| source |
VersaTile Designs Ottawa Map Coasters - $48 CAD
Ottawa is the city of neighborhoods, and now it can be a part of your home! Gift this set of intricate coasters to that next door neighbor that always shovels the driveway for you. Or set these out at your next holiday cocktail party and have guests place their drink on the coaster with their street!
Treats
Hey Sugar Candy Co Holiday Sampler Pack - $25 CAD
You know I'm a sucker for anything sweet! As I previously shared on the blog, Hey Sugar's Debra Cowie is super talented at concocting amazing flavours for her line of lollipops. She went all out this season with festive faves like Candy Cane Chocolate and Champagne Sparkler. These make great stocking stuffers for all ages!
 |
| source |
Alicja Confections Advent Calendar - $39.99 CAD
Alicja has so many delicious chocolates in store at both her Bank Street and Rideau Centre locations, I can't blame you for wanting to stock up on all her Postcard Chocolate Bars. But if you're looking for a fun way to sample them all (and a few more limited edition flavours), this advent calendar/sampler pack is the perfect way to taste-test! But hurry, these babies are flying off the shelf due to their exclusive & limited stock!
Looking to shop Ottawa's local scene this Christmas?
Here are a few upcoming holiday markets: