I am not a procrastinator.. but I do have quite a few in my circle of friends and family and they inspired me to put this list together. A few of us enjoy hunting down that perfect gift and I often start picking items well before December rolls around. Travelling is my favorite time to load up on gifts but this year I’ve rounded up some great local ideas! Every suggestion below can either be shipped easily (give yourself a week to get these to your front door!) or picked up locally.
Natural Play Dough from ClementineArt : Every child, no matter their age, loves play dough and I was super pumped to have the Little Monkey have a go at jabbing her chubby little fingers in this soy and wheat based play dough. She’s not fully on board yet but she does have fun poking it around and the best part is that it smells divine! They are a U.S based company but ShopAGO carries the entire range, including crayons and glue! As you can see from the pictures, everything goes in her mouth, and so I’m very happy that while I definitely don’t encourage her eating these, I don’t need to have an anxiety attack as I dash from one end of the room to the other to pull things out of her mouth. Let’s get those creative juices flowing! $13 approximately.
Scotch and Beer tasting at Fynn’s of Temple Bar : I’ve mentioned this gastropub on my eating out with baby series and they still continue to amaze me! I was invited a couple weeks back to attend a Scotch tasting and was truly impressed by the food and the pairings. This isn’t a very boozy affair, instead it’s a civilized way to catch up with friends during the week day. Owner Glenn, Chef Patrick and Manager (and one of Canada’s top mixologists!) Robin are very adamant about taking care of their guests and have informed me that they have about 5 events over the course of the year. I know they’re working on a couple for Feb and March so why not gift a future night out with the scotch or beer enthusiast in your life? The alcoholic beverage pairings and a three course meal are priced at $50 on average. Not a bad deal I say! They’re doing these events old school style and not advertising it much as it’s a special treat for those in the know how, you didn’t hear it from me, but if you give them a call…they’ll add you to their mailing list! Shhh. You can be crafty and design your own certificate to gift in time!
Glass Blowing workshops at Playing With Fire : This is a guaranteed fun way to spend some quality time with your family and friends! I’ve heard great things about Minna and her classes and I know that I’m going to have a fabulous afternoon learning a new skill this holiday season! Another great experience gift that’s sure to send many hugs your way! Classes range in price ($79 to $200) but you can always find a deal…I bought some Buytopia vouchers when they had a deal last week but Minna’s informed me that she too will have her own deal up very soon!
Unique glassware from Artsy Fartsy : I came across Jill’s work while browsing Etsy for baby shoes. I know it has nothing to do with shoes! That’s the miracle of Etsy! Jill is fabulous and did a special custom piece for me that was inspired by a picture I sent her. I can’t give you too many details because I want it to be a surprise for a special someone in my life but if you’re looking for some unique wine glasses, coffee mugs or decanters check out Artsy Fartsy!
Boozy goodness such as ABSOLUT UNIQUE : Given that I’m back at work, you should have totally expected a plug for one of my brands! That said I think it’s very cool that no two bottles are the same and they have such fun colours on them! I’m all about the purples and pinks but a vibrant blue one is also on my faves list. It’s the regular ABSOLUT liquid but in unique bottles that are perfect for those unique, one of a kind vodka guzzling peeps in your life.
Gifts that change lives through World Vision : Lend a helping hand by purchasing a gift for the conscious soul in your life by popping by the World Vision gift catalogue. Sure you can buy a goat or two chickens but you can also pick up some jewelry and lend money to a mompreneur! Selfless way to gift without feeling guilty about those less fortunate. Total win!
Quirky gifts on the Cheap from Mildred|Doris : I met Mildred at the CRAVE Toronto holiday party and I fell in love with her items. She has the perfect quirky items that’s sure to be the perfect stocking stuffer. My favourite were the ‘rise to the occasion’ boxer briefs. Come on…you know you love it! Check out her website for a whole bunch of items, she even writes the cards for you and posts it in time for the holidays! You’re sure to get quite a few giggles from some of her wares!
Foodie delights through Dishcrawl : Another plug for a lovely little company I work for! Dishcrawl leads your stomach through 3 or 4 restaurants over a course of one night, what’s not to love right? It’s a great way to explore a neighborhood and discover some new foodie joints and meet all sorts of fun, adventurous people! Best part is that there’s a strong chance that I will be the one hosting you through the neighborhood . Double win! Another great experience that will have you receiving smiles and hugs as the giftee. You can always pick up a gift certificate if you aren’t sure about committing this far in advance to an event! Simply email [email protected] with your request! Best part is… there’s bound to be a Dishcrawl near you if you live in North America!
