Local Holiday Gift Guide- Handmade Edition 2021
Welcome back to The Handmade Hollow, I’m so glad you are here! It’s officially November and the Holiday season is just around the corner. I can practically hear the jingle bells… uh… jingling? If you’re new here, I’m Sades and I’m an author, crafter, designer, maker and mama from Ontario, Canada 🇨🇦. Here’s a small list of gift ideas from local makers I’ve put together. I hope you check them out and are inspired to discover more local shops.
For Little Readers:
Yes, I’m about to do some shameless self promo. I’ve self-published two activity books and earn a small commission from each sale after printing costs. My favourite for this season: Countdown to Christmas: An advent-style coloring and activity book can be found here. This book is a great alternative to candy advent calendars. Complete a colouring/ activity sheet each day until Christmas morning! If your little one prefers to cuddle up with a story, Callie’s Crayons might do the trick.
The Magical Learn to Write Workbook can be found here. It’s perfect for young children interested in refining their printing skills. Featuring colourful illustrations, upper and lowercase practice.
If digital resources and printables are up your alley, you might find these in my shop helpful. Instagram: the.handmade.hollow
For the self-care lovers:
Lavish Earth Canada is a handcrafted skincare company located in Orangeville, Ontario. With responsibly sourced and natural ingredients, your skin is in for a treat. From nourishing soaps (satsuma and citrus is a must try) to fizzy bath bombs and even soy candles, gifts from Lavish Earth Canada are bound to please the self-care aficionados in your life. Instagram: lavish_earth_canada
For the sweet tooth:
If you’re local to the GTA, Blooming Skyes is a go-to for beautiful, floral confections. Anaïs is a self-taught home baker (I know, I can’t believe it either) who creates beautiful buttercream flowers atop an array of baked goods. Rumour has it they taste as good as they look. Anyone else feeling hungry? Orders can be accepted on Instagram through direct messages (linked above).
Sugar High Candies, located in the WDG region, is a sweet tooth’s dream come true. I’ve never seen such a variety of candies in one place and the gummies arrive fresh in secure, giftable packaging. Can’t make up your mind? They’ve got you covered with Pick n Mix bags. Vegan candy is also available. Sweet treats from Sugar High Candies would make great stocking stuffers! Instagram: sugarhigh_candies
For baby:
Chew Bhaaloo is a mama-owned business located in the GTA specializing in modern and stylish accessories for baby (and mom!). Check out the teething sets that are customizable and totally giftable. Key mates for mom feature striking colour and practicality- perfect stocking stuffers. Ships Canada-wide. DM on Instagram to place an order or catch them at a local market (linked above)!
For the home décor obsessed:
Home décor that gives back? My Little Crate not only makes stunning wooden home goods, but 10% of proceeds go to support canines through The Dog Project Mexico- an extra reason to feel good about shopping small! This talented creator makes each piece by hand using a variety of woodworking and painting techniques. Located within the GTA, DM on Instagram to place your order (linked above).
For the girly-girls:
Felt in Love Handcrafted is the perfect place to find one of a kind bows for your modern day princess. You can’t help but smile looking at the whimsical design and perfection of these handmade accessories. Felt in Love Handcrafted also offers an array of felted florals, mobiles and seasonal felted hair-clips. An excellent gift idea for the young and young at heart! Pop on over to Instagram (linked above) to order.
For the modern mamas:
Dot & James: Curated for the high vibes, low maintenance babe. Stunning crystals, handmade scrunchies, gemstone bracelets and face masks, as well as a collection of home decor items selected with intention to add warmth and good vibes to your space. These luxe, velvet scrunchies are a fan favourite and stocking stuffer hit! An excellent choice for the modern mama. Instagram: dotandjames
For the one who has it all:
Have a hard to shop for person on your list? Hutton House & Co. can help with that! Local to the WDG region, Hutton House & Co. offer delicious seasonal treats and the most beautiful floral arrangements in unique vessels! Things to check out: Christmas cookie decorating kits, seasonal floral arrangements and heartwarming confections. Find them on Instagram (linked above) for more mouthwatering treats and eye-pleasing florals.
Have something more unique in mind? Hailey By Design might have what you’re looking for! Offering laser cut creations, glass beaded anklets, laser engraved tarot boards and much more- you’re sure to find something to surprise even the hardest to shop for. Instagram: haileybydesign
Perhaps you’re looking for more customization? Sewinfinite creates handmade and custom items for every occasion! Have a dog-loving pal? Check out their custom dog bandanas. Maybe you’ve got an expectant mama on your shopping list? Try a one of a kind onesie or tshirt! A favourite you should take a look at are Sewinfinite’s multi-patterned scrunchies. Head on over to Instagram to have a look and order (linked above).
I hope you enjoyed this gift guide featuring a handful of my favourite Ontarian makers. May you feel inspired to explore more local-to-you businesses and shop small this holiday season! Let me know what you get from this list in the comments below or over on Instagram. Happy Holidays! xoxo Sades.
