There are lots of opportunities to shop local this holiday season. There are, of course, lots of holiday markets this time of year, but if you prefer a more low key shopping experience or missed some of the markets, we invite you to check out some of the local East Van stores which regularly stock items for many local makers. We’ve set out a list of some of our favourites below. Whether you visit them in person or online, we are sure they appreciate your support in shopping local.
Arts Off Main (1704 Charles Street)
Arts Off Main is just a few steps from Commercial Drive and is a collective art gallery that features local artists. You will find paintings, art cards, jewellery, ceramics and more.
Billy Would Designs (2168 East Hastings Street)
Billy Would Designs is located in the space that was formerly Plenty + Spare in Hastings Sunrise. The store carries a large selection of handmade items from local artisans, The owner has put her own spin on this space offering wooden jewellery and accessories made from broken stakeboards and reclaimed wood.
Esthette Lifestyle Shop (3567 Commercial Street)
Esthette Lifestyle Shop is located directly next door to Second Nature Home on Commercial Street (not Drive) in Cedar Cottage. This boutique features ethically sourced, small batch handmade goods. Lots of items for the home, gifts for all ages including books, stationary and puzzles.
Local Boom (504 East Broadway)
Local Bloom is an all Canadian brands store located on East Broadway at St. George Street. They care about supporting Canadian small business and feature a wide variety of products including skin care, chocolate, perfume, gift cards, candles and much more. If you don’t have time to visit in person, check out their online shop. They offer free shipping with most orders over $50.
Second Nature Home (3565 Commercial Street)
Second Nature Home is a home décor boutique located at 3565 Commercial Street in Cedar Cottage. The store has a wide range of items outside of home décor including jewellery, gifts for the foodie in your life, something cute for the new baby or new mom and much more. They usually have extended hours running up to Christmas. Be sure to pay them a visit.
Giving Gifts (4570 Main Street)
Giving Gifts is a very cool space located at 4570 Main Street. The store tucked between 30th & 29th Avenue is made of up 5 rooms packed with items from 100 local as well as fair trade artists from around the world. It is a gift giving boutique so you will easily be able to pick up a few gifts for just about any age.
Jackson’s General Store (1490 Dumfries Street)
Jackson’s General Store located at 1490 Kingsway (at Dumfries) near Knight Street. This space is the epitome of cool with a distinct retro vibe. Store owner, Mike Jackson, has created an eclectic mix of unique items in store which features clothing, gourmet food, books and if you are looking for a candy fix that is a blast from the past, this is your spot.
The Coast Goods (1302 Victoria Drive)
The Coast Goods is a sweet shop nestled away in the heart of the residential area at 1302 Victoria Drive. This is great neighbourhood shop that focuses on ethically sourced home decor and giftware again supporting our local independent artisans. Be sure to check them out and give them a follow on Instagram.
Olive & Wild (4391 Main Street)
We would be remiss if we didn’t mention this beautiful shop located at 4391 Main Street. They have an amazing array of home decor items and lots of great things on hand for gift giving. They feature local as well as international artists.
Why is it important to shop local? “for every $100 spent with a BC local business, $64 is re-circulated back into our BC economy versus $14 for multi nationals. Why? Because locally owned businesses circulate more dollars in the community compared to multinational organizations.”
ILiveInEastVan.com 