Christmas is officially less than one month away. We here at IliveInEastVan.com are big fans of supporting local. With that in mind, we would like to highlight some of the many East Van businesses and artisans that have an online shop which of course allows you to shop from your laptop, home computer or your smart phone. Some will even offer a pick up service so you can save money on shipping costs. We’ve tried to include a variety of businesses, but if you think there’s one that should be listed that isn’t, we invite you to drop us a line. Note, we have included a link to each business, just click on their name.
ANTIPOD Workshop
ANTIPOD Workshop is a creative design studio with a focus on bold textiles in particular, handmade pillows. They are made by transplanted local Stephanie Symns who hails from New Zealand. Thus, the name of her business. Antipod which is an affectionate term for a Kiwi or Aussie. Did we mention, Stephanie also holds workshops on how to make the pillows yourself should you be so inclined. Or you can check out her bold collection online anytime.
Bird On A Wire Creations
This is a great shop located in Mount Pleasant at 2535 Main Street. Bird on a Wire Creations supports artists, artisans and the buy local movement. They curate Vancouver’s best art and artisanal objects and all one-of-a-kind and handmade. They have a large selection instore and online and free shipping in Canada for all orders over $100.
BB Gun Leather
Locally made here in Strathcona by Spencer Baker and Dustin Bentall. BB Gun Leather makes a range of leather products including bags, wallets, belts, guitar straps, purses and small luggage. Did we mention the beautiful designs? Their working studio is located 1133 Keefer Street and their online store available 24/7.
Beta 5 Chocolates
Award winning chocolates, need we say more? Purchases can be made online or you can visit them in person at 413 Industrial Avenue (off Main Street).
Dilly Dally Kids
Dilly Dally is an independent toy store that likes to inspire play and creativity. They carry toys made from around the world including a great selection of wooden toys which also make great heirlooms to be passed on to future generations. They are located on The Drive at 1161 Commercial Street and have a great online store. Note, they are also offering free shipping for orders over $100.
Fable Naturals
Fable Naturals is based in Mount Pleasant and makes a line of fair trade certified bath and body products. They are inspired by locally sourced ingredients as well as ethically sourced ingredients from afar. All of their products are made by hand in small batches in their Mount Pleasant studio. Their line includes organic lip balms, skin exfoliators, moisturizers, soaps, lotions, body wash, sugar scrubs and more. You will find Gwen and Chris at craft and artisan fairs this holiday season including TOQUE on December 5 & 6. They also have a great online store. Right now, if you sign up for their newsletter, receive $5 off your first order.
June Hunter
Truth be told, we love June Hunter, have for many years. Many of her pieces whether art or jewellery are inspired by the nature that surrounds us and well that speaks to us. You will also find June Hunter in many of the craft and artisan fairs this holiday season as well as her Festive Studio Sale on December 11th and 12th at her East Van studio. Her online shop is currently offering 20% off until Monday, November 30th.
Good Sips Cocktail Emporium
Know someone that loves entertaining and enjoys making great cocktails, then you should check out Good Sips Cocktail Emporium. They have everything to make the perfect cocktail minus the alcohol, think bitters, syrups, cocktail shakers, martini glasses, flasks, recipe books and so much more. If you can’t decide online, you can check out their store at 339 E. Broadway. For those wishing to make an online purchase, note they are offering FREE shipping till the end of November for all orders over $20.
Gourmet Warehouse
If you have a foodie in your life, this is the place to go whether in store or online. They have everything for the cook, baker and entertainer. The store is an array of choices which include olive oils, balsamic vinegars, salts, sauces, cookbooks, jams and of course all the utensils needed to cook and bake everything. You can find their physical location at 1340 East Hastings (at Clark Drive).
Grubwear
Mike Jackson’s Grubwear Brand of clothing was born out of the back of a Honda Civic hatchback way back in the day. Today he is located in Mount Pleasant at 617 Kingsway in a very happening area just around the corner from Robson Park. He has a great selection of t-shirts, bags, hoodies and hats many that will showcase your East Van pride. His online store features the full line up clothing.
Marsh&Mallow
Decadent gourmet handmade marshmallows made by Carly Bloch in some truly amazing flavours such as Salted Caramel, Holiday Mint Chocolate and Classic Baileys and Cream. You can order her marshmallows 24/7 online and what a great stocking stuffer or house warming gift these would make. You can also find her marshmallow at Much & Little at 2541 Main Street or visit Carly at the Baker’s Market on December 6th & 13th at the Moberly Arts & Cultural Centre.
Neighbourhood Threads
Love where you live? Then you may wish to check out their East Van toque for $35 available online only from Neighbourhood Threads.
The Makerstore
The MakerLabs at 780 East Cordova Street has recently launched a retail space on the first floor of this working studio which is open from Noon to 9:00 pm daily. If you are unfamiliar with the MakerLabs, it is a 26,000 square foot that provides people with the tools, space and skills to make just about anything. There are many great artisans working out of this space and their products are also available online 24/7.
If you wish to give a gift basket this holiday season, whether large or small, practical or not, we invite you to check to check out any one of the following:
By Broken Arrow – An East Van Gifter
Wantful Gift Boxes
SPUD Vancouver
Saul Good Gift Company
We are passionate about supporting local. We hope you are too. Happy shopping.
Tags: Buy Local, Christmas, East Vancouver, Gift Baskets, Gifts, Online Shopping, Shop Local, Vancouver
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