Tag Archives: Shop Local

Shop Local: East Van Stores That Support Local Makers

8 Dec

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, 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.

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.

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.”

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The Big List Of Artisan Markets + Craft Fairs In East Van 2022

12 Nov

It’s that time of year again where the opportunities to shop local are abundant.  There are some great artisan markets and craft fairs coming up to help you make your gift giving easy whether for Christmas or birthday gifts.  Did you know: “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.”

When you buy from a local maker, you’re supporting your neighbor next door, your co-worker working full-time and holding down a side gig, moms carving out some extra income while still being home with their families. All have created a business doing something they love and are passionate about.  We are 100% behind supporting those local dreamers and makers. Also, buying local is better for the environment. Items at markets are not being shipped long distances and there is usually much less packaging involved. All around win win. To that end, we have again created a list of all the artisan markets and craft fairs happening in East Vancouver this holiday season. Here’s hoping our big list will make it easier for you to shop local this holiday season.

NOVEMBER 2022

Nov. 16-27: Got Craft Holiday Virtual Market

Nov. 17: Eastside Culture Crawl – Various Locations 5 – 10 pm
Nov. 18: Eastside Culture Crawl – Various Locations 5- 10 pm
Nov. 18: Britannia Winter Craft Market – Britannia Comm. Centre 3 – 8 pm

Nov. 19: Eastside Culture Crawl – Various Locations 11 am – 6 pm
Nov. 19: Got Craft – Croatian Cultural Centre 10 am – 5 pm
Nov. 19: Britannia Winter Craft Market – Britannia Comm. Centre 10 am – 6 pm
Nov. 19: Made In The 604 – Heritage Hall
Nov. 20: Eastside Culture Crawl – Various Locations 11 am – 6 pm
Nov. 20: Got Craft – Croatian Cultural Centre 10 am – 5 pm
Nov. 20: Made In The 604 – Heritage Hall

Nov. 25: Artisan Pottery Sale – Trout Lake Community Centre 4 – 8 pm
Nov. 26: Artisan Pottery Sale – Trout Lake Community Centre 9 am – 4 pm

DECEMBER 2022

Dec. 2: Toque Craft Fair – Western Front, 303 E. 8th Ave. 6 – 10 pm

Dec. 3: Tugboat Landing Artisan Market – 2010 East Kent Ave. 11 am – 4 pm
Dec. 3: Toque Craft Fair – Western Front, 303 E. 8th Ave. 6 – 10 pm
Dec. 3: Eastside Flea – 550 Malkin Avenue 11 am – 5 pm
Dec. 3: Deck The Hall – Heritage Hall – TBC
Dec. 3: Connect X-Mas Market + Music Festival – 2111 Main St. 11 – 7

Dec. 4: Tugboat Landing Artisan Market – 2010 East Kent Ave. 11 am – 4 pm
Dec. 4: Toque Craft Fair – Western Front, 303 E. 8th Ave. 6 – 10 pm
Dec. 4: Eastside Flea – 550 Malkin Avenue 11 am – 5 pm
Dec. 4: Deck The Hall – Heritage Hall – TBC
Dec. 4: Connect X-Mas Market + Music Festival – 2111 Main St. 11-7

Dec. 7: Make It! – PNE Forum 11 am – 9 pm
Dec. 8: Make It! – PNE Forum 11 am – 9 pm

Dec. 9: Krampus Markt – Strange Fellows Brewing 6 – 10 pm
Dec. 9: Make It! – PNE Forum 10 am – 6 pm
Dec. 9: Weirdos Holiday Market – 1739 Venables St.

Dec. 10: First Pick Handmade – Heritage Hall 11 am – 6 pm
Dec. 10: MakeIt! – PNE Forum 11 am – 5 pm
Dec. 10: Eastside Flea – 550 Malkin Ave. 11 am – 5 pm
Dec. 10: Krampus Markt – Strange Fellows Brewing 11 am – 6 pm
Dec. 10: Weirdos Holiday Market – 1739 Venables St.

Dec. 11: First Pick Handmade – Heritage Hall 11 am – 6 pm
Dec. 11: Make It! – PNE Forum
Dec. 11: Eastside Flea – 550 Malkin Ave. 11 am – 5 pm
Dec. 11: Christmas Market – Italian Cultural Centre 11 am – 4 pm
Dec. 11: Krampus Markt – Strange Fellows Brewing 12 – 4 pm
Dec. 11: Weirdos Holiday Market – 1739 Venables St.

Dec. 16: Weirdos Holiday Market – 1739 Venables St.

Dec. 17: Eastside Flea – 550 Malkin Ave. 11 am – 5 pm
Dec. 17: Weirdos Holiday Market – 1739 Venables St.

Dec. 18: Weirdos Holiday Market – 1739 Venables St.
Dec. 18: Eastside Flea – 550 Malkin Ave. 11 am – 5 pm
Dec. 18: Weirdos Holiday Market – 1739 Venables St.

Did we miss one? We will be updating this list as we learn of other markets so check back for updates. Feel free to drop us a note with any market you think should be added at ILiveInEastVan@gmail.com.

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Shop Local: East Van Stores That Shine At Supporting Local Makers

19 Dec

If you missed the recent artisan markets and craft fairs, there’s still lots of opportunities to support local makers. We are setting out some of our favourite shops that carry a wide range of items that are perfect for gift giving this holiday season. If you haven’t already visited them, check them out in person, or visit them online.

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.

Plenty + Spare (2168 East Hastings Street)

Plenty + Spare is located at 2168 East Hastings Street. It’s easy to miss by the smells of the bakery next door like will like you draw you to them, but do stop into Plenty + Spare. The have an array of beautiful handmade bath and beauty products along with other gift items brought in for the holiday season.

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 it’s important to shop local: For every $100 you spend with a local business, $46 is re-circulated back into the BC economy (vs $18 for multi nationals). Small business re-circulates 2.6 times more revenue in the local economy as do chains. 

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Shop Local: Great Gift Ideas Under $75

7 Dec

Shopping local has taken on greater meaning during the pandemic for a number reasons and people are embracing it wholeheartedly which is great to see. There are so many great opportunities to support local with gift giving this holiday season. We are highlighting below some of our great local finds under $75 which are perfect for gift giving this holiday season.

Santa Stops Here Gift Box by Swiss Bakery $50

Swiss Bakery, 143 East 3rd Avenue, is a beloved Mount Pleasant destination and long standing business in the community.   This year they are offering a Santa Stops Here Gift Box that includes:

1 Stollen (without marzipan)
2 Gingerbread Man and Woman
1 Just Tea Tin
1 Christmas Cookies Pack

Attending Christmas dinner where someone else is doing all the cooking?  What a perfect hostess gift to bring.   Visit Swiss Bakery to order online. Curbside pick up and delivery is available.

Handcrafted Wooden Lit Stars By Roman & Ash Design $60

If you are looking for a unique sustainable gift that will last for years to come, consider these wooden lit stars handcrafted by Johnny Defazio of Roman & Ash Design.   This star pictured is $60 with lights included. Should you wish a different design or shape say a Christmas tree, Johnny does custom work as well.  Feel free to contact him directly via Instagram @johnny_defazio.

Cocktail Kits By Odd Society Spirits $34 – $58

Local distiller Odd Society Spirits is offering a number of delectable cocktail kits perfect for gift giving this holiday season. Some of the selection includes Old Fashioned Cocktail Kit for $50 using their Commodore Single Malt Whiskey, or there’s the Thornton Park Cocktail Kit using their Wallflower Gin and Crème de Cassis for $58 as well as the Modern Hound Kit using their East Van Vodka for $34. These are just a few, to see all the cocktail kits, visit them at Odd Society Spirits. Curbside pick up is available.

Cheesemonger Gift Box By les amis du FROMAGE $65

Have a cheese lover in your life? If so, check out the Classic Cheesemonger Gift Box from les amis du FROMAGE which includes 3 pieces of cheese, a Divina Orange Fig preserve and Carr’s crackers.   You have the option to add more cheese and characuterie if you wish. Visit them only to place your order to see all the delish options.

ILiveInEastVan Totes $30 – $35

We would be remiss if we didn’t include our ILiveInEastVan totes in the mix. Available online for delivery or curbside pick up.  Prices range from $30 – $35. You can visit our Etsy Shop online and while there, check out the new ILiveInEastVan reflective patches that can be sewn on or ironed on to whatever you choose for $12.50. They make a great stocking stuffer.

East Van Jam Mini Sets $17

We love East Van Jam anytime of the year for their more love, less sugar frame of mind. We are also big fans of edible gifts and what a perfect hostess or holiday gift this season than a mini set of delish spreads with a variety of flavours and unique names. Made locally with BC produce, how much more local can you get? This set is available online from a favourite gift shop, Plenty + Spare in Hastings Sunrise.

June Hunter’s City Crow Calendar 2022 $25

The 7th Annual City Crow Calendar 2022 Edition by June Hunter is now available for sale online for $25. Not only does one get the crow photographs, but also 12 months of crow stories, crow facts and smaller crow photos tucked in among spaces between dates in the calendar. Each month reveals new little crow surprises.  Heads up this does sell out every year, so if interested in picking this item up, best be quick.

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Vancouver Farmer Markets Kick Off Summer Season

30 Apr

Spring is here which means lots of local products at our farmer markets in East Vancouver. Each of the markets hosted by Vancouver Farmer Markets has a lot to offer in the way of locally grown produce, handmade goods, artisan breads and baked goods, locally made jams, cheese, free range and organic eggs and of course wineries, breweries as well as spirits to name just a few.  Trout Lake as many readers may know is the largest market in East Van and with Covid protocols, do expect a bit of a line up.  Mount Pleasant Farmers Market which is in Dude Chilling Park is a smaller market, but we love that it’s on a Sunday. Riley Park Farmers Market is next to one of the most beautiful community gardens we’ve seen and happens year round every Saturday from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. The Main Street Farmers Market is currently closed due to construction. We have set out below the dates when the markets begin and end for the Spring/Summer season. We encourage you to stop by and support our local producers this season.

Trout Lake Farmers Market
9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Every Saturday: May 1, 2021 to October 30, 2021
Location: Lakewood Drive & E 13th Avenue

Mount Pleasant Farmers Market
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Every Sunday:  May 23, 2021 to October 31, 2021
Location: Guelph Street between 7th & 8th Avenues (on the paved play area between Mt. Pleasant Elementary and Guelph Park/Dude Chilling Park)

Riley Park Farmers Market
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Every Saturday: All Year Round (Sumer Kick Off May 1st)
Location: 30th Avenue and Ontario Street

Main Street Farmers Market
Currently Closed Due To Construction

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Local Love This Valentine’s Day

10 Feb

We know not every one gets behind Valentine’s Day. Some see it as a made up day. Even if that’s your view, considering what a struggle this past year, why not show someone special a little love just because. It can be your partner or a good friend who has been a great support for you this past year, your sister, mother, brother. Or what about that next door neighbour or isolated senior? Whomever it might be, there are so many ways to say “I Care”. As we love our local businesses, we wanted to highlight a few you can throw your support behind this Valentine’s Day.

Soprasotto

Pizza Love

A few East Van pizza joints (and likely more) are doing heart shaped pizzas for Valentine’s Day. Check out Lombardo’s Ristorante and Soprasotto on Commercial Drive and Pizza Farina on Main Street.

Flowers

Who does not love to get flowers? There are so many great options in East Van whether it’s local florist shops like the Flower Factory at 4285 Main or Full Bloom on Commercial Drive. If you are lucky enough to have a neighbourhood corner store, be sure to check them out. They often have a nice selection on hand. If you are in River District this Sunday, you can also stop by the Brock Floral Cart which will be on site at the foot of Kerr Street near Romer’s Burger Bar. This is a mobile floral cart that will have a selection of flowers available from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm or until sold out. It won’t be quite as pictured, but you get the idea.

Sweet Treats

Oh Sweet Day

So many great local businesses are offering sweet treats for Valentine’s Day whether it’s chocolates at Beta 5 or the Purdy’s outlet store on Kingsway. If it’s cookies you are after, Oh Sweet Day, Bench Bakehouse and many others have a great selection. To see a full list of our Favourite East Van Bakeries, click the link. If you are looking for sweet treats for the kids (big and small), don’t forget the Licorice Parlour. They’ve added some new items so not just licorice.

Jewellery

White Sapphire Anna

If this is the year, you are going big on the jewellery front, we invite you to check out Era Design Jewellery at 1795 Venables Street near Commercial. They design some beautiful jewellery whether custom or ready made.

Love Songs

Jill Barber

If you are looking to set the mood with beautiful love songs, you will want to catch Jill Barber’s live streamed performance from The Cultch on February 14th.

Whether you celebrate the ‘day’ or not, be sure to show your local businesses some local love this weekend.

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Buy Local This Holiday Season

26 Nov

We don’t have to tell you it’s been a rough year for small business. On recently updating our Places We Love listing, we were saddened to remove some favourite spots no longer in business like Doctor Vigari Gallery and The Flower Box. These were two long time staples on Commercial Drive. As you’ve likely heard, it’s important to shop local this holiday season if you wish to see these businesses on the other side of the pandemic. We have always been passionate about supporting our local business community and wish to remind folks these local businesses are the ones that provide donations for your school fundraisers, sports clubs and other community events. Now they need YOU.

Local business woman and social entrepreneur, Elizabeth McKitrick, who owns Second Nature Home in Cedar Cottage, was recently featured on CTV News discussing her thoughts on shopping local. McKitrick said she’s hoping people “just don’t go to Amazon.” “It’s like a black hole, really, for cash,” she said. “It’s going into Jeff Bezo’s pocket. He’s the wealthiest person in the world, and I just think, ‘Why?’ We have other ways of helping out communities.” And if you missed the recent CBC Marketplace episode showing where all your Amazon returns go, you may wish to enlighten yourself.

When gift shopping this holiday season, you have the opportunity to make a difference and support those makers and creators living among us. They are those micro businesses, side gigs and entrepreneurs trying to stay afloat and stores like McKitrick’s support these businesses. So instead of lining the pockets of the richest man in the world, how about lining the pocket of your neighbour down the street or across town?

To give you a starting point, we’ve set out a few of our favourite stores for shopping local in East Van. One of the many reasons we likes these stores is because they all support other local artisans, makers and small business.  So visit them in person or online and see what items they have that might make that perfect gift for someone special this holiday season.

Second Nature Home

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 are open Tuesday to Saturday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm and Sundays from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm. They will also be open till 8:00 on Wednesday in December.

Plenty + Spare

Plenty + Spare is located at 2168 East Hasting Street. It’s easy to miss by the smells of their neighbour Delish Gluten Free Bakery which can draw you in by your nose literally, but do stop into Plenty + Spare. They create an array of beautiful handmade bath and beauty products and stock a number of other items perfect for gift giving. Added bonus, they’ve just updated their website for online shopping and offer store pick up as well as free shipping for orders over $60.

Giving Gifts

Giving Gifts is a beautiful space located at 4570 Main Street. The store tucked between 30th & 29th Avenue is made of up 5 rooms packed with items from over 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. They are open Monday to Saturday from Noon to 6:00 pm and Sundays Noon to 5:00 pm.

Jackson’s General Store

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. Jackson’s General Store has also created some Care Boxes which support local brands and can be delivered to your door. Jackson’s General Store is open Monday to Saturday 11:00 am to 5:30 pm and Sundays 12:00 to 5:00 pm.

The Coast Goods

The Coast Goods has just opened their doors in the last couple of months. They are located at 1302 Victoria Drive. This is great neighbourhood shop that focuses ethically sourced home decor and giftware again supporting our local independent artisans. They are open Tuesday to Sunday, closed Mondays. Be sure to check them out and give them a follows on Instagram.

Olive & Wild

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. Olive & Wild is open 7 days a week.

Why we should Shop Local.

For every $100 you spend with a local business, $46 is re-circulated back into the BC economy (vs $18 for multi nationals). Small business re-circulates 2.6 times more revenue in the local economy as do chains. 

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Sweet Thea Holiday Pop Up Shop On Main Street

17 Nov

If you love your baked goods as much we do, you’ll be excited to hear Sweet Thea Bakery is hosting a Pop Up Shop at 4305 Main Street for the upcoming holiday season. If you’ve attended any artisan markets and Christmas craft fairs around Metro Vancouver, you will no doubt seen them.  But, of course, due to the pandemic we all know that many of these in person events are not happening this year. But the good news for us is that Sweet Thea Bakery is offering their delicious baked goods at their Pop Up Shop on Main Street.  Some of the goodies you will find there include their delish Ginger Cookies, Chocolava Cookies, Honey Hearts, Chocolate Lebkuchen Cookies and Stollen.  If that isn’t enough, they have curated some of their market favourites for their Pop Up Shop for you to purchase while picking up some baking. Some of these include maple syrup, roasted nuts, small batch bean to bar chocolate bars, honey, hot sauces, jams and mustards.  Perfect gifts for the food lover or well, just you. If you can’t make it to their Pop Up Shop, we have more good news. They are offering Canada Post deliveries, or pick up at 3 different locations – Main Street Pop Up, Tsawwassen Quay Market (must be taking a BC Ferry to access) and their Langley Shop.  To place your order, visit them online at Sweet Thea Bakery or stop by their Pop Up Shop at 4305 Main Street which is open 11:00 am to 6:00 pm most days, but is open till 7:00 pm on Fridays.  Treat yourself and your family to some amazing baked goods while at the same time supporting a local business.

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Gifting An Experience This Holiday Season

19 Dec

GiftsUnderTreeWe are big fans of gifting experiences which is not only fun but creates lasting memories for the recipient.  There are many options locally here whether it’s brewery tours, gourmet tours, dining and dancing, cooking classes and more.  We have set out below a few of our favourites.  We have included links which take you directly to each site to make gift giving that much easier.

Vancouver Brewery Tour – East Van Brewery Tour

Vancouver Brewery Tours does great brewery tours in and around East Vancouver and is a perfect gift for the beer lover.  Vancouver Brewery Tours has  regularly scheduled brewery tours which run approximately 3 hours.

Off The Eaten Track – Culinary Tours

Off The Eaten Track offers a number of culinary tours including Railtown Urban Eats Tour and Olympic Village Tour. Tours all begin at the Waterfront Station and times vary but are approximately 2 ½ hours for each.

Little Italy Food Tour – Taste Vancouver Food Tours

Commercial Drive is host to many delish food spots and Taste Vancouver Food Tours offers regularly culinary tours on The Drive Saturday afternoons from 2:00 to 4:30 pm. It starts at Fratelli’s Bakery and hits 8 spots. Cost is $79 per person and they are currently offering 15% off gift certificates.

Federico’s Supper Club – Dinner & Dancing

What about a gift certificate for an evening of dinner and dancing. Federico’s Supper Club offers amazing Italian food, wine and impeccable service. You will regularly find owner, Federico Fuoco, belting out tunes but they regularly bring in lots of local talent to mix things up.

Les Amis Du Fromage – Wine & Cheese Tasting

If you know someone that loves cheese, you may wish to consider purchasing a ticket(s) to one of Les Amis Du Fromage’s upcoming wine & cheese tasting classes. The regularly host tastings, but heads up, these classes do sell out quick. Alternatively, what about a gift certificate to use in store. Trying a variety of cheeses is certainly a delish experience and can get costly, so a gift card to this spot would be welcome in our Christmas stocking.

The Cultch, The York, Firehall Arts Centre – Live Theatre

There is some amazing live theatre that happens in East Van.  Some productions are on now into the New Year at The Cultch, The York and the Firehall Arts Centre. Gift Certificate for an evening out makes a great gift.

Terminal City Glass – Glassblowing Workshop

Have a friend on the artistic side, or someone that wants to get in touch with their creative side? What about a gift certificate to a glassblowing workshop at Terminal City Glass? Terminal City Glass offers a host of classes including a Make A Heart Glassblowing Workshop February 1st that looks pretty cool.

The Gourmet Warehouse – Cooking Classes

Do you know someone that loves cooking, or wants to learn how to make easy meals.   Gourmet Warehouse offers a wide variety of demonstration cooking classes for all skill levels and you get to eat what was made after class then shop in store with a discount.  In the New Year, they are offering Healthy Choices on January 16th or learn how to make a Mexican Fiesta at Home on January 23rd although we have our eye on hands on class Crazy For Chocolate Class on February 5th. To purchase tickets, call the store at T: 604.253.3022 or visit Gourmet Warehouse online.

Park Board Gift Card – City of Vancouver

Are you buying a gift for a family? What about a Park Board Gift Card.  Right now a $50 purchase gets you an additional $10 which the recipient can use at any local community centre to swim, skate, do yoga, play golf, take a cooking class, enroll kids in swimming lessons and much more.

These are just a few ideas, but there are many more. Know someone interested in yoga? Why not a gift certificate to a local yoga studio. For something on the artistic side, Collage Collage offers a wide range of craft making workshops for all big kids and wee ones as does 4 Cats on Main Street. The ideas are limitless and the memories are forever.

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Great Places To Shop Local This Holiday Season

16 Dec

BuyLocalWe are big supporters of small business. They are the heart of our respective communities. They are opportunities to connect, support other local makers, keep money in our community, a more eco-friendly way to shop which includes less travel time and often less packaging. It’s all around win win in our eyes.  We’ve set out a list of some of our favourite stores for shopping local. One of the many reasons we likes these stores is because they all support other local artisans, makers and small business.  So visit them in person or online and see what items they have that will make that perfect gift for someone special this holiday season.

Bird On A Wire Creations

Bird on A Wire Creations has been a long time supporter of local artists and have gathered quite a collection of beautiful items from a variety of artisans around BC.  If you haven’t checked out this space, we encourage you to stop by. They are located at 2535 Main Street near Broadway.

Doctor Vigari Gallery

Doctor Vigari Gallery is a great space at 1816 Commercial Drive supporting visual artists.  You can find array of items perfect for gift giving including pieces of art from one of our favourite artists June Hunter.

Second Nature Home

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 currently have extended hours running up to Christmas. December 17-23rd they are open until 9:00 pm and Monday, December 24th they are open 11:00 am – 4:00 pm.

Plenty + Spare

Plenty + Spare is located at 2168 East Hasting Street. It’s easy to miss by the smells of their neighbour East Village Bakery which can draw you in by your nose literally, but do stop into Plenty + Spare. They create an array of beautiful handmade bath and beauty products along with a few other items brought in for the holiday season.

Giving Gifts

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.

Tiny Finery

Tiny Finery is a sweet little shop located in Hastings Sunrise at 2629 East Hastings Street that features jewellery as well as local pottery, leather work, prints and some greeting cards.  They also do custom jewellery work if you have something specific in mind.

Jackson’s General Store

Jackson’s General Store is new this year and located at 1490 Kingsway (at Dumfries) near Knight Street. Don’t be fooled on the new, this is an old store reworked and owner, Mike Jackson, has 30 years of business under his belt and eclectic mix of cool and unique items in store. Here you will find a large array of items for gift giving and lots of edibles as well as vintage and retro items. To get a sense of what they have, visit them on   Instagram.

Why we should Shop Local.

For every $100 you spend with a local business, $46 is re-circulated back into the BC economy (vs $18 for multi nationals). Small business re-circulates 2.6 times more revenue in the local economy as do chains. 

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