Holiday 2020 Gift Guide: My Favourite Local & Sustainable Businesses to Support
Hello sweet friends! I’m not usually one to create a ~gift guide~ but this year, I’ve been collecting a short list of my favourite local spots to do some holiday shopping. Of course the holidays are about much more than gifts, but in the spirit of supporting local businesses and making the holidays feel a little bit special at the end of a year that’s been so tough for so many, I thought it would be nice to share a few businesses that I love. Supporting them this season can provide you with unique and meaningful gifts while helping them to stay afloat during these difficult times. It’s a win-win!
I’ve created categories below so if you live in Toronto, check out these incredible businesses that are so crucial to our communities and our city as a whole. The majority of them are Toronto-based, but a few are Canada wide and can ship across the country. I’ve also added comments under some of them based on my experience, but just know that I adore ALL of these places and highly recommend each one.
Sending lots of good vibes and cheer!
HOME GOODS & CERAMICS
This is my friend Lisa’s passion project and she makes the most wonderfully scented, all-natural soy candles. They’re also super affordable!
A small shop on Bathurst with stunning plants and clay pots.
Michelle is one of my favourite ceramicists in the city. All of her handmade pieces are a gorgeous addition to any home!
My dear friend Tabitha creates the coziest home goods that are made with so much love.
Her large speckled mug is a staple in my morning coffee routine.
One of my favourite woman-owned spots for beautiful and well-curated gifts.
This Parkdale shop is owned by the loveliest couple and focuses on curated home goods and local brands.
Just discovered this Vancouver-based ceramicists and I am completely obsessed with everything.
Great for zero-waste gifts!
This one is more food but we ADORE this market, which has hard-to-find food products and zero-waste items.
WINE
The sweetest owners and most positive vibes at this Parkdale spot.
Love this place for funky natural wines.
COFFEE
A classic, and their everything cookie is my true love.
We’re obsessed with this place. The owner is the loveliest, friendliest person - always brings new and unique bags into the store and talks us through them. We’ve never bought beans here that haven’t been incredible!
Three locations across the city - they sell lovely espresso beans here.
WELLNESS & BEAUTY
The selection of beauty, bath and wellness goods here is just pure heaven.
I love their skincare products, and I may or may not have a facial from here on my wish list this year ;)
This lovely Parkdale yoga studio has the best vibes and now offers online practice.
Lots of great zero-waste bath and body products!
This has been my go-to natural deodorant for over two years now. Incredible range of scents anf formulas, plus it actually WORKS!
Love their package-free shampoo bar!
RESTAURANTS
Friendliest owners, incredible food and a nice selection of natural wines.
I’ve done a shoot here and these guys are the most caring and welcoming team who adore their customers and are so deeply devoted to their business. Plus, their pasta dishes are everything!
Excellent Middle Eastern food (one of my favourites) and they sell jars of the creamiest tahini.
Favourite pizza in Toronto - we order this almost weekly :)
The cutest spot for elevated comfort food.
Mediterranean-style small plates and a full bottle shop for wine, and the owner is incredibly kind.
Some of the best Thai food in the city (and large portions!)
Fresh, hand-made pastas that are mouthwateringly delicious.
Our favourite sushi spot in the city - the rolls are to die for here.
APPAREL
The most delicious, cozy apparel that directly supports their cotton farmers in Egypt.
Beautiful intimates that are ethically made in Montreal, Canada.
If you know me, you know I do not go ANYWHERE without a scrunchie, so I’m dying to get my hands on one of these Toronto-made, microfibre beauties (that double as cleaning cloths!)
Feel-good lingerie made by a conscious brand that stands for female empowerment.
