You Say: Best Holiday Shopping in Vancouver
We know, we know – it’s not even Remembrance Day yet. But with the Circle Craft Christmas Market running this weekend and Christmas decor slowly filling storefronts and shopping malls across Vancouver, the holiday shopping season is already upon us. So crank up the Bing Crosby, pour yourself some hot apple cider, and prepare to get festive.
At VancouverMom.ca we pride ourselves on having the inside scoop on the city – but we know we’ve got nothing on the moms who live here. As we start making our holiday shopping lists, we decided to turn to our readers and find out where to go in Vancouver to find the perfect gift. We’re on the hunt for hidden gems that are right in our own backyard. We know that you can tell us about the best craft fairs, boutiques and shops across the city, so we reached on Twitter and Facebook to ask you.
Talking Holiday Shopping on Facebook
We had some great discussions on Facebook, here and here. Here’s where our Facebook fans head for some serious holiday shopping:
Laura Murray said, “Arts Off Main Gallery, Main & 28th, lots of unique gifts from local artists and craft persons.”
Lesley Stenning – who was our top mom blogger of 2010 – loves handcrafts. She said, “One of a Kind Show, Got Craft, Shiny Fuzzy Muddy. They’re all excellent craft shows.” We have to say that the name Shiny Fuzzy Muddy is pretty inspired.
Harmony Dental Studio chimed in, saying, “I always find stuff to love in Steveston. This year the village is having a ‘girls night out’ shopping event complete with late hours, good deals and an after party! Dec. 1 6-9pm.” Now you know where your dentist will be buying her stocking stuffers.
Ashley Robinson said, “Lola’s in Deep Cove (North Van). Something for everyone of all ages!”
Joyelle Brandt cast another vote for handcrafts, saying, “Got Craft Sale – gotcraft.com.”
Three Dog Bakery spoke up on behalf of our furry friends with, “Three Dog Bakery! Don’t ‘fur’get the pups!!!” We wouldn’t dream of it.
Aman Deol-Bassi said, “Wee Piggies & Paws! :o)”
Tutu Mama shared her top pick, saying, “West Vancouver Craft Fair on Nov. 13th!”
Sheila Page-Cimmarusti does her holiday shopping in Steveston. She said, “Pieces, Serenity and Lofty Living in Steveston all have cute stuff.”
Leila likes has several favourites. She said, “Online: Raspberry Kids! Craft Fair: Make it! Vancouver, One of A Kind Show, Got Craft, and Fab Fair @ Heritage Hall.”
Heather Van Mil said, “Love Lola’s on Deep Cove and the various kids swaps around town.”
Rachel Cather, a Stella & Dot Independent Stylist, gave herself a plug, saying, “Stella & Dot home trunk show – a little something for you – a little something off the Christmas list and the best part is you don’t have to enter a mall!!!”
Sue Sinclair of Raspberry Kids said, “I am with you Rachel, and I do not go to malls at the best of times, let alone during the holidays. Obviously I have the kiddos in my life taken care of at Raspberry Kids and I actually often gift some of our Litterless Lunch concepts or Scotch Naturals for the ladies and hostesses around the holidays. With the exception of the Liquor Store, the rest of my shopping is done online including picking up some tasty gifts at Mink Chocolates! Cannot go wrong with wine and chocolate!” Wine and chocolate – we like the way you think, Sue.
Nicole Shannon shared her top pick, saying, ”Homecraft Importers Wool Shop on West 4th in Kits!”
Finally, Erin Braverman does her holiday shopping at, “One of a Kind Show for sure!”
Twitter’s Top Holiday Shopping Spots
Not to be outdone, our Twitter followers weighed in with some holiday shopping tips of their own:
Julie, a.k.a. @LMSDiapers, said, “I love Circle Craft!”
Elain Evans, whose Twitter handle is @Elain_Evans, shared this, “Favourite holiday shopping spots in Vancouver? Stepback on Broadway – got my niece the best mini vintage camera from there.”
Danielle Christopher, who tweets as @just_d_world, weighed in with, “Fort Langley!!! Loads of Mom and Pop shops.” When asked for her favourite spots, she said, “Wendel’s Bookstore and Fort Toy Box.”
@bcfamilymedia said, “Circle Craft Xmas Market has a great food section/super for the hard to shop for.”
@lotusevents is another craft show fan, saying, “Got Craft! 50+ local handmade vendors, DIY area by Spool of Thread to make your own projects, food + more.”
Finally, @Babe_Chilla shared her top pick: “Fine Finds in Yaletown!” We agree – and we’re thrilled that Fine Finds is participating in our Vancouver Mom Makeover Contest.
Your Holiday Shopping Picks
You’ve heard from our friends on Facebook and Twitter, now it’s time to chime in yourself. Do you know of a holiday shopping hidden treasure in Vancouver? Leave a reply and tell us about it!
Shameless self promotion; TrueCuddles.ca is also a great way to cross little people names off the list. And all at prices your wallet will love.
I go to Craftworks Society at 2208 West 4th for puppets and felt stories. Battery-free, open-ended play things that are locally handmade by adults with disabilities. Also lots of Christmas decorations, stockings and sock monkeys. I shop and volunteer there.