Shopping Online this Holiday Season

Guest post by Emilie Sarkissian, holiday shopping star.

The holiday season is one of the best excuses to go shopping – and it’s already here! Some people start shopping months in advance, and that is wise of them because they don’t have to worry about finding the perfect gift at the last minute. But if this isn’t you don’t despair, because we’ve got you covered.

When shopping online, you have to consider shipping time. Canada Post does tend to be pretty busy at this time of year, so now is probably a good time to get started.

Remember how nice it was to be the center of attention, getting to unwrap all these gifts and feeling so anxious for the morning to come? When you become a parent, the winter holidays start to have a different meaning and you don’t really expect the same things you used to. It becomes even more fun to see the excitement in your kids’ eyes and watch them open one gift after another. But let’s not lie to ourselves, because it still feels pretty good to be given something. This is why we took all of you into consideration when searching through these online Canadian stores for the best gift ideas. This way, nobody gets left out and it just requires a few minutes and clicks of your time.

Here is what we came up with. And Vancouver moms, please do not forget to forward to your respective partners. Like we said, giving is great, but we all like to receive, too!

For the House

Room6

Special things for nice people.

Shipping: From $8.95, free shipping over $150; Pickup option in Deep Cove, BC
Payment: Paypal, Visa, Mastercard
Return policy: 10 days of receipt for exchange or refund
We like: The most gorgeous and unique selection of products ever! Take a look at their holiday selection for some beautiful ornaments. The overall design of the website is also very user-friendly.

For Little Kids

Cool Toys for Tots

Unique educational and fun toys for toddlers.

Shipping: Fedex rate based on distance and weight, from $16
Payment: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Paypal
Return policy: Return within 14 days of receiving it
We like: Family run online store based in Edmonton with a wide choice of unique and quality toys. You can search by very specific categories (dress, up construction, trains, play kitchens, eco-friendly, etc.). There’s plenty to choose from. Not all of their catalogue ships from Canada so you might want to stick to these brands if you want your order fast and to avoid duty fees: Melissa & Doug, Imagiplay, Deux par Deux, KidKraft Canada and P’kolino.

For Teenagers

Cry Wolf Clothing

Limited edition, collectable, wearable and affordable pieces of art.

Shipping: From $7.29
Payment: Paypal, Paypal E-Cheques and Credit Cards (Visa, Mastercard and American Express).
Return policy: Refund or Exchange within 30 days of receiving it
We like: We love the very unique designs of the whole product line; the selection of accessories is quite different from what you would find elsewhere and combined with the designs, they make perfect gifts. They have free backgrounds for iphones, ipads, etc using their own designs. We also love the gallery that shows pictures of their products in real life on real people!

For Vancouver Dads

Marquis Wines

Online Wine store sourcing premium wines in all price ranges.

Shipping: Only ship to BC. Average $25 shipping for a case. Free shipping in Vancouver if you order a case. Free shipping for gift cards.
Payment: Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Paypal
Insider Tip: Use coupon “Winedeal” to get 15% off your order (not on BC wines)
We like: Browsing their online store almost feels like you are at the actual retail location on Davie street. The selection of wine is very large and the website is very informative. Most of their product descriptions are actual tasting notes from the owners. Also, their community section is a very nice example of how you can use your online store to reach out to your customers. For example, they have a Youtube Video channel that allows them to share their daily experiences with their followers. Their “Staff Picks” page is also worth checking and their wine tasting events seem to book pretty fast.

For Vancouver Moms

Smart Box

Themed gift boxes (Adventure, Serenity, Charming Getaway, Gourmet Getaway, etc.).

Shipping: From $9.99. Current free shipping holiday promo with code CAXMASFSD.
Payment: Visa, American Express, Mastercard
We like: Great concept (pick a theme and let the person choose where and what). The beautiful packaging makes it look like more than just a gift card. You can easily search for the perfect box by selecting location and category, plus the website allows you to read through all of the guidebooks.

Capturing the Holiday Spirit by Giving Back

Because the holiday season is mostly about giving to people who really need it, here is a nice way to support a cause and give a very unique gift at the same time.

Making Magic Fund

Local online stores banding together to help.

12 Must-See Metro Vancouver Festive Lights Displays

How it works: 12 local online stores are working together to raise money. If you buy something from any of their shops from now until Sunday, December 11 they will donate a portion of their proceeds to the Adopt-a-School program, which benefits schools in Metro Vancouver. The participating businesses are:

Plan Canada

International development agency for the improvement of children’s lives.

Payment: Visa, Mastercard, Amex
How it works: You place your online order and you can either send a free personalized e-card, gift card or have a free card sent to you that you can personalize yourself and give to the recipient. What is nice is that they actually match some of the donations that are made according to a ratio. Some of the gifts include goats, hens, library boxes, clean water as well as gift items like jewelry and plush toys.

United Way of the Lower Mainland

Charity that supports children and seniors in Metro Vancouver.

Payment: Visa, Mastercard
How it works: You place your order online and they send you a card with a picture and description of the gift. You can then personalize it. You have the choice between paper card, e-card or print-your-own-card. Some of the gifts include after-school activities, Help Line support and homework helpers.

Happy holiday shopping!

Emilie Sarkissian owns Apricot Culotte, an online store selling affordable European baby clothing. She carries previously loved baby clothing directly imported from France, and end of season baby clothing at up to 50% off retail value. To keep up-to-date on her latest news and specials, follow Apricot Culotte on Facebook.