Think local for your holiday gift list

A giftbox wrapped in white paper with silver stars and a red box is being passed from one set of hands to another. On the wooden table under the gift there is a collection of festive items including pinecones, candles, bells, ribbon, and greenery.

‘Tis the season to shop local, but why not take your gift giving to the next level by choosing items that are also created right here in Orangeville? Our local artists and entrepreneurs would be delighted to make a mark on your gift list this year and there is no shortage of great ideas. These unique choices make thoughtful presents, but also come with a story, about the people and places that made them, and offer an added layer of sentiment that you truly can’t find anywhere else. So, make your list and check it twice for these only-in-Orangeville gift options.

Handmade for your home

Elizabeth Bryan, owner of Weaverbee Textiles, uses patterns and colours to create stunning hand-dyed and handwoven items. In addition to her collection of scarfs and bags, she has expanded her talent to tea towels, transforming these household staples into beautiful pieces of art. See samples online. Tanya Kobayashi also offers woven ways to add character to your home. Through The Knot & Needle, she offers macrame wall hangings, plant hangers, and more. At this time of year, her collection of macrame ornaments is sure to make you smile. Hint: Some designs double as a diffuser with just a few drops of essential oil. Follow along on Instagram or find them at The Village Refillery alongside other eco-friendly gift ideas.

Scents of the season

Traditional aromas always amp up the festive spirit in a home and these local businesses offer functional and natural ways to add to the holiday ambience. The team at Bridlewood Soaps has released this year’s holiday collection of natural, handmade soaps. Flavours (yes, they look good enough to eat!) like Frosted Fir, Into the Woods, and Peppermint Orange will have everyone washing their hands. A cute drawstring bag filled with chunks of charcoal soap is a fun gift for those of you who made it onto this year’s naughty list. Visit the retail space and production facility at 450 Richardson Road to smell all of the options. At KINDMOOSE Candle Co., the holiday scents come hand poured in mason jars adorned with smart, saucy or sweet slogans, suited to your personal gift-giving style. Customized options are available alongside an extensive selection of 40 scents like cranberry spice, mistletoe, and vanilla mint latte. The family-run business uses 100% all-natural soy wax, premium cotton wicks, and high-quality jars to create their popular line. Find them at local shops like The Great Canadian Solid Wood Furniture Co and More Than Just Baskets .

Bejeweled

It’s been said that good things come in small packages and these pieces of locally crafted jewelry are certainly no exception. Artist Heidi von der Gathen owns Air & Earth Design and describes her work as chic and contemporary. She uses unusual materials, clean lines, and sculptural forms to craft timeless and organic earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. You can find her pieces locally at Dragonfly Arts on Broadway. Here, you’ll also find the studio of glass artist Beth Grant. She creates lampwork beads inspired by the colours and textures of nature, specifically northern landscapes. Aptly named collections such as Spring Rain, Keele River, and Stone Path display the beauty of these environments in a creative way. You can often find Beth at work in her studio on Saturdays, set amongst other glass-adorned gift ideas like pate knives, bookmarks, and key rings. Creative connection: Beth shares the studio space with Joan Hope, fellow glass artist, owner of Dragonfly Arts on Broadway, and curator of the unique selection of Canadian art available in the shop.

One for you, one for me

No one will judge if your gift of Wicked Shortbread never gets wrapped. Locals know to buy extra! The boxed cookies make delicious gifts and their seasonal flavours – think Toblerone and Bailey’s – deserve space on your treat tray. Two locations are now open to serve your sweet tooth. The original storefront at 96 Broadway showcases their cookie selection or scoot around the corner to 17 Armstrong Street to find Wicked’s delicious baking complemented by other locally created food items.

Giddy Yo is another local favourite, well-suited for those looking for organic, vegan and plant-based options. The chocolatier also offers cacao products, coffee, and other super foods. The popular chocolate bars are perfect for stuffing stockings and are available at Sproule’s Emporium. Good to know: Sproule’s features fair trade products, perfect for one-of-a-kind gift giving.

Ready to wear

All artwork isn’t destined to hang on a wall. Two local artists offer wearable options that allow you to display your collection wherever you go. Christina Clare has tailored her signature portraits and still life creations to suit her new fashion collection. Originating from her studio in Orangeville, selected artwork is printed on a variety of pieces by La Galeriste, a Montreal-based company that uses environmentally responsible methods in their Canadian factory. The bright, bold colours used by artist Michele Taras have also been emblazoned on clothing. With limited quantities available of each piece, her collection of leggings and tops are truly unique. Find both artists online or shop in-person at Rare Threads, a shop devoted to artisan fashion and décor located in the Alton Mill. Fun fact: Artwork created by Michele and Christina is also featured in Orangeville’s public art collection. Visit Kay Cee Gardens to see their work displayed on utility boxes in the park.

No matter which local gift option you choose, you can wrap it up proudly, story and all, knowing that you've created holiday cheer for more than just the lucky recipient. Now that’s the spirit!

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