Black Friday and Cyber Monday were a bit of a disappointment this year. I thought I’d score some major deals on holiday gifts but that wasn’t really the case. Everything just seemed so plastic and bulky. While I love gifting my kids experiences, having a box wrapped with a shiny bow is something they look forward to. So I got to thinking about gifts and hence the idea for this guide to local gift ideas came to fruition.

While I’m focusing on gifts for my three kids, ages 10, 8 and 3, most of these local Canadian retailers will have something for everyone. These items are hand picked by the shop owners, with some input from me too, of course!

Jack & Jill – VSCO Girl Approved

I have memories of visiting this store every year as a kid to buy my snowsuits. Today, my daughter Hannah asks on a weekly basis if we can stop by so she can get her VSCO Girl fix.

iscream Tye Dye Plush Pants $45
Headbands $10 and Scrunchies $5
Glitter Ear Buds $30

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When We Wear Young – Meaningful Toys

This Canadian e-shop opened a few years ago and has become known as the go-to lifestyle shop for conscious families. We’ve focused on wood toys to be a bit better to the environment and for gifts that are built to last.

Earth Pyramid Stacker $60
Hand Held Drum $40
Tea Set $69

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Oink Oink – Wow Toys

A Westmount favourite, this boutique has all the toys they’re sure to love. The staff’s top picks this holiday season include some wow toys that are as visually stunning as they are play-worthy.

Hape Toddler Piano
Schylling Ride-On Car
Our Generation Retro Bowling Alley $329

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Les Petits Voyous – French Flare

This Westmount store is best known for its kids fashion, but the online boutique has lots of great gift finds. When I first saw this mushroom set I couldn’t help but giggle at the thought of backyard treasure hunts and little gourmands in the making.

Moon Picnic Mushroom Basket $70
Way to Play La Route Nationale $80

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Bonder Books – Bookworthy

A guide to local gift ideas has to include this 60 year old book shop in the heart of Montreal West. They’re expecting these new releases to be a hit this holiday season.

The Dinky Donkey
Dog Man Fetch 22

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Some of My Other Local Favourites:

Birdz Clothing – Designed by two local moms, a collection of kids’ clothing that’s both edgy and sweet. I’m currently hosting a contest here for a $50 gift card!

Rollë Zero Waste Cutlery – an eco-friendly and cute way for them to transport their cutlery (chopsticks too!), all rolled up in a placemat with a whimsical print.

Haba Dragon’s Breath Board Game – a fun game to learn colours and practice counting. Not made in Canada but worth a mention.

JRC Toys – when you just have to cave and get them the latest Paw Patrol, Frozen 2 or Nerf Gun…this is the place to go for the best prices in the city. I stock up on sticker books for travel throughout the year.