It’s already that time of year again, where we are bombarded by holiday shopping marketing like Cyber Monday emails and Boxing “Month” deals that often lead us to overconsume way beyond our needs from unethical corporations owned by billionaires…😬

So here is your friendly reminder to shop local this holiday season (& always). To get you started, here are 10 local & sustainable Manitoba businesses to help you with your gift list!🤗

1. Azura Bay

This online ethical intimates biz recently launched their ethically-made-in-Canada organic undies and bralettes, perfect as stocking stuffers! Plus, find a variety of fair trade & ethically made intimates & apparel (even leggings!) or just a gift card for that perfect fit.

2. Thyme Café

This lovely family-owned & run plant-based café and used book store can be a one-stop shop for your gifts! From ethical tea & coffee products, made-in-house dainties (the Nanaimo bar is to die for), meals to go including soups, gift cards, and, of course, a huge selection of secondhand books!

3. Indigo Arrows

Find beautiful Indigenous-designed home textiles, such as pillows, linens, & throws,  ethically handmade in Winnipeg from natural fibres. The quality & stunning patterns are things you have to see for yourself. Make sure to click here to view their entire website.

4. Refill Market

Gift the ultimate care package by getting all the low waste necessities one could need from Refill Market! Bulk home cleaning & personal care products, low waste kitchen, laundry, & bathroom swaps, and more. Bring your own jars or containers, or get some in store. A great place for stocking stuffers & gifts for the practical humans in your life.😘

5. Urban Treasures Shop

Who knew you could shop locally made, home consignment, and other treasures all in one place? With options both on their Instagram story sales or their website, local pickup and delivery options, you’re sure to find something even for that hard-to-buy-for teacher or party hostess. All items on their website indicate whether they are new or preloved items so that you can make the most sustainable choice. They also offer gift cards! And if you have home goods that no longer bring you joy, reach out to have them consigned here (you’ll be grateful for the shop credit!!)

6. Sol Brü

Ah, the classic last-minute bottle of wine gift… We’ve all received and/or gifted one before, but there’s something even better in town, and it’s alcohol-free! Sol Brü offers four delicious flavours of mushroom elixirs to spruce up your holiday drinks (alcoholic or not). Vegan, sugar- and gluten-free, locally made, and each bottle sold supports addiction recovery. You will want to try one yourself too😉 Grab them directly from their site or from one of their many stockists, including over 40 locations in & around Winnipeg.

7. Di Erbe

Di Erbe offer a wide selection of natural skin care products made in-house such as eczema balms, lip balm, body butter, and makeup. They use recyclable & eco-friendly packaging and have refill options in store too, so bring some jars in if you’re in need of refilling products like shampoo or body wash.

8. Tin Robin

This local slow fashion brand is a one-woman shop who crafts super comfy versatile garments from sustainable fabrics for mamas and littles alike. Her super soft bamboo mockneck tops are THE best (one of my very favourite tops I own!) and the quality definitely holds up (I’ve been wearing mine for two years on repeat and it’s still pristine👌🏼). In between sizes? Every piece is made-to-order to reduce waste, so message Priska with body measurements to get the perfect fit.🥰

9. Chesco Box

These curated themed gift boxes make quick & easy gifts containing products from local, BIPOC, & Canadian small businesses. Perfect for family gift exchanges, gifts for your employees, or your Aunt Sue who certainly does not need any more home decor.😆

10. Jillian Sheedy Photography

Last but not least, one of the most unique gifts you can give holiday season is a certificate towards a photo session by your favourite local photographer! Mine is Jillian Sheedy Photography (who photographed us above!) 🥰 This is an especially great gift for the hard to buy for moms, grandmothers, and heck, even yourself! Think family photos, couples’ shoots with your love, a best friend shoot, empowerment boudoir shoots, headshots for your business, or a mini session with your beloved pet. The possibilities are endless.✨

There you have it, folks! A shorter list than last year’s, so if you’re needing even more ideas check out my 2020 holiday blog post here, which contains over 55 small local businesses & gift ideas!

Wishing you all a stress-free, eco-friendly, & magical holiday season,

-C ♡