By India Madsen
If you're one of our most loyal LA&PS Voices readers, you may remember that I referred to Halloween as "the most wonderful time of the year" a few weeks ago. I wrote that one of the reasons Halloween is a great holiday is because it isn't associated with the financial stress of shopping for gifts. However, now that spooky season is behind us (*sigh*), it's time to break out your scarves, mittens, and of course, your wallet because gift-giving season is upon us. In the frenzy of gift shopping that arises at this time of year (especially around Black Friday), I urge you not to head straight to the Amazon website but to support businesses that fuel our local economy instead. Not sure where to turn for gift shopping? I've got you covered. I’ll let you in on my go-to gift ideas.
Candles and Soaps
Although these are very common gifts, they're popular for a reason. Scented candles and soaps are things that almost everyone loves but may be too stubborn to buy for themselves. I recommend the super trendy candles sold by Simple Candle because they come in many different creative shapes. The London Fog bath bomb from Market Candle Company is also going to appear on my wish list, as a London Fog is my favourite winter drink! Take note of the fact that both of these businesses are owned by York University alumni.
Vintage Finds
I once received a 1960s Coca-Cola ice box as a gift, and it has remained one of my favourite pieces of decor ever since. One-of-a-kind ornaments and novelty items like these will appeal to all the hipsters in your life. Head to Courage My Love or Bungalow in Kensington Market, Black Market clothing (this Toronto staple is co-owned by a York grad!) on Queen West, or Common Sort (multiple locations). While clothes are an obvious choice for vintage shopping, handbags, costume jewelry, vinyl records, books, and prints are also awesome vintage gift options.
Jewelry
Even if you’ve outgrown friendship bracelets, you’re never too old to show your love for your besties through a cute piece of jewelry. Check out Haley Made an online store owned by a former York student that sells handmade Y2K-themed jewelry, or Wholesomeoccult, an alumni owned Etsy shop with whimsical jewelry and crochet hats.
Photos, Prints, and Stickers
Artwork gifts are lots of fun both to give and receive because they are always unique. York alum Felicity Tse’s Etsy shop has dozens of beautiful designs, from ‘misfortune cookie’ stickers to Lunar New Year envelopes.
Clothing
Hoodies and sweats are the best choice for gifts because—apart from being the uniform of sleep-deprived students—they don’t require you to know the gift recipient’s specific clothing size. Your obvious destination for these essentials is the York University Bookstore. I received a York U toque and hoodie for Christmas a few years ago, and now reach for them every day when the weather is frosty.
If you're looking for something with an artistic flair, get your friends a tote bag or hat from Couch Apparel, founded by York alum Dylan Lorriman. Any of these creative pieces exude main character energy.
I hope that my suggestions ease some of the stress from your holiday shopping. As you shop, just make sure that some of these gift ideas find their way beyond your own personal wish list, and into gift boxes for your loved ones!