There's magic in the air and cookies in the oven. Holiday movies are playing, everyone is sipping hot cocoa (with a spot of Baileys, depending on the time of day), and Christmas songs fill every store and cafe. While this time of year is overflowing with cheer and joy, it can also be stressful if you have a long list of loved ones and friends to shop for and have no idea what to get for them. Don't worry though, I’m here to help you play Santa this year. I have a few local shops I’d love to recommend to you. You're sure to find that perfect something for each person on your list, and who knows, maybe you'll find a little something for yourself too.
Citrus Boutique
Is fashion important to anyone on your Christmas gift list? If so, you'll definitely want to visit Citrus. This fashion-forward boutique is a family owned and operated business. Caron and her daughter Chloe opened shop in 2008. They wanted to create a place where they could spread their knowledge of fashion. Their St. Catharines boutique is filled with the latest trends in both clothing and accessories to help you dress, accessorize, and feel your best. They love what they do and are happy to assist you as you shop for the loved ones on your list. With their help, you're sure to find the perfect necklace or blouse for your sister, niece, or mother. Think teacher gifts too with their selection of candles and bracelets. Whether the gal you're shopping for has a bohemian vibe, a laid back look, or enjoys dressing to impress for a night out on the town, you'll find the perfect item at Citrus Boutique. You can also browse their Instagram to see their selections and how they pair items to create stunning outfits - if you need some inspiration.
Oliver and Rust Vintage Interiors
Style extends beyond clothing and into home decor. If the people on your list are less interested in adding to their closet, but would love to dress up their living room, front entrance or kitchen then this is the place to shop. Oliver and Rust provides upscale décor, vintage gems, and perfectly potted plant. They are located in the heart of the growing Fonthill core in Ontario. They've been around since April 2015 and love helping people decorate their homes to reflect their vintage, unique styles. Their story is unique, having started as a blog. The owner, Meg started a blog to chronicle the renovations she and her husband, Trevor were making to their new home. You can visit their website and read the blog if you'd like to see the beginning of it all. The blog eventually transformed into a home decor blog. Meg has such a good eye for home decor, that her home has been featured in numerous national magazines and other online blogs. After her success online, she decided to leave her career in dental hygiene and provide Niagara residents with stylish, vintage pillows, unique plants and warm blankets that are perfect for cozying up with beside a fireplace. The items you find in their shop are handmade or hand picked. They're not only beautiful but of the highest quality. Any gift you pick from their shop is sure to bring a smile to the recipient's face and a touch of comfort and style to their home.
Avant Garde Emporium
Does anyone on your list have a green thumb? Do they love gardening? If so, you should most definitely head over to Avant Garde Emporium. The store team will be more than happy to assist you in picking out the perfect gift! They have a passion and love for their community and are very proud of the work they do, making all sorts of one-of- a-kind items available. If you're in search of a truly unique and special gift, you'll find it here.
Beechwood Doughnuts
Are you shopping for a teenager? Maybe someone in your family or your best friend has a sweet tooth? Then look no further than Beechwood Doughnuts. Beechwood Doughnuts is Niagara's first and only 100% vegan doughnut shop. So, even if your daughter or nephew has dietary restrictions, they can indulge in a delicious treat at this amazing shop. Located in the heart of Downtown St. Catharines, this shop is out to prove that food can be tasty and compassionate at the same time. They've won several awards throughout the years and have been featured on various blogs, one even suggested that their doughnuts were worth hopping on a plane to taste. Now, that's one delicious doughnut. With a variety of tasty treats, from Cookies and Cream to Pistachio, PB&J to Salted Caramel Mocha, there's something for everyone. And let's not forget the cronuts. A gift card to Beechwood Doughnuts will be a sweet treat (pun intended) for anyone on your list who likes to start their morning with a delicious doughnut and cup of coffee!
Christmas is a favourite time of the year for so many reasons. Families gather together, gifts are exchanged, dinners are shared, and laughter fills the air. Showing up to your Christmas parties with the perfect gift in hand isn't crucial to enjoying the Christmas holiday, but it certainly helps spread some cheer. I hope you'll enjoy shopping local this year and trying any of the shops and boutiques listed above. If you want to play Santa for yourself this year and splurge on a new home in a beautiful area, I would love to help you find the perfect place to hang your hat (or put your new decorative pillow or blanket from Oliver and Rust). To take a tour of the homes available in our stunning Niagara region, please contact me today.