Plenty of Christmas markets and fairs are coming to town to help you find that perfect gift, whether it is for your office secret Santa party or something for your loved ones.
Among them is the BCIT Alumni Holiday Market, organized by the BCIT Alumni Association, which has returned this year from Nov. 1 to Dec. 31. The third edition of the holiday market has a gamut of unique gift options, and many of its vendors are offering special discounts.
A message in a bottle
Who doesn't love a good bottle of wine? But if you want to send your love through a different choice of drink — perhaps a classic cosmo? — The Duchess by Coupe Beverages has you covered with its popping pink (and yellow) cocktails in a bottle, the first of its kind in British Columbia.
Mariner Brewing, Coquitlam's only craft brewery, too, offers appealing gifts for the beer lovers in your life.
Way to the heart is through the stomach
Care for an edible cookie cup (adults can pour their Irish Cream in it for an extra treat) or a espresso mini profiterole? Vancouver’s JJ DeLights bakes affordable high-quality desserts including creampuffs and cookie cups.
Pamper your skin and your soul
Get your loved ones some deserved 'me-time' by giving them a Monday Glow Candle to help them wind down after a long day. The Vancouver-based company offers hand-poured soy candles that set a relaxing mood.
Or get a hold of some soap for a cause from Simon’s Soapbox, whose products are made with fair trade shea butter, clays and essential oils by a brother-and-sister team. Simon, who has Down syndrome, and his sister, Caroline, make and sell artisanal soap and solid kitchen soaps for the last few dishes that don't make it to the dishwasher.
Filling in the gap between women's and men's skincare, Vellum Wellness makes gender-neutral wellness and self-care products crafted for your mind and body — they have products for every mood.
Those looking for all-natural herbal products (tea, flower remedies, accessories) can find them at WOASH Wellbeing. Also at the holiday market are other cruelty-free sustainable skincare brands like Free Lion Body Care and Lipani Skincare,
Indigenous gifts supporting Truth and Reconciliation
Looking for a curated gift which supports reconciliation? Shop for the gift boxes from Indigenous-owned startup Shop First Nations, and support your Indigenous businesses in B.C. Through these specially curated gifts, shoppers can get the opportunity to learn more about Indigenous culture and experiences while supporting Truth and Reconciliation.
Don't forget your furry friends
Shop for a range of pet products like toys, accessories, snacks from Good Boy Collectives, a dog-friendly boutique and community space with a focus on modern and ethical supplies for your pet friends.
Give your (pet) friends the adventure of their lifetime through Riverdog Adventures, which takes busy dog parents' pets on on/off-leash hikes in nature. They offer pick-up and drop-off service, and also clean your friends' muddy paws before they return home.
Have an eggstatic holiday!
Hear your comical eggs tell stories of the most random things in the universe through comics, t-shirts, tote bags, and more from Vancouver-based Eggman Comics.
Looking for a gift to spark curiosity about the Filipino culture? Visit Projects by Maria at the holiday market and get your hands on one of the very few limited copies available and read about the magic of Christmas with Maya as she discovers her Filipino Christmas Lantern.
Visit The BCIT Alumni Holiday Market for information on vendors and gifting options curated by your local artisans.
