to make your shopping easier, keep track of what you're purchasing for everyone on the lists below
Dear
With so many amazing gifts, I thought I would help you out with list of a few of my favourites
PUBLISHER
EDITOR
Shane Carlson
CREATIVE
DIRECTOR
Alicia Newman
SALES: Sandy Adams
Purchases made during the holiday season at qathet region businesses have a dramatic effect that ripples throughout the community. Those businesses then have an equally dramatic effect as the money received flows to other businesses as owners and employees do their own shopping.
Shoppers have many options these days when working through their gift lists.
Hypothetical convenience and cost savings of online shopping creates temptation for some customers, but buying locally has advantages that debunk those notions.
It only takes a few minutes to get to any businesses in the region, parking is free and usually close by, and opportunities are endless for finding unique gifts, such as some of the items highlighted within the following pages. And if a return is required for some reason, shipping is not involved, which is more time consuming than a quick return trip to the local business.
There are gems made by local artisans here that
cannot be found elsewhere. Gift recipients may well cherish those unique items and decide to visit other local retailers after the holiday season has concluded, which continues the flow of funds from person to business to employee to another business, and so on.
When someone asks what’s on your list, consider a product or service from one of the local stores, studios or facilities found inside this gift guide. The best gifts are often everyday items that will be used many times before being forgotten, traded, discarded or recycled.
Shopping locally this holiday season will benefit the health of the local economy, including job creation. Whether your list is long or short, keep that in mind when making purchasing decisions.
Enjoying perusing these pages and seeing what your favourite local businesses have in store this holiday season. You just might be able to check every box on your list by the time you finish reading.
In an age dominated by fast fashion and giant online retailers, many everyday goods and commodities come from foreign markets that often prioritize low prices over quality. This holiday season is the perfect opportunity for you to support local businesses. Spoil your loved ones while promoting local production and craftsmanship.
High-quality goods
When you buy local, you can be confident you’re getting premium products. From delicious treats and traditional dishes to fine clothing, pottery and unique alcoholic beverages, many local items are crafted with exceptional ingredients or sustainable materials. This commitment to quality sets local goods apart from mass-produced alternatives.
Economic growth
often reinvest a portion of their earnings back into the community by sourcing from local suppliers and expanding their offerings. This cycle keeps the economy thriving and enhances regional independence.
Unique gifts
Each local clothing designer, distiller or artisan brings their own style and values to their creations. In addition to providing quality and economic benefits, local products are truly one of a kind. Every region features its own special products, reflecting the personalized character of local entrepreneurs.
Shopping at local businesses benefits everyone. Your purchases boost the income of entrepreneurs, who
In short, by gifting local products to family and friends or serving them during the holidays, you can add a unique twist to your festive traditions while also supporting your community. Grab your reusable bags, put on your hat and mittens and set out to discover the businesses in our area.
1. Choose from a wide selection of gift baskets available, or have one customized for a unique gift. Starting at $36 + tax DUKE’S LIQUOR STORE
2. Gift certificates available in any denomination. Can be purchased online for easy gift-giving. CONVENIENT CHEF
3. Enjoy two great concerts and save this holiday season with special pricing for Penderecki String Quartet and Sweet Scarlet Vocal Ensemble concerts to be held at James Hall in 2026. A meaningful gift for the music lover in your life. $40 QATHET
4. Premium full bodied red wine showing characteristics similar to Cabernet Franc such as black currents, plums, and roasted bell peppers. There are nuances of baking spices and dark chocolate. $40 (including tax and deposit) ROCKY CREEK WINERY
Stocking stuffers for everyone on your list this holiday season. Starting at $16.99
Toiletry bags to keep you organized in your travels this holiday season. Available from a variety of brands in various sizes Starting at $19.95
1. Every sip tells a story, and this bottle of 2025 Blackberry Wine is no exception. This fantastic, luscious, sweet and easy drinking blackberry wine is the stuff stories are made of. Whether you're sitting in front of a warm fire or having a picnic on a sunny afternoon, this wine will hit the spot. $25 (including tax and deposit) ROCKY
2. The Magnetic Build-A-Plane allows for creative play as one mixes and matches parts to create a different plane. We also have similar products including boats and cars. $32.95-$44.95
3. Create your own throw blanket or hat through the meditative art of knitting with Calm Club kits. These kits include everything you need to complete the project. Starting at $46.99 MOTHER NATURE
1. Designed, laser cut and packaged in house by the team at McTavish Academy Of Art on Vancouver Island, these kits are great for kids and adults alike and include everything you need to create a beautiful piece of art. Available in a variety of different designs including Coastal Bear and Unicorn. Starting at $32.99 PAPERWORKS GIFT GALLERY
2. No matter what age or level the participants are, there is a gymnastics class where participants learn the significance of the fun, fitness, and fundamentals of gymnastics. Available in any denomination from $25-$500 POWELL RIVER GYMNASTICS
3. Endangered animals from the two frozen poles. Presented in a solid wood shelving unit, animals included are orca, narwhal, snow hare, arctic fox, king penguin, owl, white stoat, walrus, an elk and, of course, a polar bear. Similar animal sets also available for farm, woodland and more. $79.95 for the set OCEANSIDE ENTERTAINMENT
1. Dalmore 12 Year Old is a Highland Single Malt matured in American white oak and finished in aged Oloroso sherry casks. Vanilla and honey notes are the first to leap from the glass, followed by citrus and spice flavours. The finish is long and smooth, rounding into persistent notes of roasted coffee and chocolate. Starting at $124.70 DUKE’S LIQUOR STORE
2. Gold and Silver bullion buy and sell. PR PAWNBROKERS
HOLIDAY GIFTS FOR EVERYONE
gift and stocking stuffer price points for ALL
Board games • Pokémon • Video Games • Puzzles • Stacking Blocks • CDs • Books • Blankets
Playing cards • Tarot cards • Crystals • Arts & Crafts • Indigenous Arts • Dungeons & Dragons
Dragon & Fairy Figurines • Licensed Goods (Totoro, Marvel, DC & much more)
Shop local to support your community
HIGH TIDE GAMES
#1-7030 Glacier Street
Open seven days a week 12 to 6 pm
4721 Marine Avenue
Open seven days a week 10 am to 5:30 pm
1. Selection of holiday-themed games for the whole family to enjoy. From charades to trivia to scavenger hunts, we have a game to keep your family entertained this holiday season. $9.95-$14.95
2. Sharpen your mind and reduce stress with puzzles from Cobble Hill. Available in a variety of
1. Create fun in your home or garden with a solar light hot-air-balloon lantern. Created with sculpted metal and hand-painted with a metallic finish, they can be hung indoors or outside. Powered by special flickering LED solar lights to create the appearance of flames like a real hot air balloon. Starting at $65
2. Just the right size to try and experiment, these infused olive oils and balsamic vinegars will allow you to come up with an endless flavour combinations this holiday season. Bottles are also available. Starting at $6.29
3. Salt & Pepper Mills, the original brass mills, are beautiful, classic grinders crafted with precision and featuring a powerful crank able to handle a variety of spices. Available in brass and chrome. Starting at $139.99
Is there someone on your Christmas wishlist who’s always cold? If so, their propensity for feeling chilly could be a great inspiration for selecting a present that will warm their body — and their heart, too. Here are a few cozy suggestions:
• A lined toque, headband or trendy earmuffs
• A long, thick, hooded bathrobe
• A small portable heater
• A large, heavy blanket
• An insulated bottle or mug
• A pair of soft, one piece pyjamas — that also cover their feet
• A handmade wool scarf
• A set of comforting hot drinks,
like herbal teas and coffees
• A heated mattress cover
• A towel warmer
• A cozy fleece jumper
• A heated accessory, like slippers or a coverlet
• Fleece underwear, such as leggings or an undershirt
• Merino wool socks
• Hand and foot warmers for outdoor activities
What about scented candles, an electric fireplace, hot yoga classes or an all-inclusive getaway in the sun? Depending on your budget, there’s no shortage of ideas to satisfy someone who’s shivering from morning to night. Visit your local shops to find the perfect gift.
1. For casual or date-night, these shirts by Selected Homme give a stylish look. Offered in many fabrics like flannel and micro-cord. Starting at $85 ANCHOR APPAREL
2. Secrid cardprotector and mini wallets feature a patented mechanism that gives you access to your cards with one simple movement. Starting at $59.95
A gift doesn’t have to be wrapped perfectly to make the recipient happy. However, a neat presentation always adds a little something extra. Here are a few tips.
Wrapping paper: Select high-quality wrapping paper that won’t tear easily. Cut it to the right size to prevent unnecessary creases and waste.
Gift bag: Gift bags are a smart, time-saving option. Plus, they come in various styles and sizes. Keep in mind that the heavier the gift, the stronger the bag needs to be.
Box: If your gift has an irregular shape, place it in a box. It makes wrapping much easier and less frustrating.
Tissue paper: Use tissue paper to wrap delicate or precious items, or when filling a gift bag. For an elegant
look, avoid crumpling the tissue paper.
Tape: Use just enough tape to secure the wrapping. Too much tape can make the gift difficult to open and ruin its appearance.
Ribbons and bows: Ribbons and bows, especially in satin or metallic finishes, can give your present a festive look. Curl the ribbons with scissors for a pretty effect.
Decorations: Add a personal touch with decorations like bells, flowers, feathers, candy canes or pinecones. A few well-picked items can make your gift stand out.
If you’re short on time, consider reaching out to a community organization that provides affordable giftwrapping services. Supporting their efforts is a win-win.
