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5 locally made gifts kids should get their parents this Christmas

This may or may not be the biggest hint I've ever left my husband on what to leave under the tree on Christmas for me: a list of some of the best locally made goods to hunt down for the parent in your life (psst, that's me Finn and Gus).

This may or may not be the biggest hint I've ever left my husband on what to leave under the tree on Christmas for me: a list of some of the best locally made goods to hunt down for the parent in your life (psst, that's me Finn and Gus). While I love homemade gifts, I am also super passionate about supporting local makers, artists, shops, and entrepreneurs. So, if you're taking the kids out in the next week to get a little something nice for mom or dad, keep these local makers' beautifully made goods in mind.

sundaymornings

Explorer's Press

Brendan Megganety designs and produces these impeccably designed - and sometimes hilarious - pins, pennants, and patches in the heart of Mount Pleasant. These pieces are made with the explorer and adventurer in mind - and the "observers, winners, and losers" according to Explorer's Press. I still wear my well-loved  "Lost at Last" pin on my camo collar from the early days of this brand, and now Brendan's online shop has taken off with a stockist list that is international. Pick up a pin or two for the explorer in your life, either online at www.explorerspress.com or walk into Anti-Social Skateboard Shop, or Still Life boutique on Main Street.

gingerbread

1UP Caramels

These small batch caramels are made locally, and all by hand. Free of artificial sweeteners or preservatives, the caramels come in the most tantalizing flavours like Beer Pretzel, Pear Cardamom, and the very festive Gingerbread. Usually you can only find these mouthwatering treats in markets and pop-ups, but for this holiday season you can walk into Moulé with your kids and bring some home for a parent or grandparent.

HJN CO

HJN Leather Craft Co

I have loitered more than once outside (and inside) shops that have carried anything from HJN Leather Craft Co. The designs of these beautifully supple goods are modern, while the handmade method stays traditional. Not only are these wallets, bags, and purses worth pining for, all the leather they're made from is ethically and sustainably sourced, and treated without chemicals or artificial colours. HJN does have an online store, but you can also visit local shop Trout & Co to leave a note for your partner about which bag you would like.

chocolaterie

Chocolaterie de la Nouvelle France

If you have visited this shop on 21st and Main Street, then you have met the lovely Anne, owner and chocolatier, who is full of warmth and kindness. Her award-winning chocolates are handmade on site with single origin chocolate, and without any preservatives or artificial flavours. Her focus is on simplicity - classic squares and truffles that make you stand still and close your eyes while you take in all the richness dancing on your tongue. Definite must for a stocking stuffer. Thanks Santa!

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAFeest

These sumptuous handmade candles have been popping up everywhere this season. On friends' counters, at markets, and on the shelves of fine shops around the city like One of a Few, Dandelion Emporium, and Gam Gallery. Feest candles exude relaxation with their essential oil-infused scents, and are all-natural and environmentally conscious with reusable packaging. While I would adore finding one of these under the tree, I also think a teacher or two might like this as a holiday thank you.

This is a mere sprinkling of locally made gifts you can find in Vancouver for anyone on your list, so poke around at a market, pop-up, or local shop and see what our talented community has to share. Support local!

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peaks-and-harbours Carina-Marie Nilsson is the co-founder of Peaks and Harbours, a Vancouver “not just for moms” blog that showcases everything our city has to offer the younger crowd. @carinamarienilsson