Ok, so you’re a last minute shopper? Or maybe you’re not and you’re just looking for a little hostess gift or a unique Christmas ornament. Perhaps you don’t have a lot of people to buy for because everyone you know has everything they’ve ever dreamed of (my parents) but they still deserve something special for the holidays. Whatever the reason, if you’re shopping local this season, Megan and I have got you covered.
Who is Megan? She’s a SHOP LOCAL connoisseur and my friend. She is a local maker and expert crafter and is the biggest champion for small businesses in Northumberland. She’s also obsessed with Christmas so this newsletter feels oh-so-right! There is no shop she or I haven’t shopped in! Here are our top picks for shopping in Port Hope this season.
(NB: Port Hope’s main street, Walton, has been closed to vehicular traffic with limited pedestrian for the past 6 months. They are now fully open. so please support these merchants during a difficult season).
Bibelot - a shop to find a gift for any occasion; birthday, new baby, Christmas, house warming, hostess gift and everything in between. A beautiful curation of things you didn’t realize you needed. You will not leave empty handed. Located at 68 Walton Street.



Tall Birches - Always the most unique gifts (and treats for yourself) with a beautiful mix of vintage finds and new Canadian-made products. You can find clothing, decor and personal products. There is something for everyone on your holiday list. Located at 54 Walton.



Penney & Co. - If decorations and home decor are what you are looking for Penny & Co. has you covered in a wide array of classic styles. I picture Sarah Richardson and Martha Stewart finding many cozy home decor items in this shop. Located at 51 Walton Street.



Herma’s Fine Foods - a procurement of the most interesting foods and kitchen gadgets one could ever imagine. There are coolers and freezers filled with gourmet prepared meals, a cheese counter offering the world’s best in fromage and a gorgeous selection of Christmas ornaments, gift baskets and holiday must have’s for the festive season. Worth the drive! Located at 5316 County Road 28.



Frosted Flour Co. - Don’t show up to that holiday gathering empty-handed! Frosted Flour Co. has all your frosted cookies and desserts for holiday parties on full display. Their seasonal Saturday doughnuts are always a hit as well. Gluten Free options available. Located at 73 Mill Street.



Milly’s Market - Milly’s is a kitchen shop gone wild. It has items to cross any foodie off your list. Explore their carefully selected products from small businesses worldwide. In the bistro, deli and bakery, you can enjoy ready-to-eat meals made in-house or sourced from local bakers. There motto is Eat. Drink. Browse. Located at 33 Walton Street.



Ganaraska Art & Framing - You’ll find more than just beautifully framed art and prints in this well appointed and spacious gallery. They are a full service framing shop but also offer various collections of affordable art for the art lover in your family. Can’t decide what to buy? They have gift certificates. Located at 37 Walton Street.



Home Hardware - this isn’t a mistake! Home Hardware truly makes this list! The home decor section (usually on the right hand side of the store when you walk in) is bonkers good. I’ve purchased funky knobs, hooks, floor mats, signage/art, gifts, candles, room fresheners and pillows. Do I look through the rest of the store? Absolutely not. I am only there for this section only. Located on Toronto Road, Port Hope and Division Street in Cobourg.



I hope this has given you the inspiration and motivation you need to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list this holidays season! Now, hurry up! Only three weeks to go before Santa arrives!
Cobourg Edition is up next!
Grace & Megan