Your Local Gift Guide
Online Edition
This goes without saying but I’m going to say it anyway: this guide is not a form of elitism. This guide is not meant to exclude anyone. If you believe that’s what we’re doing, please remove that notion from your thoughts immediately, because we are not. We are simply highlighting some (and not all, for obvious reasons) of the small businesses in Northumberland County in hopes that when a shopper decides to spend their money, they choose any small business, not just the ones we highlighted. It’s a movement, a feeling and an awareness that our dollars matter most when spent at a micro-businesses that supports our economy.
99.8% of businesses in this country, are small to medium sized ventures with fewer than 500 employees* and there are 1.22 million of you! Whoa! Over half of those have less than 4 paid employees. Also, whoa. The best stat of all: 67.8% of business survive to their 5th year in operations. Yay!
Nitty Gritty details: *a small business is defined as a business with one to 99 paid employees & a medium sized business is 99 - 499 paid employees. Details here.
The good news is you’re not alone, even though at times it may feel like it. We know how hard you work whether or not you have a store front to keep or an office to run or manufacturing company to operate. Here are some small ONLINE maker’s (of many not listed) from our own Northumberland County.
Home and Body - These are some of the most lovely themed and holiday jewelry and accessories around. Handmade and thoughtfully designed, you will be the talk of any holiday party rocking a pair of Christmas tree earrings. My personal favourites are the little bows! Check them out here!
Rtsygirl - Custom stitched designs as wall art or on canvas shoes! Specialized wooden jewellery designs, coasters, and ornaments too. I couldn’t have said it better myself, so I copied and pasted that from her website, which is incredible by the way. Customized shoes and ornaments? Here I come! Check her out here!
Arrowmatic Food - Spice up your holiday season with spice blends that will awaken the senses. This family company hand-blends spices in small batches, creating something truly unique and special. You’ll also feel good that the salts, herbs and spices are sourced in Canada and it’s all packaged cute and sustainably. Check them out here!
Infused Handcrafted - As the name suggests, the owner, Lauren makes bath products that are handcrafted in small batches infused with natural scents that don’t overwhelm those of us with sensitive skin and noses! They are luxurious and look as good as they smell. Her lipbalm is my absolute favourite product. Check them out here!
Colourful Courts - Cheerful retro-inspired acrylic jewelry and accessories for the young & fun nostalgic people on your wish list. Featured by Glamour UK (the magazine!) you’ll find the trendiest hand made pieces. Check her out here!
Blu Stoneware - Incredible stoneware pieces that are crafted to last. Meghan is an incredible artist creating one of a kind pieces that are sure to be your favourite. Her designs are simple yet stunning and are the kind of pottery you can buy and use every day of your life, it’s functional art. A gorgeous, make you look good kinda gift to give. Check her out here!
Sweet Burrow Co. - If you have a new addition to your family or friend group, the makers of Sweet Burrow have you covered with a selection of whimsical and useful heirloom toys and home decor. We have multiple pods in our homes and cars. They make the ideal spot to keep those little items that you always reach for on hand and organized. We also love their felt diffusers and custom oil blends. Check them out here
L&L Company - Nurse your aches and pain in style! Flax bags in all shapes and sizes can be heated or frozen for natural relief from aches and pains, migraines, and nursing mommas. The bags can also be infused with healing essential oils by simply adding a few drops to the bag and messaging it to distribute. Key tip if you get two small bags (originally designed for nursing aids) you can use them as reusable hand warmers for your always cold friend! Check them out here!
Thanks for reading. Please share with those who need to finish their Christmas shopping!
Grace & Megan