Forget the wine*, it’s time to shake things up and bring a hostess gift that’s anything but ordinary! In today’s post, I’m sharing unique hostess gift ideas that include some of my fave local businesses and gift ideas.
While it’s impossible to showcase ALL the amazing local talent, I hope this guide at least introduces you to a few new neighbourhood businesses and some fresh hostess gift ideas.
And if you have a local business you love, please share in the comments below so we can all discover another one to add to our list!
Foodie Gifts
La Belle Fromage is a gourmet grocery store that specializes in artisan cheeses and other specialty products. I always find something new and delicious here.
The Cheese Bar not only offers gourmet cheeses but they collaborate with other local small businesses bringing in preserves, pickled veg, chocolates, granola, maple syrup and other delicious treats to enjoy with your dairy products. So tempting that even when I go in to buy for someone else… I always end up with something for me too!
Dressed by an Olive – amazing olive oils, vinegars and pantry items that are perfect for gifting.
Filipe’s Blazing BBQ sauce – a brother- sister duo that makes homemade, gourmet bbq sauce using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The pineapple habanero is one of my faves!
Tea & Caffeine Lover Gifts
My Grind Coffee– quality coffee, that tastes incredible. They even have special flavour blends like Apple Pie and Butter Pecan (perfect this time of year) Their “Elevate” coffee is one of my faves, it’s a rich coconut and maple flavour that tastes heavenly!
Windsor Tea Emporium – get all warm and cozy with their premium loose leaf teas.
Coffee loving hostess would also welcome gift cards to local coffee houses like Twenty Two Coffee House, Café Amor, Anchor Coffee House. These bustling spots not only serve up amazing coffee and treats, but they sell items in their shops that would make ideal gifts too!
Self Care Gifts
Since these tend to be more personal in nature, I would suggest you reserve these types of gifts for the hostess you know well. That being said, if a friend gave me anything on this list…extra hugs for sure!
Ocean Bottom Soap Company – their bath and body products are made from natural, organic ingredients that smell so good. I’m a big fan of their soaps and scrubs for a more personal hostess gift – and of course, for me too 😉
My Weekend Is Booked – their line of candles are made with natural soy wax, 100% plant-derived fragrances that smell heavenly. They also offer curated gift boxes with products sourced from small makers throughout Canada (making gift giving even easier!)
So Hum Candles – non-toxic, eco-friendly scented candles made with 100% soy and hand poured. They’ve recently opened up a scent bar where they offer all sorts of experiences & workshops like creating your own candle.
Terra Green Gardens – their bath products are divine , but they have lots of other products that showcase their love of nature. Lush plants, skilled woodwork, glass, upcycled and repurposed art work, jewelry and more can be found in their boutique!
Sweet Gifts
Dip N Date – their gourmet Belgian chocolate covered dates makes an elegant and decadent hostess gift
What’s Poppin Popcorn Factory – all natural GMO-free popcorn in over 20 flavours like jalapeno dill or cookies & cream there’s bound to be something unique here for gifting
Cottam Candy Co -high quality festival style treats & eats like candy apples, cotton candy and cotton candy glitter bombs – this place makes a kid of us all!
The Cookie Bar – talk about being a hero when you show up with a pack of their 1/4 lb craft cookies, or a cookie charcuterie board. They even offer vegan options.
SUGA – homemade cakesicles & sweets that look super gorgeous, almost too good to eat….almost
Ruscom Maple Products – who doesn’t love maple syrup…plus they have maple candies and a maple butter that is amazing on french toast!
SunParlor Honey – they don’t just offer honey in all it’s forms (liquid, creamed and comb honey), they also have a large selection of honey products, including beeswax and bee pollen, honey garlic sausages, candles, skin creams and Christmas baskets.
A little Bit of Everything
Still stumped on what to bring? Don’t worry, these local shops have so many amazing products that you should be able to find remarkable and unforgettable hostess gifts in a snap.
Anna’s Garden, Home & Wellness – known for plants and flowers, they offer so much more in their shop with everything from home decor to a growing wellness section.
Wolf & Rebel – self care shop filled with products ranging from crystals to perfume to sheet masks. The perfect place for all things self love and empowering.
Shop Eco – carries high quality, (mostly Canadian) independent beauty brands (soaps, bath products, and accessories) that celebrate nature’s gifts.
Whiskey Jack Boutique – Canadian made gifts and souvenirs – always super unique things here!
Ecovana – sustainable market that is eco conscious and offers bath & body, household and personal care essentials.
*Joyful Hostess Wine Disclaimer: To be clear, bringing a bottle of wine is a lovely hostess gift. Bonus – we’re lucky enough to live in an area with incredible wineries, so finding the perfect bottle is easy. To explore more of our local wineries check out Epic Wineries for listings and maybe even pick up a tasting pass. Cheers!
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