Marcy’s favorite local stores for Gift Shopping in Calgary
Ah, present shopping, specifically December Christmas shopping. The time of the year that every one loves (not). This time of the year seems to creep up on us so fast! A few years ago, I made a decision to try and support as many local stores for my Christmas shopping (and birthday shopping too!) as possible. I didn’t really know where to find the ‘good shop’ so I reached out to Facebook friends and was given some amazing recommendations. I have been shopping at these stores ever since. That is why I wanted to make YOU this guide, so you can shop local too. Not only will this help support smaller businesses (yay!) but it will also help you find really unique and interesting presents for anyone in your life. Side note: most of you have probably already finished your Christmas shopping, but if you haven’t yet – these are perfect since they are most likely a bit slower than big chain stores! WIN.
Steeling Home
(Pictured above). This is by far my favorite store in Calgary and it’s right on 17th ave downtown. I buy most of my presents from here, I am obsessed. I think almost every present I’ve gotten my sis over the last few years has been from here lol. They have the perfect mix of cute kitchen and bath-time essentials, vintage finds, books and journal must-haves, and funky home decor. This store isn’t just for the ladies, there is also a section for the men in your life. #win
Fieldstudy Shop
Located in Mission, this adorable store is a must-see for present shopping. They sell women’s clothing, gorgeous ceramics, little plant holders, body care items, and amazing nic nacs (boob pillow cases anyone?). They also sell beautiful jewelry, cute bags, delicious-smelling candles and SO much more.
The Cinder & Sage Loft
Designer and creator, Lindsay Saunders, started this company through turning a hobby of hers into an amazing business. Located in Mission, this bright and cozy loft is filled with earrings, necklaces, rings, pouches & bags, as well as candles, blankets, cards, mugs and skincare products.
Plant
Tucked away in Inglewood, this gem of a store stole my heart the first time I set foot in it. This place is NOT just a plant store as you might think it is. They have so much more there. They have the most gorgeous plants (a huge selection), cute little cactus’s and succulents, plant hangers, and ready-to-buy terrariums. Looking to add a little extra present with your plant? Fret not, they also sell cute plant pots, cards, ceramics, lip balms, honey, and candles. They also do terrarium workshops here! You can buy a ticket for yourself and for someone else as a present. A bonus of visiting this store? They have two adorable dogs named Lake and Clyde, that walk around the store and sniff and lick your hands. The sweetest puppies around and just want a lil scratch ♥ Before you walk into Plant, go to Rosso Coffee and grab yourself a tasty drink to sip on while you look around the store. I LOVE INGLEWOOD.
The Uncommons
This funky store, located in Inglewood right by Plant, sells everything from men’s clothing, unisex body care products, candles, kitchen accessories and honey, to watches, wallets, and cocktail kits. If they don’t have something you’re looking for in store, check out their online store and see their selection. When you’re done shopping here, stroll up a few blocks and grab a coffee + scone (or some wine!) at Gravity Espresso & Wine Bar. You can thank me later.
Stuff
Having a hard time finding the perfect present for your brother, boyfriend, dad or husband? Check out this trendy little store on 11th avenue, downtown. Stuff was created by Spencer Schmick, who “always wanted to have a storefront that was personally sourced and curated and held fast to a well-honed aesthetic”. They pick high quality products and choose to support local artists, artisans, and manufacturers. They sell men’s clothing, hats, whiskey glasses, cocktail and whiskey books, other ‘mens’ books, candles, men’s body care products and even furniture. A must-see shop, especially if you’re shopping for a whisky-loving, hat-wearing, beard-rocking man.
The Livery Shop
Another great store located in Inglewood (see why I love this area so much? You should check out their food scene too = favorite). They sell different types of jewelry, travel mugs, body care products, hats, camping stuff (think hats, thermos, sweaters, ect- from Camp Brand Goods) and SO MUCH MORE. They carry so many unique, local and ethical products. Highly recommend.
Lukes Drug Mart
This cute little store/cafe is a must-visit. This company was started waaayy back in 1951! They are pretty unique in the sense that you can send off mail, grab your medicine from the pharmacy, grocery shop, grab a latte, and browse records, all in the same store. It’s convenient af and theres plenty there to keep you occupied. They have a few locations, although I prefer the Bridgeland one. They carry candles, records, stationary items. plants (from Plant ^), amazing coffee selection, and most general grocery store items. I’m not sure if they have the grocery store section in the other location, but the Bridgeland one has it. They carry a lot of Canadian-made products and I love supporting them. Josh and I usually walk there to grab a coffee or chai latte and we’ve never been disappointed.
Honorable mentions:
Kent of Inglewood
Meraki Supply Co
Crafted-located in the Calgary Farmers Market
1961 Popcorn -one of my girlfriends recently started this popcorn company and honestly, the Chocolate Rosemary flavor rocked my fricken world. It was gone in hours.
The [Green]ster- one of my new favs. Their soaps have sassy little words written on them such as: Big dick energy, Small boobs, dirty mind, Ho ho holy shit, Every fucking morning, I find you sexy, and Now wash that ass. They’re amazing. Obsessed.
Good + Wild– a friend of mine, Kelsey, founded this company. They sell socially and environmentally conscious apparel for both men and women in YYC.
Talk vegan to me– another friend of mine, Andrea, and her two friends founded this vegan company. They are making a big difference in the vegan world (esp in a meat-loving province!) and they have the cutest apparel. They sell toques, bags, sweaters and much more. You can find their stuff on their website, and for locals, the Raw Eatery, and The Grinning Goat.
Market Collective– this is hands down my FAV market to visit in YYC. It happens in Dec every year and sometimes have other events throughout the year. I always buy ceramics here as well as teas, presents for my niece and nephew, kitchen gadgets, home decor, plants + holders, paintings, candles + crystals, local foods and much more. They have live music playing and different food trucks to keep you fueled for shopping. I usually like to get any Christmas presents and future birthday presents here. SUPPORT LOCAL. www.marketcollective.ca
Happy Holidays!
Marcy xx
