Holiday Guide 2024: Sustainable, Local, and Handmade Gifts from the Comox Valley & Vancouver Island
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The holiday season is here, and there’s no better way to celebrate than by supporting local artisans and makers across the Comox Valley and Vancouver Island. This year, Joie Designs has curated a guide filled with sustainable, handmade, and locally crafted items that showcase the character of our community. Here are some of our favourite finds for this holiday season!
Adore and Adorn Yourself with Wearable Art
Joie Designs
At Joie Designs, we bring nature-inspired elegance to life with minimalist sterling silver and gold vermeil jewelry. Each piece reflects the spirit of the Pacific Northwest and makes the perfect gift for those who embrace a wild-at-heart, laid-back luxury vibe.
Northwest by Nature
Explore Northwest By Nature’s apparel, inspired by the beauty of the West Coast and created with sustainability in mind. Their ethically made clothing and accessories encourage people to enjoy nature and appreciate our interconnectedness.
This holiday season, elevate your gift-giving with the timeless appeal of leather goods, handmade by Amy Woulfe right here in the Comox Valley. Wolf Blossom items range from $25-$310, making them a versatile choice for those who appreciate craftsmanship and elegance.
For Your Body and Home: Your Temple and Your Sanctuary
Wind + Willow Co.
Handcrafted concrete decor from Wind + Willow Co. combines simplicity with elegance. Their pieces, made with love on Vancouver Island, make thoughtful gifts that add a modern yet earthy touch to any space.
Sea & Weave
Sea & Weave’s macramé art is crafted from sustainable materials and driftwood collected from Vancouver Island shores. Their popular take-home macramé kits allow you to bring this art form into your home. These kits make wonderful gifts and are perfect for anyone who loves getting creative.
Salish Sea Botanicals
Salish Sea Botanicals offers skincare products infused with locally foraged extracts that capture the essence of the West Coast. Their organic serums and facial oils, free of palm oil, make for deeply nourishing and luxurious skincare gifts.
Shop In-Person at These Local Gems
Island Affair Giftware – Comox
For five years, Island Affair Giftware has connected customers with over 150 local artists. Their store in Downtown Comox features handcrafted items from local creatives.
West Coast Karma
Rooted in the Comox Valley, West Coast Karma offers cozy, nature-inspired clothing alongside a selection of locally made products in their Courtenay store.
Jipsi Tree
JipSi Tree’s artisanal clothing, crafted entirely on Vancouver Island, is designed, sewn, and printed locally. Their Cumberland shop showcases other handcrafted goods, making it a one-stop shop for unique holiday finds.
Tasteful Gifts: Eat, Drink, and Be Merry
The Mustard Lady
The Mustard Lady’s Courtenay storefront offers delicious, locally made mustards alongside other regionally sourced products. It’s the perfect stop for flavorful, unique gifts for any foodie.
Atlas Café
Atlas Café has been a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike, serving up hearty breakfasts, bustling lunches, and inspired dinners. Their gift certificates make the perfect gift for food lovers.
Smith Lake Farm
Smith Lake Farm is located just north of Comox, nestled in nature. Gift certificates for unique glamping experiences; cozy tiny house stays; beekeeping course or a private sauna and lakeside cold plunge are available on their website. Buy farm grown goods: beef, honey, chicken or beeswax products and get free disc golf or even sauna experiences with your farm good purchase! Win-win
Create Memories: Experiences to Treasure
Snow Days at Mount Washington
Give the gift of adventure with lift tickets or gift cards to Mount Washington. From skiing and snowboarding to tubing and snowshoeing, it’s the ultimate winter experience.
Glamping and Sauna at Smith Lake Farm
Smith Lake Farm offers gift certificates for unforgettable experiences like glamping stays, sauna sessions, and a Beef Club membership—perfect for those who love rustic luxury and relaxation.
Art Classes with West Coast Expressive
West Coast Expressive Arts offers creative, therapeutic art classes for all skill levels. A standout experience is their "Mothership" series, which invites moms to relax and enjoy the benefits of creative self-expression.
Product Spotlight: Reversible Necklaces= Versatility and Value
Our reversible necklaces are where luxury meets versatility. Enjoy two necklaces in one, complete with an adjustable chain length that complements various neckline styles. The front features our signature High Tide design, inspired by the majestic mountains and ocean, while the back showcases your choice of four meaningful stones: Mother of Pearl, Amazonite, Sodalite, and Turquoise. Each stone represents qualities like protection, calm, creativity, and nurturing energy.
Why Choose Local?
Supporting local small businesses keeps the community vibrant and strengthens the local economy. Local businesses often source their materials nearby, reducing carbon footprints and promoting sustainable practices. You’re not just purchasing a product; you’re giving a unique item crafted with care and contributing to the growth of your community.
Happy Holidays! Thank you for shopping local and supporting the incredible makers of the Comox Valley and Vancouver Island.