Operation ‘Get That Gift’
Stuck in a fruitcake-shaped rut?
Is there someone on your list that’s hard to buy for? Never fear! Here are a few of our favourite places to find that perfect gift.
Heavens to Betsy is a self-proclaimed knick-knack bonanza. They have an eclectic mix for pretty much everyone on your list—kitchen gadgets, accessories, wallets, unique jewellery, Christmas ornaments and a few robots thrown in for good measure.
Blend Creations is our destination of choice for unique Twitter necklaces, bottle openers, and emoticon cufflinks. It’s geek chic at its best.
Check out Lee Valley Tools for some great finds for the handyman, the chef, and the gardener you know. Shop online, or take advantage of their pre-paid parcel pick up service. We love the crokinole board and wooden log kit. The gyroscopes would make really cool stocking stuffers for kids or for the young at heart (like our beloved).
PlayvalueToys is a mecca of puzzles, board games, LEGO and Playmobil options. There’s a trampoline at the back of the store, which is perfect for toddlers to let off some steam. (Just make sure they’re supervised.)
Consider Bushtukah for the outdoorsy people you know. How about a new backpack, cold weather sleeping bag, or an odometer for the long-distance cyclist or commuter? Take your pick.
Speaking of outdoor pursuits, check out this hockey shot training device for kids. It was developed by two hockey players who grew up on outdoor rinks in the Ottawa Valley and allows kids to practice rapid fire shooting while saving you repairs to your drywall, garage doors, windows, and major appliances.
Gilligallou Bird is a lovely new shop for the bird nerd in your life. Feeders, charming birdhouses, and specially-blended bags of high-quality seed are their specialty.
DeSerres at St. Laurent is a labyrinth of art-related goods for creative folks of all ages. Paint-by-numbers, scrapbooking kits, finger-painting sets and a million other things…we love to give the gift of creativity.
Whatever you decide to purchase for that tough-to-buy-for person, remind yourself that it’s got to be better than fruitcake. Tested by Andrea T., Ottawa