This year, skip the mall madness and online out-of-stock angst so that it won't haunt you, again, like the ghost of Christmas past. Instead, tweak your holiday shopping experience to be more meaningful, unique and sustainable.
At Port Moody's affable Newport Village—beloved by those who know it, a must-visit for those who don't—experience the yuletide spirit among the local merchants.
'Tis the season of giving after all, so there's no better time to buy local and show your appreciation to small businesses to help strengthen the health and growth of the community.
The village's walkable, fresh-air plaza with distinct European-town feel and handsome brick-front buildings is home to more than 50 shops and services.
Fashion, beauty, toys, fresh food and drink, accessories, floral, housewares and one-of-a-kind items meet every gift-giving list and holiday shopping need. The bonus: free parking and ample sidewalk bike racks.
Here's a sampling of inspiration for your holiday shopping:
To pamper you and yours
Celebrations, family and friend get-togethers, and office parties are back on your social calendar, so it's time to treat yourself. Or treat someone special with a gift certificate.
Look and feel your best with a stylish cut or colour from KAST Hair Studio. Perhaps express your individuality with a henna (mehndi) design, body art applied by their professional creative mehndi artist.
If your nails need some TLC (men and kids, too) or you're looking for the perfect polish or gel colour, Citrus Nail Lounge will get your fingers and toes in tip-top shape for the holidays with a mani and pedi (think festive nail art, too).
Delicious eats, edible specialties
Whether to elevate a dish for your holiday feast, maybe glaze your main or hit your greens with a lively vinaigrette, or for a foodie who appreciates an Ultra-Premium EVOO, stop by Olive the Best (with tasting room) for the freshest, healthiest, gourmet olive oils and balsamic vinegars, specialty oils and vinegars, and gifts.
If seafood's on your holiday menu, visit Inlet Seafoods for fresh high-quality products, where the salmon is always wild. Most seafood is sourced from local waters, like Haida Gwaii, Cortes Island and Skeena River. Don't miss their housemade sauces and dressings.
Stop by The Little Butcher for locally-sourced meats, store-made sausages, marinades and side dishes; 95% of products are from B.C. Additive-free beef and naturally raised products are hallmarks. Pantry items, vegetarian and vegan options are available.
St. James's Well, the friendly neighbourhood watering hole, is a great gathering spot for British-inspired pub grub or to refuel after shopping. There's a range of reliably good share plates and meals, B.C. craft, and Ireland's best tap, Guinness.
Unique finds, holiday hits
Fresh cut seasonal greens, holly, fresh red berry Ilex and pine cones are just some of the festive foliage (with/without candles) you'll find in a holiday table arrangement from Port Moody Flowers. Fragrant Christmas swags, wreaths, centrepieces and Grinch trees are among the seasonal décor.
Wish On A Star offers quality hand-picked products and thoughtfully curated items, with notable brands among their joyful collection of accessories, home décor, jewelry, and more. Their gift specialist has you covered, as does their complimentary gift wrapping.
Creative, fun, and educational—just the kind of toys you'll find at The Village Toy Shop. Kids will surely stay off the naughty list for any toy here, with seasonal hits like Christmas Scavenger Hunt and the Science To The Max-All Season Snowman set.
The new Unmediocre Kitchen (formerly Port Moody Refillery, specializing in quality bulk loose-leaf teas) carries purposeful items for any chef's dream kitchen, quality goods and sustainable products from lines that are local, organic, refillable, ethical and artisan-made.
Everything you need for the avid birder in your life and your outdoor feathered friends is at Backyard Bird Centre. Selection is wide-ranging, from birdhouses, feeders and birdbaths, to garden décor, handcrafted jewelry, nature clothing and accessories, including binoculars.
Furry family members also have a dedicated shop. Look to the Bone & Biscuit Co. for health-conscious high-quality natural and raw pet food, supplements, grooming supplies and accessories, artisan baked goods, clothing and boutique toys.
For more information, visit www.shopnewportvillage.com.
