It’s holiday time in the city. The first snow is softly falling blanketing the streets with it’s fluffy flakes. The lights are all aglow, bringing the spirit of the holidays to life. Mistletoes are hung brining couples closer together. And… Christmas shopping is well under way with hurried shoppers scattering from store to store in the busy malls trying to find that perfect present for under the tree. But the stress of Christmas shopping doesn’t have to be so. Avoid the chaos and shop early at the yearly One of a Kind Christmas Show and Sale.
Coming around every holiday season since 1975, it has become one of the largest craft shows in North America. Their aim has always been to feature unique, handmade crafts by talented, local artists. Creating a shopping experience celebrating craftsmanship and creativity. And it definitely is a fun shopping experience with so much variety under one roof. You can truly find a gift for everyone on your “nice” list, … and maybe even on your “naughty” list.
To attend the show, running for 11 days, tickets are $15 at the door or on-line for adults. I was fortunate enough to get a media pass this year so I was able to put my $15 towards buying some goodies. However, I do think that if your bank account is crying for mercy after the holidays you just booked for next year (lol), the entry fee might be a bit of a deterrent. Especially considering that fact that things at the show ain’t cheap.
There are many very talented artists selling their creations at the show. Everything from wall art to ceramics, textiles and the adorable throw pillows. Accents for your home and kitchen, and cozy knits for your hands and feet. Delicious smelling organic soaps, and delicious tasting treats. Even the most discerning shopper can find the perfect gift for the hardest person to shop for. So if your pocket book is brimming over with your Christmas bonus, tis is THE place to get all your holiday shopping done. But even for those on a tight budget, the One of a Kind show is a great way to spend an evening getting into the holiday cheer, getting inspired, and even finding the perfect treasure at the perfect price (they do exist!).
Now, what kind of travel blogger would I be if I didn’t find the travel inspired creations at the show? Not a great one, I know. But do not fear, I found the perfect gift ideas for the wanderlust lover on your list! And even though the show is over for the year, you can still shop these goodies on their sites. (No affiliate marketing here, I just truly thought these were awesome and deserving of some love.)
First up - SeaLuxe - Beauty harvested from the ocean. Luxury self care products sourced from the best that nature has to offer. They make natural products free from paragons and all the other nasty stuff, sourcing ingredients sustainably and ethically. Plus it was the best designed booth of the whole show, in my designer opinion, making you feel like your were at the beach in paradise. And it smelled amazing. Check out their site at sealexe.ca and give them a follow on IG.
Second fav - Behind the Woods - Wall art pieces that I adore! They use recycled materials and reclaimed wood to create silhouettes that reveal texture and colour. There are loads to choose from such as city scapes, animals and nature, adventure, and my all time favourite (of course) the world map! The second I laid my eyes on it, it was wanderlust at first sight. If anyone is wondering what to get me for Christmas, hint hint… just saying. Give their site a look at behindthewoods.ca and like on IG.
Last but certainly not least - F As In Frank Paper Goods Co. - Letterpressed paper goods and accessories inspired by adventure and life in the great outdoors. The designer in me fell all over these as soon as I heard the word “letterpress”. The traveller in me wanted to buy it all. Visit their site to see their amazing line of products at frankpapergoods.com and IG.
I had a great time at the show being inspired and meeting the amazing artists behind the art. But the show wouldn’t be complete without tasting all the goodies in the Flavours food section. Some shoutouts are a must to my fav yummy products…
For the tea lover - tealish Fine Teas has amazing loose leaf teas that I can’t get enough of. In so many flavours that I can’t keep up in trying them all. tealish.com and IG
For some holiday cocktails - Split Tree Cocktail Co. make yummy syrups that make the best mixed drinks. Perfect for your holiday party entertaining. My fav… Lavender Lemon. Try it out! splittree.ca and IG
For some savoury deliciousness - The Garlic Box makes preserves, condiments, sauces, and my fav dressing ever, Garlic & Mango. A must try for a healthy treat! thegarlicbox.com
The show comes around in the spring as well so drop in, you might find me there.
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