I'm a bit advocate for helping people get through the holidays in a way that's giving, fun and relaxing. And I think helping avoid as much clutter as we can -- while also shopping local -- is a great place to start!
The holiday season is a beautiful time of giving, but it's easy to get lost in what "giving" actually means. Gifts are certainly a part of that, yes (if you have the means and want to express your love that way), but giving gifts doesn't always have to pertain to something physical.
Some of my quick tips to AVOID adding clutter to friends' and family members' homes...
Don't buy something just to buy it
Consider purchasing experiences, like show or movie tickets
What about a gift certificate to one of our local restaurants?
Buying for a kid? Get their parents or guardians involved! Their kid probably doesn't need another Spiderman-themed toy or LEGO set
Avoid the fads!
Bonus tips And one of my favourite tips, that I really want to embrace, is not being afraid to buy secondhand! A lot of the items available on our local buy/sell pages or at the secondhand shops... are STELLAR.
Think: CONSUMABLE!
10 clutter-friendly gift ideas available in Yellowknife
Let's start with some ideas for the whole family!
1. Movie tickets
Just about anybody in the family would appreciate a gift certificate to the Capitol Theatre here in Yellowknife. A simple, yet thoughtful gift, that helps get everyone out of the house!
2. Food
Have you ever thought of making a little gift basket of some of the great local goods made here in Yellowknife? I'm thinking you could grab a fresh loaf of sourdough from Bush Order Provisions, a beautiful spread from Juniper Supply Co., and some beautiful sausages from The McTurks, and you have the beginning of a great little gift basket! From there, you could add a cocktail, mocktail or hot cocoa mix ☕️ and a cozy candle (so many local-buying options: Mahsi Cho, Ivy & Birch, Charlotte Henry Home)... and voila! A lovely night in. Another GREAT option? Salt Co. Charcuterie
3. Food
No, we're not done with food... because another option is a gift certificate for one of our local family restaurants. Bluebell Eatery, anyone? Sundog Trading Post? With this gift, don't feel like you have to get enough money that will pay for the entire meal. Even if it's $50, that takes a nice little chunk out of the bill to make going out for a dinner that much more of a treat. We also have so many amazing lovely local coffee shops! Think: Javaroma, Birchwood Coffee, Barren Ground Coffee, and From Scratch Bakeshop & Boba.
4. Family portraits
Another gift certificate suggestion! Again with this one, you definitely don't have to - and shouldn't be expected to - give what it would cost for an entire session. But what if you could contribute a little something? Do you know a family that would love something like that, but has difficulty making it a priority? Give them a gift certificate from Samantha Stuart Photography Inc. or Hannah Eden Photography. You won't regret contributing to those smiles.
Now what about those kiddos??!
5. Markers, coloured pencils, colouring booksDepending on their age, kids can go through these quite quickly! And if you know they’re creative and love taking colour to page, why not get a ❄️themed❄️colouring book? The Descendants, anyone? There are even Yellowknife-themed ones, available at local shops.
6. Clothes
Now I know, you're probably thinking, "YAWN, yeah right! My kid love clothes!" But what if they're of their favourite character? Bluey, anyone? It's easy to overbuy kids' toys of their favourite character, but what about something they can wear proudly to school after Christmas break? And think secondhand first! Try Boreal Kids Co. in Center Ice Plaza, or The Salvation Army Thrift Store and Vinnie’s thrift store.
7. A sing-a-long in February at Northern Arts and Cultural Centre - NACC
There are TWO sing-a-long concert options coming up at NACC in February. And they are MADE for kids! Any Frozen fans? Check this out! Or what about the always loveable Miranda Currie? Make sure to check these shows out for your loved ones (or your own kiddos)!
And now, for teachers, friends, employees... just about anyone!
8. Ornament 🎄
Thinking you want to give something Christmas related? I'd stick to an ornament for the tree. The main idea behind this is that there's generally room for more ornaments! But! I'd do some investigating first. If you know someone is particular about their ornament style OR if they're a teacher and get 25 ornaments every Christmas... choose something else! And! You guessed it! There are local options for these purchases, including signed. and Down to Earth Gallery!
9. Book (digital if appropriate!)
Books can be such beautiful gifts - for just about anyone! Have a teen who loves their fiction? What about a friend that's going to Mexico in the new year? Or someone who's longing to learn more about ... just about anything! Yellowknife Books is your one-stop shop. Know someone who has a Kindle or Kobo or is looking to get one? Another great option! Get them a digital book.
10. Spa treatment
Something as simple as a manicure can go a long way in someone's day. I recommend Etandah Organic Day Spa if you're looking for a beautiful, inclusive experience... that is also just chill! A $20 to $50 gift certificate is a great way to encourage someone to take time for themselves.
I hope this helps you if you're struggling to find that perfect physical something for someone. Remember, sometimes the best gifts are much simpler than we think. Happy holidays, everyone!
-Alyssa
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