Last Minute Gift List
There are less than two weeks until Christmas, and chances are, you’ve spent most of the last two months studying and writing final papers. If you haven’t even started shopping, you’re not alone -- and so begins a different kind of pressure. But, there is no need to fret, because The Argus has compiled a list of unique last minute gifts, sure to leave your friends and family feeling loved and appreciated (and keep your stress to a minimum).
1. Family or Couples Photoshoot
This is a really beautiful idea for parents or partners, because sometimes the perfect gift just can’t be found in a store. No sweater or scented candle compares to the memories you’ll get to keep forever. Plus, it makes for a really fun day! Check out some wonderful local photographers, such as Brandy Kenna (@incompassphotography), Kay Lee (@k.leephoto), and of course, The Argus’ own Sarah McPherson (@sarmcpherson).
2. Lovely Body Holiday Items
Located on Red River Road, Lovely Body (@lovelybodyproducts) is a natural beauty store that offers handmade soaps, bath bombs, sugar scrubs, lotions, hair care and more, all without the use of Sodium Laureth Sulfates (SLS), petroleum products, or parabens. While any of their products would be a hit, their holiday items are worth checking out in particular, such as the Frozen Baubles Cold Process Soap or Sugarplum Sugar Scrub.
3. Local Merch
If you have a friend who is finishing up their last semester and then heading out of town, some local merch to remind them of their time in the Bay is the perfect gift! From YQT crewneck sweaters from Northies Brand (@northiesbrand) and Thunder Bay Pennants from Pretty Fly Co. (@prettyfly_co), to a wide range of cool swag from Sleeping Giant Brewing Company (@sgbco), you’re sure to find something that will turn heads wherever your loved one ends up.
4. Experiential Gifts
We all have someone on our list that seems to have everything, or is just downright difficult to shop for. An unexpected but always gratifying thing to give is the gift of quality time. This is especially great for the little ones in your life -- the possibilities are endless and the memories will last far longer than the clothes they grow out of on a weekly basis. Pick up day-passes to Boulder Bear Climbing Centre, go skating at the marina, or buy tickets to a Thunderwolves game or a Magnus Theatre show. If you’re down south for the holidays, you can even book a sleepover at Ripley’s Aquarium or the ROM!
5. Community Coffee Card
The Community Coffee Card is a win-win-win: first and most importantly, 100% of the proceeds support the youth based organizations Our Kids Count and Evergreen A United Neighbourhood. Second, it’s affordable (only $10) and third, if you’re really in a rush, you can pick it up at any of the nine participating coffee houses! Whoever you gift it to will be entitled to two free coffees or teas at each of the participating coffee shops and it is valid through 2020!
kraft. Holiday Local Artisan Box
This curated box is filled with $70 worth of home decor, food products, bath and body products, and clothing accessories from seven local artisans. You can order the box online and it will be delivered right to you or your loved one’s door (within Thunder Bay city limits). You can also order all four seasonal boxes at once for a gift that keeps on giving all year round! The final date to order the holiday box is December 17th, while supplies last.
