Finding the right gift isn’t always easy, but this year’s CTA staff picks are sure to get the cogs turning! Here’s what we want to give (and get!) this season.
Rebecca Mackenzie
The Stocking Stuffer
I like things “spicy” and a bottle of the County Yum Club Hot Honey is a perfect stocking stuffer. It goes great on a cheese plate or adds some zing to salad dressings and sauces. You can find it at Cafe Belong at Evergreen Brick Works (conveniently located where our office is)!
The Gift
I adore the Kate Golding tea towels with images inspired from Prince Edward County – my favs are the Sand Dunes print, the Water Towers print and the Crystal Palace print. You can find them at Zest Kitchen Shop in Picton (and a few other select retailers in Ontario).
Agatha Podgorski
The Stocking Stuffer
The Chili OKAZU by the ladies from Abokichi is an umami-rich chili, miso, and sesame oil based jar of heaven. I’m addicted and will be giving it to anyone and everyone I love this season. It’s made in Toronto, it’s spicy and it’s delicious. Win-win-win!
The Gift
Handmade Canadian Rolling Pins by Cattails Woodwork in PEI. Hint hint: These handmade rollers are simply stunning — and I love making pie. They’re hand turned from beautiful woods like walnut and oak. They’re beautiful and functional, which is really what every kitchen gadget should be!
Danielle Katz
The Stocking Stuffer(s)
A go-to spot for gifts big and small is Toronto-based natural skincare company, Consonant. They have amazing soaps made with essentials oils that I love!
My edible stocking stuffer picks are the delicious macaroons from Earth + City. Right now, the seasonal flavours are peppermint cacao, gingerbread, and eggnog. Three of each should fit nicely!
The Gift
I love this AMAZING ‘Hello World’ globe from Toronto based Prose & Fawns Paperie. Artist, Jenna, also does beautiful prints and greeting cards with her super creative and distinct font. Anything with an inspirational quote gets me!
Linsday Young
The Stocking Stuffers
An assortment of cheese from Monforte Dairy is all I need to make my stocking even stinkier.
The Gift
I already have this (because I couldn’t wait for someone to buy it for me!) but this Kid Icarus Ontario print lists a bunch of great things to be discovered in the province. You can buy it in store at Toronto’s Kensington Market, or online. They should make one about all the delicious food to discover in Ontario too *wink wink nudge nudge*….
Jen Tweedie
The Stocking Stuffer
I’m a huge sucker for mulled wine and cider. It’s like a warm, festive hug from the inside. If you’re a DIY nutter, find yourself a simple airtight tin/jar and compile your very own mulling kit with your choice of spices and dried Ontario cranberries. Include a handwritten label and instructions, find the perfect bow and KA-BLAMO — you’ve just given a stocking stuffer that everyone can enjoy, with a homemade touch!
The Gift
Canvas tote bags are classic, super functional, and can totes (ha) replace a stocking — no Christmas required. Add a few yummy treats as a “thank you” for a friend/colleague, or load it up with your favourite Ontario foods. Luckily for you, tote bags are having a moment right now, so you’re guaranteed to find them at most art and craft shows, on Etsy, or even at your favourite market.
Still need a hand? Head to our Holiday Headquarters for even more Gift, Food, and Drink ideas!
