We’re thinking a lot about Christmas lately, and how to make holiday gift-giving as meaningful as possible. This is a season that can be undermined by stress and commercialism, but it really doesn’t need to be that way. It’s actually a golden opportunity to build a better world. One way is through choosing to buy local—which, for us, means Vancouver, BC. And another way is by buying from women-owned and -led small businesses. That’s why we created a list of local Vancouver holiday gift baskets that you can buy from women’s small businesses.
Why would you actively support women-owned and -led businesses in the community? Well, for one thing, did you know that women’s businesses create more jobs, lowering the rate of unemployment and strengthening the economy? Secondly, research shows that although women drive economic growth, they have a much harder time accessing capital and community support?
A little intentional shopping can start to turn the tide, empowering capable women leaders and building a stronger economy for everyone. With that in mind, these are our recommendations.
Yes, we are a women-owned and -led company, and we’re pretty dang proud of it! Plus, our local Vancouver holiday gift baskets are totally focused on small business owners and artisans in our city. Depending on the tastes of the loved one you’re trying to spoil this season, you could choose boxes built around gourmet food, tantalizing snacks, wellness, or home décor.
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A Cookie Box from A Bread Affair
All of A Bread Affair’s artisanal bakers have been trained under Tanya Belanger, the iconic founder of BC’s first certified organic bakery. Come Christmastime, A Bread Affair’s absolutely exquisite offerings include a cookie box that you can fill with holiday favourites. How about Chocolate Crinkles, Candy Cane, Honey & Salted Caramel, or Ginger Molasses? How about a selection of shortbreads and brownies? Trust us; this is a taste experience worth sharing.
Lee Murphy co-owns this farm-based artisanal food company along with her farmer-winemaker husband. They grow all of the fruit featured in their sumptuous seasonal preserves, including their Spiced Cranberry and Iced Apple Wine preserve. They recommend serving this holiday treat over warm camembert, and we can’t say that’s a bad idea at all!
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Dumpling Masterclass with Judy the Dumpling Diva
We are big on dumplings here at Granville Island Delivery Co. and we can say that Judy Lam Maxwell isn’t called the Dumpling Diva for no reason. Treat your loved one to an incredibly unique experience with this masterclass for making authentic Chinese dumplings (i.e., dim sum) in the heart of Vancouver’s historic Chinatown.
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French Lavender Scrub and Manuka Honey Cleanser from Cascadia Soap Co.
Francine lumberers makes botanical-focused skincare products in a rich French tradition of harvesting the abundance of the land for the good of the community. We especially love this company’s French Lavender Scrub and Manuka Honey Cleanser. (It’s why we feature both in our Deluxe Wellness Spa box and Wellness Spa box.)
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Get Closer All-Natural Deodorant from k’pure Naturals
Karen Hoektra is the force of nature behind k’pure, a line of all natural skin care products. Their Get Closer All-Natural Deodorant is their flagship product and current best-seller, and we totally understand why. To put it simply: it actually works.
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Coconut Jam from Miss Chen Kaya
Ever had pandan-flavoured coconut jam? If you know someone who loves a creamy spread (think coconut manna), then you have to share the pure joy that is Miss Chen Kaya’s coconut jam. This business is also especially cool because it was started by Chef Alex Chen’s daughter Izzy as a way to raise funds for a puppy. Support the next generation of women entrepreneurs!
We admire the women running small businesses in Vancouver so much, and it’s an honour to showcase their offerings. Why not support your community and the women within it by choosing to buy local Vancouver holiday gift baskets from women-run businesses? It’s a powerful way to make this coming Christmas way more meaningful.