In Vancouver, many small, passionate companies make product,s from almond butter crunch to BC shaped cheese boards – and they make 'em with love. Vancouverites love to support the creative local businesses that make the city so fun to shop, eat, and live in. Give your a west-coast raised friend, fan or convert a gift that reps city pride and supports it … we're not talking Vancouver Monopoly.
1. Living Local gift basket from Edible Canada (212-1551 Johnston St., Granville Island)
Stocked with local edibles preserved at peak season! From world renowned Beta 5 chocolate to vegan maple bacon infused peanut butter (!) this gift basket offers a sweet taste of Vancouver's incredible food scene.
2. A Sahn helmet (find them at WALRUS, 3408 Cambie St.)
One of the most bikable cities in Canada is also home to some bike-style innovation. Sahn Helmets are the right pick for the bike lover who doesn't do spandex. Made by a local industrial designer and a sports enthusiast, this company makes helmets cool.
3. A handmade bookbag from Paper-Ya (#9 1666 Johnston St., Granville Island)
This paper arts shop on Granville Island is a writer's wonderland. Anyone who geeks out with decorative paper, blank books, and funky cards will find something quirky to get creative with here. Check out the fresh selection of screen printed or hand sewn book bags, laptop cases, and handbags.
4. Vancouver Day planner from Oscars Art Books (1533 West Broadway)
Oscars Art Books is Vancouver's premier selection of art books and calendars. Choose from over 2000 different styles of calendar, many of which feature a beaut view of the best coast. (They're all beaut views though, aren't they?)
5. A snowboard from Pacific Boarder (1793 West 4th)
When it comes to snow, skate, surf and bike sporting goods, Pacific border offers the best in the west. Splurging on a board or some gear for your a hill-hitting friend will set them up for a winter of epic riding.
6. A Forbidden Vancouver walking tour
If you'd rather go the experiental gift route, accompany your pal on an entertaining and informative walking tour of Gastown, Granville Street or Prohibition City. It's a fun way to experience the most notorious neighborhoods' rich histories, and fall in love with Vancouver a little more.
