Design & Style

The procrastinator’s no-mall holiday gift guide

Here at Fireside Design-Build, none of us have done our gift shopping with only two weeks till Christmas.  The order-online ship has sailed, and the streets and shops are getting rather hectic.

We are all pretty busy this time of year with our work-hard, play-hard holiday lifestyles, but we still want to give unique gifts.  And we hate the mall.

So, if you are unlucky enough to be part of our procrastination club, this guide is for you.

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A good quality blanket is always a welcome gift. These Faribault Woolen Mill throws are one of those items that will be kept and loved for life. Available at Tiny Feast at 217 McDermot ave., which is one of our favourite places to buy all our gifts and self-gifts alike.
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Our favourite thing about these pieces is the soft tactility of the matte exterior and the contrast to the high gloss interior. Each piece is totally unique and hand made by local ceramist Rachael Kroeker. From $30.
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Sculptural and functional concrete planters from local makers Vreem are sold with a succulent plant included. These are great gifts for anyone, and they bring window sills, office desks, and countertops to life. From $28. You can find Vreem at Luckygirl studio pop-up shop sale this Sunday at 70 Albert st.
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We love useful gifts, especially ones that have architectural line drawings of building facades on them like these tea towels from the Bay downtown.
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This sterling silver necklace from Hilary Druxman makes a great romantic gift. Did you fall in love in Winnipeg? She probably won’t be able to resist how sweet and thoughtful you are with this one. $30 at Hilary Druxman, 258 McDermot ave.
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Bags may be a daring gift, since women are so opinionated about them. But we think this reclaimed rabbit fur and leather clutch is a sure win. No faux, no vinyl. Beautiful design and great quality that will be a lifetime piece. $130.(If she prefers a bit more colour, they also sell unique two-tone colour leather clutches for $70). Barbara and Cecile are going to be at this weekend’s craft sale Luckygirl studio pop-up shop at 70 Albert st.
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We all adore these cream and gold mugs from Mud and Stone studio. They can be found at The Forks Trading Company. Mud and Stone are also exhibiting at Luckygirl pop-up shop Dec. 11-12 at 70 Albert.
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You can’t go wrong giving someone a hanging terrarium. They’re a space-saving clutter-reducing way to add texture and beauty to the corner of any room. Verde terrariums can be found on the main floor of the Crocus building at 211 Bannatyne ave. (Main st. entrance).

Jaclyn Wiebe is the co-founder of FIRESIDE DESIGN BUILD INC., a Winnipeg based full-service design build company with a focus on custom residential renovation: www.firesidedesign.ca.