If you've been following me on Instagram, you've likely caught wind of my commitment to make this Christmas special, by buying gifts from local businesses—places where I know the makers by name. While it might be tempting to take the easy route with Amazon or big-box stores, the joy of supporting someone's dream or putting groceries on their table far outweighs the convenience. In the spirit of this, I've curated a list of some of my favourite small shops to inspire your holiday shopping.
1. The Clay People:
If I've ever brewed you a cup of coffee at my place, you know my obsession with pottery. There's something magical about wrapping your hands around a one-of-a-kind mug, feeling the love poured into its creation, and sipping hot coffee on a slow morning.
The Clay People don't just craft cute mugs; their entire collection, especially the wheat-themed pieces, resonates with the soul of the prairies. And their Christmas Tree set is my favourite Christmas decoration in my house. Mary and Lynn, the mother-daughter duo behind it,
infuse their work with a unique charm.
2. Hershel Retreat House:
For those who seemingly have everything, consider gifting an experience. Hershel Retreat House offers a perfect getaway with its cozy charm.
Nestled in the serene rural community of Hershel, it provides ample space for family and friends to gather around the kitchen table or fireplace. Escape the hustle and bustle and create cherished moments with loved ones. https://herschelretreat.ca/
3. Cattle Cait:
Cait's handmade pieces have been a staple in my wardrobe for a long time. Her unique creations, always blending utility with decoration, stand up to her classic tagline, "Be useful as well as decorative".
My favorites include my Sisu hat and Wild Wollie toque. This year, I've got my eye on her Fancy Loop Bangles—hint, hint for any family reading this! https://cattlecait.com/
4. Rolling D Workwear:
You've probably seen me sporting my Rolling D workwear vest; it's arguably the most functional item in my wardrobe. Its design is perfect for chilly days and accommodates everything from wrangling cattle to riding horses.
What makes it even better? Rolling D workwear products are proudly Canadian and created by hardworking ranch women Tomina and Cheryl. https://rollingdworkwear.com/pages/about-us-1
5. High Heels & Canola Fields:
Lesley, a fierce advocate for agriculture and mental health, offers a delightful collection of farm-themed apparel. Getting to photograph Lesley was a dream come true. Support your farmer friends with unique pieces like the "coffee cattle and mental health" tee and "world's okayest grain cart driver."
My favourite part is that proceeds go to The Do More Agriculture Foundation for mental health initiatives in agriculture. https://highheelsandcanolafields.com/
6. Paige 1912:
For those who appreciate thoughtfully made, functional clothing, like I do, Paige's creations hit the mark.
Her shirts, crafted in southern Alberta, boast high quality and are tailored to fit a woman's body. Plus, they're just downright cute—perfect for the cowgirl in your life. https://www.paigecallaway.com/
7. Kidding Around Soaps and Such:
Neil once gifted this goats milk soap to me and I've been hooked on it ever since. Tanis offers a variety of delightful options, colours, and unique scents; my personal favourite is the country clothesline scent.
I had the absolute pleasure of getting to know the adorable goats behind this brand through their branding session this summer! https://kiddingaroundsoaps.com/
8. Keystone Equine:
Lee, the amazing soul behind Keystone Equine, shares her wisdom and stories through two beautiful books. I've read her touching words for so long that I had a total fan-girl moment during her branding session. Keystone Equine is a must-have for any horse lover. Her books are a blend of poetry and life lessons. Discover the beauty of Lee's creations, and consider them for the horse enthusiasts on your list. https://cattlecait.com/collections/keystone-equine
9. Kusler Silver Design:
Move over diamonds; Ann's turquoise-on-silver creations steal the show. From stunning jewelry to functional cowboy gear, her pieces are truly unique.
You can see the craftsmanship and effort that goes into each beautiful item. https://www.kuslersilverdesign.com/
10. Prairie Sweater Co:
High-quality Canadian-made clothing that embraces slow fashion—Tabetha's creations tick all the right boxes. She has recently been doing some natural dyes for her products, and they are so cool! Did you know you can use avocado pits to dye clothing pink? How cool is that!
Tabetha's commitment to producing beautiful and sustainable products shines through as a maker, mother, and genuinely sweet human. https://www.prairiesweaterco.com/
11. Trailblazher:
Hold Trailblazher in your hands, and you'll feel an undeniable connection to the stories of rural women, beautifully presented in this high-quality tabletop magazine. Trailblazher has a way of connecting me to my roots and history but also inspiring me to follow my dreams.
I gifted my grandmother a subscription a few years ago, and I still love hearing her thoughts on the stories or reading them with her when I visit.
12. Ramblin' Rose Creative:
Did you know you can ask for a photo session for Christmas? It is a great way to actually get in photos and capture some precious moments with your family. Photo sessions also make great gifts for grandparents, grads, expecting mothers, etc.
I truly believe photos make the most precious gift!. Consider a gift card for one of my sessions to create lasting memmories together.
https://www.ramblinrosecreative.com/contact