Prem’s Holiday 2024 Gift Guide
TLDR: Shopping local is the best gift you can ever give this Holiday Season (for the person you’re gifting and for the small business owner while you feel all the good feels for supporting local).
Ah, the holiday season – that wonderful time of year when we collectively decide to stress ourselves out over finding the perfect gifts for everyone we know and care about. It’s also the time when online shopping carts overflow with goodies from massive big-box stores, which, let’s face it, don’t need our hard-earned dollars nearly as much as the amazing local businesses in our own backyard.
Hi, it’s Prem here – your friendly yoga teacher and local Coquitlam yoga studio owner – with a little festive nudge. This year, can we please just skip the big-box mayhem and instead turn our attention to the incredible family-owned, women-run, and BIPOC-led businesses right here in the Tri-Cities and Vancouver? These businesses are the heart and soul of our community. They’re run by people who know your name, remember your usual order, and genuinely care about whether you’re happy with your purchase. With more and more franchises popping up on our streets, these local businesses could really use our support more than ever.
I’ll admit it – I love to shop (to Jai’s dismay). (Who doesn’t enjoy the thrill of discovering something amazing?) But what I really love is shopping where my dollars truly matter. There’s a kind of magic in knowing that every purchase helps someone grow their dream, supports a family, or sustains a little shop that brings so much character and warmth to our community.
With that in mind, I’ve put together a holiday shopping guide to highlight some of my absolute favorite local gems. These are the places I love to browse, shop, and recommend, and I promise they’re perfect for all the thoughtful gift-givers out there. Think of this guide as your shortcut to being the ultimate holiday hero – while making a real difference in our community. Let’s dive in!
Wellness & Self-Care
Jai Yoga Studio
(Yes, that’s us!) I could write 100 encyclopedias on why Jai Yoga makes the greatest gift of all time for your loved ones (and yourself too). But I simply can’t (I think I’ll break the internet if I do). Jai Yoga Studio is 100% family owned and we believe that yoga is the most positively life changing thing anyone can do. Give the gift of mindfulness with a gift card or memberships to Jai Yoga Studio. We also run yoga teacher training, so if you know of someone who’s a budding yogi, gift a gift card that will be enough to cover their deposit or tuition. Gifting yoga is a meaningful way to help loved ones find some inner peace amid the hustle of life.
Wildflower Beauty Bar
When I was around four months postpartum, I trudged myself over to Wildflower for a pedicure. I was feeling frumpy and I didn’t feel in touch with myself anymore. I was met the owner, Gretchen, who tended to me with so much love and care. That pedicure session was so healing and just so…unforgettably amazing. I literally was so moved by her kindness, that I’ve been singing her praises ever since. Wildflower Beauty Bar is a women-owned boutique in Port Moody offering holistic skincare services like facials, manicures, and pedicures. It’s the ultimate gift of relaxation and self-care.
Fashion
Free Label
Free Label has been my wardrobe staple since 2020. I wear it to yoga, to teach yoga and it grew with me through pregnancy and supported me postpartum and beyond. Their clothes have been the best investment I made for my wardrobe and I’m excited to share this brand with you! Vancouver-based and women-owned, this ethical clothing brand crafts size-inclusive pieces that are as comfortable as they are stylish. Perfect for gifting or treating yourself to something cozy for the holidays.
OgeAjibe
When I moved to Vancouver, all I saw folks wearing were earth tones and nude colours. I missed colour so much. So when I found out about OgeAjibe, I jumped on the opportunity to add some sophisticated colour back into my wardrobe. My favourite OgeAjibe clothing is the Multicoloured Face DayTop. OgeAjibe is a bold, Black-owned fashion brand creating unique, colorful clothing that celebrates diversity and individuality. If you want to gift something that turns heads, this is your stop.
Jewelry & Accessories
Fair Jewelry
My connection with Fair goes back to 2019 when I met the owner, Jennifer in the studio. Both of us started our businesses around the same time and we were hungry to support and uplift other small businesses. I fell in-love with her ethical, handmade jewelry at first sight. I’m not a big jewelry person, but I am a sucker for minimal, elegant and graceful pieces that will be my everyday staple. I own quite a few pieces from Fair but the Tofino Wave ring is my all time favourite.
Devi Arts Collective
Devi Arts Collective is a BIPOC women-led jewelry brand based in Vancouver, offering sustainable, minimalist designs crafted from recycled metals. These delicate yet stunning pieces are ideal for adding a touch of elegance to any outfit.
Book Stores & Metaphysical Stores
Western Sky Books
Western Sky Books in Port Coquitlam is more than just a bookstore—it’s a little slice of magic. This women-owned shop is cozy, welcoming, and packed with thoughtfully chosen reads. The owners truly love connecting people with the perfect book and have created a space where community thrives. Whether it’s for the bookworm on your list or a little gift for yourself, Western Sky is the place to find something truly special.
Reflections Books
Located on Austin Avenue in Coquitlam, Reflections Books has been a cornerstone of the community since 1988. This family-owned metaphysical bookstore offers a curated selection of books, crystals, tarot and oracle decks, and spiritual tools to support personal growth and well-being. With a welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, Reflections Books is the perfect destination for thoughtful gifts that inspire and uplift.
Banyen Books and Sound
If you’re wondering where I am, I’m probably chilling out at Banyen Books and Sound in Vancouver. This book store is my favourite place to hang out. Since 1970, Banyen Books & Sound has been Vancouver’s go-to for all things spiritual. From books and crystals to yoga and healing tools, it’s the perfect spot for gifts that inspire mindfulness and personal growth. Whether for seasoned seekers or beginners, Banyen has something special for everyone.
White Lotus Divine Healing
Situated in the heart of Port Moody, White Lotus Divine Healing is a women-owned metaphysical boutique and healing center dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey of self-healing and transformation. They offer ethically sourced crystals, organic herbs, books, essential oils, and locally crafted jewelry, along with a variety of holistic therapies. Whether you're seeking a unique gift or a personal healing experience, White Lotus provides a tranquil space to nurture the mind, body, and spirit.
Kids & Family
The Village Toy Shop
Nestled in the heart of Port Moody's Newport Village, The Village Toy Shop has been a family-owned treasure trove of creativity and fun since 2001. Specializing in unique, open-ended toys that inspire imagination—from wooden playthings to LEGO sets—it's a place where both kids and adults can rediscover the joy of play. Every visit feels like stepping into a world where fun is number one.
Little Beans Play Café
This has been my local, favourite hangout. Jawand and I have made so many friends here! Located at 70 Kyle Street in Port Moody, Little Beans Play Café is a haven for families seeking a blend of relaxation and play. This chic café offers a clean, modern indoor playground where children can engage in meaningful play while parents enjoy quality coffee and healthy, locally sourced menu options. It's the perfect spot for playdates, offering a stress-free environment that caters to both kids and adults. You can purchase a gift card from the website, which makes the best gift for parents and their little ones.
Thrift & Vintage Stores
Mintage
There’s something magical about gifting vintage, and Mintage on West 4th is my go-to for those one-of-a-kind finds. This family-owned spot feels like a time capsule of cool, with everything from funky retro sweaters to accessories that scream “totally unique.” Shopping here is such a joy because you know your gift will stand out—and the experience is so much fun, it’s basically holiday shopping therapy.
Wildlife Thrift Store
If you love finding unique treasures and giving back at the same time, Wildlife Thrift Store on Granville Street is the place to go. I adore this family-owned shop for its eclectic mix of stylish second-hand clothing and quirky home goods—it’s like a treasure hunt every time! Plus, knowing that every purchase supports local charities like Coast Mental Health and Covenant House makes it even better. Gifting here means giving twice, and honestly, who doesn’t love that feel-good holiday vibe?
Why It Matters
Shopping local isn’t just about finding beautiful and unique gifts – it’s about giving back to our community. Every dollar you spend at a local business helps a neighbor, supports creativity, and keeps our neighborhoods vibrant. It’s the kind of gift that creates a ripple effect of goodness, and honestly, that feels way better than a two-day shipping email.
So this holiday season, please show your love for the locals. Trust me, THAT is the real magic of the holidays.
