Find memorable gifts your loved ones will appreciate at these 10 local shops and businesses.
The gifting season is upon us again. This year, why not double the impact of your holiday gift-giving by shopping as locally as possible? Not only will you be giving your loved ones unique presents they’ll appreciate, you’ll also be supporting the small businesses in and around your community. It’s a win-win!
Here, we’ve put together a selection of locally owned stores and services that are sure to have something for just about everyone on your gift list. And the best part? They’re all no more than 15 minutes away from a Genesis Land community.
All things pretty
Located inside CrossIron Mills, All Things Pretty is devoted to supporting local makers and artisans, and it stocks an array of goods, from home decor items like quirky throw pillows and wooden wall signs to colourful bath bombs, apparel, mugs, candles and more. For something pretty and affordable to give the jewellery-lover on your list, consider a necklace or earrings by Laughing Sparrow — the store stocks a variety of pieces by this Calgary-based designer.
Altitude flight simulation center
Most of us have at least one person on our shopping list who prefers experiences over tactile presents, whether it’s tickets to a concert, a sporting event or even a visit to the zoo. For something a little more unconventional, consider the gift of flight — or flight simulation, to be precise. Just a short drive from Saddlestone, the Altitude Flight Simulation Center offers a variety of simulated flying experiences, from piloting a commercial airliner to embarking on a mission in an F-18 Super Hornet. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or not, these flight adventures are really fun!
Complete home collective
Featuring beautifully refurbished furniture (restored by the storeowner herself) as well as an array of plants and locally made items, Complete Home Collective is a great Airdrie-based store devoted to supporting Canadian makers. With thoughtfully curated products that include cool, Rockies-inspired tumblers from MTNPK Glassware, lovely ceramic planters and DIY crafting kits, there’s an excellent chance you’ll find something here for more than just one person on your holiday list.
Divine mine
This northwest Calgary shop, just a 10-minute drive from Sage Hill Crest, is a great place to go if you have someone on your list who’s into healing crystals, beads, singing bowls and other metaphysical products. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the store also hosts reiki and tarot-reading sessions on-site (available by appointment).
Homegrown house and Pantry inc.
This Airdrie store is another fantastic place to go for a wide range of Alberta-made gifts, from gourmet pantry items and baked goods to clothing, jewellery, home decor and more. The staff here are passionate about finding, showcasing and supporting the unique work of Alberta-based makers and purveyors — and the results of their efforts are clearly evident in the thoughtfully curated selection of goods for sale. For friends or coworkers on your list, opt for a gift basket of locally made goodies, carefully selected and artfully arranged by Homegrown House and Pantry staff.
Mukluk Magpies Stained Glass Emporium
For the person on your gift list who enjoys crafting, consider treating them to a workshop at Mukluk Magpies. This charming studio/shop in Airdrie offers a variety of classes for those interested in making stained-glass, fused glass or resin creations. Many of the workshops are perfectly suitable for beginners. Mukluk Magpies also has a gift shop where you can pick up creations by local artisans, including some of the glassworks made in-house.
Miniso
While this ultra-popular chain store isn’t locally owned, it’s such a great spot for stocking-stuffers that we had to include it on the list. With two locations close to both Airdrie and our northern Calgary communities, shopping here isn’t just fun, it’s also very convenient. You’ll find all kinds of quirky and cute housewares, toys and gadgets — almost all of which are under $10.
Serene escapes day spa
When it comes to finding something for that super-busy, overextended person in your life, you can’t go wrong with a gift certificate for some pampering. Just a short drive away from Sage Hill Crest, Serene Escapes Day Spa offers a variety of self-care services and spa packages that are sure to bring your loved one a sense of relaxation and rejuvenation. For a real treat, consider splurging for the Ultimate Escape package, which includes a facial, a 60-minute massage and a spa pedicure.
Seven saints
Owned and operated by two Alberta-based best friends who share a passion for fashion, this boutique in Airdrie sells a wide selection of trendy, gift-worthy clothing and accessories for women, including several Canadian labels. If you’re worried about finding the right fit or colour, Seven Saints also offers gift cards that can be used in-store or online.
Sully’s
This family-owned business has been serving skateboarders and snowboarders in the Airdrie and Calgary area for nearly 20 years. While you can do your shopping on the store’s website, a visit to the brick-and-mortar location in CrossIron Mills is well worth it, especially if you’re in need of product advice — the staff here are all skate or snowboard enthusiasts and they know what they’re talking about. If you’re not up for purchasing a big-ticket item like a snowboard or skateboard, you’ll still find unique apparel (including tees, hoodies, hats and socks) that’ll give the boarders on your list something to smile about.
