What type of holiday are you looking for? Are you traveling with family or friends? When would you like to visit? Let us make some recommendations!
They call it the most wonderful time of the year. In Fernie, we aren’t sure if that’s because the ski hill opens in December or because the holiday season is upon us!
Either way, we know it can be a struggle to maximize your time on the slopes and still pick out thoughtful Christmas gifts for your friends and family. That’s why we’ve compiled an index of five local shops where you’ll find great gift ideas for even the most difficult person on your list.
Stop by Beanpod on 2nd Avenue and pick up some artisan chocolate. Handcrafted right here in Fernie, Beanpod has dozens of different bars to choose from in flavours from matcha green tea and cappuccino, to the signature Fernie Bear Bar - loaded with local honeycomb toffee — Yum! Fernie's Beanpod are the only bean-to-bar chocolate manufacturer in Canada, so take some time to watch the process in action — best done while sipping a fresh mocha made from beans roasted in-house. If you’re struggling with all the great choices, they’ve got sampler packs.
If you have a book lover on your list, Polar Peek Books and Treasures is a must. The cozy shop is stocked with books as well as puzzles, games, craft kits, stationery, and local art. Peruse the wide selection of fiction and grab a copy of the thriller, Mountain Girl by local author Shelby Cain or award-winning The Canterbury Trail by local author Angie Abdou. If you’ve got a little one on your list you’ll also find cute ski-themed onesies and the Rocky Mountain ABCs.
One-of-a-kind gifts live at the Fernie Arts Co-op. The downtown shop is stocked with locally crafted goods in every imaginable medium. Popping in is a no-brainer if there are any art lovers on your list. The selection of paintings, photography, jewellery, pottery, stained glass, leather, metal, and quilted goods reflect the inspiration of the local environment. Mountain landscapes, trees, wildlife, and outdoor pursuits feature heavily in the art, with a good dose of whimsy and abstract influences to keep things interesting. The hardest part about stopping in will be deciding what to take home with you.
Where do you go for that nature-loving friend? The creative team at The Green Petal is always busy crafting amazing bouquets and floral arrangements. Pick out something unique from their selection or discuss a custom arrangement with the floral artists. If you don’t trust your friends with a living gift, the home-themed range of giftware is perfect for tea lovers, foodies, bakers, and budding mixologists. We wouldn’t be surprised if you checked another person off your list.
Of course, when in doubt, you can always give the gift of beer! Swing by Fernie Brewing Company and pick up a selection of bottled seasonal brews (or two, or three) like Sap Sucker Maple Porter or Black Mammoth Winter Ale. FBC also have some pretty rad swag like insulated growlers, camping mugs, hats, and T-shirts.
Bonus: make this your last stop and fill your growler as a reward for getting your shopping done early!
Finally, be sure to check out the events calendar for holiday craft fairs, another great way to get your hands on some locally crafted items.
Blogger: Liz Craig
