Excited about Christmas craft shows and holiday events? Keep reading!
While I happily sing ‘This is Halloween’ over and over again during pumpkin carving, I quickly change from Scary season to Festive Season as the clock strikes 12.
Sure, I’m not decorating yet or putting on the holiday music (we have a November birthday in this family mid month that we use as our starting point) but that doesn’t mean I’m not already dreaming about sugar plums at night (and during the day).
That’s why I love hearing about craft shows and shopping events to help Ottawa residents kick of their shopping, or, just get in some of the spirit of the season by treating themselves to handmade or artisinal items.
The Nepean Sportsplex Christmas Craft Show runs from October 31 until November 3 and is filled with over 100 local crafters. Every day, for all four days, the event begins at 10 and concludes at varying times (if you need to swing by at a later time, you’ll want to try and go on Thursday and Friday when the show closes at 8 pm.)
Nepean Sportsplex Christmas Craft Show Details:
October 31 – November 3
Thursday, October 31, 10 am to 6 pm
2 for 1 admission all day
Friday, November 1, 10 am to 8 pm
2 for 1 admission from 5 to 8 pm
Saturday, November 2, 10 am to 6 pm
Sunday, November 3, 10 am to 4 pm
Admission prices
Adults $7
Seniors/Youth $5
Children (under 12) free
Sales and the box office are cash or debit only, no credit cards.
-city of ottawa website
Find out more on their Facebook Event page
Plan to shop this weekend at the Nepean Sportsplex Christmas Craft Show and get a head start on your holiday shopping!
Keep reading to learn how to save 30% for two-days only!
Remember the post I wrote about being in my forties and the clothes (and fashion style) I’m leaning into and loving? A lot of my purchases for the past many years have been, when possible, from Encircled. They are a Toronto-Based Canadian made company.
Their clothing have become foundational pieces for me. I may joke that I hate button pants but it’s only partly a joke – I really don’t like the feeling of a button pushing into me. My mid-life plan is to be comfortable in my clothing.
I brag about two pants in particular: The Dressy Sweatpant is a staple for me. The material is light enough for all seasons, washes and hang-dries fairly quickly (which I’ve done in hotels before when we travel!), feels great with my changing body temperature (hi, perimenopause) and can be dressed up or down.
I purchased them in 2018 and I wear them weekly and they still look brand new (that’s how well they wash)
My newer purchase has been my wide leg pants. Although the wideleg now comes in the same material as the dressy sweat pant (which means lighter and more summer-wearable), the heavier material of my wide legs drape like a dream and are great in the cooler seasons. Plus, I love the way they look!
Recently, as an affiliate, Encicled gifted me the Airy Gauze cotton button up. It’s going to be perfect when I am trying to stay a bit covered up from the sun, but still cool. I can already envision wearing it in PEI this summer!
The Massive Semi-Annual Sale is for only 48 hours. From June 30 at 10 am until July 2 at 10 am
You can save 30% on everything, including sale items! Now is the time to start building or continuing to build a foundational wardrobe (or capsule if you will) that you love and feels comfortable.
The versatility is important for me!
TIP: Review the measurements for each piece and order accordingly! Don’t assume the sizing, go by the guide and the actual measurements.
Encircled also shared this in their newsletter which I love:
This year, 1% of our Semi-Annual Sales will be donated to Indspire. Indspire is a national Indigenous charity investing in the education of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people for the long-term benefit of these individuals, their families and communities, and Canada.
The donation will support Indspire’s Travel Fund, allowing students and educators the opportunity to attend Indspire’s Soaring: Indigenous Youth Empowerment Gathering and National Gathering for Indigenous Education events.
*this post contains affiliate links. I earn a percentage if you decide to shop and purchase! Thank you as always
There are a few different reasons why my clothing habits have changed over the years.
The first began some time ago when I started to become more aware of where the clothes I was shopping came from (and who was making them, and their safety/working conditions). I leaned more into reducing the amount of clothing I was buying, and researching ethically, consciously made items.
This doesn’t mean I completely cut out fast fashion (something I am still working towards) but as years have passed, I certainly have turned to shopping my own closet, thrifting, and sustainably made items.
Not only because of the labour implications, but also the environmental ones.
Another shift started to happen which impacted how I shopped for clothes. It was quite the combination to have the Pandemic hit the same year I turned 40. As I’ve aged, my body has softened and changed. This isn’t a bad thing, but it means that what I would have once tolerated for fashion, I’ve started to leave behind (things that look cute but don’t feel good for example).
Taking into account all of those factors, there’s still one driver when it comes to how I shop: I like to look and feel good. My sense of style is certainly not everyone’s, but for me, I like to look and FEEL good in my clothing. So I’ve ditched things that fit funny or uncomfortably. I’ve let go of buttons that dig and heels that hurt. I’ve become much pickier about the fabric I wear, in part for longevity, and because I know I’ll sweat. I want pieces that pack well for travel too.
^ Franc top. Encircled wide leg pants.
Finding clothing I love that looks great and fits great
So when you put all of that together, how do I find great pieces I love? There are many sustainable, eco-friendly options out there. Including stores that curate a variety of brands to help you have a variety all in one place.
Before I share some of my favourites, let’s chat about cost. Typically, sustainable, ethically made clothing is more expensive. That’s no secret. But we know why that is – because of the fair pay for labour, because of the cost of manufacturing etc. These pieces end up being more of an investment however, when you factor in that often they are the ones I turn to all the time, the cost-per-wear reduces.
My Encircled Dressy sweat pants were purchased in 2018. They look brand new. No fading. And I wear them constantly because they feel and look great.
^ encircled pants
It also means I buy less. I don’t always need MORE in my closet, I clearly have favourites that I keep going back to. I want a capsule wardrobe that works for me.
Sometimes, when I want something to supplement what I have, I thrift. I look for cotton and linen usually, and buy second hand!
Clothing has to be accessible, and it’s unrealistic to assume everyone can purchase pants that cover over $100 every time. I don’t write this as a piece to make others feel bad – shop where you can to get the items you need. But if people are buying hundreds and thousands of dollars in fast fashion to have ‘more’ or to be on trend, I don’t think that’s sustainable, and that’s not about affordability – it’s about consumption.
This is just a piece to encourage more consideration in shopping, if you can.
My thoughts on Fast Fashion
Honestly? I think we all buy too much stuff, myself included. Reducing how much I buy, and increasing the amount I spend on local and/or ethical brands is one change I’ve been making over many years.
This doesn’t mean I don’t shop at other stores and find fast fashion buys for my family, I would be lying if I said otherwise. But I am much more aware and conscious of how I spend and shop and it has me second guessing before buying that ‘quick, cheap’ clothing piece. Do I need it? How well will it hold up?
Most of the fast fashion pieces I’ve purchased in the past many years have not washed well, fitted well, or been a material that feels comfortable (or breaths well, shout out to my fellow people who sweat a lot). So it feels like a waste.
With the rise of fashion influencers online, there’s a more disturbing movement – trend purchasing. There’s always a deal, always a sale in the fast fashion world, and always a trend to follow. This leads to so much over consumption.
What I would love to see is how influencers are styling a few pieces in multiple ways. Shopping their own closet and helping people do the same.
I tend to buy t-shirts more often because of wear and use. So if I buy those new, how can I pair them with existing items?
I’m not saying there isn’t a place for fashion influencers – I LOVE seeing how people style stuff. But the ‘buy this’ constantly? Is this what we want? Just some of my thoughts.
^ Franc sweater
Eco-friendly, ethical shops in Canada
I have purchased from Encircled and Franc often (and love them), and follow the other sites eyeing their designs. I’ve also purchased from Pokoloko – they have a shop right in Ottawa too!
These shops are based in Canada – some of them have material made in Canada too.
I love their pants. Full stop. I finally got a pair of wide leg pants (after living in my Dressy Sweatpants for years) and I’m thrilled. Encircled focuses on travel wear and comfort. I love being able to dress it up or down.
What’s I’m looking at next: everything, always. But mostly their airy tops for the warmer weather. Maybe the wide leg capris.
I’ve been a big fan of their tshirts and funnel neck sweaters. I have three of the sweaters! So comfy.
What I’m looking at next: They have a henley that is ribbed and looks amazing. I have an older henley of theirs and love it but this material is exactly what I want.
I love the options that are professional and elegant, as well as comfort and casual options and that seems to be what’s offered with this collection. Sizing goes to 6x too.
What I’m looking at: The Promedade Skirt is gorgeous. But the jackets are stunning (the drape on the Maude wrap jacket is gorgeous).
Not only do they offer clothes for everyday wear and comfort, but Free Label creats and their clothing is nursing friendly/can be used as maternity wear too. They have denim too!
What I’m looking at: Love the look of their Pacific Penny top.
I am happy that there are so many local opportunities to shop and buy from local makers, artisans, and crafters. Whether you order online, or shop in person at special events, ’tis the season of joyful, conscious and local shopping.
For starters, it’s fully online, with flat rate shipping OR free local pick up (and there are multiple pick up locations so you can find the closest one to you!)
Secondly, the fair is intended to be a more inclusive craft fair so that more makers can participate. There is a sliding scale to ensure access for more, it’s online it’s easier for a lot of people to attend and shop. Here’s some information from their website:
Pride, Not Prejudice is for the socially conscious. We’re for individuals who might be at risk of being called “social justice warriors” and their friends. It is for the community of people who give a damn. It is for folks who proudly wear labels such as feminist, queer, Black, and progressive and those who will stand up for justice and against injustice.
Shop the Fair until November 6
I love the intention of this fair, but I also love the products as a shopper. With over 60 vendors, there’s is something for so many people on your list – from little ones, to teens (grab stocking stuffers!), friends and family and of course yourself.
My cart this year had a lot for myself. HA.
You’ll want to browse the entire website (grab a tea or coffee and plan to spend some time searching!) but here are a few links to items that I have ordered.
Holiday Cards from Chez Louie Designs (Here’s a link to the dumpster fire card I gave out last year haha. I ordered different ones this year)
Gifts or Ornaments from Forgetbknot. I ordered some of the trees for gift add ons!
Just like last time, I ordered more Rude Raspberry Jam from Fckin Delicious. There are more jam and pickle options too! So good.
I LOVE and need candles this time of year especially for my bath time. I can’t wait to check out the Down to Earth one I got from Enfematic. I almost ordred pumpkin pie too.
I didn’t get more this time, because I still have some but check out Baccanalle’s products. Their signature spice blend is great to have in the pantry!
If you have younger children, the items from Aurora + Holly look so sweet! There’s a Gingerbread House puzzle that I would have absolutely wanted when my kids were little.
There was more on my list, but honestly, you’ll want to just browse the site to find so many amazing products!
The Pride, Not Prejudice Fair ends on November 6 at 6 pm EST
Photos of other items:
A few images from vendors at the fair. You’ll find more on the PNP website, or by browsing their Instagram Page!
this post is in partnership with Tag Along Toys, a blog advertiser
Eep! We are only a few days away from Christmas! When Andy and I wrapped gifts last weekend, I realized I had one full, fun stocking for the 11 year old, andddddd not much for the teen.
I’ve noticed this year that shopping online (with a heavy focus on local) has been great, and made me more conscious as a consumer, but it means I haven’t been picking up little stocking stuffers along the way like I usually do.
I find stockings so easy and fun. Because sometimes there’s practical items (like socks, or hair elastics) and other times something silly (like a magic trick or pop culture reference).
I regrouped and was able to pick up the rest of my teen’s stocking via curbside thanks to some easy and practical items like a phone charger, and my mom grabbed a dice game from Tag Along Toys when she was there last week.
Here are some last minute stocking stuff shopping ideas for you if you find you are in the same situation!
a) Visit Tag Along Toys (in store or curb side)
I love curb side pick up and Tag Along Toys continues to offer it, along with in store shopping. There are games that can fit into stockings, mini craft kits, nail polish, small toys, art supplies and more (Browse their website for their selection). You can also visit in person to see their entire selection.
For younger kiddos, check out the Hape pull along toys, or maybe a small puzzle! I think a stuffie is always a nice topper for a stocking (I actually don’t have one this year for the kids!!!)
b) Add it to your grocery order
I ended up getting my wrapping paper from one of my grocery orders. But you can add stocking chocolates and even small toys (depending on where you order from) as well. Batteries, hair products, personal care products can all come in handy and be tucked in the stocking! It’s important to remember that the stocking doesn’t have to extravegent!
c) Visit your local pharmacy
If you have to make a run to the pharmacy anyway, you’ll likely find a magazine, some chocolates, and a few other small goodies that you can tuck into the stocking as well!
Have fun with the stocking! I know I’m running out of time and that’s ok. I’ve been able to grab items from curb side and orders.
The real question is: Do you wrap items in the stocking? (In our family, we do!)
Here we go! It’s time for my annual Holiday Gift Guide for kids to help you find the most unique, fun, and special gifts for the kids in your life this year.
As always, here’s a little bit about my gifts guides (I’ve been writing them since 2010!)
This is a list of ideas that I’m sharing, from one parent to another, for those of your who need an idea for someone in your family, a friend’s child, a niece or nephew that is hard to buy for and so on.
There is no way to get on the gift guide unless I think the item is super neat/would be fun/I want to give to someone myself. That means it’s unsponsored. Some items are from my partners or have been given to me, but if they are here it’s because I think they deserve to be. I will also mention that.
The gift guide has grown with my kids and often feature items that I love for them, or have gotten them, but it covers gifts for toddlers, school aged kids, and teens. I shop for all ages every year!
I have also focused heavily on local shops, local makers, and Canadian options.
You can also browse my previous gift guides too because there are some pretty stellar recommendations on there. So many of those items are ones I still turn to as gifts, and ones that are still played with by my kids or the kids in our lives.
Please enjoy the guide, and as always, if you need some extra help, I am happy to be a little elf helper and provide you with even more suggestions – just drop me a comment, a message on social media or an email!
2020 Holiday Gift Guide for Kids
Bath bombs
Kids love feeling pampered just like we do, and a bath bomb is the perfect way to have some fun in the tub. Check out this sweet holiday themed set found at Terra20 (they offer curbside and local delivery), or order from Ontario company Whitby Soap Company (their designs look amazing!)
The Clay Date Kit
My daughter has had kits with clay that make little designs and dries before and she loves them. So I was thrilled to see a local version (The Clay Date Kit by Sprout Works Connection) show up at my favourite toy store Tag Along Toys (a blog advertiser, but also our family’s go-to toy store). Kids of all ages will love being able to mold and create with this kit – it comes with 24 colours and shaping tools! (I already got one for my daughter before sharing here 😉
Playfoam
I find Playfoam to be the weirdest stuff, but I have to admit it’s pretty cool. I attended a virtual toy fair a few weeks ago and this was a hot toy. We’ve had it show up in stockings in the past, and this kit with a case from Tag Along Toys is pretty neat. It doesn’t dry out, and I don’t find it as messy as Playdoh (although that’s also a big hit usually!)
Trailblazers: The Black Pioneers Who Have Shaped Canada
I was a part of the Kickstarter for this book and it has arrived! It’s filled with Black Canadians who have been a part of our history, and present. It’s the perfect addition to our bookshelf for all of us to enjoy. You can get your copy at Chapters.
Girl Gang Strong Subscription Box (or one-time box)
I ordered a Girl Gang Strong box for my daughter at the beginning of the school year and she beyond loved it. I have another one coming as a Christmas gift. You can order it as a subscription, or purchase a one-time box or set. The boxes are filled with products and books to encourage self-love, find inspiration, and have some fun. It’s the perfect tween or teen gift.
Kokom Scrunchies
I ordered this beautiful scrunchie a few months ago and love it. They make for perfect stocking stuffers too! They are locally made by a very talented 9 year old!
Waytoplay Expressway
Playing cars brings me back to when my kids were little and we played so many games with villages and roadways and pretend things! And I wish I had a set like this expressway. There are various package sizes, but wouldn’t it be fun to create your own roadway anywhere in the house? Find them at Hintonburg Kids.
Emmy’s Earrings
Locally made earrings for sensitive ears (they use plastic posts), Emmy’s Earrings make perfect stocking stuffers or special gifts. They also have a clip on option for those without their ears pierced but still want to accessorize!
Pop Culture Shirt
So, turns out, teens are pretty easy to shop for when you have a shared interest in pop culture. My son and I are currently binging The Office, so this sweater (from PEI) hits the right notes.
Want more reference? Etsy is an amazing source for whatever show your kid is into. But I also created a custom button for him with a Parks and Recreation button from local shop Ifs, Ands, or Buttons.
This The Office puzzle is also happening for him (from local shop Hintonburg Kids)
B. Toys music set
My kids had a variety of B. Toys items, their cousin had this music set, we had the doctor kit (which is still used for pretend play by dd and cousins) and I love gifting their items. This music set is fun and can be found at Fab Baby Gear.
LEGO Tray
I love the look of these personalized LEGO trays from ETSY. Your child can carry their set up or creation from room to room, and you are less likely to step on all the pieces (not guaranteed though ha). The inserts are available in a variety of colours too.
Raven Reads
This is another subscription (so it could be a good idea to give to grandparents looking for special gifts!) but I came across Raven Reads and thought it looks amazing. There’s an adult version too, but the younger box is for children aged 9 and under and includes Indigenous books and gifts that you and your child can read together. This is a great way to build your library if you have young kids too!
123 Petits Pas Starter Kit
For wee ones who are learning French as a second language, local business 123 Petits Pas has put together an interactive starter kit with fun learning activities! There is a limited supply though.
Paint your own Wood Craft Kits
I think crafts should always be a part of a gift giving year. Locally burned wood outlines with paint pots for your child to paint their own bedroom decor are a fun activity! I ordered a small set in the Spring from Canoes and Creativity and loved it. I also ordered a set for my nieces!
Magnetic Book Marks
I love the cutesy nature of these book marks from a Vancouver company Craftedvan that I saw on Instagram. Both my kids would think these are great and they probably should make an appearance under our tree. They also have enamel pins (pictured here). Also, check out their googly eyed mystery packs!!
It’s no secret that since having my first child over 13
years ago, we have been slowly making changes in our family to be more
eco-friendly, sustainable and green in nature. Most of these decisions happen
in the check out aisle.
I began with our cleaning products, then skin and hair care,
eventually we made changes into our kitchen containers and supplies (and bought
all the reusable lunch packaging), I swapped out my makeup and have been more
conscious of the clothing I buy.
It’s never been an
overnight change or decision, and certainly not something that is perfect, but
I feel confident in the decisions we’ve been making over the years to lead a
more environmentally conscious life.
However, there are still some areas where I know I can do
better (or feel like I’m failing miserably to be honest). The first is in my
use of plastic food bags, the second, is our use of paper towels. They are
convenient, and compostable, but I know we should work to reduce them.
We have started in some regards because we tend to use our
dish clothes or dish towels to help clean up spills or wipe hands.
It’s one reason why when I was sent theKliin reusable towel, I knew I’d love it. It’s washable, compostable and cleans up easily.
So when I want to wipe the after-dinner spill, or clean up
the coffee I splashed around, I can grab the Kliin towel, rinse it and have it
at the ready instead of paper towels.
The more we think about making these changes, the more we
want to consider how to make these switches. For me, I know I keep reaching for
the paper towels because of how easy they are and how accessible they are when
I go grocery shopping.
Having something like the Kliin reusable towel is just as
handy, but more eco-friendly. That’s a win.
Unlike the early days a decade ago when I was paying high prices and high shipping costs for eco-friendly materials, there are so many economical and effective items available now – the Kliin reusable towel is under $10 (want to grab one locally for my Ottawa readers – check out terra20!)
A few things to note about the towels that Kliin shared with
me:
· One Kliin
towel = 17 paper towel rolls
· Use it for
months then compost it
· Good for 300
washes
· Unlike
traditional towels, Kliin towels never smell bad
Another way Kliin is helping the environment
There are other products Kliin offers too and one that is brand new that I think is going to be popular is their dish cleansing paste.
You know how when you want to wash your cereal bowl quickly,
or the kids reusable water cup, you seem to waste a lot of dish soap and water
or have to fill the entire sink with soapy water for almost no dishes? The new
Kliin dish cleansing paste saves water and will last about 6 months. Simply
wipe some on your cloth and wash. It doesn’t hurt that the lime smells great
too!
What I was also impressed with was that it is really a great
cleaner! I had to scrub something that I thought was going to be way trickier
than it ended up being and this paste really helped!
To get more information about Kliin, find them online at
www.kliin.co
Instagram: @kliinco
Facebook: @KLIINco
ENTER TO WIN
Interested in winning your own Kliin set with the dish paste and reusable cloths?
Kliin is providing a gift package for one of my lucky
readers valued at $74!
Enter by commenting below and tell me one thing you want to change to help green your habits!
Giveaway is open to Canadian residents, void in QC.
Giveaway closes on April 5, 2020 at 5 pm EST. One winner will be drawn at
random from eligible entries. One entry per person.
This is a sponsored post brought to you by Breakaway Experiences. All opinions are my own.
Have you found yourself becoming more mindful about the gifts you purchase and give over the years?
I certainly have, in part because I love supporting local endeavours and in part, I think, because we don’t always need more ‘stuff’.
This is why the gift of an experience has become such a popular item. It’s consumable (meaning, it can be used and not take up space) and I know the memories that can be made from those experiences are truly unique.
Gift the Gift of an Experience
If you have a hard-to-shop-for person on your list or someone who seems to have everything, (I’m thinking parents, in-laws, siblings, friends, or even your spouse), you’ll want to check out Breakaway Experiences.
With opportunities across Canada, Breakaway Experiences offer an online service where you can purchase gift certificates to experiences in the City of your choice (where available).
During the Christmas season, it’s an easy way to find the perfect gift for the foodie, adventurer, or loved one who deserves a spa day. You can shop online to select a special experience to give them, or a gift certificate so they can discover their own.
What I think is really great about Breakaway Experiences is that you can search by City (long time readers will know that we often travel to Toronto, the East Coast, Southern Ontario and Niagara) so if I wanted to surprise Andy with a special anniversary gift, I can pick it from anywhere we often go!
In addition, because it’s online, you can quickly and easily make your purchase to give at anytime (hint: if you are a last minute shopper or have simply run out of time, this is the perfect way to grab a meaningful gift ASAP!)
These gifts are also stress and hassle free. The gift certificates don’t expire and if the experience you gift isn’t quite what they had in mind, they can swap it for something more their speed!
Also, if you aren’t sure what experience they may love best, you can give them a gift certificate and let them choose! Some experiences begin as low as $25.
While we are currently focusing on Christmas gifts, experiences also make amazing anniversary, wedding, birthday, grad gifts and more!
Here are a few of the opportunities with Breakaway Experiences that have caught my eye:
If you are in the Ottawa area like me, check out the food tasting experience in the Byward Market (this screams date night to me!) or maybe you want to give the gift of a pottery class for someone who is in need of a new way to get creative or discover a new hobby.
In Toronto, you can enjoy an East Coast experience at a Maritime Lobster Supper in Toronto’s historic St. Lawrence Market (y’all know how I would feel about this! AMAZING!)
In PEI you can give an exclusive guided tour, or in Banff gift a private sleigh ride for two through Banff National Park. How romantic!
All across the country, there are experiences that are more adventurous too if that’s more in line with what you are looking for – like horseback riding, car racing, helicopter rides and more!
No matter the type of gift, you’re probably starting to see how giving the gift of an experience might be the perfect way to go this Christmas!
I am so thrilled to share that Breakaway Experiences is offering one lucky winner the chance to win a $100 gift certificate to use their service!
TO ENTER simply Visit Breakaway Experiences and let me know what experience in which city you would love for yourself or to give this holiday season!
Leave your comment on this blog post for your chance. Good luck!
The giveaway is open until December 18 at 12 pm EST. Open to Canadian residents, excluding Quebec. One entry per person. A random winner will be drawn after the giveaway closes and Breakaway Experiences will provide the gift certificate. A Little Bit of Momsense does not have additional responsibilities for booking or providing the service thereafter, I am just facilitating an amazing giveaway!
This post is in partnership with Ten Thousand Villages. All opinions are my own
I am so pleased to welcome back as an advertiser Ten Thousand Villages Ottawa, although if you have been following me for some time, you know that my relationship with Ten Thousand Villages is as a customer first, and blog partner second.
Keep reading until the bottom of this post for your chance to win a $50 gift card!
I have long shopped at Ten Thousand Villages Ottawa (you’ll find them in Westboro) for gifts, stocking stuffers, chocolate, coffee and food treats, and even jewellery for myself.
Each year in November, they host a Festival Sale at the Ottawa Mennonite Church (on Kilborn) and every weekend (Fridays and Saturdays)) guests can shop the sale!
I want you to mark your calendars for November as the sale returns each weekend (visit their Facebook page to sign up for reminders).
It’s also important to note, that Ten Thousand Villages always pays their artisans first, so even if you see an item on sale, the artisan and maker have already been paid, the sale price doesn’t affect them. This social enterprise model is one that I love supporting.
Ten Thousand Villages volunteers and staff have been working hard to plan for another amazing Festival Sale year.
If you aren’t sure about all of the amazing, fair-trade, ethically made (and paid for) items that could be at the sale, I’ve rounded up a list of amazing products to be on the look for – for yourself, the kids, or for gifts during the holidays.
Here are some items that I think you’ll love
Jewellery
I’m cheating here but not being more specific but frankly, I love so much of their jewellery. You can find stylish, on-trend and ethical jewellery that you’ll love at Ten Thousand Villages – like earrings, necklaces and bracelets. (hint hint Andy)
There is always an amazing selection of scarves and they make such beautiful gifts. You’ll find ones with patterns, different materials, beautiful florals and even on-trend colours like this mustard yellow.
I have to admit, I’ve gotten quite a few pieces of holiday decor at the Festival Sale over the years. They are unique, beautiful with my home decor and really well priced
Whether you are shopping for the kids (and want to grab Divine gold coins, or a mini game for their stocking) or your partner, you’ll find adorable and special stocking stuffers at Ten Thousand Villages.
Whether you are in the market for a stylish rug, or something to improve your #shelfie game, I love the decor items from Ten Thousand Villages. Be sure to keep an eye out for their gorgeous baskets and unique item like this photo frame – just add a photo of your kiddos and it’s the perfect gift for grandma!
I love a dark roast coffee (whole beans so Andy can grind them fresh! Ha!) and the options at Ten Thousand Villages are perfect for the coffee lover on your list.
But there’s not only Fair Trade and ethical coffee to add into your pantry. The Level Ground tea is perfect for any tea lover (Andy and I are obsessed with the Early Grey) and I’m a personal fan of the dried fruit. The kids LOVE (and I mean love) the Camino Hot Chocolate powder and the dried coconut is perfect for baking.
The Ten Thousand Villages Festival Sale in Ottawa takes place every weekend (Fridays, 3 pm – 8 pm and Saturdays, 10 am – 4 pm) all through November. You don’t want to miss this! Grab special gifts, new holiday decor, or home items you’ve been trying to spot.
This post is in partnership with blog advertiser Tag Along Toys
I love filling the stockings every Christmas. The kids receive one from Santa, and Andy and I fill each other’s.
It’s long been known that in our family, stockings are important. Sure, the kids are anxious to see what’s under the tree, but the stocking is where the real thought process comes into play. Items have to fit in the stocking itself, and coming up with the best items to drop in (including budget-friendly ones) are a challenge.
Here are some stocking stuffer ideas for you that are some of our go-tos for the kids. Then, keep reading to see a few items that I have found at Tag Along Toys for the stockings that I think kids will love! Some of them are going into our stockings too!
What to put in your child’s stocking
stickers (this is a great time to find special ones that are unique, or that are the theme for a fave game/sporting team/hobby)
art supplies – there is always a need for new markers and paint brushes!
Balls or pucks – road hockey balls, hockey pucks, tennis balls and badminton birdies fit well!
DVDs
Books or magazines
Personalized items for them – we tend to include hobby items like guitar pics
Nail polish (there are some great child friendly options!)
Stamps
Play food (I remember filling my son’s stocking when he was younger with this!)
mini figures
Stuffies (beanie boos are always a favourite!)
Play-doh
cards (sports cards, deck of cards etc)
Stocking Stuffers at Tag Along Toys
Holiday Playfoam
How cute are these? Both of my kids are getting this Playfoam this year. They’ll love how it feels!
Fortnite Notebooks
I think you can tell what video game my son was into each year based on what little themed item he received in his stocking that year. This year, of course, will be this Fortnite notebook! The journal is a great pick too!
LEGO Minifigures
Always a hit. Plus, there’s something fun about opening the package to see which one you get!
Jewellery
A Mood Ring, or a bracelet, are perfect gifts to tuck into a stocking!
Calico Critters
Have your children discovered Calico Critters? My daughter has been playing with them for some time, and my nieces love them. They are tiny and come with tiny parts but I think that’s partly why they enjoy them – she sets up the little furniture in the living room that includes a tiny telephone and other accessories with joy! And, they are cute. The little character packs are great for the stocking.
Science Experiments
I love these mini science experiments. They are perfect to encourage the kids to experiment without committing to a larger activity.
Old fashioned fun
There was one year my son got a paddle ball and he was thrilled; and both the kids still pull it out to play with (although, admittedly, it wasn’t as popular as the cup and ball has been!)
Practical, but fun, items
Hair brushes, lip balm, and even socks can all be added into a stocking but they don’t need to be boring. You can find fun options to include!
There are SO MANY stocking stuffer ideas at Tag Along Toys in Ottawa. Browse one of their two locations (Bank Street, or in Kanata) and you’ll easily find amazing items to tuck in the stockings for a real wow effect!
One final question: Do you wrap the items in the stockings or no? (I am definitely on team WRAP THEM)
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