Mia Gordon
Reporter, Host, Content Creator, Blogger

My favourite local finds this holiday season

The halls are decked, the tree is lit, but you still have a few names to cross off the nice list. Time is running out quickly… Santa’s sleigh is almost on its way. So I wanted to share with you some amazing local B.C. finds this season. The best part about it, you are supporting a small local business but it is one of your last hopes for the gifts to arrive on time.

Firstly I want to share where I found a lot of these local goodies. Since moving to Squamish, I have loved going to the Refresh Market.  This year the market went virtual. Showcasing local artists and makers, and taking you inside their shops. I was able to rediscover some of the favourites I have found over the years, but also discover some amazing new stores.

Fair Jewelry 

While browsing the Refresh Market, I came across Fair Jewelry,  I found some gorgeous gold hoop earrings that I knew my mom would love, and they were so beautiful I ended up also buying a pair for myself. As I learned more about the company, I was even more excited to support the shop. They donate proceeds to the David Suzuki Foundation, they also use  at least one component of recycled/up-cycled material in each of the pieces

Muddy Marvels Pottery 

I had always wanted to take a pottery class, and I found the local shop Muddy Marvels Pottery. I loved learning Meghan. She is so talented and also so fun to work with. She also makes the most gorgeous ceramic pieces, and you can even order custom for the special someone on your list.

The Local Space 

I was trying to find some gift baskets for my nieces and through google searches came across The Local Space. They sell some incredible BC brands and you can even buy a custom made gift basket with the best local treats. I am hoping someone might get me some goodies from here as a holiday surprise.

Treeline Collective

I have never seen more beautiful blankets. Not only do I love the designs but they are also so cozy and warm. The founder of the company says their pieces are inspired by the outdoors, and it really comes across in the colours and prints, and because they are inspired by the outdoors, they also aim to protect the outdoors. They use natural and organic materials. They also give back to organizations that aim to protect the planet like ocean cleanups.

Leze the Label 

I recently discovered this brand and I am obsessed with their clothes. Not only are they so comfortable and light, but they are also made completely from recycled material. I love that you can go on the website and learn more about what materials are used for each piece and how they help reduce waste. Also it is run by a badass Vancouver boss babe, so it is amazing to support local female entrepreneur doing good for the planet as well.

Wyn & Wood 

I mean, this is the perfect place to shamelessly showcase our little Etsy shop. During the pandemic my husband and I started making bath trays to make the bathroom a cozy relaxing place as we spend the holidays at home this year. It is like a spa day without leaving your house.

 

 

Well those are some of my favourite local shops. The perfect place to find that last minute local and beautiful gift for anyone one your list.

Happy shopping my friends and a happy holiday season.

xo

Mia

The most creative Christmas gifts in Vancouver

One of my favourite parts of the holiday season is finding the perfect gift to put under the tree. As much as I love opening up my own presents, there is something so satisfactory when someone you love opens up a gift that you found especially for them.

One of my least favourite parts of the holiday season is trying to deal with crowded malls, lines, and finding gifts that anyone can purchase. If you are like me, you pride yourself in finding that unique truly special gift.

Unique local gift ideas 

I wanted to share some of my favourite and creative finds in Vancouver  for this holiday season that are sure to impress everyone on your list.

ChopValue

I came across Chopvalue while on a work assignment. I was trying to find creative gifts that were made from recycled goods.

Chopvalue is a Vancouver based company that uses recycled chopsticks to create beautiful furniture and art. The company actually recycles more than 350,000 chopsticks weekly from Vancouver alone.

I was so impressed with the beautiful tables, shelves, and even coasters. I had to pick up a few pieces for myself and my boyfriend.

Price:  Depends on what you are looking for but you can spend between $20-$2000

Pangea Maps

This is actually a gift I received this year and I am absolutely in love with it. Pangea creates custom hand made 3D maps revealing iconic waterscapes.

The custom made map that I received marks where I live in Vancouver now, and where I will be living in Squamish as well as the important lakes, and of course Ocean that outline my home.

Price: from $480

The Liberty Distillery

There is something special about shopping at Granville Island, particularly around the holidays. The lights, the decorations, the spirit, it is all so amazing. I also love that a lot of the gifts here are hand crafted and one of a kind. You can get everything from beautiful ceramics to customized jewelry.

One of my favourite spots at Granville Island is is Liberty Distillery. When you step inside the doors you will automatically be enchanted by the 110 year old antique bar. In the back of the bar is the distillery, where you can see the spirits being made and you can even try samples.

While bringing a bottle of wine for the holiday parties is always a great idea, why not make your gift more unique award winning bottle of whiskey.

Price: $70

Saje Natural Wellness

I have been a huge fan of  the Vancouver company Saje for years now. I love their travel products that really helped me when I am on the road.

This holiday season I received the most amazing gift from Saje, a diffuser. The one I chose is from their partnership with Jillian Harris and I am actually obsessed. I love how amazing my house smells and how calm the natural oils make me feel during even the most stressful work days

Price: approx $90

Ufeast Vancouver 

Sure, gifts are great but experiences last a lifetime. One of my favourite gifts was actually a ufeast dinner. Ufeast is a company that partners with local restaurants to create unique dining experiences. They combine delicious meals and hand crafted cocktails for a fun night out.

Price: around $50

Happy holidays and happy shopping my friends,

xo

Mia

 

 

 

 

How Priority Pass makes travelling a breeze

Looking for the perfect gift for dad? Well I have a great deal for you, but before I get into that, I wanted to share my experience with Priority Pass with you. 

This past season with the Saskatchewan Rush and the National Lacrosse League, I have sure racked up the air miles. I have been traveling pretty much every weekend for games, and it seems the airport security now knows me on a first name basis. Needless to say, I have probably spent more time at the airport then in my own bed over the last six months.

I used to dread the airport. Long lines, long waits, uncomfortable seating, and loud talkers had me on edge, but I wasn’t an elite status member for any airline, and I wasn’t willing to pay the high prices to sit in first class lounges.

That was when another frequent flyer friend let me know about Priority Pass, the largest independent airport lounge access program in the world. The prestigious program was just what I was looking for. The lounge creates a comfortable,  a quite getaway in the middle of all the airport chaos.

About Priority Pass

While there is no need for travel status with Priority Pass, they definitely treat you first class. Membership offer so many amazing amenities to help me relax before catching my flight. So what exactly is included with Priority Pass?

  • Free pre flight drinks, including beer and wine
  • High speed internet so I can get my work done while I wait
  • Magazines and newspapers to read so that the time flies
  • Some of the lounges even have beds and showers to freshen up before a connecting flight
  • Clean washrooms and no waits

And the list goes on.

How to sign up for Priority Pass

The benefits of this program seemed amazing to me, and as someone who has taken over 35 flights this year alone, it was a must. Registering for Priority Pass is so simple. It is really just three easy steps.

  1. Head to their website and choose the membership plan that fits your travel needs. Then you fill out the enrolment for, which only takes a few minutes.
  2. Once the registration is completed you are in! You receive a confirmation email immediately.
  3. Priority Pass is just one click away. Download the mobile app to get your Digital Membership Card  right to your phone and get flying.

Priority Pass Deal of the Day

Priority Pass really makes the long travel days seem more relaxed and enjoyable. It has made my experience so much better that I wanted to share with all of the travelers in my family.

My dad also travels the world taking pictures for the National Geographic, and so I thought this would be the perfect present for him. The best part is, Priority Pass has a special Father’s Day deal going on right now for the special dads in your life.

Right now, Priority Pass is offering a Father’s Day discount. You can get up to 15% off your membership plans. Meaning that a regular membership that would cost you $99, is now just $84! A 10 visit plan that would normally cost $249, is on sale for $211. And an unlimited plan, that would usually cost $399 is 10% off. The perfect gift for the traveler in your life. Get the perfect gift at up to 15% off for the traveler in your life today. 

 Priority Pass has made my traveling experience much easier, enjoyable, and relaxing. It is a great way to take the stress out of your trip from take-off to landing. 

Why Carnivore Club is the gift on everyone’s wish list

My partner and I are quite different. He is a whiz in the kitchen, I am a whiz at ordering take out. He keeps our house spotless, I bring a storm of a mess into every room I enter. He loves a good BBQ, and well, I define myself as a cute-aterian (don’t ask questions). So when it came time to find the perfect gift for his 30th birthday, I was lost.

Cleaning products? A cook book? um.. no. Through my hours of searching, I came across Carnivore Club and was intrigued to find out more about the product.

Finding the perfect gift 

Going through their site, I found out that Carnivore Club is the world’s first charcuterie delivery service, how cool is that? Charcuterie delivered right to your front door. But so much more than that, their plates include premium cured meats for an incredible home tasting experience with friends.

The gift subscription boxes are filled with hand crafted products by distinguished local artisans. It gives you the opportunity to sample amazing flavours from around the world, while not spending a lot of money. The prices per box and items very, but it costs anywhere between $30-$50+

What you can expect 

The boxes include everything from  Ibérico Jamón from Spain to duck breast prosciutto from California, every month is a new surprise and a new discovery. It is an amazing way to discover unique and delicious meats from around the world, without having to leave the comforts of your house. 

An added bonus 

If that wasn’t already the perfect gift, the Carnivore Club had a little added bonus for new US subscribers. When I signed up for my box, I also received a free Opinel knife. Opinel is one of those brands that is known around the world for hits high quality. Their knives have been perfected for over a century. Just like the Carnivore Club, they pride themselves on offering an excellent services.

To sign up and get your free knife, all you have is click on this link and use the code “MIAWGORDON” at check out.

I was so happy when I signed up for Carnivore Club because it ended up being a truly unique, memorable, and of course delicious gift. It was also a great addition for parties, BBQ’s, and dinners with friends.

Happy tasting my friends,

xo,

Mia