We’re so excited to release our annual gift guide! We know that our readers love finding cool and unique gifts that support local businesses at the same time. As a result, we’ve compiled a list of spots offering the perfect products and experiences! This is also the perfect time to send some hints to your loved ones about what you’d like this season. So let’s take a look at the ultimate 2021 Ottawa holiday gift guide shall we?
1. Delicious Eats and Treats
Jav’s Cookie Co
First up on our list are the incredible cookies from Jav’s Cookie CO. One look at the Instagram page will have you drooling and placing an order. We also can’t help but love that Jav has consistently donated to important causes from cookie sales this year!!
Order: DM @javscookieco on Instagram to order
Ottawa Fantasy Treats
Ottawa Fantasy Treats is a one stop shop for beautiful treats. They can make anything from chocolate covered apples and strawberries, to hot chocolate bombs, and even smashable hearts. Smashable hearts looks so fun and we think they would make a wonderful holiday gift for that person in your life that is a huge sweet-tooth.
Order: DM @ottawafantasytreats on Instagram for pricing or e-mail them at ftreatsottawa@gmail.com
Zeitouna Kitchen
Give the gift of a custom charcuterie board this year from the spectacular Zeitouna Kitchen! Send your loved ones (or yourself) a cheese-stacked box to enjoy from the comfort of home. Sounds like the perfect evening for a busy family or couple.
Order: DM @zeitounakitchen on Instagram for orders/inquiries
2. Hot and Cold Sips
Wax and Wane Coffee
Chantal launched Wax and Wane Coffee in 2020 during the pandemic. Wax + Wane is an online Canadian coffee company based out of Ottawa. They deliver fresh roast-to-order coffee beans. So if you have a coffee-lover in your life, consider supporting this local gem and give that individual the gift of happiness in a cup.
Shop: Online
Bar From Afar
Bar From Afar was our favourite discovery in 2020. When the pandemic first hit and there was a stay-at-home order in effect we missed restaurant-quality cocktails. Bar From Afar provides complete cocktail kits, except glassware, to make speakeasy quality cocktails at home. Their kits include the alcohol, juices, seasonings, garnishes, and detailed, easy-to-follow instructions. Their kits are perfect for the cocktail aficionado in your life.
Order: Online
Cada Dia Tequila
Cada Dia Tequila was one of our favourite discoveries in 2021. We recently found out that it was created by Ottawa-based couple Sandeep and Riti Gupta. Here at Date Night we know that our readers all have a tequila-loving individual in their lives. Whether that special someone enjoys sipping on tequila, or making margaritas, we think they would truly enjoy this gift.
Shop: LCBO
3. All Things Cozy
Cozy Creations by Lex
There is nothing more cozy than a handmade blanket. Cozy Creation By Lex makes the most beautiful, soft, and chunky knit blankets around. The wide variety of colours and sizes means that you can order the perfect custom blanket for that special someone.
Shop: DM @cozycreationsbylex to order
The Valley Candle Co.
The Valley Candle Co. makes eco conscious candles celebrating the spirit of the Ottawa valley. The candles are hand-poured by the owner who loves Ottawa, as can be seen by the product range. The beautiful candles that come in vintage glassware are among our favourite items. They would make such a beautiful and cozy addition to anyone’s home.
Shop: Online
White Buffalo Vintage
Next on our list is White Buffalo Vintage. They offer handpicked vintage farmhouse décor and have the most beautiful selection of unique furniture! If you are shopping for a home décor enthusiast, we are confident that you will find the perfect gift at White Buffalo Vintage.
Shop: Online or visit the store 357 Rue Main Unit A, Shawville, Quebec
4. Jewelry For Everyone
True Bijoux
True Bijoux is a local staple in the Ottawa community. Owner Lindsay is one of the kindest and most knowledgeable business owners we have ever interacted with. The shop has a HUGE collection of items (both vintage and new). You will definitely find the perfect gift at this jewelry store.
Shop: Online or visit the store at 206 Sparks St., Ottawa
Strut Jewelry
Strut Jewelry is a local woman-owned jewelry company with all handmade pieces. Alyssa Spaxman created Strut Jewelry as a response to a lack of modern, affordable, and well-crafted jewelry. If you’re shopping for minimalist jewelry then this is the perfect shop for you!
Shop: Online
Hailey Jane Jewelry
Hailey Jane Jewelry is yet another amazing Ottawa-based company that makes jewelry and watches. Hailey’s work focuses on both sentiment and style. She makes romantic pieces for the playful and modern woman. If you are shopping for a playful and modern woman you should consider supporting Hailey Jane Jewelry this holiday season!
Shop: Online or visit 520 Stargazer Cres., Manotick, ON (by appointment only)
5. Oh What Fun!
DateNight Game
It’s no surprise that we recommend the datenight Game as the perfect stocking stuffer this year. We have spent the last few months crafting a game that had the perfect mix of questions to get to know your date better. This game is fantastic whether you’re talking, dating, seeing where it goes, not labelling it, or are madly in love. We made sure to include questions and conversation starters you’ve never thought to ask before. Don’t worry though, the questions aren’t too intense!
Shop: Online
The GOOD Challenge
Have you heard of The GOOD Challenge before? They’re gamifying doing GOOD with epic adventures that give back to charity. This Canadian-based company prompts ‘players’ to choose their challenge, find their cause, win cool prizes, and lastly nominate others! There are many challenge packs, including an Ottawa edition one! This would make the perfect gift for the adventure seeker in your life!
Shop: Online
We hope you enjoyed the ultimate 2021 Ottawa holiday gift guide we put together! Let us know what other wonderful local companies you would like to see featured on this list down below in the comments. We will be happy to add them!! Wishing you all a safe and happy holiday season this year.
PS. Check out other amazing DateNight articles for more date ideas in the nation’s capital!
