Show dad how much he means to you with a one-of-a-kind gift, made or sourced by the best local small businesses.
Our team has curated a special list with rad gifts for all the great dads out there – whether he loves firing up the grill, enjoying a bold brew, teeing off at the course or keeping up his style!
For orders placed on LookLocal.ca, enjoy FREE local delivery (to Oakville and Burlington) for all orders of $50+.
Lakeside Livin’
Oakville, ON
These golf ball sets are the perfect gift for Father’s Day or any other celebration for that golf lover in your life! Sure to make him laugh as you remind him that simply putt, he’s the best dad by par!
Treat your dad to a brew-tiful Father’s Day with quality fair-trade roasts and brewing tools, so dad can become an expert barista in the comfort of his home!
This dad friendly gift set includes the best-selling ‘On The Go’ CBD Oil Tincture, the CBD supercharged ‘Solace’ Pain Salve, a travel CBD Pain Stick Roller, Bodega Body Wash and a Black Tourmaline Crystal.
Summer is finally here and that means #bbqszn! Your dad will love firing up some gourmet barbecue with the fiery heat and powerful flavours from Steel City Hot Sauce!
Get outside with dad this summer and grab this bocce ball set from Oakville Home Leisure. They’ve got lots of other great outdoors games to choose from too!
Dad will love storing his grooming tools or day-to-day essentials inside this sleek, stylish and compact leather kit from Tundra Leather. #madeinhamilton
Necessity was definitely the mother of invention when it came to small businesses surviving the pandemic. When the virus hit last year and in-person shopping was suddenly shut down, businesses had to scramble to find new ways to get their products to customers. Some found the solution in subscription boxes, which are filled with an assortment of items and delivered to a customer’s door on a one-time basis or according to a schedule.
The items are typically themed, from goodies for the home to beauty products. When Rustic Daisy’s in Waterdown realized they were facing another year with a pandemic, they decided to create a subscription box with a Canadian-made theme, hence the name – Canada in a Box.
As of May 2021, Rustic Daisy’s has two different box options to choose from. The Munchie Box, available quarterly, is filled with items to snack on, cook with, and share. Previous boxes have had shortbread, chocolate smash, cookie mix, and fudge, and will sell for $50, with a retail value of between $85 and $100. Just in time for Father’s Day, the latest Munchie Box features a mix of gourmet items perfect for a summer barbecue, including: a chicken/rib rub, peach chutney, maple syrup, veggie dip, pickled preserves and more.
The second box is TheExperience Box, which contains specialty items perfect for birthdays, wedding party gifts, ‘thinking of you’ gifts, graduations or just a rainy day. These boxes list for $75 (with an estimated retail value of $90 to $125) and feature a variety of one-of-a-kind handmade items and treats, including cards, bath products, teas, chocolates, fudge, candles, soaps, coffee, coasters, and jewelry.
Rustic Daisy’s owner, Cat McCrimmon, says the subscription boxes are a win-win. Not only do they make for safer shopping, but they also support local businesses. “I love this new brand that we have come up with, and hope to grow it and bring Canadian-made products into everyone’s home,” said Cat.
The Community Caring Box, founded in Georgetown, is another example of a subscription box – but this one donates a portion of their profits to a local charity. Each box supports more than 20 business brands.
Then there’s Ruby Crate, a lifestyle subscription box for tween and teenage girls that focuses on beauty items, style, and self-expression. With a tween daughter of her own, Oakville founder Heidi Avery had an ‘aha moment’ when she noticed there was a gap in the market for this generation! Ruby Crate was born to cater to the younger generation’s needs and wants – providing an excellent opportunity to create a new box with fun treasures for our girls that are theirs, and theirs alone. The Ruby Crate arrives four times a year and includes 5-7 unique products ranging from beauty and skin care, cool accessories, tech gadgets, and tasty snacks.
The Spark Box, founded by Sara and Mackenzie in Burlington, is specifically for moms and their kids and includes items for newborns and up. Each box is designed mindfully to address age-specific developmental milestones for your child and to include products that help make motherhood just a bit easier. All items target a child’s specific age and developmental stage and also include items for mom, such as lotions.
The Burlington Downtown Business Association subscription box – #DTBURLBOX – includes hand-selected items from local businesses and was set up to help businesses during the pandemic. It’s also a way to buy locally. Each box is filled with items from Downtown Burlington small businesses, such as a citronella candle from The Artisanville, sunscreen from Natural Health Garden, nail polish from Water’s Edge Salon & Spa, and a coupon for one pint of gelato from I Love Gelato. Each box is released at the beginning of the month and available on a first-come-first-served basis. Last year’s boxes were theme-filled, for example, Mother’s Day in May, Father’s Day in June, and Backyard Summer Survival in July.
My dad is a simple man – and as a man in his sixties, there’s not much he really needs. But when I think about our fondest times together, a few things come to mind: baiting a hook, casting a rod, and obviously, reeling in the big one. My husband, on the other hand, he’s a tech guy. His computer screens (yes, plural) are nearly bigger than our TV, he has more headphones than ears, and his keyboard makes a clicky sound – which apparently is a good thing. Just because you love someone, doesn’t always mean you know what to get them as a gift. Especially, if you have a father-figure in your life like my husband…… This is why we put together this gift guide – or should I say, gift guidance – as a way to guide you towards the perfect gift for the dad in your life.
FOR THE TECH DAD
If you have a tech-loving dad in your life and you’re not a tech-smart person, it’s really hard to know where to shop and what to buy. Local businesses like Core One or PMWYRE can help. From Bluetooth headphones and turntables (which are totally making a comeback) to full man-cave system integrations, these technology and audio experts can guide you towards the perfect gift for your budget – and for the dad in your life.
FOR THE GRILL DAD
Barbeques Galore is the place to go if you’re looking for grill gifts for dad. From BBQs to outdoor heating, they have it all, but we recommend you check out their accessories too. For the dad who loves to grill, things like a wireless meat thermometer, BBQ brush, or pellets for Dad’s smoker will really step up his grill game. They have tools, gadgets, apparel and yes – even the grills themselves. For outdoor fire pits, Oakville Home Leisure is the place to go. They’ve also got dart boards, pool table accessories and lots more to choose from.
FOR THE FOODIE DAD
Hot sauces. Cured meats. Salts. Mustards. Pies. Where do we begin? Let’s start with The Platter Company – a little shop in Aldershot that believes in all-inclusive eating. This means artisan cheese and charcuterie meats, desserts, pastries, appetizers – the works. They also offer vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free dishes! Then, there is Florence Meats in Oakville who stock a huge selection of spices, rubs and sauces – most with a South African influence. You can also check out Nostalgia Latin Market for an amazing selection of Mexican and Latin American ingredients and fixings. Go ahead, indulge Dad!
FOR THE CAFFEINE-CONSUMING DAD
Does dad start every morning with a hot cup of Joe? Why not put together the ultimate coffee lover’s gift basket? Grab an assortment of beans from Vereda Central or Firebat Coffee – both of whom are farm-to-cup coffee roasters and roast in small batches. Add a punny mug (dad joke approved) from Burlington’s Artisanville or Handmade House, or Maker’s Mojo in Downtown Oakville. And lastly, grab some accessories like a Chemex from Tribeca Coffee in Downtown Oakville.
Don’t forget – Father’s Day is June 20th. Show Dad (Grandpa, your husband, the very-special father-figure in your life) some love!
For those of us who have lost track of time, it may come as a shock that Mother’s Day is just around the corner (Sunday, May 9th, folks). And like last year, things look a wee bit different for Mom. While you may be celebrating curbside, or virtually, or right at home, there are still many ways to show you care (and mom certainly deserves it).
Several businesses in Oakville and Burlington are offering tasty treats and unique gifts through delivery and curbside pick-up. You may even be able to score a spot on a patio for a Mother’s Day meal. Here is our list of thoughtful, practical gifts for Mother’s Day during these strange times.
Decorate with Bubbles & Blush, Burlington
Bubbles & Blush is a local Burlington event planner who specializes in styling your event and bringing your vision to life. Recently, they have focused on Event Boxes which include everything you need to decorate your table for any special event. These boxes always include other local vendors to help support other small businesses.
This Mother’s Day you can spoil your mom by getting her a box that will help celebrate her day. Included in the box you’ll find plates, napkins, cutlery, candles, confetti, 10% off any future orders at Trattoria Timone (fine dining Italian restaurant in Oakville), a bottle of Sparkling Rose from Vineland Estates, cupcakes from Sinful and Sweet Desserts, and more. As an addition, you can add photos of you and your mom in the box as well as a breakfast tray to give an extra special gift.
Breakfast in Bed with Cozy Jammies
What a time to be alive when loungewear is TRENDING. PJ Salvage is a California contemporary brand specializing in luxury essentials and the pursuit of a comfy, casual lifestyle. They’re known for incredibly soft fabrics, gorgeous prints, meticulous attention to detail, and effortless, modern silhouettes, assorted over a beautiful collection of contemporary sleepwear and loungewear collections. You can pick up PJ Salvage at Joelle’s on Brant Street in Downtown Burlington, Linea Intima on Lakeshore Road in Downtown Oakville, and Good Night Good Morning in Bronte.
Give Mom a Spa Day
This gift idea is perfect for the mom of toddlers – or even teens. At the end of a long day of balancing work, home, and family life – there’s nothing like sliding into a warm bath for a little pampering. Whether it’s bath salts, body scrubs, or essential oils, Maison Apothecare has everything you need to bring the spa home. Draw mom a bath, light her a candle, and give her the gift of peace (even if it’s just for five minutes). You can also grab some sugar scrubs, massage oils, or vegan bath soaks by Pink Posh Fox from The Handmade House. And if you want to help your mom relax, Bodega Wellness has a relaxing CBD Spray that’s perfect to use before bed (or, you can check out their CBD bathbombs).
DIY Gifts from the Kids
Paint mom a mug, jewellery tray, or flower pot with Crackpot Studio in Oakville. You can either paint in the studio or take home one of their popular at-home pottery kits. Each kit includes your pieces, paints, a sponge, painting instructions, two brushes per piece, and a wooden skewer for decorating! Or, pick-up a craft kit from Chickadee Kid’s Co. in Burlington. Mother’s Day craft kits come with everything you need to create simple crafts that mom and grandma will swoon over – a perfect way for little hands to say “I love you” to mom.
Grab Unique Gifts from Local Maker Shops
Your mom is unique and deserves a one-of-a-kind gift that reflects her true charm. Thanks to our local makers and artisan shops, there are endless options to find that perfect gift. TheHandmade Househas cards, clothing, and accessories, especially for mom. While The Artisanvilleand The Little Pop Up Shoppe in Burlington and Maker’s Mojo and Dove+Arrow in Oakville have carefully crafted, artisanal products ranging from décor, clothing, food, and more. Everything is available for either curbside pick-up – or delivery straight to mom.
Give Mom the Night Off
Whether it’s breakfast in bed, a late brunch, or mom’s favourite meal, many local restaurants are offering take-out, curbside pick-up, and even patio and in-person dining (and many will have Mother’s Day specials as well)!
There you have it – from jammies to pampering and everything in between. A little local love will make mom feel ALL the love this Mother’s Day.
Pamper your skin and be kind to the environment, with Maison Apothecare’s organic soap bars. Handmade with all-natural essential oils and ingredients that will cleanse and moisturize your ski, while invigorating your senses with delightful scents like spruce, lavender or sage.
Experience the power of Pure. This vegan, eco-friendly dish soap is tough on grease but safe for both your skin and the environment! A great sink-side companion for easy dish cleaning.
Unpaper Towels are a great starter item for people making eco-friendly swaps in the kitchen! This product allows you to drastically reduce or completely eliminate single-use disposable paper towels in your home.
These reusable lids eliminate the need for single-use plastic wrap. Air-tight and leak-proof, they’ll keep your food fresh for longer! Featuring interior ribbing and pull tabs to ensure a snug fit and easy removal.
Gentle, sustainable and made with all-natural ingredients and plant extracts (including organic lavender oil). LOVELY Laundry Wash will leave your linens and clothing with a calming scent that will feel like a warm hug on a cold day.
Made from organically-grown bamboo, these toothbrushes will protect your smile and the environment at the same time! The BPA-free, vegan, soft bristles are infused with premium activated white charcoal and have powerful antibacterial properties that will naturally clean, whiten and brighten your teeth!
Made from organically-grown bamboo, these toothbrushes will protect your smile and the environment at the same time! The BPA-free, vegan, soft bristles are infused with premium activated white charcoal and have powerful antibacterial properties that will naturally clean, whiten and brighten your teeth!
Enfleurage Organics’ plant-based goodies will pamper your body from head to toe! Gentle, non-toxic, organic and created to work in balance with your natural beauty!
Be kind to the earth with these reusable bowl covers that fit snugly over bowls and plates while reducing your use of plastic wrap. Made in Canada from organic cotton, they are available in a variety of prints and either waxed or unwaxed.
These reusable and washable cotton facial rounds are your solution to reducing waste in the bathroom. Perfect for applying toner and removing makeup or nail polish, these are a great alternative to disposable cotton rounds.
Get ready for a bountiful crop of Ontario grown produce in your fridge, with these waterproof and eco-friendly produce bags and beeswax wraps – perfect for keeping your fruits and veggies fresh or for on-the-go snacking!
We’ve officially been living in pandemic pandemonium for a year now. And how things have changed. Washing hands, wearing a mask, maintaining physical distance at the grocery store – these have all become second nature to us. While we’ve all been learning how to live in and adapt to a pandemic – some of us have taken this opportunity to dive into a new experience of our own. While we have, unfortunately, seen some local brick and mortar retailers and restaurants close their doors as a direct result of the pandemic, we have also seen others open their doors for the very first time.
Here, we celebrate these local community members, entrepreneurs, and visionaries, and rejoice in the opening of their new establishments.
Bubbles and Blow, founded by 27-year-old New Jersey native, Nikki Gray, had its grand opening in November 2020 – eight months into the pandemic.
Nikki had always loved hair and has worked in salons since the early age of 14. She trained in New Jersey, and in Manhattan, Soho and Tribeca in New York City. Bringing her career with her to Canada was a dream. “I used the pandemic to bring my dreams to life…when else in life would we have this moment where time kind of…stops?”, explains Nikki.
Though Toronto may have been an obvious choice for city-loving Nikki, there was something special about the smaller city of Burlington – the people. Not long after moving to the area with her husband, Dale, Nikki was introduced to a warm, inviting, loving community – and she knew it was destiny.
Bubbles and Blow offer extension services, blowouts, bridal, blonding and balayage, and more! Visit them on Instagram @bubblesandblow.burlington
Waves in the Village, which opened in November 2020, was founded by Caitlin McGillivray and her husband Mike Ledgerwood after they fell in love with the atmosphere and community of Downtown Burlington, specifically The Village. “Opening a boutique has always been a goal, it was just the question of where and when,” says Caitlin. So, when she found the perfect retail spot – despite the pandemic – she knew it was time. While owning a retail boutique had been a lifelong dream, Caitlin explains, “It was scary deciding to move forward with a new business in the middle of a pandemic.”
Through the use of social media, Caitlin created excitement about Waves in the Village before its doors even opened, and in the first few months of business, the boutique has thrived.
Waves in the Village has trendy clothing, fun accessories, shoes, and even items from local makers such as bath bombs and cards. You can shop Waves in the Village online at shopwaves.ca, and be sure to visit them on Instagram @waves_inthevillage
Up until last year, Amelia Chiarelli was working full-time in audio post-production in Toronto. “I was commuting 4-hours a day, was constantly stressed and was not living in my best state,” says Amelia. She adds, “One positive thing that came out of this pandemic for me was the opportunity to step back from the routine I was stuck in and really get in touch with what I wanted for myself.” And as a soon-to-be pandemic bride, Amelia decided she wanted to open her own bridal salon, Stolen Hearts Bridal.
As an appointment-only boutique, Amelia can focus on one bride at a time, making it easier to follow guidelines, distance, and keep people safe.
The grand opening was a live virtual event on March 2nd, allowing people to tune-in to see the space for the first time, view gowns, and win prizes. Stolen Hearts Bridal will be setting up an online store for accessories and will be moving sample sales online as well.
Born in France and raised on an organic farm in Ontario, Natacha Rey spent her childhood making potions and lotions for her loved ones using the ingredients she collected from nature. As an adult, she pursued this passion and studied homeopathic medicine at the Australian College of Natural Medicine where she earned a Bachelor of Health Science.
Natacha’s early career focused on formulating bespoke skincare products. With the birth of her first child in 2010, her creative energy materialized as Sleepy Owl Baby Care, one of Maison Apothecare’s popular product lines.
Today, Natacha continues to formulate new products (including Lemon Aide Surface Cleaner) for the whole family as she leads Maison Apothecare along the sometimes-bumpy road of business.
Maison Apothecare took a major hit during the pandemic and Natacha was forced to permanently close two of her three locations — Niagara-on-the-Lake and Bloor West Village. But the company has moved into a new location in Oakville, offering a much larger, brighter space, and allowing Natacha to share her products in an environment that offers better distance, incredible natural light, and more.
Visit Maison Apothecare on Instagram and Facebook @maisonapothecare or shop Natacha’s incredible line of products online at maisonapothecare.ca.
Seek Studio
131 Lakeshore Rd East, Oakville
Seekstudio.ca
On a sunny afternoon in late November 2020, Marie-Josee Boisvert was sitting on the Paradiso patio in Oakville with some friends, when they noticed a lease available next door. After viewing the space, and experiencing the crowds and energy of Downtown Oakville, Marie-Josee decided to take on a little passion project. She would open an art studio to showcase her friend Bill Boyko’s art and décor for the Christmas season – just to see how it would go.
Within three days, Seek Studio was painted and ready, officially opening in December 2020. Six days later, the art gallery was closed due to the lockdown. With a creative storefront and eCommerce site, Josee ended up selling pieces both online and through the gallery window.
While this is her first retail venture, Marie-Josee hasn’t let the pandemic scare her. “We have been welcomed by Downtown Oakville and the BIA with great enthusiasm. It lifts our spirits”.
Visit Seek Studio for everything interesting; curated consignment art, decor, and cool finds. The New, The Vintage, The Up-Cycled, and the Re-Born. It’s all in the Hunt! You can also check them out on Instagram @seekstudiooakville.
Enjoy an overnight glow-up with this CBD Face Serum that will have you waking up with soft, supple skin! Pair it with Bodega’s Jade Facial Roller & Gua Sha Set to experience a cooling, soothing effect on the skin (Jade Roller) and a firming, lifting effect (Gua Sha).
The CHILL Essentials Kit was created with your favourite self-care rituals in mind. CHILL (Black Lava Salt Soak) will create a relaxing bath experience, while WILD ONE (Restoring Mist Spray) will uplift your mind and spirit throughout the day!
Treat yourself to the comfort of a warm cup of tea! Plus, with this Stepping BeauTEA Essentials set, you get to try six of Tracie’s luxury brews, including Inner Glow, TLC Time, and Grateful Dreams.
Make self-care a 2021 priority and treat yourself to these relaxing (all-natural) bath bombs and salts in three different scents, including: Eucalyptus Lavender, Just Breathe and Cashmere. Light a candle, drop them in a tub, relax and enjoy!
Available for women and men, these robes and bath towels are made of the softest fabric on the planet – bamboo. Cozy, soft, luxurious, and designed and made by Burlington’s own award-winning Joseph Tassoni.
Oatmeal and coffee make for a good morning – especially in scrub form! Made from a unique blend of all-natural Indian spices, coffee, sugar, and oatmeal exfoliants that will help you fight acne and cellulite – and leave you glowing from head to toe!
For Amelia Chiarelli, what started out as a dream — an idea of a modern bridal boutique for brides wanting a little more magic when choosing that perfect dress — has now become a reality.
A Hamiltonian (born and raised), Amelia fell in love with her city but also with the neighbouring communities — Oakville, Burlington and Waterdown.
Now, Amelia is engaged to her fiance while dealing with challenges of planning a wedding amidst this ongoing pandemic.
“As a bride amidst this ongoing pandemic, it has been uplifting to see the creative ways this past year has shaped the wedding industry and being reminded of the beauty between two people on their wedding day. Seeing that love is never cancelled,” said Amelia.
On March 2, Amelia will be opening the doors to her dream bridal boutique, located in Waterdown (37 Main Street South Unit 4). Thus realizing her lifelong dream, supporting other brides in the local community, and keeping love alive during these challenging times.
“The boutique encompasses the true beauty and emotions of finding your wedding gown in the modern age, creating an intimate experience as unique as each bride to be,” said Amelia. “We work with bespoke designers whose values align with ours and hand pick every gown for our collection. We also love sustainability. Over 50% of our gowns are sustainable and use eco-friendly materials.
With the name Stolen Hearts Bridal Boutique, your heart is sure to be stolen away by the beautiful wedding dresses and magical atmosphere. Just take a peak at this gorgeous photo and visit Stolen Hearts’ Instagram and website.
Ps. Don’t miss out on the VIRTUAL grand-opening event on March 2 at 7:30pm EST. Amelia and her team will be showcasing the boutique for the first time, modelling some dresses, and giving away AMAZING prizes from some of their favourite local vendors and businesses! Simply RSVP at this link: https://smart.bio/stolenheartsbridal/
Treat yourself to a relaxing spa experience with this Soothe Essentials Kit, including a SOOTHE Pink Himalayan Salt Soak and a FLOWER CHILD Mist Spray. SOOTHE will turn your bath into a luxurious oasis while FLOWER CHILD will give your skin a natural glow throughout the day.
Who doesn’t love chocolate? And chocolate that looks cute at that. Delicious white combined with hints of matcha green tea – unique just like the one you love.
Pair these macarons with some champagne and you’ll feel like you’ve been swept on a romantic escape to France! Ps. you can also ask to have the macarons customized with words and imagery (if you wanted to slip in a little “I love you”)
Reach your ultimate zen-level with these luxurious bath bombs, made in Ontario from all-natural ingredients. Light a candle, drop them in a tub, relax and enjoy!
Surprise your loved one this Valentine’s Day with a beautiful floral arrangement from Moon’s Flowers. Wife, mother, daughter, sweet-heart – your special someone is sure to cherish a beautiful bouquet.
LookLocal.ca, a multi-vendor marketplace (founded by the team behind Look Local Magazine) that makes it easy for consumers to shop their favourite small businesses all in one place, has been selected as a participant in the Digital Main Street Lab program.
Digital Main Street, supported by theFederal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), as well as the Government of Ontario and administered across the Southwestern part of the province by Communitech, will provide funding and resources to Look Local as they develop a user-friendly, online marketplace where customers can support multiple local retailers and makers on one platform.
“It’s never been more important to support small businesses and spend our dollars locally. Our goal with Look Local is to make shopping local as easy as shopping on Amazon or Etsy, showcasing all the products available nearby,” said Jonathon Root, Co-Founder of Look Local. “We couldn’t be more excited to have DMS Labs partner with us on this pilot and help us put the pieces in place to scale this concept across Ontario.”
In their work with Look Local, the Digital Main Street team will focus on ensuring that the pilot unites small businesses to improve their online presence. Much like a trip to Main Street, visitors to Look Local can browse and add items to their cart from multiple shops but enjoy the convenience of only one checkout at the end of their visit. The company will add new retailers and products to the site on a weekly basis. On the site, customers are able to search by both community and product category.
“The Digital Main Street Lab connects technology companies with locally-owned businesses to collaborate on innovations that lead to impactful digital transformation,” said Ahmed ElBedawy, Communitech’s Digital Main Street program director. “Look Local shares in our belief that main street businesses are the heart of communities across Southwestern Ontario and we are honoured to support them as they work to develop support for these businesses to compete with big box retailers online.”
“COVID-19 has had a profound impact on our main street businesses and local economies,” said the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario. “Shopping local is a great way to support our communities and our government is proud to work with great partners such as Communitech and LookLocal.ca that are helping local businesses move online and adapt in today’s changing economy.”
At the core of this project, the Digital Main Street Lab is focused on bringing immediate and lasting improvements to neighbourhood businesses across Ontario, enabling them to not only survive, but thrive in today’s rapidly changing landscape. By launching in local communities, tech companies will gain access to real-time feedback from small businesses and effective solutions will be shared throughout the province.
