Coquitlam Shop Local Gift Guide
byIn this month’s Visit Coquitlam guest feature you’ll find many reasons to shop local this season and a handy Coquitlam Gift Guide!
Coquitlam Shop Local Gift Guide
There are so many amazing shops and other businesses in Coquitlam, locals don’t need to travel far to nab an amazing gift for loved ones this holiday season.
Yes, buying local supports our small businesses, but that’s not the only reason to shop close to home. It’s good for our health and the environment. Also, you’ll find locally made items you might not otherwise have discovered.
Reasons to Shop Local This Season
Here are five reasons to shop local this holiday season, including some great gift ideas. And if you’re hesitant to head out in the hustle and bustle this year, remember that many of your local retailers are also offering online shopping or curbside pickup.
1. You’ll get into the festive spirit and explore new places
Wrap up warm and go for a walk, taking in the lights, the music and the festive atmosphere. By shopping close to home, you can park the car and set out on walkable shopping experience with plenty of charm and festivities.
Try neighbourhood hubs of shops and services such as Austin Heights in Coquitlam, where you can take in the light displays while masking up to dip in to small businesses along the way. North Road in Coquitlam is another walkable area with unique shops and some delicious restaurants for refuelling. Visit the Tourism Coquitlam website for even more shopping hubs for you to explore.
2. You’ll find unique gift ideas you won’t find anywhere else
If you are looking for a one-of-a-kind gift, try searching at local artisan shops. This not only supports the shop, but the local artists themselves. These shops have everything from jewellery, household items, décor, body care, clothing and accessories and beyond.
In Coquitlam, pay a visit to Artisan Gifts & Flowers online or in person at their adorable bricks and mortar location in Austin Heights. Also in the neighbourhood is Rosemarie’s Treasures, selling locally-made products and goods. Pay them a visit online or in person to find your local holiday gifts this year. Another great option is the Place des Arts Artisan Shop and Christmas Boutique with new items added regularly.
3. You’ll build personal connections and get great service
Whether you’re searching for a pair of earrings or a new mountain bike, shopping local means you’ll get personalized customer service, which just doesn’t happen when you buy online with a global shopping giant. You can take your time, ask questions and make sure you’re getting exactly what you’re after.
Not only that, but small business owners reward loyalty. Once they get to know you, they’ll often go the extra mile to meet your needs.
4. It’s good for your health and the environment.
Shopping local means less driving around, less stress and a smaller carbon footprint. When purchasing locally, there is less waste from packaging and less harmful emissions from shipping methods. You’re also more likely to buy locally produced items and eat locally made/grown foods. It’s a win-win.
You also get out in your neighbourhood, walking from store to store and getting some much needed fresh air and time for yourself.
5. You’re supporting small businesses, which keep our local economy strong
Take a look around the shops in your neighbourhood. These are places that are owned by your friends and neighbours. They are also the people who make your community the vibrant place it is today, home to cafés, restaurants, boutiques, sports stores, art shops and so much more.
By spending at these businesses, you’re supporting local jobs. Local businesses also support good work in the community, donating to worthy causes, sponsoring sports teams and giving back in other ways.
For example, in Coquitlam, Jamila’s Kitchen & Grill supports the neighbourhood in many ways. They have provided health care workers with free meals through the pandemic, and treated veterans to a free meal on Remembrance Day this past month. They have also demonstrated compassion by providing a free meal to those who may not be able to afford it.
Coquitlam Gift Guide
Here are five gift ideas that also support local:
- Give the gift of an experience. Think of your favourite activities (escape rooms, bowling, indoor climbing, going to the theatre, etc.) Consider tickets or gift cards for friends or family.
- Buy local food and drinks. For your friend who loves craft beer, try a gift or gift card to your local brewery. Don’t forget the local butcher, specialty food shops, bakeries, and more. Check out the growing list of Coquitlam restaurants and food service businesses for inspiration.
- Give local gift cards. Consider your neighbourhood spas, nail bars, salons, restaurants and retailers.
- Buy local art and jewelry. Check out your local artisan shops, local galleries and framing shops. Don’t forget to get your art or photography supplies locally, too, such as at Opus Art Supplies or Framing & Art Centre in Coquitlam.
- Find local treasures. There are so many local entrepreneurs selling products, jewelry, candles or other delights.
Find more ideas for local gifts for this holiday season online here.
Give Local in Coquitlam This Holiday Season
With the importance of shopping local and supporting small businesses this year, Tourism Coquitlam is ensuring you have no shortage of ideas and inspiration for where you can find local gifts for your loved ones this holiday season. Tune in to Visit Coquitlam on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for amazing contests, insider shopping tips and spotlights on local retailers, restaurants and other businesses to support during your holiday shopping. Share how you are supporting local this holiday season by tagging your posts with #GiveLocalCQ.
Miss the posts on social media? No need to worry. Check out the growing list of local businesses you can support this holiday season online here.
Did we miss your favourite idea? Tell us about it! Share your pictures with us on social using #ExploreCoquitlam.
