Monika Sofrenovic is the Marketing Specialist at CIRA. She is a recent graduate of Carleton University with a Bachelor of Commerce Degree in Marketing.
Good things come in clever packages
Finding that perfect, well-thought-out gift for a close friend, co-worker—or *cough, cough* slightly judgemental in-law—just got way easier! Supply that special someone on your list with all the pampering products they need for a spa day. Or—spoil them with a small arsenal of artisanal BBQ sauces and seasonings. Here, we’re serving up the goods on all the best Canadian-made gift boxes guaranteed to tickle the fancies of folks from all age groups, interests and personalities.
thekindcurator.ca
A gift box from Kind Curator Co. is like an uber-thoughtful pick-me-up from a close friend that knows you best. Each of their eco-friendly boxes comes with a great selection of small-batch, locally sourced goods that promote self-care and wellness. For instance, their “Weekender Brunch Box” comes with everything you need for an at-home brunch done right—including artisanal buttermilk pancake mix, small batch maple syrup and organic coffee!
Price range: $ – $$$
rubycrate.ca
These gift boxes are designed to surprise and delight tweens and teenage girls. Heck—they’ve even won awards for it! Ruby Crates feature a specially curated selection of bath, beauty and self-care products, seasonally inspired accessories, tech gadgets and clever décor items. Choose from a year-long Ruby Crate subscription (which arrives four times a year) or make a splash with a single, celebration themed crate.
Price range: $$ – $$$
balloontreasures.ca
Here we have giftwrapping taken to a whole other whimsical extreme! L & P’s Balloon Treasures & Engraving offers “stuffed balloons”—giant balloons filled with gifts and treats and emblazoned with a custom message. It’s an unforgettable and smile-inducing way to ring in the holidays, or—heck—any other special occasion. And while you’re at it, check out L & P’s custom, laser-engraved tree ornaments for an extra-special touch.
Price range: $
shopmoica.ca
Look—putting together that perfect holiday gift needn’t be super stressful. The folks at Shop Moi have you covered! This woman-run, Quebec-based company does the shopping for you, by assembling thoughtful, themed gift boxes—featuring hand-picked products from 250 local suppliers—for just about every interest and age group.
Price range: $ – $$$
laboiteabonbons.ca
There’s no mystery here. No hidden meaning. This gift box is all about candy… gummy candies, to be exact. La Boite a Bonbons packs freshness, quality and a tons of flavour variety into each box prepared by their small, Montreal-based team. Long story short: this is sugary paradise for anyone on your list with a sweet tooth!
Price range: $ – $$$
giftideas.ca
Ever run into the problem of having TOO many gift options? Yes, it’s a thing! Fortunately, Giftideas.ca streamlines the holiday shopping experience, letting you search for their specially curated gift boxes by age, interest, gender—and even personality. So, it’s pretty much a given that you’ll find the right box for the right person…and look like a bona-fide, gift-giving savant while doing it.
Price range: $ – $$$
millerboxco.ca
For Miller Box Co., the overall theme is thoughtful, useful gift boxes with a personal touch. Inside, you’ll find kitchen essentials, modern home décor, tasty treats and a wide variety of other locally sourced products that support Canadian small businesses. You can even personalize your gift box with a handwritten note, for that added bit of holiday warmth!
Price range: $$ – $$$
thehappybox.ca
What started as a pandemic project to support small businesses, has blossomed into a full-on happiness-spreading enterprise! The Happy Box is just what the name implies: a gift box packed with bold flavours, self care essentials, cozy drinks and seasonally inspired accessories designed to get any giftee on your list grinning from ear to ear.
Price range: $$ – $$$
giftsmack.ca
Look—it’s okay to not be the greatest gift-er of all time. So, leave it to the dynamic duo behind Gift Smack, who’ve gone ahead and curated some of the finest gift boxes and baskets around. Supporting small-batch and artisanal local businesses, you can go with a themed, pre-made gift box, or assemble your own over-the-top creation.
Price range: $ – $$$
cheerfetti.ca
Halifax-based Cheerfetti puts together curated, themed gift boxes that make for cheerful birthday, housewarming, or holiday gifts. They’re even perfect for someone that’s in need of cheering up! Expect a great mix of Canadian-made treats, gift items and more in every box.
Price range: $$
baamaapiiboxes.ca
From the Ojibway word for “see you again,” Baamaapii Boxes promote a positive lifestyle and a sense of belonging while bringing a wide selection of indigenous-made products and culture to your door. Part of the proceeds from each box go towards the Canadian Mental Health Association (CAMH) in support of men’s mental health.
Price range: $ – $$
brocrates.ca
Forget edible arrangements and dainty chocolate baskets. Give the beer aficionados on your list gift baskets filled with top-notch beer, whiskey and eats. BroCrates offers a range of curated gift baskets that cater to everyone, whether they’re into BBQ, spirits or sports.
Price range: $$ – $$$
