Even for those who love hitting stores, December can feel daunting. Since we’re down with making things run as smoothly as possible for our readers, we thought it would be a good idea to seek out a few key and kickass Vancouver retailers who are in the know and ask for some directions, because even the most hardened getters-of-things done could use a compass in the yule maelstrom. We’re calling their contributions The Shopaholiblog (because it’s a fun word to say).

Today, Caroline Boquist and Daniel Kozlowski (co-owners of Cambie Street’s WALRUS) tell us about some of their favourite Christmas gift suggestions. IF you aren’t familiar with Walrus – this little blurb will bring you up to speed: At WALRUS the elegantly stocked shelves satiate a hunger for all things good; petitioning the intellect, stimulating emotion, and engaging our materialistic obsessions with brilliant design by some of the most intriguing designers from Vancouver, New York, and Europe. Big things, small things, always a pleasant surprise.

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Under $20

Sagaform Pasta server/grater ($19)

Why: It grates, measures, serves and looks good all in one!

Who: Perfect for any cook or pasta lover.

Missing Goat Jams & Chutneys ($9 – $11)

Why: Missing Goat has a great story, lovely packaging, is made in small batches (with no preservatives) and is local (made by Vancouver magazine stylist with impeccable taste – Heather Cameron).

Who: This is an ideal gift for a hostess/a teacher/a foodie

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Under $50

Pension Für Produkte Keyholder ($42)

Why: Function meets simple design.

Who: Ideal for anybody who can never find their keys at home!

Pension Für Produkte Cutting board ($50)

Why: Thoughtful and playful! Designers choose the image based on the grain of the board and incorporate it in the design – so smart.

Who: Ideal for people who take pleasure in the simple everyday things.

Bowling Arm ($45)

Why: Unique – made of used cricket ball remnants from Australia – uni-sex bracelets are fun to accessorize with!

Who: Ideal for the style conscious individual who’s always on the lookout for a hip, new thing!

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Under $100

Lumen by Adam Frank ($66)

Why: A perfect fit for dark winter nights.

Who: Ideal for anyone who appreciates an element of surprise and intimacy! When lit, these beautiful pieces cast their shadows on the wall.

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Over $100

Nooka Watches ( $176 to $416)

Why: Finally, there is another way to read time.

Who: Perfect for any watch/design lover.

Inscription Vase – Raumgestalt ($135-155)

Why: Beautiful just in black and comes with chalk and a sponge – you can personalize it with your own design/messages.

Who: pretty much anyone who might ever have need of a vase.

Bruxe Backpacks ($105 to $145)

Why: Because it’s so hard to find a backpack with style. Designed in Canada.

Who: Anyone who carries stuff that doesn’t fit in their pockets

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WHERE TO BUY

3408 Cambie Street | 604-874-9770 | WALRUS