Who’s on your gift list?
A time of giving and sharing is upon us. With only a couple weeks until Christmas, shoppers in the qathet region who celebrate the holiday are making plans to treat family members and friends with something special. Shoppers have many options when working through their gift lists. While the hypothetical convenience and cost savings of online shopping creates temptation for some customers, buying locally has advantages that debunk those notions. It takes mere minutes to get to any businesses in the region, parking is free and usually close by, and opportunities are endless for finding unique gifts. If a return is required, shipping is not involved, which is more time consuming than a quick return trip to a store in town. Products made by local artisans cannot be found elsewhere, and recipients of those gifts may be inspired to visit that same retailer to make another purchase after the holiday season, which continues the flow of funds from resident to business



to employee, and so on.
When someone asks what’s on your list, consider a product or service from a local store, studio or facility found inside this gift guide. The best presents are often everyday items that will be used many times before being forgotten, traded, discarded or recycled.
Shopping locally this holiday season will benefit the health of the local economy. Whether your list is long or short, keep that in mind when making purchasing decisions. Advertisements throughout this special feature highlight businesses where that perfect present could be waiting for pick up, as well as organizations promoting other ways to spoil loved ones, such as personal experiences or by sharing skills. Look through these pages and see what your favourite local businesses have in store this holiday season. You might be able to check every box on your list, and perhaps stumble across something you might want to buy for yourself, after the holidays of course.



to make your shopping easier, keep track of what you're purchasing for everyone on the lists below
Dear
With so many amazing gifts, I thought I would help you out with list of a few of my favourites

Fun ideas to spice up your gift exchange
The traditional Christmas gift exchange can sometimes feel predictable, but you can add excitement and fun to this holiday tradition with a little creativity. Use these ideas to inspire your next festive gathering.
Secret Santa with a twist
Add an element of playfulness by setting a theme for the gifts, such as “handmade,” “something cozy” or “gifts that start with the letter ‘S.’” This encourages creativity and makes the unwrapping more surprising.
White elephant gift exchange
In this lively game, each participant brings a wrapped gift, and numbers are drawn to determine the order of gift selection. The catch? Others can “steal” gifts, leading to a hilarious and unpredictable exchange.
Friday, January 31 7 pm



Mystery box exchange
Each participant fills a box with several small, themed items. During the exchange, participants pick a box without knowing what’s inside. It’s a fun way to discover a variety of surprises in one package.
Gift auction
Use play money or tokens for this game. Each person brings a wrapped gift, and participants bid on them in an auction-style exchange. This adds an element of strategy and competition to the giftgiving process.
These unique gift exchange ideas can transform your Christmas celebration into an event filled with laughter, creativity and delightful surprises.

gifts for giving













John Reischman and the Jaybirds, Friday, January 31, 7 pm. Tickets $30 each MAX CAMERON THEATRE B. Villas on the Inlet year-round accommodation are cliffside suites that offer the ultimate escape for travellers who love to chart their own adventures.Starting at $299 WEST COAST WILDERNESS LODGE C.
You are sure to delight when giving a gift that is always right. Give a Town Centre gift certificate, available at Town Centre administration office. POWELL RIVER TOWN CENTRE D. Banff Film Festival Tickets, February 21 and 22. $25 each QATHET SCHOOL DISTRICT AND KNUCKLEHEAD WINTER RECREATION ASSOCIATION E. Give the gift of choice, our gift cards allow your loved ones to pick exactly what they want, with the flexibility to fill in the amount that works best for you. TOP SHELF FEEDS
gifts under $20


Shop our Christmas Traditions store
Ornaments • Puzzles • Socks Christmas decorations Health and well-being items
Chocolates and so much more


qathet School District and the Knucklehead Winter Recreation Association present the BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL WORLD TOUR
Max Cameron Theatre • February 21 & 22
Doors open 5:30 pm • Showtime 6:30 pm Join us for a CASH bar and explore local organizations’ booths that support outdoor adventure. Tickets, $25 and available at TAWS & The Gear Attic

Knucklehead Winter Recreation Association enhances access and provides infrastructure to promote safe alpine recreation throughout the Powell River backcountry. We look forward to helping students grow their knowledge and understanding of the local backcountry. For more information or membership please visit: powellriverbackcountry.com/about-us/

A. Insulated water bottles, tumblers and eco-friendly drinkware featuring Indigenous designs. Starting at $19.99 TOURISM POWELL RIVER
B. Stocking stuffers for everyone on your list this holiday season. Starting at $10 ECOSSENTIALS LOCAL MARKET




















gifts to splurge on






Redeemable








A. Explore the famous Princess Louisa Inlet and the stunning fjords leading up to it by boat, including Princess Louisa Inlet tour. Packages starting at $410 per person WEST COAST WILDERNESS LODGE
B. Dark angel with white dragon fairy figurine will make an eye-catching addition for your display shelves, desktops, or office décor. Sweet decoration for your home, and perfect gift choice for those who love fairies. $129.95 OCEANSIDE ENTERTAINMENT
C. Handmade Memory Bears are created from upcycled from fur coats. Available in a variety of designs.Starting at $125 SPOOL’S END D. Gold and Silver bullion buy and sell. PR PAWNBROKERS



for kids

A. With three different sized pieces, beginners and experts can work on this Cobble Hill puzzle together. Perfect for children of all ages. Variety of images and piece counts available in store. $24.95 OCEANSIDE ENTERTAINMENT B. You are sure to delight when giving a gift that is always right. Town Centre gift certificates available at Town Centre administration office. POWELL RIVER TOWN CENTRE

FABRIC, PATTERNS AND NOTIONS
Recycled fur coat teddy bears and


gifts for the family




A. The Aroma Counter Mist Diffuser for essential oils offers up to 12 hours of diffusion covering up to 650 square feet. Essential oils also available. $84 KELLY'S HEALTH SHOP B. You are an amateur dracologist in the world of Wyrmspan board game, a place where dragons of all shapes, sizes, and colors roam the skies. One to five players, 90-minute average play time, ages 14+. $94.95 OCEANSIDE ENTERTAINMENT C. Looking to experience kayaking in Egmont? Book a Kayaker’s Dream package which includes a Hotham Sound kayak tour. Packages starting at $425 per person. WEST COAST WILDERNESS LODGE D. 1000-piece jigsaw puzzle. Proceeds in support of the Sunshine Coast School for Mothers and Children in Bangladesh, through Amarok Society: Start With Mothers. $35 ROTARY CLUBS OF THE SUNSHINE COAST


gifts for her













A. Give the gift of healthy skin this year with a New Beginnings Laser Therapy gift certificate for that special someone. Available in any denomination for all services. NEW BEGINNINGS LASER CENTER B. Indigenous-designed jewellery. Necklaces, earrings and more $20 and up. SILVER will be $50 and up. TLA'AMIN CORNER GAS AND CONVENIENCE MARKET C.
Illuminate your space with the purifying glow of Selenite LED Lamp with a wood base. Its gentle, moonlight-like radiance effortlessly transforms any room into a haven of relaxation. $79.95 OCEANSIDE ENTERTAINMENT
D. Escape to the pristine wilderness of British Columbia’s West Coast when you book them a Wilderness Retreat at West Coast Wilderness Lodge. Starting at $335 per person. WEST COAST WILDERNESS LODGE




Secrid cardprotector and mini wallets feature a patented mechanism allows you to slide out your cards with one simple motion. Starting at $59.95
ARMITAGE MENS WEAR B. Stretch performance Denim DU/ER "Do it all in a day" canvas and adventure pants are available in a variety of colours and sizes. $159 ANCHOR
APPAREL C. Crown Royal Salted Caramel whiskey is rich, creamy and salty. $32.90+tax DUKE’S LIQUOR
D. Lago Apparel Co hoodies are designed in Canada and available in a variety of colours, designs and sizes.$52.99 PAPERWORKS GIFT GALLERY
Supporting local matters
As the holiday season draws near, your purchasing decisions make more of an impact than ever. Sure, big-name retailers and online giants may offer convenience, but there’s something truly special about supporting local businesses during this festive time. Here’s a handful of reasons to opt for locally sourced gifts.
Invest in your community and build connections
Whether it’s artisanal soap, lotions and skincare products made with locally sourced ingredients, delectable treats from a neighbourhood bakery or chocolate shop, or handcrafted pottery and ceramics from a local artist, each purchase directly supports the livelihood of small business owners and their families.
Moreover, when you support local businesses, you can build personal connections with the people behind the products. Whether you’re chatting with the owner of your corner bookstore or learning the story behind a handmade item, shopping local allows you to create meaningful connections and learn more about the community around you.
Score unique finds that won’t hurt the planet
Shopping local often means stumbling upon oneof-a-kind gifts you can’t find anywhere else. From customized artwork and prints to specialty tea blends from a nearby cafe and locally distilled spirits and craft beers, your local retailers offer a treasure trove of goods waiting to be discovered.
Additionally, sourcing goods from nearby businesses minimizes the carbon footprint associated with longdistance and overseas shipping and transportation. Whether it’s organic textiles from a local weaver or locally sourced honey and preserves from a nearby farm or apiary, choosing local goods can contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious lifestyle.




When you shop locally this winter, you’ll do more than just purchase gifts; you’ll foster a sense of community connection and support the vibrant businesses that make your neighbourhood thrive.










WEST COAST WILDERNESS LODGE












Seasonal Packages



Wilderness Retreat
Wilderness Retreat
Wilderness Retreat
Wilderness Retreat
Wilderness Retreat
Our Wilderness Retreat is for those looking to escape to the pristine wilderness of British Columbia’s West Coast. Starting at $335 per person per night in a standard room, rates are based on 2-person occupancy.
Our Wilderness Retreat is for those looking to escape to the pristine wilderness of British Columbia’s West Coast. Starting at $335 per person per night in a standard room, rates are based on 2-person occupancy.
Our Wilderness Retreat is for those looking to escape to the pristine wilderness of British Columbia’s West Coast. Starting at $335 per person per night in a standard room, rates are based on 2-person occupancy.
Our Wilderness Retreat is for those looking to escape to the pristine wilderness of British Columbia’s West Coast. Starting at $335 per person per night in a standard room, rates are based on 2-person occupancy.
Our Wilderness Retreat is for those looking to escape to the pristine wilderness of British Columbia’s West Coast. Starting at $335 per person per night in a standard room, rates are based on 2-person occupancy.













Kayaker’s Dream
Kayaker’s Dream
Kayaker’s Dream
Kayaker’s Dream
Kayaker’s Dream
Our Kayakers Dream package is for those who are looking to experience our best option for kayaking in Egmont, including kayaking tour. $425 per person per night in a standard room. Rates are based on a 2-person occupancy with a 3-night stay.
Our Kayakers Dream package is for those who are looking to experience our best option for kayaking in Egmont, including kayaking tour. $425 per person per night in a standard room. Rates are based on a 2-person occupancy with a 3-night stay.
Our Kayakers Dream package is for those who are looking to experience our best option for kayaking in Egmont, including kayaking tour. $425 per person per night in a standard room. Rates are based on a 2-person occupancy with a 3-night stay.
Our Kayakers Dream package is for those who are looking to experience our best option for kayaking in Egmont, including kayaking tour. $425 per person per night in a standard room. Rates are based on a 2-person occupancy with a 3-night stay.



Princess Louisa Inlet
Princess Louisa Inlet



Princess Louisa Inlet
Princess Louisa Inlet
Princess Louisa Inlet
Explore the famous Princess Louisa Inlet and the stunning fjords leading up to it by boat, includes Princess Louisa Inlet tour. Starting at $410 per person, per night in a standard room. Rates are based on a 2-person occupancy with a 3-night stay.
Introducing Villas On The Inlet
Introducing Villas On The Inlet
Introducing Villas On The Inlet
Introducing Villas On The Inlet
Our Kayakers Dream package is for those who are looking to experience our best option for kayaking in Egmont, including kayaking tour. $425 per person per night in a standard room. Rates are based on a 2-person occupancy with a 3-night stay. Introducing Villas On The Inlet
Explore the famous Princess Louisa Inlet and the stunning fjords leading up to it by boat, includes Princess Louisa Inlet tour. Starting at $410 per person, per night in a standard room. Rates are based on a 2-person occupancy with a 3-night stay.
Explore the famous Princess Louisa Inlet and the stunning fjords leading up to it by boat, includes Princess Louisa Inlet tour. Starting at $410 per person, per night in a standard room. Rates are based on a 2-person occupancy with a 3-night stay.
Explore the famous Princess Louisa Inlet and the stunning fjords leading up to it by boat, includes Princess Louisa Inlet tour. Starting at $410 per person, per night in a standard room. Rates are based on a 2-person occupancy with a 3-night stay.
Explore the famous Princess Louisa Inlet and the stunning fjords leading up to it by boat, includes Princess Louisa Inlet tour. Starting at $410 per person, per night in a standard room. Rates are based on a 2-person occupancy with a 3-night stay.
Year-Round Accommodation at Villas on the Inlet, these cliffside suites are the ultimate escape for travellers who love to chart their own adventures. Open year-round, each suite features breathtaking views of the inlet and sunset mountains from your own personal deck, along with a full kitchen and accommodations for up to four guests, making them ideal for extended stays. Guests at the Villas can enjoy the Heritage Lodge’s amenities and book experiences—kayaking, jet skiing, tours, and more—at Egmont. Starting at $299.
Year-Round Accommodation at Villas on the Inlet, these cliffside suites are the ultimate escape for travellers who love to chart their own adventures. Open year-round, each suite features breathtaking views of the inlet and sunset mountains from your own personal deck, along with a full kitchen and accommodations for up to four guests, making them ideal for extended stays. Guests at the Villas can enjoy the Heritage Lodge’s amenities and book experiences—kayaking, jet skiing, tours, and more—at Egmont. Starting at $299.
Year-Round Accommodation at Villas on the Inlet, these cliffside suites are the ultimate escape for travellers who love to chart their own adventures. Open year-round, each suite features breathtaking views of the inlet and sunset mountains from your own personal deck, along with a full kitchen and accommodations for up to four guests, making them ideal for extended stays. Guests at the Villas can enjoy the Heritage Lodge’s amenities and book experiences—kayaking, jet skiing, tours, and more—at Egmont. Starting at $299.
Year-Round Accommodation at Villas on the Inlet, these cliffside suites are the ultimate escape for travellers who love to chart their own adventures. Open year-round, each suite features breathtaking views of the inlet and sunset mountains from your own personal deck, along with a full kitchen and accommodations for up to four guests, making them ideal for extended stays. Guests at the Villas can enjoy the Heritage Lodge’s amenities and book experiences—kayaking, jet skiing, tours, and more—at Egmont. Starting at $299. www.villasontheinlet.com
Year-Round Accommodation at Villas on the Inlet, these cliffside suites are the ultimate escape for travellers who love to chart their own adventures. Open year-round, each suite features breathtaking views of the inlet and sunset mountains from your own personal deck, along with a full kitchen and accommodations for up to four guests, making them ideal for extended stays. Guests at the Villas can enjoy the Heritage Lodge’s amenities and book experiences—kayaking, jet skiing, tours, and more—at Egmont. Starting at $299.
www.villasontheinlet.com
www.villasontheinlet.com
www.villasontheinlet.com
www.villasontheinlet.com