On The Hill: Radar Hill Blog

It’s already that time of year once again! So with Christmas just around the corner it’s time to start thinking about what gifts you’re going to be getting your friends and family. Choosing the perfect gift can be a time consuming experience, which is why every year we compile our own gift option guide featuring some of our amazing clients and feature them in this newsletter.

And of course, next to the gifts, the best thing about Christmas is being able to get together and have a good time! Which is why we also include options for delicious food and party treats. So no matter what your Christmas plans are, there’s sure to be something for you in our Christmas newsletter. 

FOOD & DRINK

HEART & BONE

Give the gift of good health this Christmas. Navigating a keto or paleo diet can often be made difficult by supermarkets and manufacturers, making it hard for you to figure out exactly what you need to look for, and forcing you to scan over every ingredient list.

To make things simpler, shop somewhere that specializes in organic paleo & keto-friendly foods, and Heart & Bone we have you covered for both the sweet and the savoury without compromising your diet! They carry a range of premium bone broths that have numerous health benefits, from healing your joints to detoxifying your body. Or try their keto fatbars with a wide range of flavors from matcha to lemon to cacao coffee.

Visit their shop on Salt Spring Island or order online at www.heartandbone.com

CHERYL’S GOURMET PANTRY

Whether you’re simply too pushed for time this winter, or you want something with more style and taste than your standard fare, Cheryl’s Gourmet Pantry is the answer to all your Christmas cooking quandaries. They offer a sumptuous selection of delicious food, delivered with knowledge and professionalism.

To see her mouth-watering menus, visit www.cherylsgourmetpantry.com

OAK BAY SEAFOOD

Whether you’re looking to cook up a storm this Christmas or you simply want a nice warming meal as the colder days draw in, look no further than Oak Bay Seafood for the finest quality in fish and seafood. From whole fish to fillets to prepared items, there is something scrumptious waiting for you in Oak Bay.

To buy your own fresh and delicious seafood visit www.oakbayseafood.com

EUGENE'S GREEK FOOD

A family run business for the past 43 years in Victoria. Started by The Vassiliadis family as the first souvlaki restaurant in downtown Victoria, has now changed gears and is selling their famous Homous, Tzatziki, Pita bread and Spanakopita to over 90 grocery locations on Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland.  Create a delicious appetizer tray for any Christmas or New Year’s Celebration.

To see the full list of where you can get their products, visit www.eugenes.ca

THIRSTY VINTNER

Wine is a classic gift, and whether you're looking to surprise someone with a high-quality wine you've created or bring someone into the world of wine crafting, a wine making experience from the Thirsty Vintner is an ideal Christmas Gift! Thirsty Vintner has made it easy for anyone to take part in the wine creation process, helping people in-store and at home to make wines that offer premium taste at affordable prices.

To find out more, visit www.thirstyvintner.ca

MOTHER NATURE'S' MARKET AND DELI

Whether you’re looking for a small gift to give friends or family this Christmas or to stock up on party supplies, get the very best in high quality, organic, and locally sourced products and produce from Mother Nature’s Market and Deli.

They provide top-quality natural foods and organic produce while supporting local farmers and suppliers. With a range covering body care, snacks, fresh produce, drinks, snacks, and more, they carry everything you need for a sustainable and healthy Christmas.

To shop online visit www.mothernaturesbc.com

CRAFTS & CUSTOMIZABLE

BOUND 2B BOOKS

Here you can find handmade books put together using a tremendous level of skill and the finest treeless printmaking paper and upcycled materials.

By carefully piecing together a selection of vintage and current fabrics, paper, and gathered objects, they are able to create a book that will become either a beautiful keepsake or special gift. You can add your own photos, hand stitching, writing, art, and favorite quotes to the pages to build something beautiful, personal, and unique.

To see pictures of these beautiful books and to order one yourself go to www.bound2bbooks.com

HERITAGE WOODEN GIFTS

At Heritage Wooden Gifts you can find something which has been carved with love by skilled engravers. They have a wide selection of pieces, including jewellery, crests, medals, magnets, bookmarks, and coasters. Meaning you have plenty of choices when it comes to finding the perfect gift for someone special, with a piece of custom art that will help bring a little piece of the natural beauty of the west coast into their life.

To view their full selection of products and order now visit www.heritagewoodengifts.com

THERESA MAKES PAPER DOLLS

If you’re looking for something truly unique for a gift idea, and something that’s going to have a genuine personal touch, then Theresa Makes Paper Dolls has just the solution for you. There are endless possibilities with a personalized paper doll, made in a likeness of your choosing, and they come with a wide range of outfits and styles, making them a great gift for adults and children alike. Truly something fun and quirky to enjoy!

To order your own paper doll, visit www.theresamakespaperdolls.com

HONEYSUCKLE COTTAGES

If you’re looking for a gift that is crafted with the same love with which it’s given, then look no further than Honeysuckle Cottages’ wide range of gorgeous products. All of which have been sewn by Toni and her dedicated team of seamstresses, who have been carefully crafting everything from beautiful tea cozies to the very best in floral patterns for home decor.

To order online now visit www.honeysucklecottagesales.com

HOME & DECOR

HEIRLOOM LINENS

There’s no better feeling than sinking into a luxuriously comfortable bed at the end of the day. Why not give someone the gift of a good night’s sleep this Christmas courtesy of Heirloom Linens. They have a wide range of bedding options, all expertly made and carefully sourced.

For all your bedding needs and to order now, visit www.heirloomlinens.com

CLASSIC HOME TAPESTRIES

The more time you’re spending in your home, the more important getting the right look and feel for your space is. This Christmas turn to Classic Home Tapestries for something that will really transform a living space or home office. With beautiful and ornate tapestries, you can give someone the gift of a magnificent piece that will add drama and style to wherever they hang it.

These high-quality tapestries, including everything from medieval and classical scenes to contemporary pieces, have been woven by long-established weavers in France, Belgium and Italy, who take tremendous pride in their craft and tradition.

To view their selection of tapestries, visit www.thetapestryhouse.com

MY MONDO TRADING

Give someone a spectacular and unique gift this Christmas in the form of a work of art from the reputable and skilled My Mondo Trading. All of their pieces are rooted in the true provenance of Canada’s Pacific Northwest, with work by Indigenous artists from across the region. My Mondo highlights talented artists and brings their work, which is rich in their unique culture, legends, visual styles and storytelling, to the public.

Offering masks, totem poles, talking sticks, paddles, headdresses, bowls, boxes, and more, each item has its own personal meaning and story, as well as beauty and value. With new pieces added and sold every week (and often selling fast!) be sure to move quickly to secure the perfect artwork gift this Christmas.

To view their vast selection of art visit www.mymondotrading.com

PENINSULA GALLERY

Whether you’re searching for a gift for an artist, or simply someone who you know appreciates the finer points of art, the acclaimed Peninsula Gallery is ideal. Formed in 1986, it has since grown into one of Canada’s most renowned and established art galleries, presenting high-quality art and sculptures from both local and nationwide artists.

Located in Sidney, and with worldwide shipping for their pieces as well as bespoke custom framing, choosing and sending a piece from their gallery couldn’t be easier. And, for those who prefer to create, they also offer a range of art classes.

For a closer look at their artists, artwork, and available classes, visit www.pengal.com

ISLAND MEDIQUIP

Everyone should be able to go about their days with freedom and comfort, so why not take the time this Christmas to ensure that everyone in your life can do just that with the gift of a high quality lift chair from Island Mediquip.

Island Mediquip offers a variety of lift chairs, all made to ensure the highest degree of both comfort and style. A lift chair is built to ensure that the user can get in and out of the chair safely and with ease, making it a tremendous mobility aid for anyone who may need it to have in their home or residence. It can also come with a number of add-ons for even greater comfort, such as massage and heating options.

To see their catalog visit www.islandmediquip.com/products/category/lift-chairs-15

FAITH GRANT’S ON THE AVENUE

Antiques don’t just make for excellent gifts, as they are full of character, uniqueness and attractiveness. They also offer people a chance to join a lineage of owners, stories, and history. With a collection of hand-picked items from homes across Vancouver Island, Faith Grant’s on The Avenue has a wide range of antiques for that special, personal gift.

To see their current inventory, visit www.faithgrantantiques.com

VERTICAL ORGANIC GARDENING

Vertical gardening is one of the best ways to make the most of your outdoor space. With a Vertical Organic Garden, you will be able to grow your own food and develop a fantastic outdoor space that will truly enrich your home. With their Gardens you can grow up to 48 pots of fruits, vegetables, or herbs in an area of less than 8 square feet, making it an ideal gift for someone with a green thumb that has limited space to work in.

To find out more visit www.verticalorganicgarden.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

ANGLING SPORTS

While their store is in London, Ontario, you can still get amazing fishing supplies shipped across Canada. Angling Sports can help you catch the best fish, by making sure you use only the best gear. Open to newcomers and experienced anglers alike, they are available to help no matter what skill level or experience.

To find the perfect gift for the keen fisher in your life, visit www.anglingsports.ca

ISLAND OUTFITTERS

No matter what the season there is nothing like the relaxing and invigorating feeling of being able to get out into the wide open spaces of nature. And one of the best ways to enjoy doing just that is by taking a fishing trip. The only thing you’ll need to do that is the best in fishing gear and supplies, which is where Island Outfitters comes in.

Since 1994, Island Outfitters has been supplying Victoria’s fishermen with all their bait and equipment needs, as well as a range of other hunting supplies.

For that perfect gift for the fisher in your life visit www.fishingvictoria.com

KIRBY’S SOURCE FOR SPORTS

No matter what level they’re playing at, Kirby’s Source for Sports has a wide selection of equipment and supplies that would make the perfect Christmas gift for the sports enthusiast in your life. Kirby’s has a wide range of products across Hockey, Baseball, and Lacrosse, as well as offerings in Soccer, Field Hockey, and Football.

This locally owned and operated business can be counted on for high-quality customer service and support, backed by owners Kirby Yeats and Sean Tackaberry who have over 50 combined years’ worth of experience in the sporting goods industry.

To view their full selection of products visit www.kirbyssports.com

MEDIX BC

For the adventurer in your life or just someone who wants to be prepared with a small emergency first aid kit, Medix BC has got you covered. Offering a range of kits and other medical supplies, don’t let you or a loved one be caught out without a kit. With a variety of sizes and uses, kits are an easy way to have the things you need in an emergency in one convenient pack: make your life a little safer.

Order the proper supplies here www.medixbc.ca/medical-supplies/category/first-aid-kits-2

CANADA SCOOTERS

Give your loved ones the gift of a mobility aid by gifting them a walker or a scooter from Canada Scooters. The goal of any mobility aid should be to help its user live a free and independent life, and that’s exactly what Canada Scooters are able to help people achieve.

Exercise and spending time in nature is a tremendous boost to anyone’s wellbeing, and a mobility scooter means that both these activities can be accessible to people who would otherwise struggle. Canada Scooters will help ensure that your loved one has something that is safe and comfortable to use, and will help improve their independence and quality of life.

To see their catalogue visit www.canadascooters.com

3 HOUR SAIL

Transport back in time through the amazing and unique experience from 3 Hour Sail and travel on an authentic 20th-century heritage sailing vessel. The knowledgeable crew members share info on marine history, wildlife, local history, and geology on tours, as well as provide some tips and guides on how to sail!

Passengers are encouraged to help sail by hauling the sails, taking the helm, riding on the bowsprit - or simply relaxing onboard. Gift Certificates are available for single tickets or groups, and once received the recipient can book their sailing experience immediately, making it the perfect Christmas present for the sea lover in your life.

For an adventurous present visit www.threehoursail.com/products 

CLASSIC GIFTS

CUBAN CIGAR SHOP

There are few products that carry more social cache, quality, and style than the Cuban Cigar, with its worldwide reputation and storied history. They are an ideal gift this Christmas, and the Cuban Cigar Shop in Victoria offers a wide selection of quality options. Additionally, they have an impressive selection of accessories, including luxurious humidors, cigar cutters, and lighters.

To see their full selection of products and order now visit www.cubancigar-shop.com

STEPHEN FORTNER JEWELLERY

There is no better gift than a piece of sparkling fine jewellery, but you want to be sure you’re getting the very best. Stephen Fortner can ensure just that, using only conflict-free stones that have been appraised by an expert Gemmologist. As a skilled goldsmith with over 25 years of experience, he turns those stones into beautiful, glistening jewellery that will make for a special gift that is sure to be cherished.

To see his beautiful products, visit www.stephenfortner.com

KENMAR FLOWER FARM

Flowers can be an ideal way to add a touch of grace and elegance to any winter party or they can be a beautiful and touching gift for a partner or family member. Either way, as one of the premier florists in Victoria, Kenmar Flower Farm will be able to provide you with something that will take people’s breath away. They offer a wide range of flowers, plus European Hand Tied Bouquets that are arranged on a daily basis by people whose skill, craft, and experience shine through.

For flower tips and pictures of their beautiful bouquets, go to www.kenmarflowerfarm.com

OUT OF IRELAND

Cozy sweaters and scarves have always been a staple of Christmas gifting. Thanks to Out Of Ireland you have a wonderful collection of Irish knits, scarves, wraps, and hats right here in downtown Victoria. Additionally, the store showcases Irish jewellery, wool throws and many other unique gift items. They also carry the widest selection of men’s wool caps and hats in Western Canada and offer worldwide shipping.

To view their products visit www.outofireland.ca

PETS WEST

We know your pet is one of the most important parts of your life. So, don’t neglect them this holiday season. Make sure to gift them (and their owners) something that will make their life better: nutritional food and treats that will help them live long, happy lives.

To browse their wide-ranging selection of fresh food for pets, and order your gift today visit www.petswest.ca

SOCIETY OF SAINT VINCENT DE PAUL

If you’re looking for fantastic bargains with the added bonus of contributing to a great cause why not head on down to SSVP. The Society of Saint Vincent De Paul is run with the spirit of equality and compassion in mind, helping those who truly need it. To help them achieve this they operate two thrift stores in Victoria, selling clothes, household items, electronics, antiques, and much more!

For more information on the good work of the society and for a list of locations you can visit www.ssvpvancouverisland.ca

CLOTHING AND SEWING

THE GARMENT DISTRICT

Gift something comfortable and stylish by looking no further than The Garment District. Located in Duncan, the Garment District source their clothes from a range of suppliers from small businesses to trendy designers. The world of fashion has never been more open, with trends spreading across the world in an instant through social media, and an increasingly wide range of designers and creators helping to bring those touches of glamor and creativity to your everyday wardrobe - the best examples of which can all be found at The Garment District.

To view their products visit www.thegarmentdistrict.ca

SAWYER SEWING CENTRE

The best gifts are the ones that come from the heart, and the ones that are crafted personally with love and care. This Christmas let inspiration guide you and make something truly unique, with the help of equipment and guidance from Sawyer Sewing Centre.

They carry a range of top quality sewing machines, threads, parts, and accessories, all of which can also make great gifts for the sewing aficionado in your life.

To see their full list of products and order visit www.sawyersewing.com

JOHNSON’S SEWING CENTRE

The very best hobbies are the ones that bring us joy and relaxation, an escape that we can turn to for comfort. No matter whether someone you know is already a master seamstress, or you think it would be a great hobby for them to pick up, you can give someone the gift of being able to practice this relaxing and traditional craft this Christmas with the gift of sewing supplies from Johnson Sewing Centre. Based in Edmonton, Alberta, they have been operating since 1969 and drawing on this experience and expertise, they're able to offer the very best when it comes to materials and equipment.

For more information or to purchase sewing supplies today, visit www.johnsonssewing.com 

Thank you for reading our Christmas newsletter! Have a wonderful holiday season.