The Done Well 2022 Holiday Gift Guide
If pangs of shopping anxiety have struck, have no fear, the Done Well holiday gift guide is here! From wellness saviours, to sparkly favours, we've found the best gifts for those naughty and nice, at every price. (You're welcome.)
ZING PANTRY SHORTCUTS
For adventurous chefs or takeout titans, Zing Pantry Shortcuts are the ultimate accompaniment to any dish. From a Hakka-ish Chili Crisp spread, to an Oomami Seasoning Salt, these little gifts pack big flavour. Stock their pantry (and then invite yourself over for dinner!).
Zing Pantry Shortcuts, starting at $10 at Zing.
GINGERBREAD NINJA CATS
Gingerbread men are so last season. This year, we’re gifting nifty little ninja cats! With chocolate-dipped ears and paws, in hilarious poses, these gingerbread ninja cats will have friends and family chuckling as they lick their lips.
Gingerbread Ninja Cats, $6 each at SOMA Chocolate.
COFFEE LOVER'S KIT
There are few things people love more than coffee, but after giving this Roots x Balzac's gift box, you might top their list! With Balzac's classic Farmers Blend, and a custom ceramic mug, it has everything needed for a perfect (read: caffeinated) holiday morning.
Roots x Balzac's Coffee Lover's Kit, $48 at Balzac's Coffee Roasters.
THE BALANCED SNACK BOX
This is for your long-distance friend who loves a good, healthy snack. This box is filled with five to eight sweet and salty snacks that can be a one-time only or monthly gift delivered straight to their door. The boxes also come in vegan and gluten-free and keto-friendly options.
The Balanced Snack Box (Original), $37 at The Balanced Company Inc.
ORBITS EYE STONES
We’ve found the secret recipe for curing tired eyes: donuts. (Well, sorta…) These donut-shaped Finnish soapstones fit snugly on the orbital bone, and when chilled in the fridge prior to use, provide instant relief to puffy, tired, or itchy eyes.
Orbits Eye Stones, $28 at Uncommon Goods.
MISSING PERSON EAU DE PARFUM
This perfume has gone viral on TikTok for evoking the nostalgic smell of someone you miss. We’re not quite sure how they pulled it off, but you need to smell it to believe it.
Missing Person Eau De Parfum, $125 at Sephora.
THE LITTLE WONDERS SKINCARE KIT
It's no wonder why Wonder Valley has become a cult favourite in the world of natural skincare. Their products are credited with transforming troubled skin. Complete with an oil cleanser, face oil, serum, and body oil, this kit has everything needed to become a full-on oil-based skincare convert.
Wonder Valley The Little Wonders Kit, $98 at Health Hut.
AMIKA SMOOTH TALKER DOUBLE AGENT STRAIGHTENING BLOW DRY BRUSH HAIR SET
This set includes everything you need to create a smooth blowout at home. From starting with a wash to styling with the Double Agent 2-in-1 Blow Dryer and Straightening Brush, it’s still cheaper than a Dyson.
AMIKA Smooth Talker Double Agent Straightening Blow Dry Brush Hair Set, $195 at Amika.
EATERTAINMENT
As event management and catering company owners, Sebastien and Sheila Centner share their expertise to help make your next dinner party a smashing success. Eatertainment is THE guidebook (with over 140 recipes) to help you become a hostess with the mostest—no matter what kind of event you throw.
Eatertainment: Recipes and Ideas for Effortless Entertaining, $40 at Indigo.
MARIE KONDO’S KURASHI AT HOME
This one’s for the organization queen (or king) in your life. Marie Kondo’s newest book applies “what sparks joy” to your home and lifestyle, so you can clear out the clutter and embrace your space.
Marie Kondo’s Kurashi at Home by Marie Kondo, $37 at Indigo.
THE BOOK OF MOODS
Understanding yourself and your moods is an incredible gift. Lauren Martin’s deep dive into mental health for women in particular is so honest, relatable, and filled with scientific explanations for our “moods,” while also offering ways to transform them to live our best lives.
The Book of Moods by Lauren Martin, $23 at Indigo.
ATLAS OF THE HEART
You likely know someone who regularly quotes Brené Brown. So, her newest book about mapping out connections and the emotions that make us human would make a meaningful gift.
Atlas of the Heart, $40 at Indigo.
EVERLAST SPEED ROPE
When it comes to fitness trends, look no further than the playground! Jump rope is one of the best activities for cardio, and costs less than a fancy, post-workout smoothie (making it a go-to gift if your wallet is less inclined to workout).
Everlast Speed Rope, $8 at Well.ca.
CORK YOGA MAT
Nothing interrupts a state of zen-like a state of stink. This cork yoga mat is non-slip, non-toxic, and most importantly, odour free! The yogi in your life will have nothing but gratitude to you for this all-natural yoga mat.
Universe Within Cork Yoga Mat, $118 at Urbivore.
FOAM ROLLER WATER BOTTLE
Drinking water and stretching: two things nobody does enough of. We're all about efficiency, so a two-in-one foam roller water bottle earns prime real estate in gym bags and holiday stockings.
MOBOT Foam Roller Water Bottle, $70 at Running Room.
UNDER DESK ELLIPTICAL MACHINE
If a standing desk is a bridge too far, this discreet elliptical machine is designed to fit under a desk and be used while seated. Just remind your lucky gift recipient to strap their Fitbit on their ankle to capture their steps!
Cubii Under Desk Elliptical Machine, $339 at Amazon.
MIFA DAILY ESSENTIALS SET
Experience a full-body spa routine at home with this five-step Daily Essentials Set from MIFA. The five mini-sized products come in a cute cotton travel pouch, so you can take them right out of the stocking and into your suitcase.
DAILY ESSENTIALS SET, $127 at Mifa.
DIGITAL NAILS
Whether as a gift for others or yourself, these hand-painted press-ons are guaranteed to nail it. Each set is designed and crafted by Calgary-based art director and all-around aesthetic addict, Aly McAuley. These are easy to apply, reusable, durable, available in different shapes and lengths, and absolute showstoppers.
Hand-painted press-on nails, $66 at Digital.
DOMINO SET
We love including stocking stuffers to enjoy during the lazy days of the holiday break. Bonus points for activities that serve as decor, too. Is it still clutter when it looks this cute?
Domino Set, $40 at June Home Supply.
RUN FOR IT ALL EAR WARMER
You're never one to make someone's ears burn, but there's no harm in keeping them cozy. This lightweight, water-repellent ear warmer in brushed fleece is perfect for winter runners (or those with saner habits, like festive strolls).
Run For It All Ear Warmer, $28 at lululemon.
NUTMEG ‘NOG BATH BOMB
Bathe in the scent of Christmas with this cozy bath bomb from Saje. With scents of spicy and woodsy nutmeg, citrus and floral neroli, and sweet vanilla-like balsam per, it smells just like eggnog but better.
Nutmeg ‘Nog Bath Bomb, $9 from Saje.
DOODLES COLOURING SUGAR COOKIE KIT
Cookie decorating is the ultimate “snack-tivity” for kids and adults alike. Have fun playing with your food with this mess-free kit. It also comes with the option to donate to the Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada to support youth in the welfare system.
Doodles Colouring Sugar Cookie Kit, $19 from Sweetness.
FLASHPATCH HYDRATING LIP GELS
With these fast-acting hydrating lip masks tucked into stockings, your recipient will be mistletoe ready in no time! We love that the masks are biodegradable and look cute to boot!
Patchology FlashPatch Hydrating Lip Gels, $20 at Holt Renfrew.
HOLIDAY LIP BALM TRIO
Keep your lips soft for when it’s your turn under the mistletoe! This moisturizing lip balm set comes in Tangerine Grapefruit, Vanilla Mint, and Lime Bergamot flavours, plus a reusable cotton pouch.
Holiday Lip Balm Trio, $18 at Crawford Street Natural Skin Care.
THE FIVE-MINUTE JOURNAL
This diary is the perfect baby step into the mindful practice of journalling. It includes helpful prompts and thought-provoking questions, so even your most pent-up pal will be encouraged to put pen to paper.
The Five Minute Journal, $32 at Indigo.
SEX OIL
Well, well, well, what do we have here? A handy little gift to kick your sex life into high gear. This natural oil can be used all over the body and is completely free of synthetic fragrance and toxic ingredients. Happy holidays, indeed.
Sex Oil, $22 at Province Apothecary.
CLOUD COOL MIST HUMIDIFIER
Humidifiers are incredibly beneficial for the body. They hydrate and improve skin, benefit sleep, and aid our body's immune system. And this design by Canadian company Vitruvi goes above and beyond: it hydrates, looks great, and is simple to clean (which is essential for proper functioning).
Cloud Cool Mist Humidifier, $229 at Vitruvi.
L.E.D. LIGHT THERAPY MASK
Light therapy has been shown to boost not only our skin’s health, but our mental health too. This lightweight mask has three different settings for optimal benefits.
L.E.D. Light Therapy Mask by Auria, $80 at Indigo.
JUST VERTICAL
Just Vertical indoor gardens allow you to grow your own food all year long. (It's the gift that keeps on giving!) This educational gift is also a stunning piece of living artwork that can help feed you and your family and cut food costs. There is nothing more local than herbs, fruits, and vegetables grown right in your kitchen.
The Eve, $699 or The Aeva, $1199 at Just Vertical.
ALL PURPOSE CLEANER KIT
It might not be the most glamorous gift, but it is practical, eco-friendly, and perfect for the neat freaks in your life. The kit includes an all-natural plant and mineral-based All-Purpose Cleaner that quickly breaks down grime and dust particles on any surface and smells divine.
All Purpose Cleaner Kit, $45 at Guests On Earth.
SODASTREAM ART
SodaStream has a new carbonated water-making machine. The SodaStream Art has a chic retro design that would look sleek on any counter. And with a fun lever, you can decide exactly how bubbly you want your water to be.
SodaStream Art, $170 at SodaStream.
SARASHINA AROMATIQUE INCENSE
Add the scent of serenity to your home with Aesop’s new incense sticks. The Sarashina scent is dry, with woody notes of Sandalwood and a warm comforting spice.
Sarashina Aromatique Incense, $53 at Aesop.
GOLD HERRINGBONE CHAIN
Jessica Jewellery (a female-owned, Canadian small business) has a beautiful collection of sleek and elegant solid gold herringbone chains. They come in 16" and 18", and even a large size, mini choker, and bracelet that you can mix, match and layer.
Gold Herringbone Chain 16", $350 at Jessica Jewellery.
CABLE BLUE RUBBER BRACELET
This unisex bracelet is a limited-edition piece for a good cause—100% of the proceeds will go to the David Yurman’s Unity Fund in partnership with the Robin Hood Foundation, New York’s largest local poverty-fighting charity.
Cable Blue Rubber Bracelet, $25 at David Yurman.
EARRING PLAY KIT
Decorate your ears with the stunning ornament earrings in Jenny Bird's Earring Play Kit. The festive box is so pretty it doesn't even need wrapping. It includes JB Classic Huggies, a freshwater pearl ear cuff, a pair of ball studs, and more to build a dynamic ear stack. (Plus an ILIA Beauty Balmy Tint Hydrating Lip Balm!) If you get this, you'll be golden.
Earring Play Kit, $198 at Jenny Bird.
DIAMOND HEART LOCKET
If you’re looking for the perfect locket, this is it: 14k gold with a genuine diamond in the middle, this is a stunning sentimental gift that can fit two photos inside. Plus, Olaeda donates to The Period Purse, a registered Canadian charity that strives to achieve menstrual equity and reduce the stigma surrounding periods.
Diamond Heart Locket, $190 at Olaeda.
24 DAY BEAUTY ADVENT CALENDAR
There's no better way to treat yourself and try new products than with a beauty advent calendar. Sample 24 iconic beauty, skincare and body products from luxury line Clarins. At a nearly $400 value, this $140 calendar is honestly just good financial sense. Your accountant will applaud the purchase (and your glowing skin).
24 Day Advent Calendar, $140 at Clarins.
VOLUSPA 12 DAY ADVENT CALENDAR
Burning with anticipation for the holidays? What better way to mark the days than with this 12-day candle advent calendar. With festive scents like White Cypress and Forbidden Fig, these candles are all you need to set the mood for a chance meeting under the mistletoe.
Voluspa 12 Day Advent Calendar, $99 at Sephora.
CHOCOLATE ADVENT CALENDAR
With captivating flavours like gingerbread, mulled wine, and mint hot chocolate, plus Chocolat De Kat's signature colourful styles, the (sugar) rush to count down to Christmas has never tasted so sweet.
Chocolate Advent Calendar, $85 at Chocolat de Kat.
LUXE CAROUSEL ADVENT CALENDAR
This decorative light-up carousel is a delight simply as is, but upon discovering 24 little drawers filled with Sugarfina’s classic and cocktail-inspired treats? Well, that’s just the icing on these gorgeous little candies. As a hosting gift or for yourself, shop Sugarfina’s advent calendar and your holiday shopping is fin(a).
Luxe Carousel Advent Calendar by Sugarfina, $250 at Indigo.
OURA RING GEN3
Holiday proposals will look a little different with this ring, but what could be more loving than jewellery to monitor the health and wellness of your special someone? The new Oura Ring Gen3 tracks heart rate, blood oxygen levels at night, activity goals, and so much more. Commit to forever with the ultimate gift of longevity.
Oura Ring Gen3, starting at US $299 at Oura Ring.
MINI KARAOKE MICROPHONE
This one is for all the TikTokers or karaoke stars in your life. It comes with an aux cord and accompanying app so you can perform anywhere you go.
Kikkerland Design Mini Karaoke Microphone, $20 at Urban Outfitters.
BEATS FIT PRO X KIM KARDASHIAN
Leave it to Kim to make everything chic. These wireless Beats earbuds are actually comfortable enough to wear all day, and the sound quality is fantastic. Plus, they're noise-cancelling and sweat-and water-resistant. She truly thought of everything.
Beats Fit Pro x Kim Kardashian, $250 at Amazon.
PHILIPS SOMNEO SUNRISE THERAPY LIGHT
With the Philips Therapy Alarm and Night Light, waking up on the right side of the bed is nearly guaranteed. The simulation of natural light eases the body to wake up, while the sunset feature relaxes the body for sleep. What other gift can promise that?
Philips Somneo Sunrise Wake Up and Sleep Therapy Light, $220, at Walmart.