By Maude Carmel
Although every Christmas may be different, each year you find yourself wondering what to give your family, friends and colleagues. I always try to choose personal, ethical, local gifts that produce as little waste as possible and that the recipient will actually use. That’s why food and body care products are often at the top of my list! Here are 5 gifts that both your mother-in-law and your hairdresser will love—and you can find 4 of them at your local Rachelle Béry grocery store!
1) A hot beverage
Who doesn’t love enjoying a warm cup of tea or a mug of hot chocolate as they watch the snow fall? No one, that’s who! That’s why hot drinks are the perfect gift! I also think giving tea or a hot chocolate mix at Christmas shows you care. It tells the recipient you wish them health and comfort! For a 100% local purchase, I recommend herbal tea from
Clef des Champs, a company in Val-David that uses biodynamic cultivation practices. If herbal tea is not their cup of tea, go for hot chocolate!
Landish 5 mushroom hot chocolate mix strengthens the immune system, gives you energy and is 100% local!
2) Hemp-based products
I discovered
Chanv a few months ago and I have only good things to say about this company. Hemp is easy to grow in Quebec and has many recognized benefits. If I want to surprise someone with a gift they will definitely use, I go with Chanv lip balm and hand cream! Their products have a delicate, natural odour, are great for men and women, and they really work!
3) Delicious treats from La Biscuitery
Founded in 1977,
La Biscuitery is a Quebec family business whose goal is to share childhood memories of baking pastries with family back in Lebanon. Their handmade cookies taste just like your grandma made them! I have a soft spot for their
Lemon & Poppy Seed Cookies—the aromas of honey and citrus are so fresh and comforting!
4) Essential oil diffuser
There’s nothing more satisfying than reading in your living room on a Sunday afternoon surrounded by the calming aroma of essential oils. To me, an essential oil diffuser is the perfect gift! If you already have one, you can use extras to create a relaxing atmosphere in every room in your home—even your office! Quebec company
Divine Essence sells diffusers of all shapes, sizes, types and prices! They also make a range of essential oils you can add to your gift. Plus, this gift generates no waste and lasts a long time!
5) Homemade jam
Nothing beats giving someone you care about a homemade gift. Pick up some organic berries at Rachelle Béry and get cooking! All you need is some water, lemon juice and pectin to make an ethical, waste-free, locally made gift. When it’s done, put the jam in a clean Mason jar and add a ribbon! This simple gift is great for your youngest kid’s teacher or the massage therapist who’s been saving your life the last several months!
