As the holiday season approaches, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle. Between gift lists, decorations, and family gatherings, it can feel overwhelming.
This year, I wanted to slow down and do something different. Instead of focusing on my own products, I’ve put together a list of 5 unique gifts from local PEI artisans that will make your holiday shopping not only easier but more meaningful.
By shopping local, you’re supporting small businesses and giving your loved ones a true taste of PEI’s charm and creativity. So, whether you’re buying for a foodie, a nature lover, or someone who appreciates locally crafted goods, here are my top picks for PEI-made holiday gifts.
1. Valley Pearl Oysters – Ship a Box of PEI Freshness
If you’re looking for a gift that’s truly fresh and unique, consider Valley Pearl Oysters. These oysters are harvested from the clean waters of Malpeque Bay, PEI and are shipped right to your door. Perfect for anyone who loves seafood, or for the foodie who appreciates the taste of the Island, this is a gift that delivers a bit of PEI’s natural bounty straight to the table. Imagine their delight when they open a box of fresh oysters — a real treat from the Island.
2. Island Potato Soap – Real Soap Made from the Island’s Most Famous Crop
What do you get when you mix the Island’s famous potatoes with artisan soap-making? Island Potato Soap! This unique, handcrafted soap is made from real PEI potatoes, known for their nourishing properties. It’s a perfect gift for anyone who loves natural skincare and wants to indulge in something made with a true Island ingredient. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter!
3. PEI Preserve Company – Sweeten Your Holidays
Who doesn’t love a little something sweet to brighten the season? The PEI Preserve Company is famous for its delicious jams, jellies, and chutneys made from local fruits and berries. Whether it’s strawberry, orange marmalade, or something more exotic like wild blueberry, these preserves capture the very taste of PEI. A gift basket filled with these treats will bring a little bit of Island goodness to anyone’s kitchen.
4. Rachel Peters Photography Desktop Calendar – A Year of PEI Harbours
For those who appreciate the beauty of PEI’s coastline, this desktop calendar is a perfect gift. Featuring stunning photography of PEI’s picturesque harbours, each month offers a new view of the Island’s serene waters and peaceful seascapes. It’s a beautiful way to keep a bit of the Island with you all year long.
5. Valley Boys Beard – For the Men in Your Life
For the bearded men in your life, Valley Boys Beard offers handcrafted beard care products that will keep facial hair looking sharp and feeling great. Made right here on PEI, these natural products are a thoughtful, practical gift for anyone who takes pride in their beard. Whether they need a beard oil or balm, and where size doesn't matter Valley Boys Beard has everything they need to keep their facial hair well-groomed.
For Our Loyal Fans…
If you’ve been following along and are looking for something special from me this holiday season, I’ve got you covered too!
While I love sharing other local gems, I’m also offering my own collections of socks and yummy yarns for those of you who want to take a piece my PEI home with you.
For those looking for something a little more hands-on and creative we're offering our Live & Let's Dye workshops throughout the winter and spring. Bring a friend (or more) and join me in the dye studio and create your own hand-dyed alpaca yarns.
This holiday season, gift something that truly captures the spirit of PEI. By supporting Island artisans and makers, you’re not only giving a thoughtful gift — you’re also helping keep PEI’s creative community thriving.
I hope these ideas inspire you to shop our little Island and bring a little PEI magic into your holiday season.
Happy holidays, and here’s to making memories that will last all year long!
