This holiday season, rethink your shopping habits and who you support. Local, women-owned businesses not only form the backbone of our communities, but they offer endless options for nabbing that perfect present. Looking to gift an experience instead? This winter, the Scotties Tournament of Hearts — an incredible display of elite female sport — comes to Kamloops. So, why not tick off your shopping list and support an incredible women-powered venture to boot?

Below are five great gift ideas that celebrate all things women in Kamloops.

1. A Wine Tour with DiVine Tours

Have a discerning oenophile in your life? Introduce them to the Kamloops Wine Trail, with the help of Terri of DiVine Tours. This is a no-fuss gift for your loved one — all the details, driving, and drinks are taken care of, so all your recipient needs to do is simply sit back and enjoy. With decades of experience in the hospitality and food and beverage industry, Terri lends her knowledge to the Thompson Valley. With her guidance, your loved one will discover BC's newest wine region — with visits to three of Kamloops' four wineries — and experience the excellent views and the vintages on offer.

2. A Curling Bonspiel that Celebrates Women Athletes

The 2023 Scotties Tournament of Hearts is coming to Kamloops! In a world where so few women's sporting events are broadcasted, here's one you and your loved one can celebrate and, better yet, take part in. The  Scotties Tournament of Hearts is the longest-standing sponsorship of women's sports in Canada. Each year, this annual curling championship brings together elite women athletes from across the country to battle it out via rock, broom and ice. Grab a pair of tickets and get ready for fun and games, the good ol' fashioned Canadian (and women) way.

3. Indigenous Subscription Gift Boxes From Raven Reads

Give the gift of knowledge. Raven Reads is an incredible business in Kamloops that aims to share Indigenous voices for the benefit of all. Choose for your giftee a subscription box, delivered straight to their door, which includes a book and letter written by an Indigenous author, Indigenous teachings, and an assortment of products made by Indigenous entrepreneurs. Your purchase not only helps amplify new and diverse authors from across Canada, but generates social impact for other Indigenous-owned businesses too. Have a non-reader on your hands? Don't sleep on their gift boxes, like the Niimitaak! Holiday Gift Box, which is stocked with luxury products made by lesser-known Indigenous retailers from across Canada and the US.

4. Stock Up on Stocking Stuffers Downtown Kamloops

There's no need to search Far & Wide for a stocking stuffer (of any size) this year, especially at this gorgeous store located in downtown Kamloops. They bring in a delightful mix of handmade, independent, and women-owned retailers, with everything from candles and home decor to jewelry and clothing. Far & Wide was built on the idea of treating someone you love — but there's no judgment if you pick up something extra for yourself too. While you're downtown, wander over to Crooked Crown, another boutique that's women-owned and known for their refined taste in clothing, accessories, beauty products, and more. To make your life more easy, both Far & Wide and Crooked Crown have curated gift guides available on their websites to help point you in the right (gift giving) direction.

5. An Edible Present with The Art We Are

This next gift functions on two levels. One, because nothing says love like gifting an edible present from The Art We Are Cafe. And two, you might as well grab something tasty while you shop as well. For the snack fiends and food lovers in your life, grab a gift card (or even a handful of treats closer to the big day) at this part gallery, part cafe located in downtown Kamloops. Bonus: they also carry a selection of local and handmade products, including pottery, prints, holiday ornaments, and art. In fact, before this beloved cafe started serving delicious food and drink, they were an art gallery, so you know you're in good hands.

Discover more Kamloops shops this holiday season.