The ultimate shop local guide for the holiday season

It’s that time of year again! Our tradition continues and the Asper team has curated a list of local businesses with an Asper connection that is sure to satisfy everyone on your list this holiday season. For all budgets and tastes, our gift guide is loaded with ideas to shop local.

Patent 5

Created in the heart of Canada, Patent 5 is an award-winning distillery crafting premium spirits from locally-sourced raw materials. You can find their products at the Liquor Mart or visit their retail store and bar in the Exchange District. Check out their website or follow them on Instagram @patent5distillery

Brock Coutts [MBA/90] Co-owner

 Kendrick’s Outdoor Adventures

Embrace the Winnipeg winter and stay active! Kendrick’s Outdoor Adventures offers fat bikes and snowshoe rentals, they have the perfect solution to elevate your outdoor adventure. Visit their website or check them out on Instagram @kendricksoutdooradventures

Lana Bakun [BComm(Hons)/07] Co-owner

 Mysa Candles

It’s time to relax and get cozy with these carefully infused candles. Mysa Candles are made of 100% soy wax with a blend of high-quality essential and fragrance oils, and even offer refills in recyclable paper cups. Visit their website to check out all the scents available in gold tin, whiskey glass or refill sizes.

Jennifer Gustafson [MBA/11] Co-owner

McNally’s

McNally Robinson is a family-oriented independent bookstore with community values. Their book selection reflects the interests and circumstances of the community. You can also find other gifts perfect for book lovers like stationery, games, puzzles, jewelry and more. McNally Robinson has two locations, one at Grant Park Mall or stop by The Forks. Visit their website or @mcnallyrobinsonsk on Instagram.

Chris Hall [MBA/12] Owner

Botanical PaperWorks

Need an eco-friendly solution for Holiday cards? Botanical PaperWorks is a world-leading supplier and manufacturer of eco-friendly seed paper products that grow into wildflowers, herbs or vegetables. Spread beauty and reduce waste by sharing biodegradable seed paper cards. Visit their website for all their products or @botanicalpaperworks on Instagram

Heidi Reimer Epp [BComm(Hons)/94] CEO and Co-Founder

Brook Mos Photography

Brooke Mos is a Vancouver-based freelance photographer who sells her prints online. Could your living room use some wall art? Does your home office need a facelift? Be sure to check out Brooke’s website or @brooke.mos on Instagram to find the perfect piece for you and your space.

Brooke Moss [BComm(Hons)/19]

 SOAK Bath Co.

Sit back and relax with some handcrafted products from SOAK Bath Co., a zero-waste bath and body brand from Niverville, Manitoba. With plant-able packaging and products such as bath bombs, soaps, and more, these will surely be a hit with everyone on your list. To purchase some of their holiday gift sets visit their website or @cksoakbathco on Instagram.

Candace Alarie [BComm(Hons)/11] Owner

JS Knives

Cooking could not be easier with knives from Joel Sunderland. Whether you are looking for some new high-quality knives or to replace a well-loved item in your set, Joel will handcraft the perfect one for you. For all your custom knife needs, be sure to visit @sunderland_knives on Instagram.

 SolBrü

Produced in small batches here in Winnipeg, Manitoba, SolBrü is the new alternative to alcoholic spirits. Designed to stimulate the sensation of alcohol, SolBrü aims to reduce the negative impact of drinking culture and support the ‘Sober Curious’ movement. For recipes or to purchase SolBrü today, visit their website or @drinksolbru on Instagram.

Leanne Kisil [BComm(Hons)/09] Founder and CEO

Towns Apparel

Show off your local pride this season by supporting Towns Apparel, a company that provides hometown-based apparel. With inclusive sizing up to 5XL and over 100 towns and cities to choose from, they have something for everyone.  Visit their website or @townsapparelco on Instagram to place an order today.

Paul Thorleifson [BComm(Hons)/16]

We hope you found this gift guide helpful and discovered new ways to support local businesses this holiday season. To stay up-to-date on all things Asper, be sure to follow us on Instagram @asperschool.

ASPER STAFF