Happy Wednesday, everyone! I hope you’re having a great week, and that you’re not feeling too frazzled by all your holiday to-dos. Not that I’m speaking from experience or anything… but between hosting, gathering, shopping, baking and decorating, this time of year can tend to feel a little overwhelming. And it doesn’t help when well-meaning folks around you are humble-bragging about having finished all their holiday baking in November, or cheerily asking if you’ve finished your gift shopping yet. Seriously, I was at the dentist two weeks ago and three separate people – the office administrator, the hygienist and my dentist – asked me that question as soon as they saw me. And it wasn’t even December yet!
So I’m here to tell you that if you haven’t finished (or, uh, started) your holiday shopping yet… it’s totally okay! There’s still time to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list. And if you don’t know where to start, I’ve got a great suggestion for you. You guys know I love shopping local, and the place I’m going to highlight today takes over 100 amazing local brands and combines them all under one roof. Not only is it convenient, but it’s great to know that you’ve found a truly one-of-a-kind gift for the special someone(s) in your life, while supporting local independent businesses along the way. It’s a win-win all around!
Located in the community of Simcoe in Norfolk County, The Barntique is an artisan marketplace located in a century-old barn. Founded by woodworker and artist Jen Hewitson, The Barntique is home to a carefully curated selection of over 100 Canadian artisans. Tania had visited The Barntique before for their annual Christmas market, but I hadn’t been until this October. We were on a day trip in Norfolk County and decided to stop by, and I’m so glad we did!
At The Barntique, you’ll find everything ranging from clothing, jewelry and beauty products to art, ceramics and home decor.
I love unique art and decor, so I was immediately intrigued by these creative steel objets by Leigh Boerkamps, which he makes using old scrap tools found around Norfolk County.
These gorgeous wooden bowls, plates and candle holders are made by Essex County woodturner Andy Washburn. I love their organic shapes and natural textures.
And how about the delicious colours and patterns on these ceramic dishes by Anneke’s Pottery Design?
If you love ceramics as much as I do, you’ll have a field day at The Barntique. Another booth to check out: L Welly Ceramics by Hamilton artist Lesley Wellington, who makes delightfully quirky planters, mugs and ornaments.
Although we were there in the fall, Ladybird Ceramics was already giving Christmas vibes with their beautiful festive serveware.
Those who like to get right to the point will appreciate the direct messages on these mugs by Scotland (Ontario) potter Debra Chandler.
Stilettos & Sawdust has some more products with choice words, but what I loved the most were their maps of the Great Lakes. These would make perfect gifts for cottage owners!
Cambridge-based artisan Stephanie Pires of A Little Added Touch makes these adorable block garlands that would be charming on an entry console, bookshelf or mantel.
If you love farmhouse-style decor as much as I do, then you’ll love these pretty wood signs by Burlington-based maker Notes In Knots.
This quote by F. Scott Fitzgerald happens to be one of my favourites, and would be a lovely addition to a child’s room.
Speaking of kids, check out these precious hand-sewn lovies by The Cotton Leaf…
…and these felted wool “Stone Softies” by Eleanor Rosa Felt (best name ever!) Personally, I think these would make equally cute gifts for a kid or adult.
Tracy Crandall of TLC Made knits these oh-so-cozy scarves, shawls and hats out of luxury merino wool. Giving apparel as gifts can be tricky when you don’t know someone’s size, so accessories are always a safe bet! And with a chilly Canadian winter looming in our near future, comfy and warm is always the way to go.
Speaking of accessories, I don’t think you can ever go wrong by gifting someone jewelry. These birth flower necklaces by Wild Jewelry make a beautiful and thoughtful personalized gift. Each pendant has real dried flowers inside!
Whereas someone with edgier tastes in jewelry might like these leather cuffs, designed by Patsy Brearley of Weathered Cottage.
When in doubt, I always give a consumable gift like food, bath products or candles. These bar soaps by Norfolk Soap Company come in a wide variety of scents, colours and shapes. Check out their adorable conversation heart soaps… perfect for Valentine’s Day!
These eco-friendly candles by Kind Reason Co. smell divine, and I’m a big fan of their elegant, minimalist packaging. Plus, who doesn’t want their home to smell like Positive Vibes (or for fellow Joanna Gaines fans, Shiplap!?)
Bird-watchers and nature lovers will love these intricate, beautifully detailed stone birdhouses created by Julie Hartwick.
There are so many wonderful vendors represented at The Barntique that it’d be impossible to include them all in this post, but I hope you enjoyed perusing through some of my favourites. You can view a full list of the market’s vendors here.
If you’re interested in doing some holiday shopping at The Barntique, don’t delay, because this weekend is their final weekend before they close for the season! Luckily, you couldn’t have picked a better time to shop, because they’ll be hosting their annual Christmas At The Barntique event on Friday December 8 and Saturday December 9. There will be food trucks, adult beverages, bonfires and s’mores, live entertainment, and much more. No tickets required – just show up and shop!
Sadly I won’t be able to make it to The Barntique for their Christmas event this weekend, so if you’re able to swing by, please let me know what you thought of it! I’ll definitely be bookmarking it in my calendar for next year.
Now, it’s my turn to ask the dreaded question: have you started – or finished – your Christmas shopping yet?
2 responses to “The Barntique”
[…] everyone! I hope you’re having a great weekend, and that you enjoyed my last post about The Barntique. If you read it, you may recall that I was lamenting my lateness when it comes to this year’s […]
[…] many big plans this December – daytrips to Stratford and Niagara-on-the-Lake, tree farms and Christmas markets – that never ended up happening. Let’s face it: it’s a busy time of year, and […]