About May Globus
Vancouver City Editor May Globus is obsessed with the sartorial and all that surrounds it: art, design, culture, music and film. Oh, and she really likes writing about it, too. A left coast girl at heart, her Sweetspot finds just might show why the westside really is the best side.
Valentine's Day Gift Guide 2012
the view from vancity: valentine's day gift guide canada, Vancouver
(Feb.08.12)
Ah, Valentine's Day. Some people love it and some people dread it, both mostly because of the present purchasing factor.
To make the process easier this year, here are a few gift guide ideas to ensure you get your loved ones something they'll adore forever.
For the Stylish Man in Your Life: Generic Surplus
This L.A.-based brand got off on the right foot as soon as it debuted. In between cool collaborative collections with OBEY and artists like Steve Harrington, the line puts out amazing footwear for guys (and gals!). The Klein in russet canvas will help ensure your man keeps on putting his best foot forward all Spring/Summer '12.
$120; available at Livestock; 239 Abbott St.; 604-685-1433; www.genericsurplus.com
For the Social Good Sister (and her Other Half): Jamie Lauren Photography from Karma Exchange
We're all about shopping with a conscience at Sweetspot, so why not gift with one, too? Karma Exchange is a social venture that links up with local businesses, who set aside a portion of their proceeds to help support initiatives for underprivileged girls in Northern Ghana. We heart this couples' photo shoot from Jamie Lauren Photography — if you purchase this through Karma Exhcange, you help the Sanga Primary School Water Project.
$200 (valued at $400); available at Karma Exchange; www.karmaexchange.com
For the Life-Long Bestie: Love Medals
She's always been there for you, through thick and thin. You may not be blood sisters, but you might as well be. This sterling silver, handcrafted Unity necklace from Love Medals will always be a reminder that you two are all for one, and one for all.
$192; available at The Cross; 1198 Homer St.; 604-689-2900; www.lovemedals.com
For Mother Dearest: Miraj Hammam Spa
Mothers are every child's superhero, even though it's usually after our teens that we realize how much she does for us. She can multi-task like no other: a career, the house, errands, your dad. Help her finally kick back with a visit to this traditional Moroccan hammam spa, where a treatment gets her an eucalyptus steam, full body exfoliating scrub and oil massage. Apres pampering, she can relax with a glass of homemade tea and a sweet cookie in the lounge, surrounded by magazines. We can hear her exhale already.
From $112; Miraj Hammam Spa; 1495 W. 6th Ave.; 604-733-5151; www.mirajhammam.com
For Dear Old Dad: Old Faithful Shop
Has your father taken up a new hobby in his spare time, like airplane model-building or puzzles? Make sure there's enough to light his way — or at least light up his desk — with this industrial, vintage-inspired work lamp. It's sturdy, reliable and awesome, just like pops.
$125; available at Old Faithful Shop; 320 W. Cordova St.; 778-327-9376; www.oldfaithfulshop.com