Why Shop Local?
Kamloops, BC might not be known for its shopping mall or its large variety of shopping options but, there are many special gems when it comes to its local businesses. During the pandemic, local businesses were hit hard, and now is the time to show extra support more than ever. Making a purchase from a locally owned business can mean putting food on the table for a family or allowing them to pay rent. Even if it is a small button, sticker, or piece of furniture, any purchase helps show appreciation.
Victoria Street, in the city center,
is the place to be if you want to find something unique for yourself or as a gift for someone else. When walking up and down the street you will find amazing boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. You can make your shopping day more enjoyable by visiting the owners of these shops, grabbing a coffee at The Vic, and exploring the beautiful building miracles.
Out of the many local businesses in downtown Kamloops, I chose three that stood out to me because of their unique styles. Crooked Crown, Far and Wide, and Castles and Cottages will warm your heart with their welcoming atmosphere. The shops are located very close to each other on Victoria st. and all have very unique products. Let’s check them out.
Tips For Shopping Local
- Ask questions – the shop owners and employees are always glad to help
- Create a budget – it can be hard to keep track of your spendings when you want to take home everything you see!
- Make lists – sometimes all the shiny jewelry can be distracting but, that’s a good thing! Create a list of the specific items you are shopping for while browsing those shiny items.
- Always say ‘thank you’ – paying your respects to a local business owner is very much appreciated and it makes the long days go by faster.
Crooked Crown – 404 Victoria St.
The first thing you see when you open the doors of this gift boutique is a display of the most intriguing handmade cutting boards. Right away you are captured into this unique gift shop as the colors on the shelves flow throughout the room. This shop sells candies, jewelry, handmade utilities, candles, and even organic deodorant.
You can expect to be treated with care as the employees here are gentle and the most helpful with their product knowledge. Even though this shop is the smallest out of the three, it is bright, fun and the products are so unique. I spent so much time exploring the products and reading about the many organic features that some of them had. This shop also sold the most perfect gifts for anyone. From handmade clay jewelry to hilarious coffee mugs, anyone would appreciate receiving any product from here.
I purchased a $4 organic peppermint bark lip balm from this shop and I am already obsessed.
Far and Wide – 353 Victoria St.
If you know of anyone who loves astrology, a good book, and a great vibe, Far and Wide is a place to bring them. This shop sells everything from jewelry to hair clips, to pet toys. The atmosphere sets in as soon as you enter the doors; a calm, collected, but stylish feel. You will be able to find a gift for the hippest person you know and they will be more than impressed while you get the best bang for your buck. The prices are very reasonable considering the high-quality products and comforting customer service.
One great thing I love about shopping local is the people you meet. Shopping at stores such as Far and Wide will give you the opportunity to meet like-minded, genuine people. This goes for any local shop.
At Far and Wide I purchased a huge hair clip, a button, and a set of heart earrings for all under $30!
Castles and Cottages – 347 Victoria St.
The name ‘Castles and Cottages’ definitely suites the product basis of this shop. When you walk in the front door you will see an array of many different products. This shop is the largest out of the three, therefore it has the most product and the most variety of products as well. On the left side of the shop, you will find anything and everything for your kitchen; bowls, spoons, aprons, and cute teapots. Anything you need to spice up your kitchen will be in Castles and Cottages. On the right-hand side of the store, you will find handmade soaps, jewelry, and furniture accessories. All the way at the back there is a mini clothing boutique with the softest fabrics and most groovy slippers.
This shop is perfect for treating yourself or someone else and it is guaranteed that you will find something you love.
I purchased special holiday hot chocolate, dinosaur chopsticks, and a magic slinky for under $30 again!
Take a Closer Look
Here is a short video I made while walking through each shop finishing last-minute Christmas shopping. You’ll see some of the shop’s inventory along with their perfect setups and organization. Enjoy!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mP8OFwWgK8g
Shop Local – Online!
If you are unable to make it to downtown Kamloops, you can always shop through their websites. You can also read the interesting facts about each shop, where they originated, and what their goals are.
https://www.farandwidekamloops.com/
https://www.castlesandcottages.ca/
Honorable Mentions
These three shops are most definitely not the only options for shopping locally. I chose to visit these three because they are personal favorites but, other people might have different values and preferences. Some other local shops you can visit in Kamloops are:
- True Outdoors
- Jardines Domaine
- Soul Stones
- Desert Rain Giftware
- Kamloops Art Gallery Store
- Ms. Whimsy’s Gift Emporium
