Name Game

Today we’re looking at name-inspired gifts for people of ages and situations – in other words, how to do this tired former-trend RIGHT.

Backtrack

Back to school is but a few weeks away for students of all ages – check out some inspired picks to have your schoolmates psyched to get back to the books, plus a few options for alternatives to the classic backpack.

Cuteness Defined

Searching for baby bump ideas? Read on for four Canadian etailers catering to all sorts of budgets and lifestyles – from eco-friendly essentials to luxurious gifts for little ones.

Potter Picks

Got Potter fever? Or just plain ol’ nostalgia? Snap up some most excellent Harry Potter gear to keep the magic alive well after the credits have rolled on the final film. Read on for a few great places to search *your* great non-Horcrux search…good luck narrowing down your options!

Diaper Duty For Dads

This one is for the guys, specifically, the new dads out there. Whether you’ve got a bun in the oven or freshly taken out, consider Petunia Picklebottom’s stylish line of ‘Scout’ diaper bags, designed to give dad’s all the functionality of their supermom counterparts, with a masculine style they won’t be ashamed to strut around town with.

Too Cute To Compute

I heart shopping for baby gear, and on that note I may have found mecca. Babybot is a Calgary-based etailer with loads of chic, designer-inspired baby goodies. Did I mention free shipping and online registries?

Bunny Hop

Easter is just days away, and if you’re looking for a special treat for the little ones in your life, consider picking up a festive egg hunting kit with tons of yummy treats…that won’t break the bank.

It’s In Our Nature

Dreaming of the great outdoors as the great white north begins its thaw? Check out Naturebag, created by Canadian moms and ideal for tots aged 3-12.

Find of the Month: Hey Bébé!

This month’s find has year-round appeal, after all, there’s one born every minute! The Bébé line of products from Canadian retailer Fruits & Passion combines practical considerations – organic, sulphate-free, low fragrance – with the uber cute and extra uber affordable, making this a fantastic gift pick for those endless baby shower invites.

Little Monsters

Oh-so-squeezable and misunderstood, Toronto-based Monster Factory is out to prove their plushies are among the best choices for tots and adults alike.

Toddlers & Terry-aras

Bundle up the babies in your life with Dwell Studios precious plush bath robes for a gift that will go for miles, just like the toddler you give it to.

Shopping Fingers At The Ready

On a pledge to buy local this holiday season? Get more bang for your buck when you shop at Canadian eTailer Shopgirl.ca, which features only Canadian designers!

Hide & Peek

Shopping for a little one this holiday season? Be a smart consumer and buy Canadian-designed clothing with their customer truly in mind: Peekaboo Beans playwear has adorable, durable clothes to please the parents AND the kid.

Minty Fresh

A quick roll-through of the Royal Canadian Mint’s new products for the holidays, 2011, and beyond.

Save The Best For Last

Have a friend or relative with a baby on the way? Consider forgoing the cutesy baby gear and go for something with lasting appeal – namely, an education.