Holiday shopping alert: have you heard?  A new holiday market has opened in Upper Canada Mall and it’s proving to be a popular (and picture-perfect) shopping destination this season. The mall’s Merry Market (located at the Lower-Level Davis Court outside of Le Chateau) is a pop-up shop run by Blossom and Blooms, featuring bespoke artisans and boutiques from across the province, selling items which are hand-crafted or curated from around the globe.

Our family celebrates Hanukkah, Christmas and New Year’s with small presents (my husband is from Moscow and Ded Moroz  - the Russian Santa Claus - gives gifts on NYE). With three special occasions this month, there’s certainly no shortage of things on our list to buy, wrap and deliver in December. As a working mom with a toddler, a one-stop shopping trip is the ideal situation and very much appreciated during this hectic holiday season. Enter the Merry Market!

There are a variety of boutiques represented selling one-of-a-kind products you can’t find anywhere else (great news for those who have someone notoriously difficult to shop for on their list!). From handcrafted jewelry and clothing (my colleauge bought two tutu dresses!) to stationary and gorgeous plants and flowers, there is something for everyone a variety of price points.

There are a ton of great items to choose from…but for the purpose of this post, I’ve narrowed it down to a few choices that I have my eye on from the list of vendors.

For the Secret Santa office gift-swap:

Succulent Chocolates sells pretty pastel-hued chocolate pops and bars for under $10.

Blossom and Bloom curates jewelry from unique artisans. These adorable babies are all under $10 as well.

For the kids’ Christmas concert or special family gathering:

Rebellious Rose Boutique has high-quality, hand-picked  clothing for children. The shop features variety of tiny but trendy pieces from $25 to $50 and up.

While you are at it, pick up a curated tutu (perfect for an extra glam holiday party dress) like this one. On sale for $49.95.

For that special someone: Travel Dopp Kits from Luee are a great gift for guys or gals who travel or just keep organized! They come in a variety of materials and colours, and you can embroider initials for a personal touch. Prices start at $50.

A “Proud to be Yorchid” like this one takes two years to grow and is a perfect gift for a lover of flowers and the finer things. Under $50. Also - what mom doesn’t love a good pun?

The market itself is an Instaworthy-inspiration and a great place to take photos (just check out the Insta-influncers #merrymarket to see for yourself) after the little ones are done seeing Santa Claus at the Holly Jolly Lodge down the hall. There is even a retro Volkswagen camper van decked-out with décor, ideal for impromptu photo shoots (quick family holiday photo mini-sessions anyone?) With a Nordic-holiday vibe, cool clean décor and contemporary-feel, the Merry Market has already attracted a lot of attention (#MerryMarket #uppercanadamall) and is sure to be a place people seek out for great shopping all month long.

Shops rotate in and out depending on the week, so there is always something new and exciting to see and buy. Check out the Market’s website for a full list of vendor and dates, and to get a sneak-peek of some of the incredible items.

Once you’ve made your way through the Market, there is more festive fun to be had in Newmarket’s historic downtown. Treat yourself to a meal at one of the many popular restaurants recently featured in Foodism Toronto Magazine and check out the local boutiques that line Main Street. Main Street has something for all the hard to buy fors on your list. You can even find gifts for your four legged friends small and large at Good Vibes on Main or Red Scarf Equestrian A stroll through the Winter Wonderland light display in Riverwalk Commons or an outdoor skate under the stars is the perfect way to end the day.  

Happy Holidays and happy shopping this season!