I thought it would be fun to share some things I’ve been admiring this season from Atlantic Canadian suppliers. (This post isn’t sponsored by anyone, I just love all the products!)

First off is this playful Torre & Tagus bird feeder I spotted the other day at Attica in Halifax. I’m probably going to get the red one for my dad—my family goes nuts this time of year watching the birds in the backyard. This boldly patterned toss cushion, on display in Attica’s first level, also caught my eye. I’m up for anything that will hide the ugly black-leather sofa currently occupying my living room.

I love the “Coffee (with Cream) Table” by Prince Edward Island-based furniture makers Birdmouse. Co-owners Lenny and Heather Gallant handcraft all of their whimsical items from recycled and reclaimed materials. This table includes wood from an old teak plant table and upcycled closet doors. They sell their items at the Cardigan Farmers’ Market.

These are decorative puzzle boxes by Newfoundland ceramist Stefanie Smith (left is a songbird design, right is quail). The stone-fired boxes have uniquely cut lids that follow the contours of the fragmented designs. They are Stefanie’s signature pieces and won best new product at last year’s Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador’s annual Christmas craft fair. Stefanie creates her pieces by hand at the Quidi Vidi Village Plantation in St. John’s. You can find her work there and at the CCNL Shop and at Blue Moon Pottery in St. John’s.

Something for the foodies: I picked up some spice gift sets from Costas Halavrezos (aka the Spiceman) last weekend at the Historic Farmers’ Market in Halifax. I’m a big fan of his stuff—the mild curry he sells is a staple in my kitchen. Costas also recently authored a book, Seasoned (by Nimbus Publishing), which has 30 essays and personal anecdotes, and over 50 recipes. You can order it here.

Have you finished your holiday shopping yet? What special items are you coveting this year? Have you picked up anything special already from an East Coast artisan or shop?

P.S. See some of the artisans featured at the recent NSDCC Christmas Show in Halifax and win some fab gifts featured in our Winter Issue.