Five local businesses to shop from this Christmas
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Searching for the perfect present? This Christmas, we’re all about supporting local.
With another tough year for local businesses coming to a close, Christmas is the perfect time to spoil your loved ones while also supporting the wider Canberra community. It’s two birds with one stone – and with plenty of unique businesses around town, you’ll be sure to find a unique gift for everyone on your Christmas list.
Just a note: this is not the be-all and end-all list of local businesses to support in Canberra, these are just some suggestions that might inspire you to shop locally this Christmas. And if you need even more inspo, simply browse our website (or get Googling).
Undercurrent Design Market (Fyshwick)
Okay, the Undercurrent Design Market isn’t a technically local business, but it is local – and it’s one of Canberra’s most anticipated markets (especially in the lead-up to Christmas).
Founded in 2009 by Rich Baz and Mel O’Hanlon, for decades the Undercurrent Design Market has been bringing together Australian designers, makers, and artists for two days of celebration and shopping. With over 60 stalls popping up this year, head along to explore everything from art to fashion. You’ll be bound to find something.
Friday 22, Saturday 23, and Sunday 24 November | The Vault, Dairy Road, Fyshwick | undercurrentdesignmarket.com
Goldfinch Store (Kingston)
All about designs for women who value sustainable and ethical fashion pieces that last, this boho-inspired Australian fashion brand is influenced by the glamourous styles of the 70s and 80s (and the women who wore them).
You’ll also find Australian-made jewellery, accessories, and body products alongside sustainable and ethical fashion pieces.
45 Jardine Street, Kingston | goldfinch.store
Momento (Manuka)
For those who are shopping for someone fashion-forward who like things a little different, head to Momento Dezigns for an extensive range of dresses that won’t be found anywhere else.
Home to formal, party, cocktail, and evening dresses that will make heads turn, at this local boutique (that’s been running since 2008) you’ll also find on-trend outerwear and some funky accessories.
Shop 4, Manuka Court, 17 Bougainville Street, Manuka | momentodezigns.com.au
Canberra Glassworks (Kingston)
You might know it as the largest glass-making facility in the Southern Hemisphere, but did you know that the Canberra Glassworks is also home to a gorgeous shop dedicated to handmade Australian glass?
From artwork to tableware and vases, you can explore all the beautiful pieces in person before picking out the perfect present. Unique, thoughtful, and stunning, your present will go down as the best in 2024.
11 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | canberraglassworks.com
BLISSIIMO (Manuka)
Luxury perfume, scented candles, vintage kimonos, jewellery, chocolate, and French tea… BLISSIIMO is a gift-givers dream.
A collaboration between Marketing Psychologist Tiffany Manning and Canberra School of Art graduate Amanda Hammond – who between them have designed for Baz Luhrmann, Fox Studios, and Harvey Nichols London – this niche shop brings more than 30 independent brands to Canberra and is a one-stop shop for those who love beautiful things. It’s no wonder it has a cult following…
Just a note: you only have until Saturday 30 November to get into Bliissimo’s Manuka store before it moves to online only. But in exciting news, they’re offering 50 per cent off all stock!
Manuka Village, 26 Furneaux Street, Manuka | blissiimo.com.au