Holiday shopping at the mall is mayhem. Not only that, but the gift options are generic at best. We believe that a present is most meaningful when it is thoughtful and unique, which is why kicking off your holiday shopping at the winter One of a Kind show is not a bad start. Featuring over 800 artisans, the show brings together a selected group of talented Canadians to showcase and sell their handmade crafts.

Below, a look at some of this year’s stars, who are selling everything from fashion to food.

Hoi Bo

Sarra Tang, the designer behind Toronto-based handbag and accessories line Hoi Bo, is a self-taught design school drop out. Her work is a marriage of innovation and a love of making things, and her hand-made, high-quality bags are favoured by the Toronto fash-pack. Find her at booth G-35.

Eve Gravel Design

Montreal-based womenswear designer Eve Gravel is known by women nationwide for her line’s freshness and daring cuts. Her star styles include the “Frankenweenie” dress, “Claudel” top and “Black Keys” dress. Find her at booth Q-54.

Coucou Salut

Illustrator, graphic designer and textile artist Shannon Adolph is a self-proclaimed vintage nut. She combines her talent and interests to create a line of illustrated and hand-printed home accessories that are inspired by the ‘50s and ‘60s. Find her in booth H-43.

Odile Chocolat

Walking around Toronto and discovering great cookbooks, fruits and spices are what inspire 59-year old chocolatier Odile Chatelain. All of her products are hand-dipped with distinct design, and made only from top-notch ingredients. Find her at Booth D-43.

Lesley-Anne Green

Tiny pigs in even tinier sweaters, lions and elephants with winter coats are just a few of the whimsical animals to expect from self-taught needle felter Lesley-Anne Green. Get lost in her miniature world — inspired by children’s book illustrations — at booth Q-22.

A.J.

Amélie Lucier and Julien Mongeau work together out of Montreal to create and produce functional and decorative pieces in blown glass and ceramics. They are one of the only Canadian artisans who combine two different materials of glass and ceramics in the same products. Look out for their colourful citrus juicers at booth G-51.

One Of A Kind Show, Nov. 24-Dec. 4

(post as seen on PostCity.com)