Gifted — Local services in Kitchener

I've shopped here so many times over the last couple of years but have been a terrible customer because it's taken me this long to finally write a review!

I first visited Gifted during the summer of 2020 (at their original location) when I was looking for some anniversary gifts for my husband and since then I have continued to come here for birthday gifts, Christmas gifts, random gifts for no reason at all, cards, or other miscellaneous things if I feel like treating myself (the jewelery selection is top notch). There is such a wide variety of cool, interesting, and useful items that it's easy to get lost in here for hours.

Even better is the staff here are always so kind and friendly which makes it easy to keep coming back. I recently visited again to pick up some Star Wars glasses as a Christmas gift to my husband and left smiling and laughing, which is the norm when I stop by!

If you've never been, it's definitely worth a visit, and if you've been before, don't you think you're overdue for a return?

To the owners & employees - thanks for all your hard work, for curating such a cool selection of stuff, and for always making my day brighter with your warmth and smiles (that I can even spot under the masks)....

Gifted is my go-to place for any gifting opportunity or to treat myself! Sylvia expertly curates items numerous local and North American artisans and small-scale businesses. I always describe it to my friends as "Etsy in real life" because of the beautiful selection of items and, again, mostly sourced from artisans. I've been a customer for about 4 years now and I don't think I've ever left empty handed; there is always something that catches my eye and suits whomever I'm shopping for perfectly! Sylvia and her staff are always so cheerful and helpful, and I am so happy every time I am able to stop by the store.

As a small shop, they have had to limit in-person shopping capacity to 2 shoppers at a time during the COVID pandemic. So, if you have to wait in line, just know it is worth the wait! They also have been offering curbside pick-up when you contact them via email or via DM on their social media platforms. I'm so happy to see how well they have adapted to follow protocols to keep everyone safe as well as stay open.

If it isn't already clear, I highly recommend shopping...

Gifted is my all-time favourite place to shop - for myself, for other people, for gifts, for unexpectedly cool items.. there's always something new and delightful. I love that they support local artists - it's like shopping on Etsy but with the ability to see / touch / smell things. There's a nice combination of inexpensive items and more costly items - meaning that you can afford to shop here regardless of your budget, and still find really great gifts. You can find a hilarious mug and some classic earrings, lovely baby gifts and trendy pins, and everything in between.

If all of that wasn't enough, the best part is that Sylvia, the owner, is a truly lovely person - welcoming, helpful, and clearly has a great eye...