Some things to make your autumn better—or maybe get a head start on your Christmas shopping? Keep your stuff together in a gorgeous bag. Discover local history in an amazing novel. A tasty beer goes down great after a fall ride. Sip spicy tea from a beautifully crafted mug. And make fast and healthy meals your new habit!
1. WOLF BLOSSOM BUCKET BAG
Carry everything you need in this stylish leather bag with a front pocket, drawstring closure, and adjustable strap. Each one is exquisitely handcrafted here in the Valley. Artisan Amy Woulfe also makes wallets, crossbody bags, and fanny packs.
wolfblossom.ca or Island Affair Giftware in Comox
2. BROKEN GROUND
Jack Hodgins’ classic Canadian novel tells the stories of ex-soldiers just home from WWI and their struggle to establish farms on recently logged land in Merville. A fascinating local must-read!
Laughing Oyster Books in Courtenay, or blueheronbookscomox.ca
3. TOWNSITE BREWING
BERMS & BRIDGES HAZY PALE ALE
The perfect beverage after a lung-busting ride, this ale blends a nice lemony flavour burst with a little kiss of sea salt. Created in partnership with the qathet Regional Cycling Association.
Local liquor stores, or townsitebrewing.com
4. ASHLEY HAMILTON CERAMICS
What better way to drink Cumberland-made tea than in a mug made by a Cumberland-based artisan? Ashley Hamilton is a “backyard hobby potter” whose whimsical small-batch ceramics explore colour and texture, with accents inspired by nature.
DM AshleyHamiltonCeramics on Instagram
4. HARMONIC ARTS
CHAI SPICE ARTISAN TEA
A herbal version of masala chai, this tea is like a warm blanket during the fall and winter seasons. It’s caffeine free, so you can savour its bold and aromatic spice flavours late into the evening.
Visit harmonicarts.ca for store locations, or online purchases
