This Father’s Day, give Dad the royal treatment he deserves. Whether he’s passionate about golf, enjoys a fine cigar, or simply appreciates life’s little luxuries, this is the perfect opportunity to indulge him. Indulge his sweet tooth, plan an outdoor adventure or craft a day centred around his favourite pastimes. Here’s your guide to making Dad feel like a king—if only for a day!

For The Golf-Loving Dad

DUNDAS VALLEY GOLF & CURLING CLUB
10 WOODLEY’S LANE, DUNDAS

Rated one of Canada’s top 100 golf courses, this world-class 18-hole golf course is known for its breathtaking views of the Niagara Escarpment as well as its exceptional service. If a full day of golf isn’t in the cards for Dad, another great gift is an hour or two of golf entertainment at an indoor golf simulator. There are several options in Halton region.

19TH HOLE INDOOR GOLF & SOCIAL
2051 PLAINS ROAD EAST, BURLINGTON

This unique entertainment venue offers more than golf! Not only is it the perfect place for Dad to practice his swing, he can also shoot some pool, drive an F1 race simulator, and grab a drink and bite at the bar with friends.

TRIPLE EAGLE GOLF
760 PACIFIC ROAD, OAKVILLE

Oakville’s premier indoor golf facility immerses Dad in a realistic virtual golf course where he can perfect his swing with their state-of-the- art simulator.

For The Dad With A Sweet Tooth

CHRISTY’S GOURMET GIFTS
3530 MAINWAY, BURLINGTON

From decadent chocolates to artisanal gourmet snacks, Christy’s has something to satisfy every craving. Pro tip: try their milk chocolate potato chip crunch, a crowd-pleasing favourite that combines the salty flavour of potato chips with Belgian milk chocolate and sweet buttery toffee. Dad will want it all to himself!

CHOCOLATE AND LOVE
96 DUNN STREET, OAKVILLE

This organic Fair-Trade chocolate brand has won multiple awards. Treat Dad to a decadent flavour combo that pairs dark chocolate with arabica coffee, cacao nibs, sea salt and caramel, passion fruit filling, pomegranate, candied ginger, or other palate pleasers.

For The Dapper Dad

JEFF’S GUYSHOP
457 BRANT STREET, BURLINGTON

Recently reopened and expanded, this family-run business is known for its selection of high-quality men’s clothing, including brands like John Varvatos, Bugatchi, and Lacoste. A destination for no-hassle shopping in a relaxed environment, Jeff’s Guyshop carries branded sportswear, accessories, and premium denim for the Dad who likes sensible style.

SCRIVENER’S MEN’S APPAREL
389 BRANT STREET, BURLINGTON

Serving Burlington since 1977, Scrivener’s is a premie destination for elevated men’s fashion featuring, quality brands renowned for their style, comfort and craftsmanship. Their collection includes distinguished labels such as Bugatti and Hugo Boss. Enhance Dad’s wardrobe with garments fitted to perfection by their onsite tailors.

For The Adventurous Dad

IFLY INDOOR SKYDIVING
2007 WINSTON PARK DRIVE, OAKVILLE

Give dad the adrenaline rush of skydiving, without throwing him out of the plane. Perfect for the Dad who craves adventure, this state-of-the-art wind tunnel
offers a thrilling experience of flight, suspended in a column of air, with virtual reality to simulate the thrill of a skydive out of a plane.

905 POWER SPORT RENTALS
1155 BEACH BLVD, HAMILTON

For the thrill-seeking Dad who loves the water, Beach Boulevard is where the action is. Head over to 905 Power Sport Rentals to rent a jet ski and enjoy the thrill of the open water.

For The Cigar Aficionado

HAVANA CASTLE CIGARS
48 LAKESHORE ROAD WEST, OAKVILLE

Since 1998, this family-run business has been Oakville’s go-to for cigar connoisseurs who are in the market for the world’s finest.

VILLAGE CIGAR COMPANY & BARBERSHOP
315 LAKESHORE ROAD EAST, OAKVILLE, 2049 PINE ST #64, BURLINGTON

Dad is sure to feel like royalty at Village Cigar Company, where traditional barbershop meets premium cigar shop. When he’s due for a crisp haircut, a hot towel shave, or just wants to kick back with a smoke, this spot is the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern luxury comfort.

By Lisa Evans

Convincing a teenager to leave their room, let alone step out the house, is no easy feat. But lucky for us, our community is packed with summer activities that actually appeal to teens (aka not boring or “basic” as the kids say). Whether your teen is a thrill-seeker, water-lover, fashion-hunter, or just wants somewhere cool to chill with friends, here are seven teen-approved outings that might even earn you a high five—or at least a subtle nod of appreciation.

1. Movie Magic At Starlite and Five Drive-In Theatres

Movies might be meh, but a movie under the stars with your besties? Next level. Georgia Ross (17) enjoys going to the drive-in with her friends and says the best part is the retro atmosphere. “I love getting cozy under a blanket on a lawn chair or in the trunk of the car, eating popcorn, and watching our favourite new movies until we fall asleep,” she says. “It’s a summer activity I always look forward to as the weather gets warmer.”

2. Jetskiing & Paddleboarding

Want to earn a “cool parent” badge this summer? Rent a jet ski (16+ and boating licence required), a kayak or a paddleboard and head to the lake. Teens will love the freedom of cruising across the water or mastering their balance while soaking in the summer sun. Make a day of it and pack a picnic for the beach.

3. Activate Burlington—The Real-Life Video Game

Imagine if your teen’s favourite video game suddenly required running, jumping, and teamwork. That’s Activate. It’s like stepping into a video game where physical activity and puzzle-solving meet. There are timed challenges so it’s perfect for competitive teens. Plus it gets them moving without protests of, “Ugh, exercise.”

4. Escape Rooms

If your teen loves mystery and strategy, escape rooms hit the mark. Milton’s Mission Possible Escape and other nearby spots offer themed adventures—from haunted cabins to secret spy missions. It’s great for friend groups or families who want to test their communication (and patience) in hilarious ways.

5. Glow-in-the-Dark Mini Golf

Classic mini golf gets a neon upgrade at Putt In Glow in Oakville. Jacob Borg (17) says, “Mini golf outdoors is fun, but playing a round of (indoor) glow-in- the-dark mini golf with the glowing colours and the music… it’s just a cool vibe. It’s something my friends and I like to do in the summer when it’s really hot outside.”

6. Thrifting For Local & Vintage Finds

Let your fashion-forward teen spend the afternoon digging for treasures at local thrift stores. It’s a great way to hunt for unique clothes, express their personal style, and stay budget-conscious. For teens who love ‘90s or Y2K looks, thrift shops are gold mines.

7. Paintball – Let Them Battle It Out (Safely!)

Looking to burn off some energy? Paintball Burlington is the perfect combo of strategy, adrenaline, and team-building. Full gear is provided, and safety is top priority, so parents can relax while teens duck, dive, and maybe get splatted by a well-aimed shot from a friend. Is it TikTok Approved? Maybe. Teen-Approved? Definitely.

At the end of the day, teens don’t need “epic” plans to be happy this summer. What they do want is a bit of freedom, a splash of excitement, and activities that feel made just for them. So go ahead and plan that outing. You might even hear the words, “That was actually fun.”

Local Links

Activate Burlington
2030 Appleby Line
Unit D20, Burlington
playactivate.com

GetMyBoat (Oakville)
getmyboat.com

Five Drive-In
2332 Ninth Line, Oakville
premiertheatres.ca/5drivein

Mission Possible Escape
300 Bronte Street South, Milton
missionpossibleescaperooms.com

905 Power Sport Rentals
1155 Beach Blvd, Hamilton
905powersports.com

Paddle Sport Performance
1236 Speers Road, Oakville
pspsupspecialists.com

Putt In Glow
2085 Winston Park Drive, Oakville
puttinglow.com

Starlite Drive-In
59 Green Mountain Road East,
Stoney Creek
premiertheatres.ca/starlite

By Lisa Thornbury

Guess what the average mother craves but might not ask for: some quality time to herself. This Mother’s Day, consider treating Mom to an experience that helps her relax, recharge, and reconnect with her passions. Whether it’s a spa retreat, a creative workshop, a gourmet adventure, or a day in nature, Halton Region offers plenty of ways to celebrate the amazing mothers in our lives.

For the Mom Who Loves to Unwind: Spa Experiences

Zenbar Healing Studio
2983 Westoak Trails Blvd, Oakville

Treat Mom to pure relaxation at Oakville’s largest luxury day spa. This serene retreat features candlelit rooms and state-of-the- art wellness treatments, including two therapeutic halotherapy salt caves. With a variety of spa packages available, Mom is sure to leave feeling rejuvenated.
zenbarhealing.com

Spa in the Village
416 Pearl St, Burlington

Located in the charming Village Square of downtown Burlington, Spa in the Village offers luxurious Mother’s Day packages. Choose from Just for Mom, which includes an infrared sauna session, massage, customized facial, and hot stone pedicure, or Mom & Me for a shared spa day experience.
spainthevillage.ca

For the Creative Mom: Pottery & Art Classes

A pottery or paint class is a great gift idea for the mom who enjoys tapping into her creative side. Several studios in Halton Region offer single day or multi-week workshops where Mom can express herself through art.

Artventures Studios | Oakville offers a Mother’s Day pottery wheel and clay-making class for beginners.
artventuresstudios.com

Creative Insight Pottery Waterdown has one-day pottery wheel classes designed for first-timers.
creativeinsightpottery.com

Pottery N Paint Café | Burlington features canvas painting, pottery painting, and clay activities for all skill levels.
potterynpaintcafe.com

For the Cultured Mom:
A Gallery Membership Art Gallery of Burlington
1333 Lakeshore Road, Burlington

An AGB membership keeps Mom connected to the artistic community while supporting a vital creative space and cultural centre. Perks include member rates on select art classes and programs, invitations to exhibition openings and special events, Clean Space, Clear Mind We Offer Weekly, Bi-Weekly, Monthly and One Time Cleans 10% discounts at the gallery shop (excluding Art Sales & Rentals and sale items), 20% off in-person purchases of regularly priced items at Terra Greenhouses, and more!

The AGB’s mission is to provide access to art for the broader community, which includes free admission to all exhibitions.
agb.life

Art Gallery of Hamilton
123 King Street West, Hamilton

An AGH membership allows Mom to enjoy art all year long. Memberships include unlimited free admission, a 10% discount at the AGH shop and café, and special pricing on events. Until May 25th, the Art Gallery of Hamilton is hosting Helen McNicoll: An Impressionist Journey, featuring more than 60 works by one of Canada’s most celebrated historical artists.
artgalleryofhamilton.com

For the Culinary Mom: Cooking & Chocolate- Making Classes

Longo’s Cooking Classes store locations in Burlington and Oakville Perfect for the Mom who enjoys cooking, but hates the cleanup! Longo’s offers both interactive and demonstration-style cooking classes where participants create delicious meals in a fun and social setting.
longos.com

Chocolate Tales | Hamilton

For the Mom with a sweet tooth, a chocolate-making workshop is something to look forward to. She’ll learn the secrets of chocolate craftsmanship in a hands-on experience that’s as delicious as it is fun. Chocolate Tales also offers other food workshops, including sourdough bread-making and pizza making.
chocolatetales.ca

For the Theatrical Mom:
Improv & Acting Classes

Mom deserves to be in the spotlight! If she’s the type who wouldn’t mind being on stage, why not give her a little encouragement with an acting or improv workshop.

Theatre Aquarius | Hamilton
Adult acting classes for beginners and experienced performers.
theatreaquarius.org

Oakville Improv
Offers fun and engaging improv workshops designed to boost confidence and creativity.
oakvilleimprov.com

For the Nature-Loving Mom:
A Membership to the Great Outdoors

Spending time in nature is the perfect way for Mom to recharge and enjoy the beauty of the region all year long.

Royal Botanical Gardens Membership

Canada’s largest botanical garden features stunning gardens and trails. Memberships also include special yearly exhibits.
rbg.ca

Hamilton Conservation & Halton Conservation Memberships

Give Mom unlimited access to scenic trails, waterfalls, and natural parks. Perfect for the Mom who enjoys peaceful walks and outdoor adventures.
conservationhalton.ca | conservationhamilton.ca

This year, skip the flowers and “best mom ever” coffee mugs and surprise Mom with an experience she’ll truly enjoy.

By Lisa Evans

Want to take your child’s birthday party beyond cake and balloons? Make it an experience they will never forget! Halton Region has plenty of options for themed adventures, interactive entertainment and activities that promise to make your child’s special day as unique as they are.

Party Like a Pop Star
B Town Sound
919 Fraser Drive, Unit 10, Burlington

Have a young Swiftie? At Party Like a Pop Star, kids don’t just party to pop songs—they become pop stars! This professional recording studio rolls out the red carpet (literally!) for a VIP experience. From glam makeup to recording a song or even making a music video, the kids are the stars of this show.

“They’re getting a behind-the-scenes experience of what it’s like to be a professional,” says Robyn Pauhl, owner of Party Like a Pop Star. And the cool factor? Off the charts. Custom playlists, cocktail tables, and yes, your kid can sit on the same couch Shawn Mendes did when he recorded here. You can even go full rockstar and arrive in a limo. This is more than a party—it’s an epic experience for kids who are ready to steal the spotlight!

The Learning Tree
1450 Headon road, Burlington

We all know teachers are the best organizers and at The Learning Tree, they’re also the best party hosts! Their themed birthday parties are a hit, with adoption parties (where kids can adopt a toy puppy, unicorn or dino) being the crowd favourite. The Learning Tree can even customize themes to match your child’s unique taste. “We had an ‘Adopt a Raccoon’ party as the birthday girl was obsessed with raccoons,” says Jodi Bowman, owner of The Learning Tree in Burlington. Each party is led by an Ontario Certified Teacher. At just $199 for the first 10 children, it’s an affordable, stress-free way to celebrate.

4Cats Arts Studio
Oakville & Burlington locations

Are you worried your little artist might turn your living room into a paint- splattered masterpiece? 4Cats Splatter Painting Parties allow kids to fling, splash and drip paint — without a single drop landing on your living room carpet! Each guest makes their own masterpiece, then helps create a larger canvas for the birthday star. It’s fun, it’s messy, and you don’t have to clean up a thing!

Yogatastic 4 Kids
3061 Walkers Line, Burlington

Take your child’s party to new heights at Yogatastic 4 Kids. Kids will fly, float and flip through suspension yoga poses followed by a mindfulness craft and, of course, cake. Want even more excitement? Go glow-in-the-dark under the studio’s neon lights. Kids even get to graffiti the studio’s mirrors, creating a one-of-a-kind glowing masterpiece. It’s the perfect combination of mindfulness, creativity and celebration!

Whether you’re hosting at home or want to add some extra fun to a venue, there are plenty of unique entertainment options to make your child’s party one to remember.

Bubble Shows

Laura Martin, owner of Beebop the Clown & Friends, calls her bubble shows a fresh alternative to traditional magic shows. The show is filled with science-based bubble tricks—from a bubble tornado to a bubble cube! For the grand finale, the birthday child gets wrapped inside a giant bubble. “It’s a really great photo opportunity,” says Martin. Bubble shows do need to be done indoors although Martin also offers outdoor bubble play parties for backyard events.

Balloon Twisting

Balloon animals have come a long way! Today’s balloon creations are wearable, interactive, and larger-than- life. “You can have all the balloons on a headband or you put it around their stomach and they’re running around riding a balloon dinosaur or a unicorn or they’re wearing butterfly wing balloons,” says Martin.

Character Appearances

Whether it’s Frozen’s Elsa or Spiderman swinging in for some superhero fun, character appearances add excitement and engagement, creating unforgettable memories and cherished photo moments. With so many creative and engaging options, birthday parties today aremore than just cake and candles—they’re experiences to remember.

By Lisa Evans

The first time I tried to register my kids for summer camp, I thought I was totally on top of it. On that sunny day in May, feeling ahead of the game, I learned the hard way that camp registration had opened months earlier… right in the middle of snowstorm season. By the time I got around to it, most camps were already full. It’s why Look Local’s summer camp round- up always makes the spring issue. Whether your kid dreams of sailing the high seas (ahoy matey!), exploring the great outdoors, or channeling their inner Swiftie, there’s an adventure waiting for them this summer!

Set Sail with Bronte Yacht Club
2514 Lakeshore Road West, Oakville
bhyc.on.ca

Ready to set sail? At Bronte Harbour Yacht Club (BHYC), young sailors aged 7 to 17 can jump into an amazing sailing adventure with the Learn to Sail program. Led by Sail Canada certified instructors, this camp is all about fun, skill building, and time on the water — perfect for beginners and experienced sailors alike. Campers will learn boat handling, safety, and navigation while earning nationally recognized certifications. And when they’re not sailing? Expect more fun with activities like paddleboarding on Bronte Creek or ultimate frisbee in the park.

Explore the Great Outdoors
with Conservation Halton
Conservation Halton Parks
conservationhalton.ca

If your kids can’t get enough of the great outdoors, Conservation Halton’s Ways of the Woods camps are just the thing! Designed for adventurers aged 4 to 15, these camps take place across multiple parks, offering a true “choose your own adventure” experience. With camps offering hiking, swimming, boating, and archery, there’s no shortage of action. Plus, specialized options like “Raptor Camp” or “Girls Camp,” led by and for girls, ensure every camper finds their perfect fit.

Dive into History
at Oakville Museum
8 Navy Street, Oakville
oakville.ca

Looking for a summer camp that sparks curiosity and creativity? Oakville Museum has you covered. Designed for kids ages 4 to 12, this hands-on camp lets them dive into artifacts, critters, crafts, and more through immersive activities and themed weeks. From science and nature to heritage, architecture, and design, there’s always something new to discover. And the best part? It all happens in Lakeside Park, surrounded by historic Oakville sites — the perfect setting for a summer of learning and adventure!

Animal Adventures at Oakville
& Milton Humane Society
445 Cornwall Road, Oakville
omhs.ca

Kids & Critters is so much more than a camp. It’s an experience that leaves an impact. Hosted by the Oakville & Milton Humane Society, this hands-on, animal- focused camp gives kids (ages 6 to 12) the chance to connect with shelter animals, play games, get creative with crafts, and learn from inspiring guest speakers. It’s all about fun, responsibility, and compassion. With only 12 spots per week, it fills up fast. Don’t miss out!

Get Sporty at Cedar Springs Halton
Racquet & Sports Club
960 Cumberland Avenue, Burlington
cedarspringsclub.ca

Cedar Springs Sports Camps aren’t just about sports.They’re about teamwork, coordination, and having fun while staying active! At Burlington’s top racquet sports facility, little ones enjoy a variety of activities tailored to skill, supporting growth and enjoyment. With days packed full of expert training in
tennis, squash, and badminton, plus access to the club’s indoor/outdoor waterpark, there’s no shortage of fun or excitement!

Step Up to Dance at Dancermakerz
12 Innovation Drive, Waterdown
dancemakerz.com

Calling all Swifties (and Frozen, Moana, and Barbie fans)! Dancemakerz keeps the energy high all summer with dance camps full of fun, creativity, and self-expression. From ballet to hip-hop, kids will explore different styles of dance in a supportive space. Campers get the chance to show off their moves in end-of-week performances!

Art Gallery of Burlington
1333 Lakeshore Road, Burlington
agb.life

The AGB offers a huge variety of camps for kids from the age of 4 all the way up to 18. Half day and full day options are available, and you can choose to work with clay, perfect your photography skills, work with mixed media, or choose a general artistic program. Kids should expect to expand their imaginations, try new tools and processes, and make new friends, all under the supervision of qualified instructors.

Town of Oakville
Summer Camps
Various locations across town
oakville.ca

The Town of Oakville offers a wide variety of camps for children aged 4 to 12 at various parks and locations across town. In addition to full-day week-long camps, the flexible Super Playgrounds program makes stops at parks in many neighbourhoods. Depending on your child’s interests, you can choose from programs including Arts & Culture, Hockey & Skating, Leadership, Science & Nature, and Sports & Aquatics. There truly is something for everyone.

BY ANNELIESE LAWTON

In the tale my parents spin about the “good old days,” people often moved in with their elderly parents to care for them. In my parents’ case they lived with my paternal grandfather, and later with my maternal grandmother, acting as primary caregivers until their parents’ deaths. This arrangement was only feasible because my hard-working and very loving mom was willing to take on this role.

As people in Ontario live longer (Statistics Canada, 2019, reports that women live an average of 84 years, and men 80) systems of eldercare are becoming increasingly complex to navigate. Aging in place, as my grandparents chose to do, is an attractive choice for many, and services in our community can help. For people who are done with the responsibilities of home ownership, there are a multitude of retirement residences, ranging from intimate homes to establishments resembling five-star hotels.

For those wanting to remain in their own homes, Bayshore Home Health offers services such as personal support care, nursing, housekeeping, transportation, Dementia and Alzheimer’s care, and kinesiology and physiotherapy services. “Our older adults want to age in place,” says Laura Peresan, Director of Growth and Operations, GTA West, Bayshore Home Health. “Home is where they are most comfortable and often where they want to continue with their life journey.”

Peresan has found that most older adults prefer a one-stop option. Seniors in the Halton region have access to everything from nursing, to support with showers and house cleaning, all the way to end of life palliative care.

Caring for an elderly parent in their home has many positives, such as the ability to strengthen family bonds, reduce stress for your loved one, and work with an organization to create specific support. There are also drawbacks. As my mom discovered when she was a primary caregiver, the role can be a physical and emotional strain. Caregivers often burn out, and family relationships can be fractured if one person takes on more of the care duties.

An option for many families is to find a suitable retirement residence for their loved one. Michelle Ferrara is Community Relations Manager at Queens Avenue Retirement Home, a family-oriented residence in Oakville.

Independent Seniors Apartments

LIVITA QUEENS AVENUE is a retirement community, located in a quiet residential Oakville neighbourhood, offering independent seniors suites with full kitchens, living rooms, bed and bath. Monthly rates are very competitive.

Picture yourself in an apartment with full kitchen, multiple closets, large suites and big bright windows. The utilities are included and underground parking is available. Meet new friends as you enjoy the beautiful outdoor space, amenities, activities and entertainment that make Livita Queens home. Options are available for meal plans and housekeeping. Emergency care is always accessible. Enjoy, relax and feel safe and secure.

When it comes to finding the right fit, Ferrara offers these insights:

Be realistic.
Does the residence provide what your loved one needs, now and with a view to the future?

Have paperwork and information at hand.
Do your research and bring questions to the tour or meeting

What is the general vibe you feel when walking around the residence?
Are the staff friendly and smiling? Do the residents seem happy, active and engaged?

Will the residence work financially for the long term?
If your loved one’s health declines, will another move be necessary?

Retirement residences offer peace of mind, professional care, increased safety and security, set activities, and a clear cost structure to help you budget. They are also, however, a huge shift for residents and their families. For one thing, residents might feel a loss of independence as they adjust to a new environment and new routines. As Kim Routledge, Sales and Leasing Manager at Oakville’s Vistamere Retirement Residence explains, working together will aid the transition.

“Leaving a long-time home can evoke feelings of grief and nostalgia,” Routledge says. “It  is vital for caregivers to acknowledge and support these emotions. Initially, residents may feel isolated in a new community. Caregivers can facilitate social interaction by introducing them to other residents and encouraging participation in group activities.”

When deciding whether your loved one will live at home or in a retirement residence, it is crucial to have frank discussions and not wait until there’s a crisis situation. A little planning now will make future transitions much easier for you and your family.

LOCAL LINKS

Bayshore Home Health
bayshore.ca

Halton Region Services for Older Adults
halton.ca/For-Residents/Older-Adults

Heritage Place Retirement Residence,
Burlington
heritage-place.ca

LaSalle Park Retirement
Community, Burlington
lasalleparkretirement.com

Qualicare Home Care,
Burlington
qualicare.com

Queens Avenue Retirement Home,
Oakville
livinglivita.com/oakville

The Ontario Caregiver
Organization
ontariocaregiver.ca

Vistamere Retirement Residence,
Oakville
vistamere.ca

Viva Retirement Residence,
Oakville
vivaoakville.ca

BY CYNDI INGLE

Hidden in your camera roll on your phone are thousands of precious memories. Instead of letting those photos collect digital dust, why not give them three-dimensional life by transforming them into tangible gift items? From cozy mugs to nostalgic ornaments, your favourite snapshots are waiting to be enjoyed.

Burlington family photographer Christine Murray knows photo gifts are more than just presents – they’re a way to show someone how much you care. “Whether it’s a moment frozen in time with a loved one, a reminder of a significant milestone, or even just a photo that brings a smile to their face, photo gifts have the power to evoke joy every time they’re seen or used,” says Murray.

Many of her clients love turning their photos into holiday cards. It’s a classic way to share cherished moments with friends and family! One of Murray’s favourite photo gifts was a custom photo blanket that a family ordered for grandparents. “It was such a unique way to celebrate their growing family and offer something cozy and heartfelt,” she says.

Another creative client made a series of photo ornaments for each family member. “It was a beautiful way to personalize their holiday décor and make it a tradition each year,” says Murray. If you want to take your photos off your camera roll and put them under the tree, consider these photo gift ideas:

Photo Mugs

Photo mugs are a practical yet sentimental gift, perfect for the coffee or tea lover in your life. Every sip will warm them with a happy memory or remind them of someone special. Fill the mug with hot chocolate mixes or their favourite coffee or tea blend to make the gift even sweeter.

Custom Ornaments

Holiday ornaments are a festive way to incorporate photos into your gift. You can even build a tradition by adding a new photo ornament each year.

Photo Calendar

The gift that lasts all year! A photo calendar can serve as a collection of the best moments of the year. It’s a practical and thoughtful gift.

Photo Blanket

Nothing says cozy like a soft personalized blanket. You can make a photo blanket with a large single image, or a series of photos in a collage. These make wonderful gifts for grandparents, offering warmth and comfort with a heartfelt touch.

Photo Puzzles

Photo puzzles are a fun and interactive way to turn a family portrait, a beloved pet, or a favourite vacation snapshot into a fun gift that brings people together – perfect for cozy holiday nights or quiet afternoons.

Photo Pillows

Print a beloved family photo onto a pillow that the recipient can display on their sofa or bed. This is a fun and unique way to integrate photos into everyday décor.

Custom Photo Books

A photo book is a beautiful way to create a narrative from your memories. These make perfect gifts for close family members and friends and can even be a fun DIY project that you can customize with personal captions or messages. To make your photo books even more special, buy someone a
subscription! Chatbooks offers photo book subscriptions with 4, 6 or 12 books per year, so you can share your memories all year round.

Framed Prints

Framed photo art is a timeless option and a beautiful way to keep memories alive. There are many options for turning your photos into wall art. Burlington Camera offers custom photo services and can help size photos up or down. “We create large print sizes and canvases as well as plaque mounted and float mounted photos,” says Rich Gibson, co-owner of Burlington Camera.

Photos are meant to be seen, so set those digital files free! You can share them as gifts to drink from, snuggle with, or hang on a Christmas tree. These personal keepsakes are sure to bring joy for years to come.

Where to Go Locally for Photo Gifts:

Burlington Camera, 489 Guelph Line, Burlington
Henry’s Burlington, 1250 Brant Street, Burlington
Henry’s Oakville, 2500 Hyde Park Gate, Oakville
Staples – staples.ca – multiple locations in Burlington and Oakville

Online Photo Gift Options:

Chatbooks – chatbooks.com
Mixbook – mixbook.com

Blacks – blacks.ca
Vistaprint – vistaprint.ca

By Lisa Evans