Marla’s Holiday Gift Guide for Homeowners - The Pembina Valley Edition

It’s officially the season of twinkly lights, peppermint treats, and trying to figure out what on earth to get the people in your life who already have everything. So I pulled together a holiday gift guide built for homeowners right here in the Pembina Valley — whether they’re settling into their very first place, upsizing into something with a little more elbow room, downsizing into a cozy retreat, or even… your favourite Realtor.

These ideas are practical, thoughtful, and all about celebrating the place we call home. Let’s dive in.

First-Time Home Buyers

They’ve just got the keys, the walls still smell like fresh paint, and they’re learning what “winterizing the house” actually means. These gifts make those first months feel a little easier and a lot more fun.

Cozy Blanket
A soft throw for movie nights or thawing out after a Canadian winter walk. I think this one from Willow Creek is stunning!

Coffee Maker
Because making 37 trips to grab a caramel latte while unpacking is wildly unrealistic.

Toolbox Starter Set
The moment they own a house, they magically become “handy.” A basic set goes a long way.

Step Ladder
For changing lightbulbs, reaching upper cabinets, and putting up Christmas lights without balancing on a kitchen chair.

Smart Thermostat (Google Nest style)
Energy savings without the guesswork. Prairie-approved.

Gift Cards from Local Shops
Nothing beats supporting local while helping new homeowners settle in: Coop At Home , Giant Tiger ,  Home Hardware, LeParq Pizzaria , McMunn & Yates , Prairie Barnwood , Sawatzky's Furniture 

Upsizers

These folks have a little more space to fill and dreams of hosting bigger gatherings, backyard BBQs, or at least one fancy charcuterie night.

Espresso Machine
A beautiful upgrade for the kitchen, especially for the latte lovers.

Beautiful Wood Cutting Boards
Functional and stylish. Bonus: they look great on open shelves.

Outdoor String Lights
Instant backyard magic.

Gift Card for Furniture or Travel
Because upsizing may mean furnishing a new living room or taking a break after the chaos of moving.

Local Gift Cards:
A perfect stocking stuffer for the parents who haven’t sat down since move-in day. Think Spa, Liqor Mart, restaurants they may not frequent often, local boutiques to upgrade home decor and even places so they can start Date night again in thenear future. Moving can take a lot out of you...making things easy is key.

Downsizers

Think comfort, calm, and thoughtful little luxuries that make their new home feel warm and effortless.

Wine Subscription or Local Wine Gift
A cozy evening essential or evening out to partake in a local Wine Night or Sip & Paint event being hosted.

Cleaning Service Gift Certificate
Fewer chores. More relaxation. A win. I would highly recommend my friends at Consta Clean Pros for excellent service and professional cleaners, always with a smile. They will even clean ovens and windows too! I have personally used them for clients that are getting their homes ready to sell in the Pembina Valley.

Holiday Arrangement or Seasonal Plant
Locally made arrangements from Bloom or Floral Scents instantly brighten a smaller space. 

Plush Bathrobe
Perfect for slow mornings and long chats over coffee.

Specialty Tea or Coffee
Options from our local favourites:
• Whitecap Coffee
• Waypoint
• Charlies Coffee Co.

Candle
Something soft and clean for their new space.

Your Favourite Realtor

Let’s be honest… we had to include it.

Gift Cards
Gas, coffee, local restaurants, spa services, or even a car wash. Realtors live on the road and caffeine. Always appreciated.

Here's a list of some of my favourite coffee shops in our area:

• Coffee Culture (Morden & Winkler)
  Waypoint Coffee
  Charlies Coffee Co.
  Whitecap Coffee
  Tim Hortons
  Starbucks (Winkler)

Fun Socks
The quirkier the better. Bonus points if they have tiny SOLD signs on them like these ones.

Chocolates
Because the holiday season is basically a marathon fueled by sugar.

Empress 1908 Gin
It’s pretty, it’s Canadian, and it makes a beautiful holiday cocktail.

A Thoughtful Holiday Card
Truly — heartfelt words go a long way.

Referrals
The best gift any Realtor can receive. And it costs you exactly zero dollars and can change the experience that your friends and family may have with their real estate journey.

Wrapping It All Up

Whether you’re shopping for brand-new homeowners, families trading up for more space, downsizers ready for a simpler lifestyle, or the professionals who help make those moves possible, there’s something here for everyone. And a little bonus… by choosing local coffee shops and services, you’re supporting the small businesses that keep the Pembina Valley feeling like home. Remember...gift giving needs to be thoughtful (even if they are practical gifts) that will either bring joy or make someone's life a little easier. Shop local by clicking the blue links for more information of the ideas that I have suggested.

If you have a great gift idea, drop me a message. If you're looking for a professional realtor that will put your real estate needs first, I would love to hear from you!

Marla