Shop Spooky: 3 Canada-Based Shops to Die For
Halloween is coming up fast! Whether you’re planning out a boo basket or just looking for a spooky way to spoil yourself, the House of Leaves team is volunteering our time to help you find the perfect Halloween gift! As the Canadian of the coven, my recommendations are based in the True North. Enjoy!
Shop #1: Moonstone and Myth
Create the perfect ambience for your next bookish evening in! This Québec-based Etsy shop sells my all-time favourite Canadian room sprays and candles, with deliciously thematic limited-edition scents including Haunted Graveyard (aged cedarwood, ripe pear, warm vanilla, and spiced undertones), Scream Queen (velvety pumpkin, rich coffee, and a touch of cashmere), Creature Feature (juniper, vetiver, and sandalwood), and Northern Spirits (cedarwood, brandy, and warming spices).
Shop #2: Coffin Creek Coffee Co.
At the risk of sounding too millennial, I love my coffee. Formerly known as Deadly Grounds Coffee, Coffin Creek Coffee Co. offers a wide variety of beans to brew, with flavours ranging from the expected to the outlandish.
The more traditional coffee-lover will enjoy their Dark & Deadly French Roast or Never Sleep Again, an extra-caffeinated medium roast, while more adventurous caffeine enthusiasts may opt for flavours such as Berry Your Dead (strawberry shortcake), Return of the Living Spread (chocolate peanut butter), or Roast Busters (buttered popcorn). Don’t worry, tea-lovers — they have an ample selection of tea blends, such as Pinhead Peach Tea, Hextacy Black Tea, and Pumpkin Spice Chai.
Live near Courtice, Ontario? Visit their cafe for a yummy horror villain-inspired latte and check out their tiny-but-cool on-site horror museum and merch.
Shop #3: Cursed by Design
Is your book nook or writing space feeling a little stale? Zhuzh it up with the help of Cursed by Design! This small shop offers a surprisingly robust collection of Halloween and gothic-inspired 3D-printed home goods, including lamps, replica animal skulls, switch and outlet covers, wall art, and even cabinet knobs. My personal recommendation: grab one of their adorable sugar cookie coasters to hold your mug of Coffin Creek tea or coffee!
Do you have a favourite indie shop with spooky vibes? Leave a comment below and show them some love!
Your Accursed Librarian,
Valeska