Your Ultimate Guide to Early Holiday Shopping: Black Friday Tips, Local Guelph Finds, and Stress-Free Ways to Shop

The holidays are coming, and it’s the perfect time to get a jump start on your shopping! Shopping early means less stress, more time to enjoy the season, and the chance to score great deals during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Plus, Guelph offers an incredible selection of local shops where you can find unique gifts while supporting our community. In this guide, we’ll share how to shop smart, snag the best Black Friday and Cyber Monday discounts, and make the most of Guelph’s vibrant local shopping scene.


Start Your Shopping Early

With the busiest and most expensive season of the year upon us, it’s crucial to make the most of both your time and your budget! Here's why shopping early is the smart choice:

More Stock, Less Stress

  • Prices can sometimes rise for certain products due to high demand or scarcity
  • Shopping early can help to save you money, and ensure that you find what you are looking for!

Avoiding Delivery Delays

  • Shopping early allows you to have a higher chance of getting items delivered on time and alleviates stress and last-minute shopping.

Budget Friendly

  • Shopping early allows you to spread out your budget over a longer period, which can help prevent overspending
  • Starting early can also give you access to early sales and discounts that will help save you money

Avoiding the Chaos

  • The holiday season breeds long lines, large crowds, and a frenzy of last-minute shoppers. Shopping early lets you skip the chaos and reduce stress, giving you more time to enjoy the season!

Easy Gift Returns

  • Starting your shopping early allows for easier gift returns, as you will have the time to plan out your shopping and make returns if necessary.


Scoring the Best Black Friday Deals

With Black Friday and Cyber Monday just around the corner, it’s essential to make the most of your shopping strategy! Here’s how to score the best deals:

Start Early

  • Pre-Black Friday sales are common in the weeks leading up to the event, offering discounts on popular items before the holiday chaos begins—so be sure to sign up for alerts from your favourite retailers to get notified about early access and flash deals

Do Your Research

  • Make a list of the items you want to buy and prioritize them to avoid impulse purchases that may not be the best bargains; use comparison websites or browser extensions to ensure you're getting the best deal
  • Be mindful of Black Friday event timings—some deals start at midnight online, while others are in-store only—and remember that Cyber Monday often offers the best discounts on tech, electronics, and online-only products.

Follow Social Media and Influencers

  • Retailers frequently post flash deals, coupons, and giveaways on their social media accounts, so be sure to follow them for the latest offers
  • Influencers often share exclusive promo codes, giveaways, or extra discounts that can help you save even more.

Watch Out For Return Policies

  • Some retailers have special return policies for Black Friday items, so it’s important to double-check the return policy before making a purchase, especially for big-ticket items.



Shopping Local

With the holiday season upon us, it’s the perfect time to support local businesses and make the most of your budget. Here’s a number of local businesses to support in Guelph:

Guelph Farmer's Market Vendors:

  • Carol's Art
  • Eastern Woodlands Trading Co
  • Liz Hales Pottery
  • Maryhill Organic
  • Nourish Kitchen
  • Strictly Organic Gardens
  • SweetCheeses!
  • Top Market Meats 

Downtown Businesses:

  • Blue Iris Studios 
  • Buy the Yard Interiors
  • Cheeky Bambino Baby Boutique Inc.
  • Dino’s Athletic Direct
  • Creative Edge
  • Feather & Foe
  • Flour Barrel
  • Grit & Grace
  • Guelph Tool Library 
  • Guelph Music


Looking for more local businesses? Click here to discover what Guelph has to offer!

Why There’s Never Been a Better Time to Buy a Condo in Guelph (Especially After That Winter!)

By Lauren Hinchliffe • March 25, 2025
Let’s face it—this past winter was one for the books. Between the endless snow, sky-high heating bills, and driveway shoveling marathons, it’s no wonder so many people are rethinking the whole “detached home” thing. Enter: the condo lifestyle. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, investor, downsizer, or just tired of winter maintenance headaches, Guelph’s condo market is having a moment—and it’s one you don’t want to miss. Why Condos Are a Smart Investment Condos have long been a solid choice for investors, but right now, they’re looking even better: Affordability: Compared to detached homes, condos offer a more accessible price point—without sacrificing location or quality of life. Rental Demand: With Guelph’s growing population and strong university presence, condos are in high demand for renters. That’s steady income for investors. Low Maintenance: No snow shoveling, no lawn care. Your time is yours—and your property is professionally managed. In a city like Guelph, where the balance of urban convenience and small-town charm draws people in from all over, condos represent an opportunity to own real estate in a desirable, growing market. What Sets Guelph Condos Apart What makes Guelph’s condo scene unique? It’s not just the buildings—it’s the lifestyle. Many of the city's newer and well-maintained condo developments are located close to parks, trails, downtown restaurants, and transit. And unlike big-city towers, Guelph condos often offer more space, quieter buildings, and a stronger sense of community. Plus, let’s talk about the amenities . Some of the standout features we’re seeing in the best condo buildings right now include: Modern fitness centres (say goodbye to that separate gym membership) Rooftop terraces with BBQs and lounge areas Party rooms and guest suites for entertaining Secure underground parking (a must after this winter!) On-site property management for peace of mind Featured Condos We Love If you’ve been on the fence, this spring is the time to explore. Here are a couple standout units we’re currently featuring: ✨ 1502-150 Wellington St. E 2 bed, 2 bath | 1,347 sq ft | $819,900 This bright and spacious corner unit has sweeping sunset views from the 15th floor, open-concept layout, and top-tier finishes. Located steps from the river and downtown—ideal for professionals or retirees looking for walkability, peace, and luxury. ✨ 806-160 Macdonell St. 2 bed, 2 bath | 1,098 sq ft | $699,900 This suite blends comfort and style with an open layout, fireplace, and private balcony with panoramic city views. Enjoy top-tier amenities and unbeatable downtown convenience—just steps from the GO Train, shops, and trails. Looking for something different? We have access to several other great units across Guelph—from trendy one-bedrooms for young professionals to larger suites perfect for downsizers who still want room to host family. The Bottom Line After the winter we just had, it’s no surprise people are looking for simplicity, convenience, and lifestyle—all things that come standard with condo living. And with Guelph’s condo market offering strong long-term value, now really is the perfect time to invest. Whether it’s your next home or your next rental property, there’s opportunity here—and we’d love to help you find it. Curious what’s available? Let’s chat or book a showing—you might be surprised at how easy condo living (and investing) can be.

Spring Cleaning Checklist: A Room-by-Room Guide to a Fresh Start

By Lauren Hinchliffe • March 14, 2025
Spring is the perfect time to refresh your home and get rid of the dust and clutter that may have built up over the winter months. A thorough spring cleaning not only makes your home sparkle but also improves air quality and creates a more peaceful living environment. To make the process easier, here’s a room-by-room checklist to help you stay organized and efficient. General Cleaning Tips for Every Room Open windows to let in fresh air. Dust from top to bottom, including ceilings, light fixtures, and baseboards. Wipe down walls, doors, and switches. Vacuum and mop floors, paying special attention to corners. Declutter and donate unused items. Living Room Dust and polish furniture. Wash or vacuum curtains and blinds. Clean light fixtures and ceiling fans. Wipe down electronics and remote controls. Shampoo or steam clean carpets and rugs. Clean under and behind furniture. Kitchen Deep clean appliances (oven, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher). Wipe down cabinets and countertops. Discard expired pantry items. Scrub sink and faucet. Clean and organize drawers and utensil holders. Mop and sanitize floors. Bathroom Scrub and disinfect toilet, sink, and bathtub/shower. Wash or replace shower curtain and bath mats. Clean mirrors and light fixtures. Wipe down cabinets and discard expired toiletries. Scrub grout and reseal if necessary. Bedroom Wash all bedding, including pillows and comforters. Rotate and flip the mattress if applicable. Declutter closets and donate clothes you no longer wear. Dust and polish furniture. Clean under the bed and in corners. Home Office Organize paperwork and shred unnecessary documents. Dust and disinfect keyboard, mouse, and desk. Wipe down bookshelves and organize files. Clean office chair and vacuum under desk. Outdoor Spaces Sweep porches, decks, and patios. Clean outdoor furniture and cushions. Wash exterior windows and doors. Check and clean gutters if needed. Tidy up garden beds and trim overgrown plants. Spring cleaning may seem like a big task, but tackling it one room at a time makes it much more manageable. Use this checklist to stay on track and enjoy a fresh, clean home as you welcome the new season!

Top 10 Things Happening in and around Guelph During March Break 2025

March 4, 2025
March Break 2025 is just around the corner, and Guelph offers a plethora of activities to keep everyone entertained. Whether you're looking for creative workshops, or outdoor adventures, there's something for everyone. Here's a curated list of events and activities happening in and around Guelph during March Break: 1. March Break Activities at the Children's Reading Room Click to learn more! From March 12 to 14, the Children's Reading Room at 210 Silvercreek Parkway North hosts engaging activities for children. It's a fantastic opportunity for kids to indulge in reading and related crafts. 2. Hudson Smith Group Real Estate Skate Day Click to sign up! The Hudson Smith Group has rented out the entire rink at Victoria Road Recreation Centre for a March Break Skate Day! Hot drinks and goodies will be available to warm up between laps. Come join the fun and make some memories! 3. Explore Guelph's Civic Museum Click to learn more! Guelph Civic Museum offers insights into the city's rich history with interactive exhibits suitable for all ages. Over March break, experience creativity and community through hands-on play, friendly connections, and artistic exploration. 4. Alice in Bloomland at the Royal Botanical Gardens Click to learn more! Tumble down the rabbit hole into “Alice in Bloomland,” a wondrous botanical experience at Royal Botanical Gardens where reality bends and blossoms into a world of curiosity for all ages! Inspired by the pages of Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, this floral showcase weaves together the magic of horticulture, the whimsy of floral design, and the marvel of visual arts to create an enchanting indoor wonderland straight out of a dream. 5. Elliott Tree Farm Maple Syrup Experience Click to learn more! Your maple experience begins with our famous pancake breakfast/brunch inside our warm Horse Barn Canteen. Follow that with a 10 – 15-minute sugarbush trail walk to enjoy the sugarbush experience. There you will visit our sugar shack, check sap buckets, and taste raw sap, partially cooked sap, maple sugar and maple toffee over snow. Our Maple sugar shack is open from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm during our experience. Return from the Sugar Bush to our Heritage Barn to visit the Maple Syrup Museum of Ontario and taste our Award-Winning Maple Syrup grades which are available for purchase along with our maple products, locally sourced gifts, hot chocolate, coffee, Canadian side bacon and maple breakfast sausage. Reservations online only. 6. Waterloo Central Railway Click to learn more! Experience a scenic winter heritage train ride! This March Break, we invite you to embark on a scenic winter heritage train ride with the whole family! Passengers of all ages will be captivated by the wide-open views of the countryside and nearby Mennonite farms as we travel through Woolwich County. 7. Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory Click to learn more! March Break 2025 – Magical Morphos Visit our tropical oasis during March Break and be dazzled by 1000’s of blue morpho butterflies! They also have EXTENDED MARCH BREAK HOURS, check the website for more details! 8. Catch a Guelph Storm Game Click to learn more! Hockey fans can cheer on the Guelph Storm during March Break at the Sleeman Centre. Experience the excitement of junior hockey and support the local team in a thrilling game. Check the Guelph Storm schedule for game dates and ticket availability. 9. Drop in at the Children's Art Factory Click to learn more! Children’s Art Factory (CAF) is a drop-in art studio geared to young children, aged walking and up. You can show up with your children to play in the morning or afternoon! We can get busy on weekends and school holidays so please arrive early on those days to avoid disappointment. 10. Cupcake Decorating with Decadently Yours Click to learn more! Tuesday, March 11th at 1:00 PM. Create sweet memories and learn how to pipe, sprinkle and decorate your very own cupcakes (4 cupcakes included)
See More Posts
Share by: