Nicole Tirona appears like an elf at craft fairs around the Lower Mainland, but she'll also do custom orders. She told me: "Next weekend I am at the Emily Carr Student Sale. My e-mail address is pak_pak@yahoo.com. I have a craft blog where people can contact me via e-mail for custom orders/ pick-up sales, (Fraser/Main+Broadway), see the new crafts I make, as well as schedules of which craft fairs / festivals I will be attending.. I also religiously post pics of new doll owners (visit http://nicoletirona.blogspot.com. I haven't ventured into consignment at shops yet."

But she will soon be appearing in her own wonderful etsy shop. She adds: "It's not up yet but will likely be itsyourlife.etsy.com."

Her hand-crafted cuddly toys and other items are clearly made with love. Just the thing for, well, practically anyone on your list!