OBSESSIONS Gift Shop is celebrating its 25th Anniversary with a very special event!
Often voted “Vancouver’s Best Gift Shop,” OBSESSIONS has become a beloved icon in the heart of downtown Vancouver and is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year! Since its inception, OBSESSIONS has evolved from a small kiosk at CF Pacific Centre mall into one of the city’s most recognized and award-winning gift stores, establishing itself as a premier destination for unique, affordable, and high-quality gifts.
Founded in February 1998 by Mark Kenna, who arrived in Canada from England with a dream of introducing distinctive gift products to Vancouver, OBSESSIONS quickly made its mark. Starting with a modest kiosk selling funky watches and stylish accessories, its success led to the expansion of two additional kiosks within three months. By June 1998, OBSESSIONS opened its first full-fledged store on Denman Street, and by 2006, it had grown to four locations throughout downtown Vancouver.
“We are incredibly grateful to our loyal customers and dedicated team who have supported us throughout the years,” shares Mark Kenna. “Reaching this 25-year milestone is a testament to our commitment to providing a unique shopping experience and our passion for sourcing unique, quality, and affordable products. We look forward to continuing to serve our community and welcoming both new and returning customers to experience what makes OBSESSIONS truly special.”
Today, OBSESSIONS continues to thrive from its prime location at 595 Howe Street. The store offers an exceptional selection of gifts, personal and home accessories, and is renowned for its engraving facility. With a reputation for fast turnaround times—often as little as 24 hours—and no minimum order requirements, OBSESSIONS sets itself apart from competitors. Their customer service is unmatched, with a dedicated team always ready to help you find that perfect gift for any occasion.
Mark Kenna, who still manages the store, has ensured that OBSESSIONS remains at the forefront of unique and quality gift offerings. The shop features exclusive products such as pens and art supplies by Swiss manufacturer Caran d’Ache, Swiss-made Mondaine watches, and the hugely popular Jellycat plushies from the UK. Supporting Canadian designers like Pixie Mood and Matt and Nat, OBSESSIONS offers an extensive range of bags, wallets, and much more, including a fantastic selection of cards and gift wraps. In celebration of its 25-year milestone, OBSESSIONS is excited to enhance its online presence with a new website, making it easier for corporate customers and gift enthusiasts alike to shop from anywhere.
To celebrate their 25th year, they’re hosting an event which will be taking place from Friday, September 13th to September 29th, to give thanks to all their patrons, familiar faces in the neighbourhood, and loyal customers, who have shopped with them throughout the years. Expect to see special offers all around the store, multiple daily prize draw giveaways, from gifts donated from all our loyal suppliers over the past 25 years, plus a massive draw at the end of the event for a prize price worth more than $1000.00! During the 3-day ‘kick-off’ weekend customers can pick a surprise discount from the barrel, ranging from 5% to 25%, in addition to the “win your purchase for FREE” coupon!
Whether you’re shopping for Christmas, birthdays, or any special occasion, OBSESSIONS is the go-to destination for thoughtful and exceptional gifts.
You can find Obsessions Gift Shop at 595 Howe St.