This is my "go-to" store for gifts -- Christmas, birthdays, any occasion -- I make a beeline here for the most obscure, unique, and amazing gift items (and I almost always acquire something for myself while I'm there). They seem to stay ahead of everyone else with regards to "what's hot", and you see things there that you just don't see anywhere else (especially at the big chain kitrchen/gift/book stores). They also focus on cool locally-focused items, artisan jewelry, out-of-the-ordinary import stuff, and a collection of gift books which are so offbeat; so off-the-wall; that I sometimes stand there and weep with laughter. Their staff are very knowledgable about what they carry, they inspect everything very carefully, and they pack items with great care.
All in all: the best giftware store in Calgary!