Because shopping all year is part of Amy Walback’s job, she’s got the perfect advice for finding gifts that bring meaning and spark joy.
Amy Walback is Director, Business Operations, Gift Shops & Retail Vendors at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre.
Tell me about what you do.
Lots of different things! I need to plan and purchase merchandise, which means staying up to date on trends and what customers are looking for. I go through hundreds of suppliers to find the best products at the best prices. I also provide leadership to a large team of paid staff and volunteers. In addition to the gift shops, my team and I manage the retail Vendor Program, Farmer’s Market, the Fine Arts Fundraising, Ceiling Tile Sponsorships, and we create and distribute patient comfort and care packages that are funded by our activities.
The great thing is when someone buys something from one of our gift shops or supports one of our other fundraising activities, the proceeds are going back into different patient comfort and care projects that help so many people. In a world where you can buy anything from anywhere, it’s really important to think about who your money is benefitting.
Did you always love shopping?
Of course! I love finding just the right thing that I know is going to make someone happy, I enjoy shopping more for gifts than for myself. I always have a list on the go, and am thrilled when I find that something special for a friend or family member, including the four-legged ones!
What’s your approach to holiday shopping?
In retail, it’s never not the holiday season! In January and February, I’m ordering holiday merchandise. It arrives in July and August, we put everything out in late October and sell it until late December.
When I’m personally shopping for holiday gifts, I try to get everything done early because I know I’m going to be really busy.
So how early is your list checked off?
I try very hard to be done well before December. I prefer shopping in person because I like to really see each item and be sure of the quality, but I also shop online. I really like to support independent local businesses when I can.
Any helpful tips for finding the perfect gift?
Make a list and think about what really resonates with the person you are buying for. Pay attention to your conversations with them; are they reading something in particular or do they have a new hobby? It’s not about how much you spend, but rather picking a gift that shows you’ve been listening.
Also, when you’re shopping for any adult gift, be it holiday or birthday or get well, it’s ok to get a “kid” gift like a teddy bear or funny toy. It’s good to be reminded of having that joy.
