Tis the season to start making your list and checking it twice! I love to buy or make gifts for people year round but planning a gift during the holiday season seems extra special. Having trouble thinking of a gift? Maybe I can help! As always, check your locally owned shops first. Small businesses really appreciate your support.
Foodies
Milk Street Magazine– A subscription to this very informative magazine will inspire anyone to try something new. With recipes ranging from a lost stew of Babylon to a new take on lasagna, there is something for everyone in the bi-monthly magazine. The print magazine costs $30 for the year but you can upgrade to print and have access to all digital recipes for $40.(highly recommend!)
Spices– Spices can make or break a dish, which is why upgrading a spice rack is so important. Calcutt’s Spice Co has gift sets and individual spices that are sure to excite any foodie. The Taco Night 4 pack will make Taco Tuesday even better with Chipotle & Honey, Mexican Adobo, Southwest Taco, and Cocoa & Ancho spice blends. Prices range, $10-$40
Travel Bugs
Passport and Vaccination Card Holder– Travel has changed a little bit and if you’re wanting to travel anywhere outside of your home country you’ll most likely need to show both of these. I found this simple one at an Esty shop called Henney’s Boutique. Reviews said the quality was great and shipping was quick. Currently on sale for $10.
City Print Art-I am obsessed with the CityPrintArt shop on Etsy. This shop is full of artwork featuring destinations from all over the world, so you should be able to find a print for any travel lover in your life. I really like the colorful cityscapes and skylines, splashed with bright, dripping watercolor. Prices range from $9-$54.
The Coffee/Tea Lover
Fun Mugs– Drinking your favorite hot beverage from a fun or sassy mug brings even more joy to that morning cup. I love the mugs from Hey Shabby Me and Jennifer Vallez. I’ve ordered mugs from both shops as gifts. Our coffee mugs with the sayings It’s What I Do, I drink and I know things and Drinking Coffee Like A Gilmore came from HSM and my current favorite, Je suis mug is from Jennifer’s store. If you live in the greater Portland area (Maine) check out Darby Jones for fun pop culture mugs. All within the $20 range.
Milk Frother-This is the perfect way to warm up your milk or make a cold foam. Whether you’re drinking coffee or matcha, this it the perfect tool to take things up a notch. (I’m linking amazon links for reference but please, shop local. The man built a rocket he doesn’t need your money) here and here
Support a Local Shop– I’m a big hot beverage drinker and I make most of these drinks at home. Having a gift card to a local shop is the best way to treat myself to a fancy coffee or latte. Most coffee or tea shops also carry tea and coffee beans that would be a wonderful and welcome gift.
Cozy Homebodies
Embroidery Kits– Whether an experienced stitcher or a newbie these kits are the perfect weekend project to cozy up with on the couch. And Other Adventures sells beautiful kits that come with online tutorials. I really like the Avonlea and Wildwood collections. Prices starts at $32
Books– A book is a great gift for anyone. Loves to cook? Pick them up a new or classic cookbook. True crime addict? A first book in a mystery series. (Louise Penny is a great choice) Enjoyed the new Dune movie? Introduce them to the series! A cocktail connoisseur? There are so many books for the home mixologist (check out Drinking French) Books are always my go to with kiddos too. There are so many great picture books and early readers out there to create lifelong book lovers. Check out your local book shop and be inspired.
Candles– These soy wax candles by Gray Road Candles are made right here in Maine. Scents like Nordic Night and Autumn Flannel just scream cozy afternoon with a warm beverage and good book. Check out the whole site, you’ll also find reed diffusers, sprays and wax melts. Prices range $8-$24.
Boho Decor– Macrame has been making a comeback. This is another great gift to give to someone who loves a craft project. Urban Kangaroo has some great kits for beginners and I love this little rainbow keychain kit from Sageland Inspirations. If crafting isn’t their thing but they love the boho look of macrame, check out fiber artist My Mini Maine, she has amazing pieces. Prices range $9 and up.
For the Kiddos
KLUTZ Lego Make Your Own Movie Activity Kit – This is a beginners guide to stop motion animation and is recommended for kiddos 8 and up. It does require a tablet or smart phone but still encourages creativity, if they’re going to be on a device they may as well be creating something cool! Amazon link for reference but I was able to find this at my local toy store. It costs around $20.
DIY Playsets– If you’re a crafty person these little playsets are easy to make and I think our niece and nephew liked them. You should be able to find all materials at your local craft store. You’ll need felt, wooden peg dolls, a 8.3 x 8.1 x 1.7 inches craft cigar box, paint and glue (fabric or tacky). The best thing about a playset is you can make it your own. Total cost between $10-$20 depending on your theme.
I hope my small list helps with your holiday shopping. I’m always looking for new gift ideas. If you have any suggestions, let me know!
Happy Holidays and Happy Shopping 🙂
