(Clockwise, from top left)
So, let me be very honest: this gift guide is all things that I want. And, I think, things your girlfriend or wife or mother or sister or best friend might want too. Here we go:
1. You can't go wrong with an Amsa Yoga class pass. You can buy 5-class, 10-class, 20-class, or 1-month unlimited class passes, and the first class for new visitors is free. I've waxed poetic about my love for Amsa before, but truthfully, there are lots of great local yoga studios in Columbia; find one and hit the mat. It's like therapy and exercise in one. (Photo courtesy of Amsa Yoga).
2. This necklace by local artist, January Jewelry, has the sort of vintage-boho feel that I adore. It is so reasonably priced, and supports a local artist and a local shop, as it can be found at Nest, the new all-local maker's market inside the Marriott on Main Street.
3. I have a new favorite store in Columbia: Jack & Jane Sport. I stopped in the other day to get some ideas of things I want the hubs to get me for Christmas, and this Oiselle top is definitely on the list. Not only is it a pretty color and the perfect weight for running in Columbia right now, but you have to feel it to believe how soft this top is. Susannah, one of the owners, helped me; she was genuinely friendly and not at all pushy. They have great-quality athletic gear, and for men too.
4. How about a bottle of bubbly? Anything sparkling is my drink of choice, and a nice bottle is without a doubt one of the best gifts you can give, I think. Kaitlin Ohlinger, a friend, and the General Manager of Cellar on Greene, and author of the wine snob, is happy to help you pick out a unique one. This Evolution Sparkling from Oregon has a pretty sweet label. I'm partial to Oregon wines in general, and this one is delicious! (Sold out on-line, but Cellar has it!)
5. The Gourmet Shop is a great place to shop for gifts, especially for the foodie or chef on your list. They have awesome gourmet candy, wine, cigars, prepared foods, and so much cool kitchen stuff! And what lady wouldn't be happy with this daily reminder? The You Rock ceramic catch-all is a perfect gift for any woman on your list.
6. How about a membership to the Columbia Museum of Art. There's not much classier or more fun (and affordable!) than a year's pass to this beautiful and hip museum. Besides the amazing art from renowned and classic artists, the museum also hosts cool events, and the museum shop is super-chic. This gift would please so many people, and you'd earn some "class" points for giving something cultural and useful. (The photo above is of Jones honing his skills in the CMA children's room).
So, here's the not-so-subtle hint for anyone looking to buy a gift for me this Christmas, and hopefully this helped you with something for the lady on your list! Shop local!
