A Local Gift Guide for that Special Man (Hipster, Dad, or Both!)

Clockwise, from the top:

1. I don't know about the men in your life, but my hubs likes to cook, and that is something I can always get behind.  So, how about encourage his kitchenry with a gift from The Crescent Olive?  The traditional balsamic vinegar is delicious.  I ate some just the other night with my pizza.  Weird, I know, but it's the perfect thing to dip the crusts in!

2. This is by far one of the cheapest, yet one of the best-received and well-loved gifts I have ever given my husband.  Seriously, it's cool, functional, and under $10.  A wall-mounted bottle opener from Mast General Store makes a great stocking stuffer.

3. And here's another less-expensive item upon which any Dad would love to rest his glass--a work of art coaster by Frank Heflin of Columbia, SC.  These really cool, unique graffiti art coasters are available at Nest, the newest all-local shop in downtown Columbia.  See that "Dad" coaster in the front?  It may or may not already be wrapped under my tree...

4. This next gift is an item that can be found locally at Non(e)such, a high-end specialty store on Devine Street.  My husband has actually received two of these Barrington wallet/money clip/card holders over the years, as he lost his original one and could not find anything he loved quite as much and had to replace it.

5. OK, so not everyone knows a man (or woman) who wants a tattoo for Christmas, but in case you're in the market, Shavon's Purple Lotus is a great place to go.  Her website describes it as "a place you can take your grandmother to get tattooed."  The photo above is of the tattoo my husband got with his Christmas tattoo gift certificate last year.

6. Looking for a one of a kind functional art piece for the kitchen?  Look no further than Reaves Woodworks.  A Columbia local, Larry Reaves describes this beautiful handmade edge grain cutting board as made from Maple, African Mahogany, Canarywood, and recycled skateboards.  Very hipster-chic, if you ask me.  (Photo courtesy of Reaves Woodworks.)

And, if you're in the market for something pretty cutting-edge and up-to-the-moment, how about a gift certificate to Bourbon, Columbia's newest (not-quite-open-yet) creole-cajun eatery and bar.  Just message them on Facebook, and they'd be happy to sell you a gift certificate for that lucky guy.

Happy shopping; only 8 days left before Christmas!  Buy local!

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Local Gift Guide for that Precocious Toddler

 Clockwise, from the top:

1. This modern, unique, and eco-friendly belt made from recycled fire hose has already made its way from KD's Treehouse under my tree this year.  Jones will be getting the purple; they also have them in red, green, & blue.  The manufacturer, Gallo en Fuego, donates a portion of the proceeds from sales to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation! 

2. A membership to EdVenture Children's Museum is like a present for kids and parents.  There is always something new to see, and it is incredibly refreshing to take your toddler to a place where they are actually expected to run around, make noise, and touch everything! (The picture is of Jones playing in the ship at EdVenture a year or so ago).

3. How about this amazing handmade corduroy vest from Owlette.  I mean, this vest is over-the-top adorable, right?  She makes them in a variety of sizes.

4. Or, for the toddler girl, this precious handmade skirt, also by Owlette. Hounds tooth and corduroy...I kinda want this in my size.

5. I am obsessed with Charley Harper, and the Columbia Museum of Art Museum Shop indulges me at every turn.  This colorful puzzle-of-art would be an awesome one to Mod Podge and frame for a child's bedroom after it's completed, (if one were so craftily-inclined).

6. And a puzzle-of-art to beat all others, check out this handcrafted wooden dinosaur puzzle!  This thing is large and beautiful and perfect for a toddler or young child, (or child-at-heart-husband).  There are multiple dinos to choose from, and they're available locally at Nest, the new maker's market inside the Marriott downtown, selling only SC-made goods.  Handcrafted in the Midlands by Chris Salmon of Knifefish.

In addition to a few of these items, Jones will also be receiving a gift certificate to Columbia Children's Theatre.  He loves a performance, and I am all about giving experiences instead of things when possible!

Shop local, shop handmade!

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A Local Gift Guide for the Bouncing Babies in Your Life

Clockwise from the top:

1. A Hape Little Drummer drum is the perfect gift for a baby who likes to bang on things--channel that energy musically!  Available locally at KD's Treehouse.

2. Columbia is lucky to have so many creative-types selling handmade and often one of a kind items, and I would be remiss to leave Nana by Sally off of such a list.  These adorable bibs are available on her website, at Soda City Market most Saturdays, or at KD's Treehouse.  (I also recently spotted some of her beautiful bags at Mast General Store on Main Street).

3. And speaking of handmade, this unique bonnet with little ears by Columbia-local Owlette is on my wishlist for baby Birdie.

4. Columbia husband-wife duo, jellykoe, creates amazing "Wonky Dolls" and handmade plushes, perfect for that discerning and local-supporting little lad or lass. 

Stay tuned for more local gift guides that will be coming on the blog!
Buy local (and handmade) this holiday season!

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