“The holiday season is a time of joy, but it can also be a time of stress, especially when it comes to finding the perfect gifts for everyone on your list. From friendsgiving hosts to that special someone, finding them a unique and thoughtful present can be a challenge. To help you navigate the holiday shopping maze, I’ve curated a list of my favorite local finds, including some hidden gems I’ve recently discovered.”
1
endless love designs
custom tumblers
I spotted these adorable tumblers at Salon 675 and instantly fell in love. The dog paw and mountain design perfectly capture my personality, but I think a custom tumbler would be even more special. Treat yourself or surprise someone with a unique gift—a personalized tumbler is always a great idea!
2
Wildly 207
beautify me tea blend
I’m excited about locally-grown, organic supplements from wildly207.com. Their unique blends address specific needs, like promoting strong hair, radiant skin, and a calm, uplifted mood – all things that can be especially helpful during the holiday rush! Wildly207 offers a variety of blends to target different needs. Check out their website at wildly207.com for other blends and the retail spaces where you can find them.
3
Labrie Woodworking
Cutting Boards & Coasters
You might have seen these stunning cutting and cheese boards featured in the last issue of LA Metro Magazine. Poland Provisions offers a variety of options, but reach out to Labrie Woodworking directly to get a customized board. These high-quality boards are perfect for home cooks and make excellent gifts for the culinary enthusiasts in your life.
4
Roopers
Heaven’s Door Single Barrel Select Cask Strength
Make it an Old-Fashioned for me. This bourbon whiskey is finished in Irish whiskey casks, each barrel offers its own unique profile, reflecting variations in age and maturity. “Cheers, Amigos, RIP SRR,” can be found on the bottle—a tribute to the founder of Roopers, the legend, Steve Roop—near and dear to us here at Lydia Media. This special release is available exclusively at all Roopers locations.
5
Nutty Nettie’s
Nonpareils
I don’t know what secret ingredient they use to make their nonpareils so delicious, but they’re definitely one of my favorite guilty pleasures when I’m craving something sweet.
Our communities are brimming with unique treasures, and it can be easy to miss some of the hidden gems right under our noses. There’s a world of local shops and artisans waiting to be discovered.
6
Orphan Annie’s
Side Dishes
This antique shop is a treasure trove. With a little imagination, you can find pieces that will elevate any table setting. Whether you’re looking for something specific or just browsing, you’re sure to discover unique items that add a touch of elegance to even the simplest snacks.
7
Bob’s Peanuts
Needham’s & Red Skin Peanuts
If you’re a coconut lover, you must try the Needham’s from Bob’s Peanuts, they’re truly exceptional. And with their fresh Virginia extra large Redskin peanuts, it’s a perfect salty match to the sweet. They’re perfect for gift baskets or as a snack at your next gathering.
8
The Vault
Bourbon Maple Balsamic
I’m not a culinary whiz, so I’m always grateful for a little extra flavor boost when cooking. The FIORE maple bourbon balsamic is a game-changer. We love it on salmon, but my go-to is Brussels sprouts. It’s a simple yet delicious way to elevate any dish. I highly recommend checking out the FIORE collection at The Vault for a flavor explosion.
9
obscura cafe & drinkery
charcuterie
Have you ever tried to assemble your own charcuterie board from scratch? I did once, and it was a pricey experiment! During the hectic holiday season, when you need to grab something quick, a charcuterie board from Obscura Cafe & Drinkery is the perfect solution. Their selection of meats and cheeses is top-notch, with accompaniments to satisfy any taste.
10
roopers
yellowstone single barrel bourbon
A nighttime sipper—The Hand Picked Collection is a truly exceptional Single Barrel bourbon. Hand-selected by Roopers, this unique bottle offers a delightful blend of sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors. Known affectionately as ‘Sippin’ Squatch Juice,’ this limited-edition bourbon is exclusive to Roopers and available at all of their locations.
11
brettuns village
refinished antique chest
This 1870s antique Jenny Trunk is a stunning addition to any room. With its dark wood finish, brass accents, and feather keyway cover, it adds a touch of history and character. Originally used for stagecoach travel, this trunk is a unique and stylish piece that looks and feels more than its $400 price tag.
12
rogue life maine
blanket and shoulder/waist pack
Looking for the perfect gift for an outdoor enthusiast? Rogue has a ton of great options! Check out these two recently found favorites: a cozy blanket for stargazing on chilly nights, and a handy shoulder or waist pack for easy access to essentials while hiking.
13
orphan annie’s
silver bracelet
If our story in last years Autumn issue about Orphan Annie’s didn’t get you inspired to check it out, maybe a favorite piece of jewelry I can often be seen wearing will. (Also shown being worn on page 49.) This silver multi-strand bracelet feels and looks so elegant. I feel I scored with this find at the antique shop that has endless treasures to uncover. And the best part, it was only $40.
14
mac’s grill
coaster club
I’m not a member of a lot of mug clubs but when I saw Mac’s Grill offer the coaster club it was a no-brainer to join. Receiving amazing drink and food specials throughout the year, (and a $25 gift card on your birthday) it’s well worth the purchase. What a great gift for that Mac’s Grill enthusiast… or mug club enthusiast that is looking for something a little different.
I’ve curated a list of my personal favorites, but I’m always on the lookout for more. Share your local finds with me in the comments below so we can all discover even more amazing places next year. Let’s celebrate the incredible diversity of our communities together!
Pam is officially 100% back. Deciding not to go back to the hopping streets of Dallas (sometimes the hopping isn’t all it’s cracked up to be), she has made her seat at Uncle Andy’s Digest and LA Metro Magazine as Publisher and Editorial Director full time. The magazines feel like home and she is excited to be working with everyone here and those in the community.
-- When Pam isn’t working you can find her walking her dog, hiking, visiting friends and family, or at her favorite
restaurants and watering holes.