Local Makers: Holiday Gift Guide
Do you still have Holiday Shopping left? We definitely do, because the men in our family prefer to shop the week of Christmas when parking lots are empty and the process is simplified. The women in our family like to peruse shops, waiting for the perfect gift to make itself known as we walk by. Two different philosphies, both are nice ways of saying we aren't great at planning ahead. To help procrastinators everywhere we've compiled a gift guide that includes excellent local shops for gift giving, as well as some local vendors who have some unique peices you can't find anywhere else.
Local Stores
At a loss for what to get someone? Lean on local shops, like the ones listed below to help. Shop associates are knowledgable, helpful, and can make your gift searching much easier.
Onward Reserve
Overview: Started by a UGA grad who was tired of life in Corporate Finance, Onward Reserve is the go-to place for the stylish guy in your life. Though much of the stuff is a little pricier, there's some excellent gifts under $50 any guy would enjoy. Their lifestyle blog The Gazette has some cool tips on fashion, food, and drinks, and it's a rather entertaining read.
Locations: Atlanta, Athens, Thomasville, Charlotte, Chattanooga, Washington DC
Pro Tip: They've already done the work for you. Here's their curated gift guide for all types of guys. However, the Sydney Hale candles are so wonderful anyone would enjoy them. Our personal favorites are Cedarwood + Vanilla for the Living Room and Tobacco + Sandalwood for the bathroom.
http://onwardreserve.com/
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/onwardreserve
instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onwardreserve/
Mint Juleps
Overview: A local shop in Sugar Hill, GA that was started by two friends who wanted to offer upscale gifts, fashion, and gourmet items paired with exceptional customer service. They also have a solid collection of locally made in the USA (and Georgia) items.
Location: Sugar Hill, GA
Pro Tip: This charming shop is all about the personal touch, so expect free gift wrapping and food and drink samples aplenty. The merchandising is excellent and you'll find a wide variety of items. Their serving/kitchen utensils are especially beautiful and will make great gifts for the ladies in your life.
http://www.mintjulepsshop.com
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mint-Juleps-Shop-150052498533397/
https://www.instagram.com/ShopMintJuleps/
Jaemor Farms
Overview: Not traditionally a "shop" per se, but still a great place to find homemade and local gifts. They have a large amount of gift baskets including locally made jams, salsas, pickles, cheeses, and of course produce. The perfect place to shop for the foodie in your life.
Locations: Alto, GA
Pro Tip: Put this place on your list for next year, as they have a great corn maze and fall activities for the whole family. For now, treat yourself to some homemade cider, fried pies, and ice cream while you shop.
http://www.jaemorfarms.com
https://www.facebook.com/jaemorfarms
https://www.instagram.com/jaemorfarms/
Local Makers
Prefer to shop in your pajamas from the comfort of your own home? There's plenty of local makers who sell online. Just be wary of Holiday shipping deadlines many of them have!
The Salt Table
Overview: While this one is a physical shop in Savannah and Pooler, GA (if that's your local area check out the stores, amazing gourmet gifts!) we'll focus on their excellent products available online. Carol and Dave Legasse started The Salt Table after a trip to a gourmet restaurant that featured exotic salts from around the world. Inspired by their dining and experience and noting the lack of retail outlets for gourmet salt, they founded the company. Our favorites inclulde The All 'Round Good Grinder Blend for day-to-day use, and the Smoked Bacon Sea Salt for the pork fanatic in your life. They also have fabulous gourmet gift baskets featring a variety of local and exotic products.
https://www.salttable.com
https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Salt-Table
Lew's Boards
Overview: For a quality, personalized gift look no further than Lew's Boards. American made hardwood cutting boards finished with organic flax seed oil and laser engraved with personal designs. Since the boards are all custom-made, we recommend hopping on this gift idea quickly since there's a varying wait time.
http://www.lewsboards.com
https://www.facebook.com/LewsBoards
Natty Michelle Paperie
Overview: Missed our post featuring Natty Michelle Paperie? Check it out, because she has some awesome gift ideas for all the ladies in your life that are hard to buy for (teachers, aunts, sisters, mother-in-laws, etc.)
https://www.nattymichellepaperie.com
https://www.instagram.com/nattymichelle
When it comes to shopping locally, these people and places are just the tip of the iceberg. Do some research around your area and see what people and places you find. When you give a gift that has a little more effort and thought people take notice. Also, if you're in the mood for gifting some award-winning BBQ goodness we've got some great stuff in our Serendipity Mercantile store. We've found that everyone loves our Sugar Hill Smokehouse gift pack...
Sugar Hill Smokehouse Gift Pack, including Sweet & Tangy BBQ Sauce, Sweet Habanero BBQ Sauce, and Sweet BBQ Rub
Happy shopping, everyone!