Foodie Fun
Do you have family living far away? How about sending them a sweet taste of home. Fourth generation family-owned Georgia pecan farm and gourmet candy business, Sunnyland Farms in Albany, offers up some scrumptious gifts for loved ones both near and far. Check out their farm-fresh pecan gift tins, gourmet nut candies, old fashioned nut brittles and bark as well as homemade cakes like Rum Crunch Pecan and Limoncello Almond. They offer gift tins, boxes, do-it-yourself 1-pound bags and even business gifts. You can even shop for “gifts under $50” or shop by diet, such as Keto, diabetes friendly or gluten free. Our mouth is watering already!
sunnylandfarms.com
For the Birds…And Birdwatcher
Nature lovers will adore this unique gift of premium birdseed customized for the birds in the gift recipient’s zip code from TheHappy Birdwatcher Company. This woman-owned, Chattanooga area business offers the perfect gift for those who like to spread holiday cheer to wildlife creatures in their own backyard. Not only is it delivered in beautiful, eco-friendly packaging, it also comes with a personalized letter with fascinating facts about the birds in your recipient’s area and a handwritten gift card, too! Starting at $49, the Simply Seeds Happy Seed box makes a great gift, or even consider their array of 3-month and 6-month pre-paid subscriptions starting at $140.
happybirdwatcher.com
For Snuggle Bugs and Crafty Mamas
We have been enamored with Lucy’s Toys from Anniston, Alabama ever since I first saw them display their amazing plush puppets, toys and blankets at the Yellow Daisy Festival at Stone Mountain many moons ago. I have purchased them for my daughters, nieces and nephews, (and even myself,) and I can scarcely think of someone that has not been gifted these charming homemade collectibles. Lucy Morre started her craft in 1966, while still a schoolteacher, and her hobby soon became a thriving business that has lasted more than 50 years! She offers amazingly soft and cute puppets of eagles, horses, pandas and dragons, just to name a few, as well as plush stuffies that are so cuddly, you may play tug of war with a toddler for them. (We just love their new Highland Cow!) And their patchwork blankets are so soft and cozy, I can think of nothing better than wrapping them around someone you love this holiday season. lucystoys.com
What’s a better gift for a little one than one made by a child? We met 15-year-old Keegan Kontur from Lawrenceville at the Duluth Fall Festival and learned she started her business, One Magnificent Mouse, to spread her love of crocheting with others. She began learning to crochet during Covid and has been knitting like wild ever since. Choose from her cute collection of crocheted foods, including cherry pie, macaroons, corn on the cob, tomato soup and even guacamole dip, or opt for adorable creatures such as lions, peacocks, bunnies and, of course, mice! Prices range from $10 to $75 and can be purchased online at onemagnificentmouse.com.
For your little oned ages 0 to 3, check out the new book Dreaming of Atlanta, which lets your toddler count down from 10 while visiting the iconic locations of Atlanta, like seeing sharks at the Georgia Aquarium, visiting the Martin Luther King Jr. historic home, and hiking Stone Mountain. The book retails for $9.95 and can be found at Barnes & Noble, Amazon and your favorite local bookstore.
And for the young ladies on your list, we just adore the LeadHER collection from the women-owned business Kid’s Crafts, which features amazing trailblazing women like Amelia Earhart, Rosa Parks and Maya Angelou with entertaining hands-on crafts that express the power of these women through art. Each craft kit is unique. There is a Brave Like Rosa “Nah” Punch Needle Art Kit, Soar Like Amelia Textured Wall Art Weaving Kit or Speak like Maya Rainbow Wall Hanging Craft Kit, and several more powerful women-inspired craft kits that retail for $24.99. Inspire and create, now that’s the perfect gift! kidscrafts.org
Another fantastic craft for young and old alike are Woobles, small whimsical crochet amigurumi kits for beginners ages 12 and up. You can create Fred the dinosaur, Pierre the penguin or even Howard the Yeti. Each kit includes step-by-step video tutorials and Woobles “Easy Peasy” yarn (custom made for beginners and pre-started for you), an ergonomic crochet hook, all necessary materials to create your picture-perfect creature and unlimited help over email, plus virtual crochet office hours. Righty or lefty? Not problem, Woobles work for both! And especially check out the Yeti for Christmoose Bundle for $50. Adorbs! Single kits are $25 with no hook, or $30 with hook and are available online at thewoobles.com and at area craft stores.
For Love of the Game
Looking to add some spice to your loved one’s next pickleball game? Check out PaddleSmash, where Pickleball meets Roundnet for a portable family game for the beach, mountains or back yard. Conveniently stored in a light self-carry case, this new outdoor game sets up in 1 minute and combines the best elements of Pickleball and Roundnet to create an easy to learn game. The game is for two to four players, and each match is just 15 minutes. Perfect on-the-go entertainment for your active teen. The price is $199 and can be purchased on Amazon or paddlesmash.com, where special promo codes are available.
When University of Georgia grad Lizz Rene graduated, she wanted to create a unique way to stay in touch with the community of friends she found in college while spreading Black joy in the community, and Po’ Up! was born. Po’Up is an adult party game for African American alumni about reliving those memorable college days and toasting to Black excellence. Whether you attended Howard, UGA, Morehouse, Spellman or Georgia State, everyone can get in the fun, as each deck comes with 100 playing cards in 9 nostalgic themes, sparking many funny memories from college, making it the ideal gift for college students, graduates and even Zoom parties. Po’Up is available on Amazon and poupcards.com for $19.99.
Speaking of conversations, we just can’t get enough of TableTopics, which spice up family conversations or holiday gatherings with thoughtful questions that not only get you thinking but learning more about those you love. We particularly love the Family Conversation Cube Pack ($25), offering three topics, Family on the Move, Right or Wrong, and Heroes, asking such brainteasers as “If a friend’s cell phone accidentally called you, would you listen to the conversation?” Well, would you? For a perfect hostess gift, consider the Holiday Conversation Pack with questions for Thanksgiving with the Family, A Very Merry Christmas and New Year’s Eve topics. TableTopics start at $9 and can be found on Amazon or tabletopics.com.
Clothes to Dye For
We just love this handmade boutique clothing line from Halo Fabric and Dye in Rome. Halo uses various dyeing techniques to create one-of-a-kind apparel and handbags. From seasonal shirts for the holidays to fashion-forward looks, there is something for everyone. And yes, custom orders area available. Check out their Facebook and Instagram sites for latest offerings and area craft shows. Plus, Halo Fabric and Dye is always available from their front porch in downtown Rome. Check them out at facebook.com/halofabricanddye.
Wishing for a Green Christmas?
Do you know someone who wishes they could be a Plant Lady (or Man) but is sadly missing a green thumb? Well, do we have the perfect gift for them! EasyPlant offers beautiful self-watering, plants mailed directly to your door. In three easy steps you can have a beautiful plant all year long—just fill the reservoir with water, check once a month and refill. Voila, a gorgeous live plant, thriving in your home, no green thumb needed. You can choose from small, medium, large and “huge” plants, or even choose from one their signature collections. Prices range from $49 for a small plant to $1,989 if you would like their Natural Selection Sanctuary. Gift Cards are available for easy gift giving. easyplant.com
Now, for a Toast
For the most sophisticated of barware, check out the husband-and-wife team Jamie and Samantha Johnston, masterminds behind Lindy Leather in Lawrenceville. Jamie’s grandfather has been a well-known leather craftsman for years, and in 2018, he decided to follow in the family tradition. Lindy’s Leather offers an array of elegant leather coasters, and engraved wraps for shot, whisky glasses, cans, Yeti’s and decanters. Also available on their web site are journals, fanny packs and handbags. Each piece uses genuine cowhide, which creates a truly unique gift. lindyleather.com
Need a gift for a wine lover? Spread some holiday cheer by registering your loved one for the Fermented Wine Society from the family-owned natural focused Fermented Wine Boutique in Alpharetta. There are several subscription packages available to choose from and depending on the package, club members receive 2, 4 or 6 very limited wines per month, all curated to the subscriber’s specific palate preference, as well as 10 percent off bottles, flights and glasses on a daily basis. Prices begin at $49 per month. fermentedatl.com
Lake Lovers
Which lake do they love best? Hartwell? Lanier? Blue Ridge? No matter which cool waters feel like home, Georgia Cuttings has the perfect art piece to showcase their love of lake living. All of the company’s work is laser engraved so each piece is unique. They use Baltic Birch in either natural or white-washed to really allow the wood grain to show through. And no matter where in Georgia (or the U.S.) their favorite lake resides, they have the perfect showpiece to complement them. They even have ornaments, too! You can find them on Etsy or email them directly at [email protected].
Mountain Mama (or Dada)
Whether looking for something for a mountain cabin or just something for a mountain mama or dada, definitely check out Brother Bear Designs. In 2014, Georgia brothers Preston and Dane decided to take their love of hiking to a whole new level with various forms of artwork; in 2019, they expanded into woodworking custom furniture pieces from reclaimed wood. From wood art of hiking boots, mountain landscapes, bears or the ever-elusive Sasquatch, you’re sure to find the perfect present for your mountain man. brobeardesigns.com
Pottery please
Ok, I admit, I have an obsession with handmade pottery, and I know I am not alone. Collecting Georgia-made pottery is both fun as it is functional! We just love the colorful plates, mugs, platters and vases made from Ceramics by Nature in Cumming. Their beautiful mugs average $55 and their gorgeous floral plates run the gamut from $45 for a small trinket tray to $195 for a large plate. All of Ceramics by Nature pottery pieces are hand painted, and dishwasher and microwave safe. ceramicsbynature.com
It’s a Dog’s Life
We can’t decide if this gift is better for the fur baby in your house, or the fur parent? The Freedom Harness from woman-owned 2 Hounds Design is a patented training tool to help dogs and “their people” have safe and enjoyable walks together. The swiss velvet lining behind the front leg prevents rubbing and chaffing and the two connection points and patented control loop on the top of harness helps deter pulling by tightening gently around the dog’s chest when they pull. An optional double-connection leash allows dog lovers to connect to both points simultaneously for optimal control. The Freedom No-Pull Harness retails for $30 and can be found at 2houndsdesign.com or Amazon.
One of a Kind
Looking for a one-of-a-kind gift that is as unique as your grandchild, dad, pet or bestie? Then check out the MiniMe Factory in Alpharetta for a 3D version of your loved one to be lovingly displayed in their home or office. Creations range from 3-inch to 9-inch models, as well as the ever-popular bobble heads! (It can be used as a great wedding cake topper, too!) Prices begin at $99. theminimefactory.com
Or how about a beautiful, handcrafted coconut-soy candle hand-poured into an eco-friendly, reclaimed, and hand-carved coconut shell bowl? Alpharetta-based small business GlowAmaze is inspired by three generations of black women: grandmother Name TK, daughter Name TK, and granddaughter Name TK. Their candles are made with pure soy wax and premium fragrance oils, carefully blended to evoke specific moods and inspire true relaxation. In other words, they smell amazing! Choose between one wick ($30) or two ($40). Special Note: the wooden wick crackles when it burns, creating utter relaxation to any setting. You can find them online at glowamaze.com or at the West Elm store in Avalon, Alpharetta. Use Code 15GLOW for 15 percent off!
Sidebar: Give the Gift of an Experience to Remember
They say it is the memories we make with others that are forever written in our hearts, so why not consider offering these unique experiences in North Georgia. They are easy to wrap, and the only space you need to store them is in your cherished memories.
Game On
Is there anyone harder to please then your lovable persnickety teen or hard to shop for man in your life? No worries, Immersive Gamebox, a new attraction in Alpharetta, puts your favorite gamers right in the action. This fully private, interactive digital room features projection mapping, touch screens, motion tracking and surround sound to enjoy a hyper-immersive 60-minute adventure the whole family can enjoy! And as a special treat, readers can use the code CVB20 for 20 percent off purchases at the Alpharetta location. immersivegamebox.com
Start Your Engines
Does he feel the need, the need for speed? The Porsche Experience Center in Atlanta offers the thrilling opportunity to get behind the wheel of one of the most coveted sports cars in the world. A 1.6-mile driver development track consisting of 6 modules create an exhilarating environment filled with hands-on and fast-paced learning. Guests can also compete on iconic tracks around the world in their Simulator Lab or view one-of-a-kind vehicles in the Heritage Gallery. Guests can dine at Restaurant 356 for farm-to-table dishes complemented with stunning views of the track, while Carrera Cafe offers Starbucks coffee and quick grab-n-go options. Gift cards begin at $100 and driving experiences start at $450. porschedriving.com
Go Fish
Whether learning to fly fish or looking for an amazing outdoor adventure, local fly-fishing companies have the fish you thought got away. Be sure to check out local companies Hulsey Fly Fishing in Blue Ridge (hulseyflyfishing.com) Atlanta Fly Fishing School in Cumming (atlantaflyfishingschool.com) and Georgia Wild Trout (georgiawildtrout.com) for gift certificates, fishing lessons and guided fishing trips perfect for anyone looking for a water adventure in Blue Ridge, Ellijay, Blairsville, Clayton, Helen or Atlanta. Up, Up and AwayFor truly memorable gift, consider purchasing a hot air balloon adventure with Balloons over Georgia. Trips generally operate from between Canton and Cumming, typically 35 – 45 minutes from downtown Atlanta. Guests will see the Atlanta skyline, Stone Mountain, Kennesaw Mountain, and the Blue Ridge and Appalachian Mountains with trips from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. Non-exclusive flights start at $350 and private flights for two for $450 per person. Gift certificates can be purchased and printed online for a quick and fabulous gift to be long remembered. balloonsovergeorgia.com
Loads of Fun
We all know laundry is no fun. In fact, my favorite joke is “I love those two minutes when all my laundry is clean.” But what if you could give the gift of fresh, clean folded laundry on your doorstep instead of tedious hours with all that swishing, tumbling and folding? Well thanks to Tumble & Dry, a new business with locations in Roswell and Acworth, you can put your dirty laundry on your doorstep, and go do, well, whatever you want! The clothes will be cleaned, folded and back on your doorstep within 48 hours and you will have loads of free time on your hands to enjoy the fun in life. Just download the app and book your appointment. Delivery pricing is $65 for a large bag, (4 – 5 people, 5 – 6 loads) and $55 for a standard bag (3 – 4 people, 3 – 4 loads) and holiday gift certificates are available to make someone’s New Year laundry free! Currently the new business services Acworth, Kennesaw, Marietta, Vinings, Woodstock, Roswell, Milton, Alpharetta, Sandy Springs and Buckhead. The full coverage area can be found on their web site tbldry.com. Gift cards can be easily sent through their app or purchased in store.
Animal Lovers Unite
You have never seen the Georgia Aquarium unless you have seen it from underwater or behind the scenes! Choose from animal encounters with dolphins, penguins, sea lions, beluga whales, sharks and rays, and sea otters, as well as swims and dives with whale sharks. Adventures must be accompanied by a paid admission and reserved in advance, starting at $69.99. georgiaaquarium.org
Passport to Exploration
Give the gift of exploring Georgia’s amazing State Parks with an annual pass for $50 or combo it up with a Georgia State Parks and Historic Site Annual Pass for $85. gastateparks.reserveamerica.com
Sweeten the gift even more with the Georgia State Park & Historic Parks Adventure Book ($29.99), available at mynaturebookadventures.com, to record all those amazing experiences for years to come.
