By Elise Ramsay

One of the potential stressors of the holidays is the dilemma of finding gifts for people you might not know so well. From in-laws and distant relatives to bosses and coworkers—you don’t always know their taste, and you don’t want your gift to bore or offend. No need for anxiety! These options are safe bets for just about anyone:

 

Ornaments are a great option for those who celebrate Christmas, especially if the recipient is someone who might appreciate a memento of you for years to come (parents of a significant other, for example). These leaf ornaments are each made from a real leaf that is preserved in gold, silver, or copper.

 

Another nice neutral choice is this set of 12 snowflakes laser cut from birch.

 

For a slightly more personal touch, this sweet “Bird in Love” glass ball and felted acorns (miniature ones too!) will add sweetness to any tree.

 

Let’s face it—you should probably also pick up some miniature acorns for yourself, just because.

 

 

Candles? Trust! When done right, they add instant coziness and holiday atmosphere. Plus, scent is closely tied to memory, so you’re also giving them the gift of nostalgia. This “Frasier Fir” variation smells just like a Christmas tree and comes in a variety of sizes.

 

As good as trees and wreaths smell, there’s nothing like the warm spicy comfort of more edible holiday treats. You’ll have to resist nibbling on this “Quince Spice” candle, though, no matter how tempting!

 

For a neutral scent, these natural beeswax owls, pinecones, and twigs are whimsical yet classic.

 

 

This time of year, calendars are everywhere. Many stores in the area offer beautiful editions by artists and designers—calendars that are no longer boring gifts, but pieces of art! Some favorite finds include:

“Boots On & Ready” by Atherton Lin, which offers an illustrated trip through England in each month’s design;

 

Julianna Swaney’s “Bird Children,” which is delicate and refined;

 

and APAK’s “Space Garden,” which is somehow surreal, pretty, and cute at the same time.

 

 

Do you know anyone who recently had a baby? If so, you’re very lucky to have an excuse to shop around for miniature booties and furry things (betraying some personal jealousy here). Local Somerville shops have an abundance of cute baby items. This clever one from Egg-A-Go-Go (made in Boston) just scratches the surface of the adorable onesies.

 

One of these animal spoons from Beehive Kitchenware (in Fall River, MA) would make a very special baby gift—plus, there is something so endearing about the back side of the spoons showing the “backside” of the featured critter!

 

It’s never too early to begin unicorn education, so why not include this print to kick-start the kid’s imagination?

 

Finally, there is no better snuggle buddy than these stuffed animals by Jelly Cat—they come in a variety of species and are so soft, you just might buy one for yourself (no judgment).

 

 

Some other unique items for anyone and everyone include these wonderful locally made terrariums by Amanda Sawitzky. The miniature environments need very little maintenance and provide a desperately needed burst of green life in the winter months.

 

Another nice housewarming or host/hostess gift is this pair of glasses that are festive but not over the top.

 

Grand has prints from several local artists like these clever messages on creativity from Union Press and this seasonal photo by Erik Dasque.

 

 

For the final touch, local Albertine Press holiday cards in a variety of minimalist designs that can be found at several shops around the area - double the local!

 

This set by Julianna Swaney is a unique alternative to classic holiday cards; it celebrates the spirit of giving among all kinds.

 

 

Always a great “when in doubt” gift option? Food! Don’t worry, local deliciousness got its own post – check out the food gift guide post here!

 

Magpie

416 Highland Ave

Somerville, MA 02144

www.magpie-store.com

 

Grand

374 Somerville Ave

Somerville, MA 02143

www.grandthestore.com

 

Davis Squared

418 Highland Ave

Somerville, MA 02144

www.davissquared.com

 

Blue Cloud Gallery

713 Broadway

Somerville, MA 02144

www.bluecloudgallery.com

 

Consignment Galleries

363 Highland Ave

Somerville, MA 02144

www.theconsignmentgalleries.com