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.
Still Life leaf ornaments, Davis Squared - $24-31
Another nice neutral choice is this set of 12 snowflakes laser cut from birch.
Roost snowflake ornaments, Davis Squared - $17
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.
Glāk Love “Bird in Love” ornament, Magpie - $17
Felt acorns, Davis Squared - $8 large, $4 small
Let’s face it—you should probably also pick up some miniature acorns for yourself, just because.
Felt acorns, Davis Squared - $8 large, $4 small
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.
Frasier Fir candle, Davis Squared - $12-$17
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!
Quince Spice candle, Davis Squared - $22
For a neutral scent, these natural beeswax owls, pinecones, and twigs are whimsical yet classic.
GreenTree candles, Magpie $8-$26
GreenTree candles, Magpie - $8-$26
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;
Boots On & Ready calendar, Magpie - $18
Boots On & Ready calendar, Magpie - $18
Julianna Swaney’s “Bird Children,” which is delicate and refined;
“Bird Children” calendar by Julianna Swaney, Magpie - $15
and APAK’s “Space Garden,” which is somehow surreal, pretty, and cute at the same time.
“Space Garden” calendar by APAK, Magpie - $14
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.
Egg-A-Go-Go onesies, Magpie - $18-$24
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!
Beehive Kitchenware baby spoons, Magpie - $28 each. Photo cred: http://www.etsy.com/shop/beehivekitchenware
Beehive Kitchenware baby spoons (backside), Magpie - $28 each. Photo cred: http://www.etsy.com/shop/beehivekitchenware
It’s never too early to begin unicorn education, so why not include this print to kick-start the kid’s imagination?
“U is for Unicorn” by Matthew Porter Art, Magpie - $18
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).
Jelly Cat stuffed pig, Davis Squared - $20
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.
Terrariums by Amanda Sawitzky, Magpie - $10-$40
Another nice housewarming or host/hostess gift is this pair of glasses that are festive but not over the top.
Glasses, Consignment Galleries - $6
Grand has prints from several local artists like these clever messages on creativity from Union Press and this seasonal photo by Erik Dasque.
Union Press prints, Grand - $15 small, $25 large
Union Press prints, Grand - $15 small, $25 large
Erik Dasque photograph, Grand - $50. Photo cred: http://www.frenchguys.com
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!
Albertine Press set of 6 cards, Grand, Blue Cloud Gallery, Magpie - $15. Photo cred: http://www.etsy.com/shop/albertinepress
This set by Julianna Swaney is a unique alternative to classic holiday cards; it celebrates the spirit of giving among all kinds.
Holiday card set by Julianna Swaney, Magpie - $15
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
Grand
374 Somerville Ave
Somerville, MA 02143
Davis Squared
418 Highland Ave
Somerville, MA 02144
Blue Cloud Gallery
713 Broadway
Somerville, MA 02144
Consignment Galleries
363 Highland Ave
Somerville, MA 02144
www.theconsignmentgalleries.com
