We all know this situation: You get invited last minute, a neighbor pops by and drops off a gift for you or the kids; a co-worker brings in a gift for you, and you are unprepared or forgot that one person on your list!
Don’t worry, we got you covered with our top 10 picks for local gift ideas that goes for everyone. If you have a couple handy at home, you will be prepared for the unexpected guest and situation.
1. Chocolate:
Who doesn’t like a sweet surprise, at the ending of a meal or something sweet in-between?
Our local pick: Infusion Chocolates, 2503 Monroe Str., Madison.
2. Tea:
Tea makes a perfect gift for cold winter nights by the fire, while working, or reading on a cozy couch.
Our local pick: The Teasider, 823 E. Johnson Str., Madison.
3. Socks:
Everyone needs socks this time of year! There are socks for everyone: runners, hikers, workers, and kids-they come in all shapes, forms and colors and are always appreciated. Makes the perfect gift for the unexpected holiday visitor.
Our local pick: Good Day Shop, 1925 Monroe Str., Madison.
4. Jewelry:
Fun, local & hand-made jewelry that doesn’t kill your holiday spending budget? Jewelry is a fun way to say ‘thank you’ or ‘welcome’ and doesn’t have to cost hundreds to be beautiful. Make a statement with a hand-made and local piece this season!
Our local pick: Metric Forrest Studio, 330 State Street, Madison.
5. Coffee:
There are tea drinkers, and there are coffee drinkers. When you have the unexpected visitor or a friend that you forgot to shop for, coffee is always a beautiful gesture to give. Think locally roasted and sustainably grown of course.
Our local pick: The Coffee Roasters, 5352 King James Way, Fitchburg.
6. Candle:
There are always candles burning everywhere in the winter season. It sets a cozy mood and soothes our energy. Shop local when you can, and this candle-maker is especially unique using Wisconsin sand in their candle jars!
Our local pick: Madison Candle Company
7. Soap:
Soap is good for everyone and every person you cross paths with. It doesn’t only wash away dirt, smells amazing and cleans off germs, it also looks and smells pretty in your kitchen or bathroom. Made locally of course!
Our local pick: Soap Opera, 319 State Str., Madison.
8. Mittens:
Well, who doesn’t need mittens to keep hands warm and make a fashion statement. Mittens make a beautiful present and they don’t have to be designer to be pretty or match your winter outfits.
Our local pick: Artsy Fartsy Madison, 1717 Monroe Str., Madison.
9. Pottery:
A small pot to drink your morning coffee or tea is a beautiful gift idea for everyone you encounter over the holidays and there are many more pottery gift ideas that are small, thoughtful and beautiful.
Our local pick: Abby Seltzer Ceramics, 2223 Darwin Rd., Madison.
10. Wine & Cheese:
We couldn’t decide between the 2 so we will combine them at the end as they go together …
Wine:
Locally grown wine in Wisconsin is a nice gift for the gourmet that joins your holiday dinner or if you go somewhere last minute for dinner or a holiday party. Grapes from Wisconsin is a unique gesture of honoring our local vineyards.
Here’s a good one just outside of Madison: Wollersheim Winery & Distillery, 7876 State Rd. 188, Prairie du Sac.
Cheese:
Last but not least, bringing a nice piece of locally made cheese is a welcoming addition to any party you attend last minute, when guests are coming over, or you decide to throw together a cheese board for a family game night.
Our local pick: Fromagination, 12 S Carroll Str., Madison.
Related Posts
