The holidays are just around the corner + this year you may want to do your gift buying as early as possible. Hanukkah starts Sun., Nov. 28, Christmas is 47 days aways, and Kwanzaa starts on Sun., Dec. 26. Long story short — we’ve got some shopping to do. Here’s our curated list of 40 quali-tree gift ideas.
On the Editor’s list
This year, we’re shopping at House of Swank + Edge of Urge, plus adding some locally-made Usu Candles to the cart. However, the details of what exactly is on the holiday shopping list cannot be shared — the recipients might be reading this right now. Hey, mom + dad. 👋
Stocking stuffers
○ A Pecan Crisp sampler from Tonya’s Cookies (recently named a 2021 Oprah’s Favorite Thing)
○ Some I believe in Raleigh merch from Sola Coffee
○ Nons pinching salts, a Love Always Liz pouch + Tobacco Road Supply room spray, all available at Curate Raleigh —Triangle Pop-Up’s Downtown storefront featuring over 50 local artisans.
If you’re shopping for…
The music maven that will sell out Red Hat Amphitheater one day:
A turntable from Schoolkids Records, or a best-selling record from Nice Price Books and Records.
The White Elephant gift exchange match — with a $25 limit to boot:
What could be better than a Videri Holly Holiday Gift Box, complete with hot chocolate mix + two chocolate bars, or a 9 oz. Five Tree Creations candle that smells like Christmas at Grandma’s?
The foodie in your life that loves trying new local goodies:
Organic, light-roast coffee from Gabi’s Grounds (a signed thank you note from Gabi comes with every order) or a bottle of Oak City Hot Sauce.
The runner always prepping for their next half marathon:
Runologie’s Nike tank top featuring local artist Adam Peele’s design or the store’s best-selling singlet displaying NC flag pride (both men’s + women’s available).
The coworker that has an Instagram page for their pet:
Goodies like the freeze-dried turkey from Phydeaux or handmade treats from Good Boy Dog Treats (but only if their pet’s been a really good boy.)
The craft beer aficionado that loves a local brew:
A variety pack from Trophy Brewing Co. or a Raleigh Brewing Company gift card so you can sip together later.
The next door neighbor always looking to learn something new:
North Carolina Symphony tickets for a Beethoven concert or tickets to the Alphonse Mucha: Art Nouveau Visionary exhibit at the NCMA.
The sports fan who is all about the NC State Wolfpack:
An NC State stainless steel tumbler, pint glass or Comfort Colors long-sleeve from The Red and White Shop.
The pal who always forgets about self care, but could use a break:
This Clay Mask set from Anne’s Apothecary (featuring blue, rose + yellow clay), local artist CK Creations’ Self Care Queens print, or a lymphatic lift facial from Blue Water Spa to soothe + rejuvenate.
The bookworm who loves reading the latest book release:
A graphic novel from Reader’s Corner or anything from Quail Ridge Books.
The friend who values an experience over material things:
A winemaking + tasting class from Vitis House Wine School or tickets to Carolina Ballet’s Romeo + Juliet in February.
The parents who love a good game night almost as much as they love you:
A 1,000 piece vintage puzzle to solve together or a 4-piece coaster set that doubles as a NC puzzle from DECO Raleigh.
The kiddo in your life who happens to be the cutest nugget of all time:
The tiniest, cutest Wolfpack bucket hat from The Red and White Shop or a book about friendship + a bear from So & So Books.
The fashionista looking for some fresh threads:
A sherpa vest from Raleigh-based Peter Millar, raw denim jeans from Raleigh Denim Workshop, or a classic crossbody tote from Milestone Bag Co.
The outdoorsy type that knows all the best local hikes:
A terrarium kit from The Zen Succulent to bring the outdoors inside or a Murphy’s Naturals mosquito repellent candle with rosemary, peppermint + lemongrass oil.
And if wrapping isn’t your forte or your presents tend to look a little something like this – you can take your purchases to Gifted Boutique and Wrappery (1112 Kentworth Dr.) to be professionally gift wrapped.
