Gift Guide: Our Editors’ picks for the 2023 holiday season

See what Editors Allie and Cat are shopping this year.

A graphic of a large gold bow around a floral green backround.

Here’s what your local news team wants to unwrap this year.

Graphic by 6AM City

Happy December. We thought we’d ring in the most festive month of the year appropriately — with holiday gift guides featuring our editors’ top present picks.

Scroll to shop, get inspired, and maybe even snag a locally made gift or two, courtesy of Allie’s and Cat’s exquisite taste.

A graphic with a floral background, a picture of Editor Allie and the words "Allie's Picks."

Graphic by 6AM City

Baguette Dough Bowl Candle, $44.95 | “I love a good candle, and this one is such a showstopper. Plus, choose from a variety of delicious scents.”

North Carolina State Map, $18 | “This design is so fun and such a great way to share your NC pride.”

The Wrightsville Sarong, $145 | “Imagine hitting the road to your favorite NC beach with a full coverage sarong to lounge all day in.”

Raleigh Watercolor Map, $18+ | “I adore this colorful print with an accurate map of the City of Oaks.”

Carolina Hurricanes Alternate Logo Hat, $29.99 | “This logo is the best Hurricanes design, and every Raleighite needs to rep their Canes pride.”

“Poole’s: Recipes and Stories from a Modern Diner” by Ashley Christensen, $21.46 | “Throw down in the kitchen like a real Raleighite with this Ashley Christensen cookbook.”

A graphic with a floral background, a picture of Editor Cat and the words "Cat's Picks."

Graphic by 6AM City

Adventure Awaits Bucket List Activity Box, $164.99 | “Looking for something unique to get your significant other? This activity box is chock-full of new ways to explore your relationship.”

City of Oaks Print, $15+ | “I am a huge fan of lining my walls with local art and prints — and this design is the perfect addition to my collection.”

Custom Pet Portrait Shirt, $28.55 | “Created in Garner, NC by my best friend Taylor, I can’t recommend these custom pet portrait shirts enough.”

Dog Carrier Sport Sack, $79.95 | “This dog backpack was my 2022 best purchase. If you have a pooch who is getting a little older, you can still take them on hikes and even bike rides in this comfy backpack.”

A photo of each of the four National Content Editors against a floral green background, with the words "More Editors' Picks."

Graphic by 6AM City

Think we’d let the fun stop there? Shop even more editors’ picks, featuring the gifts our National Content team has their eyes on this month.

Brianna: “I’ve recently ditched the purse for a fanny pack to go totally hands-free while walking around town, which is why I’m eyeing these colorful fanny packs from Burlaep. (Pair it with this cute embroidered baseball cap and you’ve got a perfect city ‘fit.)”

Dayten: “We just moved, and I still have to build my reading nook: Methodical’s Ethiopian blend (which I’ve tried, and loved) and some elegant, renter-friendly decor.”

Emily: “I love waking up with a warm cup of chai tea in the morning — especially when it’s in a cute squirrel mug.”

Jessa: “Everyone loves a big fancy candle. Plus, get some decorative matches to... match.”

More from RALtoday
In case you hadn’t noticed, Raleigh’s growing in a big way, and some mixed-use developments are set to transform downtown + Midtown in 2026 and beyond. Here’s what you need to know about three major developments.
If you’re looking for plans to bring in the new year, Raleigh is bustling with events. Explore each event and plan where you’ll bring in 2025.
Sponsored
Raleigh restaurants, cafes, and diners serving up all the eggs, pancakes, mimosas, and other brunch favorites you want to eat.
For the first time since 1990, you can back the Pack in the NCAA men’s soccer finals — and it’s all happening in Cary.
If you’re a fan of real trees over artificial, this list is for you. We’re highlighting 10 local spots to pick up Christmas trees in Raleigh, including home delivery options, pre-flocked trees, and NC-famous Fraser firs.
Our readers have spoken — here are the best local spots our city has to offer, from the best coffee shop to the best apartment complex to the best dentist.
Hi Raleighite. It’s that time of year again — Spotify Wrapped is out, and so is ours. Ready to see how our year stacked up?
A grassroots effort is helping central NC properties become part of a nationwide habitat network.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.