December 13, 2006
Shop Local: Holiday Gift Ideas
Okay, so last weekend I was able to check a lot of folks off of my gift list, thanks to the Independent Art Market. I do have 2-3 more things to get. I’m trying to shop as local as I can. Here are some ideas…
1. A chapbook from Observable Books. I couldn’t pick a favorite. You won’t be able to either. So buy all three. They are only $8 a pop and the design is snazzy. Small in size (stocking stuffer!), big on impression (poetry with a wallop!). While you are on the site, you can donate just an extra dollar to the Observable Books Holiday Fund Drive and support the Observable Books Poetry series.
2. I always find extra special gifts at Mezzanine Wearables, 389 North Euclid Avenue, in the CWE. They carry clothing and accessories from emerging designers and things that smell awfully nice. The owners are super cool. They’ve opened a men’s shop down the street—haven’t checked that out yet.
3. When a gift card to [insert big box store of choice here] seems just a little too impersonal consider a gift certificate to a St. Louis Originals local independent restaurant.
4. Every January I try to take a 1-2 night retreat. I reflect on the past year and make goals for the next year. Not to get all Oprah on you—but it really has helped me stay focused on my priorities. I don’t have time to go somewhere far away—so staying nearby is just the ticket. Dwell 912 offers a modern urban retreat. Treat someone you love to a zen-out weekend.
5. SKIF still makes the best looking and most interesting sweaters in town and Nina Ganci’s studio shop on Marconi is always a fun place to shop. Completely snuggable holiday bargains can be found in a low pressure atmosphere.
6. I know I don’t have to remind you to shop at Left Bank, Subterranean, or Dunaway Books. But I am. And I do want to recommend a book I just finished—The Best Food Writing of 2005. A little elf hinted that I may be getting the 2006 edition for Christmas. This series, edited by Holly Hughes, is a must have for the literate foodie on your shopping list. There wasn’t a dud in the bunch—really outstanding, passionate, and fun writing.
7. And of course many people on my list are getting 52nd City magazines. You too, can easily wow your friends or family with a holiday pack of magazines—get all three print issues from 2006 for just $15. Or better yet, 2007 gift subscriptions are just $40. And what to carry all the literary booty in? Well, a sturdy and stylish 52nd City tote bag, of course. Check out our Café Press store for more 52nd City gear.
Good Luck!