The holidays are not just the most wonderful time of the year, but also the most stressful. From putting up the decorations to busy weekends filled with family gatherings and holiday parties, and maybe the most hectic task is figuring out the perfect gift for everyone on your list.
We thought we would make the shopping process a little easier for you by putting together this gift-giving guide. The best part is each store we have selected to feature is locally owned, so in the spirit of giving, we can also support our community!
Mother
To show your mom how much you care and that you remember the true meaning of Christmas, give her a gift that is socially responsible. The perfect pick is a nativity scene from Ten Thousand Villages in Cleveland Heights. Not only is the nativity scene a great piece for Mom to add to her Christmas décor, but it is also a fair trade product!
Don't celebrate Christmas? Ten Thousand Villages works with over 130 artisan groups in more than 38 countries in in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East to bring their customers fair trade jewelry, home décor, gifts, and more - so there is plenty to choose from! Fair trade enables artisans to earn a fair wage and provides and opportunity for a better quality of life.
Father
This year, forget a boring tie from the department store for dad; take it up a notch with a festive tie from Tidal Cool Creations. Local designer Andrea Howell’s brand Tidal Cool Creations carries a line of neckties and bow ties that feature local sports teams, movies, super heroes, and unique patterns.
Whether your dad is a Browns or Caves fan, a Star Wars nut, or you just want him to have something special that no one else has these ties will make a great gift!
Sister
If you have a sister, she was probably the first friend you ever had, so show her you care with a piece of jewelry with some meaning behind it. My suggestion is an Alex and Ani bracelet. Alex and Ani believe in positive energy and that is what the bracelets are supposed to represent. And - bonus! - they are made in America out of recycled metals. Each bracelet has a different charm from initials, zodiac signs, cities, to birthstones.
Cara’s Boutique, located in the Promenade at Crocker Park, has a large selection of Alex and Ani bracelets, their staff is friendly and helpful, and the impressive merchandising is reason enough to visit the store. Cara’s Boutique is also known to have the largest selection of Pandora jewelry, Brighton accessories, and Vera Bradley in the Cleveland area.
Brother
Whether your brother still lives in Cleveland, is away at college, or has moved to another city, he is probably still a 216-er at heart. Help him show his hometown pride by giving him a t-shirt from CLE Clothing Co. this year. CLE Clothing is located downtown on the corner of E. 4th Street and Euclid Avenue.
Their t-shirts come in an array of designs from Cleveland sports team’s logos, Cleveland landmarks such as West Side Market and Whiskey Island, photos of Terminal Tower, and much more. This gift is a great choice for someone who wants to show his love and support to Cleveland!
Grandma
No matter what nationality your grandmother is, she is sure to love a gift from Polish Pottery. Our suggestion is this beautiful teakettle and teacups, so she can enjoy a hot cup of tea during the cold Cleveland winter. If she isn’t much of a tea drinker, bake ware or a decorative piece is another great idea. Each piece of Polish Pottery is very durable (they are dishwasher and microwave safe), hand made and hand painted in Poland.
Polish Pottery has two locations, one in Westlake in Williamsburg Square and their newest location in Rocky River on Old Detroit Road.
Grandpa
Give the gift of history and nostalgia to your grandpa this holiday season. Gifts Unlimited in Williamsburg Square of Westlake carries a line of books about the history of each area of Cleveland. These books will be a great way to keep Grandpa busy until it’s warm enough for golfing.
He will learn alot about the area where he grew up, where you live now, or his favorite spot to visit in the summer such as Kelly’s Island. Ask him to borrow the book when he’s done and the two of you will have plenty to talk about.
Friend
Give your best friend a gift to remind her of one of her all time favorite movies. Whether her favorite leading lady is Judy Garland or Audrey Hepburn, these “Wizard of Oz” and “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” travel cups and coffee mugs are a fun twist on a practical gift.
You can find these and other movie inspired decorative pieces at Retro Pop Online.
Family Dog
They say dogs are man’s best friend so of course the family pup needs to find
something under the tree too! Just Dogs Gourmet in the Promenade at Crocker Park has a large selection of gifts for every dog no matter the size or breed. I definitely suggest a tasty treat made in their bakery for your dog’s stocking.
In addition, Just Dogs carries a line of rhinestone t-shirts called “Dog in the Closet” that will be the perfect gift for your beloved pet this year. These shirts can be customized and if you choose you can purchase a matching human shirt as well. If your dog isn’t into wearing clothes, you can find some unique toys and accessories at Just Dogs!
