Your local holiday gift list (no shipping required)

There are many excellent reasons to shop locally this holiday season. Supporting the independent businesses in our retail center ranks high on my list. I also enjoy the experience of browsing Lexington’s small shops; it’s a real pleasure and a contrast to time I spend on-line shopping or in big box stores. In the coming weeks, I plan to concentrate my holiday gift-buying in person, in Lexington. I invite you to join me for a series highlighting our wonderful local shops, and gift ideas that stood out to me this year.

Getting Started 

To avoid buying gifts online, I started my shopping early with the gifts I’ll need to ship. Here’s where I went and what caught me eye:

Crafty Yankee

About five years ago, the Crafty Yankee changed hands from long-time owner Kathy Fields to Madison Robbin. Madison had only graduated college two months before she agreed to take over the shop! I enjoyed shopping for gifts at Kathy’s Crafty Yankee, and am so pleased the shop was able to find a new beginning. As Madison puts it, they follow the model Kathy created with a touch of the new; and I say to great success. You might also run into Madison’s brother Cooper, who helps out when he’s not training to become a pilot.

For the 27th year, the Crafty Yankee will host a Giving Tree in partnership with Minuteman Senior Services. Holiday Shoppers have the opportunity to donate gift cards to local grocery stores and services for seniors in our area. The Crafty Yankee will also run a canned goods drive during Taste of Lexington. Shoppers are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item for donation. I agree wholeheartedly with Madison when she says that we are lucky to live and work in a place where there’s sometimes a little extra to give for those in need.  

1. For the stylish Aunt: These embroidered brooches from Trovelore impressed me with their artistry and craftsmanship. I love the whimsical motifs and plan to buy more (also for myself!).
2. For the American History buff: I know they will get lots of wear out of this Lexington 250 sweatshirt. 100% cotton and well constructed, this looks like a garment that will last.
3. For the sock swapper: Every year a certain relative buys me socks and I return the favor.  I’m picky about wool socks and appreciate that Darn Tough socks are made from 100% merino and knitted in Vermont. Darn Tough adheres to the Responsible Wool Standard and offers a lifetime guarantee.  
4. For the creative type: I’ve seen these Emily Lex Watercolor Notebooks on several national gift lists. I’m so happy to find them locally. Each page features a different design to paint, with instructions.
5. For the puzzle lover or game night family: These beautiful editions of classic games and attractive puzzles are just as nice to display as to play.  

Center Goods

Erica Bouchard Rabins was having trouble finding local sources for sustainable and ethically sourced household goods,  and thought others in Lexington might be looking as well. In its 4th year, Center Goods is the spot for everything from refillable shampoo, laundry detergent, and dish soap to compostable dish brushes and paper towel alternatives. It’s also a great place to find gifts!

Center Goods is participating in Taste of Lexington with 10% off holiday ornaments. They will stock new gift ideas throughout the season, and an expanded offering of waste-free wrapping alternatives.

1. For the holiday decorator: These charming, felted holly branches will be a cozy addition to their holiday decorations. I’ll add beeswax candles to the package — I love the smell and the non-toxic, hypoallergenic qualities. 
2. For the crafter: I’ve gifted many of these embroidery kits with sweet designs, accessible for a range of skill levels.
3. For a trendy guy: I know he will appreciate these beautifully crafted shaving accessories and soaps handmade in Brooklyn.
4. For the cat lover: My son picked out one of these playful rice bowls over the summer, and I plan to add to our set this holiday. I’ll also send a bowl and sauce dish to the relative who love cats and fun design! I’ll include cloth wrapping from Center Goods for protection during shipping.
5. For my puppy niece: Chew toys made from recycled cotton are friendly for the environment and better for puppy’s health.  I love the orange squirrel.

Knit, Tuck, and Purl

I’m so glad that Laurie Williamson decided to make a pandemic-era change, trading realty for owning her own business. Laurie grew up knitting and spending many happy hours in her Aunt’s Colorado yarn shop. She has recreated the feeling with this cozy space to shop and spend time.  I walked into Knit, Tuck, and Purl during a lively morning class called “Be the Boss of your Knitting”; instructor Debbie Hess was helping knitters with a range of experience tackle tricky techniques. Gift cards can be applied to both supplies and classes.  Knit, Tuck, and Purl will stay open late to participate in Taste of Lexington.

1. For the beginner or yarn curious: knitting and embroidery kits for a range of skill levels. Double-check to see if your kit contains all the needed tools, and ask for help adding the right accessories if not.
2. For the experienced knitter or crocheter: One or two skeins of this beautiful Juniper Farms Moonshine, a blend of wool, baby alpaca, and organic silk.  Or maybe a jumbo ball of Nori yarn’s Ito in these amazing colorways.
3. For the experienced knitter or crocheter who claims they have too much yarn: You can definitely buy yarn, we never really have too much.  But these Chiaogoo interchangeable needle sets are very handy and the best made of those I’ve used.