Ho, ho, hold the gift sets and lottery tickets when gift giving, instead seek gifts from local shops
Some gift-givers wrack their brains trying to come up with an idea for Grandpa or Aunt Susan during the holiday shopping season.
Others feel no pressure to find the perfect gift and just want something — anything — to hand over on Christmas Day.
Both of those demographics would do well to heed the advice of vendors who peddled their unique, fun, attractive and practical wares at the Holiday Market held at Butler Catholic School in November.
Ashley McCandless of The Savvy Jean Boutique sells women’s clothing and accessories. She easily named the perfect type of gift for her.
“One that was purchased or made with love,” she said.
McCandless said it is immediately apparent when opening a gift whether the giver took time out of their busy schedule to think of or procure it.
Regardless, she said the family gift exchange should not be the focal point of any holiday celebration.
“Christmas is not about the presents,” she said. “It’s about being with family and doing for others.”
Pam Clarke of Clarke’s Country Creations, who offered country decor and many country-themed holiday decorations at the Holiday Market, said unique gifts are her favorite.
“Something they really looked for,” she said.
Clarke said anyone can go to the mall or a big box store and grab the same present everyone else is giving.
“But something unique shows that you put time and thought into the gift,” she said.
Amber McIntire of Crafts by Amber sells handmade and crocheted items at her booth.
She likes to see a gift the giver sought out just for her.
“Something that’s thoughtful and meaningful, that you put a lot of thought into knowing I would enjoy it,” she said.
Linda Berda of Linda Bee Crafts, who sells unique handmade crafts, said some givers are savvy enough to make a mental note when a friend or relative mentions offhandedly that they need something or saw something they like.
“When you heard someone say something a month ago and you get it for them, I think that makes it more special,” she said.
Renee Stover of Gnome Way offered whimsical handmade gnomes and gifts at her booth.
She especially enjoys finding that certain present that will light up the face of the person opening it.
“It’s great when you’re excited to give it,” she said. “When you see their face when they open it.”
Marni David of Crafts by Marni sells customized hand towels.
She said giving something the recipient does not expect is the best kind of present.
David prefers shopping for homemade items from local purveyors, especially if it can be personalized.
