I had the pleasure of exploring a couple local shops this holiday season: Agnes & Orson Gifts and Goods, 1132 Brown St. and Crafted & Cured, 531 Wayne Ave.
Not only did I find some amazing gifts, I had a wonderful experience getting to know these local stores, who depend upon our patronage during the holidays. It’s easy to buy online, but it’s vastly more fun in person!
Here are some holiday gift ideas that I hope you’ll find helpful.
Dayton postcards
As a proud Daytonian, I love these beautiful Dayton inspired postcards, ornaments, and mugs at Agnes & Orson. I learned store co-owner Josh Stucky had a hand in designing these too, which makes them extra special. Stop in soon, as these were going quickly!
Postcards, $2. Ornament, $11. Mug, $13.50.
Tongue-in-cheek decor
I found myself giggling at the hilarious cards and holiday decorations at Agnes & Orson. The more sarcastic items are perfect for the bah humbugs I know, and I’m sure would get a chuckle from even Scrooge himself!
Holiday cards & decorations start at $3. Tea towels, $13.
Catch a whiff
The aromatic Frasier Fir candles are one of Agnes & Orson’s best sellers this holiday season. They are beautifully made, and offer a crisp, just-cut forest fragrance. Great for a gift or your own holiday décor!
Candles, $8-$45.
For the fur babies
For our four-legged friends, you’ll find gourmet treats, toys, blankets, and even new bling for their collars. The Lindy’s Bakery treats are extra special, as they are made right here in Dayton, staffed by Daybreak youth, as part of its employment program. What a win-win all around!
Lindy's Bakery Treats, $6.50 a bag or 3 for $15. Tall Tails and other pet products, $7-$28.
Cocktail swag
Not sure what to get the special men in your life? If they like to experiment with hand-crafted cocktails, check out the Root 23 Simple Syrups, which are made in Columbus, Ohio. They pair perfectly with the wide variety of unique cocktail glasses and gear also sold at Agnes and Orson.
Root 23 Syrups, $24.99 fro set. Glasswear shown, $8.50.
Go HAM on ham
Gift certificates are an easy go-to gift. How about getting one to Crafted & Cured? It’s an absolute adventure for any foodie in your life. C&C offers the most delectable meats and cheeses from around the world. My favorite is the bone-in Iberico ham, which comes from free-range pigs that roam oak forests along the border between Spain and Portugal, and eat only acorns during the last year of their lives. Words cannot describe how delicious it is!
Prices on board specials, as shown here, $29-$47.
Small-batch champagne
Crafted and Cured also has a wonderful collection of wines, meads, and champagnes. They are best known for their collection of rare small batches of “Grower Champagnes,” which are produced by the same estate that owns the vineyards. These are quite special, and have the same singularity as a single barrel bourbon. The staff at C&C are extremely helpful in picking out the perfect bottle for your special someone!
Wine pricing starts at $12 per bottle, and $37 per bottle for champagnes.
Get ‘em a growler
Last but not least, I’d certainly recommend the C&C crowler or growler for the craft beer lovers in your life! With over 60 beers on tap, there is a beer for everyone’s palette. The cool thing about the crowlers, shown here, is that they last much longer growlers, and are more portable. The men on my shopping list will definitely be getting one of these!
Crowlers start at $6. Growlers start at $10. Price depends on beer selected.
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