There are no rules when it comes to gift giving, especially these days. Anything goes, from gift cards to food to plain old cash. The only rule is thumb remains that it is better to give than to receive.
But how about going out on a limb this year with the gifts you give and making them one of a kind. It takes a little more leg work to find something original and perfect for those on your holiday gift list, but the reaction they will have when they realize your effort is well worth the extra time.
Cupcakes
These sweet confectionery treats have gotten a complete makeover in the last few years thanks to places like Magnolia Bakery in New York and Sprinkles in Los Angeles. Thankfully, the First Coast has some of it’s own cupcake shops to choose from, and what is a better gift than a gourmet cupcake? Delicious icing and sweet cake are a treat for the stomach as much as the eyes. Places like CamiCakes in Tinseltown and Luli’s Cupcakes in St. Augustine offer a wide variety of fresh baked treats with all sorts of fun flavors for the holidays. Sure, it costs a bit more than the "do it yourself" kind, but how can anyone say no to something that looks (and tastes!) so good.
Indi Loves Harlie
Designer Kelly Holleran makes the simple things in life simply pleasing with her unique, hand sewn garments. She said she and her husband had dogs when they met nearly 16 years ago. The dogs, Indi and Harlie, were puppies back then but loved each other fiercely and lived a long life together until they passed away. Their namesake line of clothing is original, sweet and unique- Holleran sews it all by hand —making each piece one of a kind. She sells the line at area trunk shows and Simple Gestures in St. Augustine as well as to family and friends on Facebook and myspace. Scarves are new to the line this year.
Love Bella Jewels and Nature’s Small Wonders
Two incredible jewelry lines that are one of a kind. Stephen Fitt, owner of Goldfinch Botique in St. Augustine, learned the art of jewelry making from his father. Fitt’s father Lowell, who makes Nature’s Small Wonders jewelry from California, captures the beauty of nature using actual seashells, leaves and other sea life. All of the pieces are hand poured from sterling silver or 14 karat gold. Stephen uses sterling silver to feature gemstones, freshwater pearls, Swarovski crystals and glass to make unique, beautiful works of art for Bella Jewels, including his trademark "nests of peace." Both lines are available at Goldfinch Botique or online at www.etsy.com/shop/lovebellajewels
Danijo
When it comes to original jewelry, sisters Danielle and Jodie Snyder know how to make bold, statement pieces. The Jacksonville natives started designing jewelry as teens along the First Coast and launched their jewelry line, Danijo, in New York in 2008. The line has attracted the likes of many celebrity clients, but is still available locally at Rosenblum’s.
According to Jodie, the grace cuff is a great staple. The pearls make it classic and timeless and the oxidized silver gives it a tougher edge. It can dress up jeans and a white T-shirt and be worn with a cocktail dress for holiday parties. Danielle, on the other hand, suggests the Shiloh necklace. She said it adds a splash of color to any outfit.
Sarah’s Hope Jewelry
Sarah’s Hope jewelry, available at Village Jeweler in Sawgrass Village, offers beautiful silver pieces featuring the created stone, E’Sperene. The stone combines quartz crystals with metal oxides resulting in formations of exceptionally vibrant and dynamic colors. Each piece of Sarah’s Hope jewelry sold helps fund minigrants to women around the world who want to start their own businesses. Each piece is named after the woman in the developing world who is trying to overcome poverty through starting a business. It’s a gift that gives back in ways you never would have thought of.
