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Gift giving from shops and artisans with deep-rooted connections to the area is a thoughtful way to benefit all involved. Take a look at these ideas and you’ll see that buying locally doesn’t mean you can’t shop around the world.
1. Taste of Britain
Give the Brit or Anglophile on your list a real taste of Britain with a beautifully wrapped gift package that includes festive glass tableware and assorted foodstuffs. Prices start at $40. And for those who take their tea seriously, consider this lovely Royal Albert-style tea pot by Royal Doulton, $29.95. The matching cream and sugar set is available for $19.95. Don’t forget some biscuits, chocolates and teas.
73 South Peachtree Street, Norcross, 770-242-8585.
2. Bonsai From Monastery of the Holy Spirit
Sure, the monks at the Monastery of the Holy Spirit in Conyers enjoy a reputation for smooth fudge and festive fruitcakes, but if you’re looking for a gift that will last a lifetime, consider a bonsai. An integral part of the monastery’s culture and daily routine, the ancient Japanese art form of sculpting bonsai generates revenue for the community and spectacular beauty for all who come to visit. The monks sculpt their own miniature trees and are happy to lend their expertise to visitors. The bonsai nursery offers many types of trees, including ginkgo, ficus, juniper, maple and Elm. Prices start at $25, and if you’re feeling particularly generous, you can select an older, larger bonsai for up to $1,000. The Abbey Garden Center offers bonsai pottery, tools and accessories, as well as nature-inspired gifts, local folk art and garden supplies. 2625 Hwy. 212 SW, Conyers, 770-388-0531.
3. Heidi’s Heavenly Cookies
Ten years ago, Heidi Nel started a small cookie business out of her Alpharetta home and began shipping Heidi’s Heavenly Cookies nationwide. Five years ago, she moved her sweet operation out of her basement and opened a larger commercial bakery, where she and her staff continue to ship her cookies near and far. Whether you order online, or come in to pick up a custom selection, you’ll have an array of elegantly packaged goodies from which to choose. Sea salt caramel bar is Heidi’s newest cookie, but long-time favorites include Rock-A-Mallow, classic chocolate chip and, toffee chocolate chip. Imagine a chewy cookie with a fat slab of nutty, chocolate-covered toffee on top. You’ll also find a couple of gluten-free options. The Heavenly Woodlands (pictured) is packed with 24 favorites and sells for $47.50. You can have your gift delivered by ordering through www.heidisheavenlycookies.com, or call 1-877-434-3472 and stop by the bakery to pick up your order. 355 Curie Drive, Alpharetta.
4. Mingei World Arts
Mindful of fair trade practices, the owners of Mingei World Arts directly import antiques, eclectic items and folk art made by artisans and small family businesses from many parts of the world, with an emphasis on Asia. Among the books, art and jewelry, you can find beautiful hand-spun and woven silk scarves highly saturated with vivid colors from Thailand. They measure 14 inches by 62 inches and are priced at $30. 427 Church Street, Decatur, 404-371-0101.
5. Lee Thomas Putters
These hand-crafted putters by Lee Thomas, a native of Woodstock, transcend a work of functional art and border on historical significance. The Thomas Jefferson Foundation has given Thomas wood from Monticello’s Tulip Poplar trees, believed to have been planted by Thomas Jefferson in 1807, to be turned into putters. Each putter comes with a serial number and a letter of authenticity ensuring that they were created using the Tulip Poplar from Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. A portion of the proceeds directly benefits Thomas Jefferson Foundation’s educational programs. Historical wood putters are priced from $1,050 to $1,550, but custom putters start at $650. Thomas makes putters from any woods, including those from living trees. Check out www.leethomasputters.com or call 770-373-4501 to order.
6. Boxwoods Gardens and Gifts
Dan Belman and Randy Korando have created a little sliver of paradise in their Buckhead digs, where orchids are grown locally and hydrangeas bloom year round. Sure, you can find gifts, including vintage pieces, women’s accessories, scented candles, furniture and tableware, but don’t miss the custom made plant compositions for the person on your list with a green thumb. Prices start at $35. 100 E. Andrews Drive, Atlanta, 404-233-3400.
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