Wait, What Day is it?

It gets harder and harder each year to make those last minute holiday gift ideas happen. I decided to share some of my local favorites to consider for your gift giving ideas that are unique, thoughtful and most of all support our local RVA businesses. Have a peek…

Coffee, Tea, and Libations

The most important part of waking up is some high octane coffee in your cup. Everyone drinks, but not everyone partakes or wants to partake in adult beverages so check these out.

Local Coffee Gift Boxes from Color Wheel Coffee or Blanchards. Both also have subscription services to consider as a nice stress free gift idea. Some people would rather drink tea while spilling the Tea and a really nice “group” gift to get is some time in the T-Caf tea room. If you are looking for something to satisfy those who decided 2023 will be a sobering experience, you can put a nice gift basket with elixirs, bitters, and flavorful N/A beer choices from Ceremony or Point 5.

Baked Goods

RVA has so many good bakeries, but I will say I have discovered some fantastic new local delectables. Who doesn’t love a sweet treat every once in a while? My favorites are all self-starter, female owned businesses who launched their brick and mortars after success during Covid. I cannot say enough about Ellyn Hopper’s Fat Rabbit. She’s innovative and creates absolutely delectable goods. Veteran, Author, and Women’s Advocate, Rebekah Lynn Pierce owns Maggie’s Cupcake Cafe. She makes the most yummy goodies that will remind you of grandma’s house on Sundays. Her pies are on point! She delivers the goods and does it with a smile! Lastly, hair stylist turned baker and badass Mom, Chastity Hise along with husband, Russell opened Pies and Cakes bringing the sweet and the savory. Who doesn’t love cake and pizza! All these are worth the order and who couldn’t use a little help during special occasions? It’s a sweet gift to give friends, co-workers, and clients!

Hair Joy

Look, getting your hair done is always a fun thing. Who doesn’t love going to get pampered and then looking fantastic after? You can’t go wrong with a gift certificate to their favorite barber or hair salon. I suggest the ladies over at Rooted Hair Company, Miss Kai Block is my favorite colorist in town! A fun cut for them from Carrie at Gorilla Hair Garage is a great way to give them a fresh look, she does great kid cuts too! Guys, going to the barber can be a good time for you too, get them a nice cut and shave from Barber Of Hell’s Bottom or Mike Blendz’s.

Sassy Sauce

Now I am privileged to know some amazing chefs in town and also people who just know good flavor when they taste and make it. A really great stocking stuffer or a gift that keeps on giving are my sauce guys, Justin Cropper of Espoleta RVA and SoSS owner Tommy Tyrell know how to bring the flavor with their signature hot sauces. They have both worked real hard to bring their condimental creations to the masses.

Artful Sentiments

RVA has the MOST talented artists. Why not give them something unique and special, made just for them? Katie McBride is one of my favorites and she does RVAcentric pieces. Alix Petrie’s pieces are fun to get lost in and will look good in any home. You can find some of her artwork now at Eric Schindler Gallery. Get them some session time with Mia Artz Photography. What a great gift to give to those wanting to capture a moment in time and for a real wow experience, check out Melody Smith Portrait Gift Vouchers. I cannot tell you how amazing they will feel or opt for a couples portrait and create an heirloom piece for your home and family. And lastly, Dave Moore has always been a favorite of mine and his dreamlike art will look fantastic in any office or home space.

Experiences

I love giving experiences to my giftees. From cooking lessons to jumping out of planes, gifts that create memories are always great. Consider giving them some time at the wheel at Clayground Studio, they can make their own gifts or just enjoy a fun time creating and learning. Music lessons from a menagerie of musicians in the city, including Bravo Music Academy. Dance lessons are always fun too! Gift Certificates are always available at most locations. The Salsa Guy can teach anyone how to shake those hips! Maybe look into the AirBnB experiences or if they are on the cosmic side of things, a natal chart or tarot reading is affordable and fun. Season tickets to The Richmond Kickers is a great way for them to hang out with the locals and cheer their team to victory! Concert tickets are always fun to get as well!

Not Sure?

Yes, sometimes it’s tough, but sometimes the simplest things are the best gifts. I love a GC for my favorite grocery store. Give them some luck by getting them a FREE Rewards Card to Rosie’s Gaming and a $20 credit. Check out local gift shops like Alma’s RVA and Brookland Park Flowers and Gifts or Mongrel in Carytown.

Obviously these are just a few suggestions for last minute gifts. The most important thing is that while thinking about giving gifts, think about gifting RVA with your support for the local businesses in our beautiful city. I’ve seen so many “CLOSED” signs around town, it breaks my heart. So, let’s support our own and help these small business stay around a lot longer. Good shopping to you and happy holidays!