Holiday Gift Guide
A special advertising supplement to the Bennington Banner, Manchester Journal and Brattleboro Reformer Wednesday, November 26, 2025
Celebrate Small Business Saturday in Downtown Bennington: Festivities and Tree Lighting for All Ages!
The Better Bennington Corporation (BBC) is thrilled to announce a festive celebration for Small Business Saturday on Saturday, November 29th, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM in downtown Bennington. This annual event is a fantastic opportunity for the community to support local businesses while enjoying family-friendly activities, holiday cheer, and plenty of seasonal surprises!
The event kicks off at 1:00 PM with a variety of merchant and restaurant specials throughout the downtown area. Stay tuned for details on discounts, promotions, and exclusive offers from local shops and eateries — it’s the perfect time to get a head start on your holiday shopping while supporting small businesses that make our downtown so special.
A highlight of the day will be the return of the BBC’s Hot Chocolate Bar, featuring a delicious array of hot chocolate options with all the fixings — from whipped cream and marshmallows to festive toppings Bring your family and friends to warm up and indulge in this sweet treat!
The afternoon will also feature live entertainment from the Four Corner Carolers, who will be spreading holiday cheer with classic carols and horse drawn wagon rides. Plus, kids can meet Santa Claus and enjoy a fun photo opportunity with the jolly man in red. A few more surprises will also be in store for attendees, adding to the excitement of the day.
The event will culminate with a Tree Lighting Ceremony in Merchants Park, where families can gather to watch the town’s holiday tree sparkle and shine. A special theme for children will make the finale even more magical, creating lasting memories for families and friends alike.
“Small Business Saturday is an important day for our downtown merchants, and we are so excited to bring the community together for an afternoon of holiday fun,” said Jeanne Mintrone, Executive Director of the BBC. “Shopping local is vital to the success of our vibrant downtown, and this event is a great way to show support while enjoying all the festivities the BBC has planned.”
Everyone is invited to join in the festivities, making this holiday season one to remember. Whether you’re shopping for gifts, enjoying a seasonal treat, or simply taking in the sights and sounds of downtown, Small Business Saturday is a celebration of community and local spirit.
We hope to see you there!
Market on Main returns to Downtown Brattleboro at 74 Main Street
(formerly Sam’s Outdoor Outfitters)
The first three weekends in December: Fridays: 12-7pm Saturdays: 11-6pm Sundays: 10-4pm
About the Downtown Brattleboro Alliance (DBA): The DBA works to strengthen the cultural, economic, and social vitality of Brattleboro through events, business support, and community engagement. www.brattleboro.com
“We are extremely excited to participating in Market on Main again this year in collaboration with Downtown Brattleboro Alliance. Having access to this incredible storefront space in the heart of our downtown has dramatically elevated our visibility and has had a hugely positive economic impact for our makers. The size of the space allows us to increase the number of vendors we can include in the market and create a real destination holiday shopping experience for our customers. It was truly a magical event last year and we can’t wait to do it again this December!”
- JULIA TADLOCK, FOUNDER/BRATTLEBORO FLEA
“Seeing this historic space lit and buzzing with commerce and people is a dream come true, especially during the holiday season. We hope it sparks a feeling-part nostalgia, part hope, that wonderful things are possible in this space. The magic we felt last season-camaraderie amongst the vendors, the excitement of consumers, the twinkly enchanted market vibes, we knew we had o do it again! We’re thrilled to support these businesses-each of these artisans are a small business, churning with creativity and impact. Their talent is inspiring and supporting them feels important.”
- ERIN SCAGGS, Creative Director/Downtown Brattleboro Alliance
There’s no place like Brattleboro for the holidays! For its second year, presented by Downtown Brattleboro Alliance & Brattleboro Flea, Market on Main will pop-up at 74 Main Street in Downtown Brattleboro. The 7000 square ft storefront on Main Street, will reawaken to host 60+ regional artisan makers over the three weekends this December. You can expect a dozen lit evergreens, twinkle lights throughout, and the faint smell of freshly popped popcorn, a nod to Sam’s. This destination market features handmade wares like pottery,
jewelry, prints, woodcraft, herbal goods, clothing, fiber arts, and visual art from rotating vendors each weekend. Brattleboro specific merchandise will be available for purchase. The market will also host a variety of food vendors. Market on Main creates a seasonal destination for folks to travel to Downtown Brattleboro, and fills a hugely impactful vacant storefront-it occupies nearly an entire block on Main Street. Join us this holiday at the market starting Friday, Dec. 3rd during Brattleboro’s Gallery Walk.
“Participating in the Holiday Market last year was my favorite Market experience so far. It was a great atmosphere with amazing vendors. I love getting to interact with other creative, regional vendor and the local community!”
- MORGAN LOEFFLER,ARTIST/ML FELTS
Experiential gifts for everyone on your list
Gift exchanges are a hallmark of the holiday season. Individuals spend weeks making lists and shopping for items they believe recipients will appreciate. However, this holiday season shoppers may want to change up their gift-buying strategy to focus less on material offerings and more on experiences.
A recent survey from Get Your Guide found 92 percent of Americans prefer to receive an experience over a physical gift during the holiday season. In addition, Deloitte’s 2024 survey of more
than 4,000 consumers in the United States found that spending on experiences during the holidays is expected to rise by 16 percent year-over-year, reaching an average of $735.
Experiential gifts place value on memories and emotional connections rather than objects. As people increasingly are drawn to these special moments, here’s a look at experiential gifts for everyone on a holiday shopping list.
PARENTS AND GRANDPARENTS
Experiential gifts for older adults are beneficial because
they won’t add to the clutter or belongings such individuals have already accumulated throughout the years. Useful ideas include memberships to museums, entry to botanical gardens, culinary tastings, travel vouchers and subscriptions to wellness classes.
TEENS AND YOUNG ADULTS
Teens are big on experiences over material gifts. According to TD Bank’s 2024 survey, Gen Z leads the trend in experiencefirst gifting, with 68 percent preferring experiences. Examples
of good experiential gifts for this demographic include escape room experiences, concert tickets, adventure sports like indoor rock climbing, subscription services to streaming music or movie passes.
CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
Families already may be out and about, and parents of young children may appreciate experiences more than additional toys and games that are already filling the house. Annual passes to zoos, museums or aquariums can keep families occupied year-round. Children might like a science or art workshop, while movie night gift cards and tickets to family shows also are viable gift options.
SPECIAL PARTNERS
Experiences can strengthen relationships and intimacy. Possible gift ideas include spa days, cooking classes for two, a weekend travel getaway or tickets to a theater performance or concert. The Amex Trendex 2024 survey found that 38 percent of people plan to give an experience to a significant other.
Experiential gifts focus on fun, creating memories and reducing waste. Such gifts also tend to be more economical in the long run. The holidays are often filled with excess, and experiential gifts can put the focus back on joy and spending time together.
A cozy holiday cabaret warms up Bennington Theater
BENNINGTON, VT — Bennington Theater invites the community to gather for a festive evening of song and cheer at its Holiday Cabaret featuring Amy Gaither with Matt Edwards & Friends on Saturday, December 20 at 7:00 PM. This intimate event, fi lled with heartwarming music and laughter, will take place at Bennington Theater, 331 Main Street, Bennington.
Audiences can expect an evening of old and new holiday favorites, shared stories, and cozy camaraderie in the glow of the theater’s cabaret setting. Local favorite Amy Gaither will be joined by Matt Edwards and a lineup of talented guest performers for a celebration that captures the spirit of the season: joyful, nostalgic, and full of heart.
“This event is all about connection,” says Interim Executive Director Kaiya Kirk. “We wanted to create something warm and intimate, the feeling of being in a room full of friends, singing along to songs you love and discovering a few new ones, too.”
The Holiday Cabaret also serves a greater purpose. All pro-
ceeds will benefit Bennington Theater’s 2026 Season, helping sustain the nonprofit’s mission to bring diverse, high-quality performances and community events to downtown Bennington.
Guests can choose from Mistletoe Tables (two-top seating close
to the stage) and Holly Jolly Tables (four-top seating for groups), or enjoy Jingle Bell and Snowfl ake Seating in the risers. Seating is limited, and advance tickets are strongly encouraged.
Tickets are on sale now at benningtontheater.org.
Amy Gaither
Matt Edwards
Ideal gifts for outdoor enthusiasts
Many people fi nd that the great outdoors is the perfect place to spend their days. Activities run the gamut from hunting and fishing to hiking and camping. Plenty of other interests, like birdwatching or mountain biking, also maximize time spent in the outdoors.
According to the “Outdoor Participation Trends Report” from the Outdoor Industry Association, gateway activities like hiking, camping and fishing each gained more than two million new participants over the last year. There’s also been a surge in participation in such activities among seniors and youth, contributing to a more multigenerational outdoors experience. There’s also been participation growth among Black and Hispanic Americans, indicating
long-term momentum toward equity and inclusion.
When it comes to holiday giving, tapping into the interests of outdoor enthusiasts is a great way to offer gifts that will be used and appreciated. Here are some ideas when making holiday shopping lists.
• First aid kit: No matter the activity, having an up-to-date and well-stocked fi rst aid kit can be a lifesaver when spending time in the outdoors. The kit should include items like splints and bandage wraps for immobilizing ankles or limbs in the event of sprains.
• Quality wool socks: Nothing can derail an outdoor adventure faster than wet, cold or blistered feet. Wool socks are a must because they are moisture-wicking, warm and comfortable.
• Insulated, waterproof jacket: A high-quality jacket for outdoor adventures that will be efficient at trapping heat, windproof and water-resistant is a thoughtful gift. Patagonia is a popular brand of outerwear, but retailers like Columbia and REI also merit consideration.
• Trail shoes or sandals: Supportive, comfortable and non-slip footwear is a given when enjoying the great outdoors. Depending on the activity, there are plenty of options from boots to hikers to trail sandals to consider.
• Waist pack: Packing light for short jaunts in the wilderness may include stocking a waist pack (also known as a fanny pack) with must-have items. They are lightweight, comfortable and spacious enough for the essentials without getting bogged down by a backpack or another bag.
• Buff: A buff is a tube of lightweight, stretchy material that serves innumerable functions in the great outdoors. It can be used to shield the neck from the sun or
wind, or to absorb sweat or keep hair out of the face. A buff can be useful on a hiking or backpacking trip, or just about any outdoor activity.
• Headlamp: Visibility is essential when enjoying the great outdoors, and many activities happen during dawn and dusk when light may be at a premium. A headlamp keeps things handsfree and sheds light on surroundings or up-close tasks, like setting up fishing hooks or field dressing game.
• Satellite communicator: A satellite communicator can keep outdoors enthusiasts safe and at ease when off the grid. Certain regions have spotty cell coverage, and satellite devices will do better at sending out messages or SOS signals should something go awry.
• Hiking poles: Telescoping hiking poles are adjustable and lightweight, and offer extra support and balance when on trails. Outdoor enthusiasts will benefit from gifts tailored to their love of nature, wildlife and adventure.
http://www.nemtn.com/ Phonenumber (802)254-7488
Parrties
Monument Arts & Cultural Center:
Bennington’s Creative Hub for All Seasons
BY AHMAD YASSIR Vermont Country Magazine
At the heart of Bennington’s cultural landscape, the Monument Arts & Cultural Center (MACC) stands as the region’s largest public auditorium and a year-round destination for the arts. With visual arts galleries, workshops, professional theater, traveling shows, live music, and a curated gift shop, MACC welcomes visitors of all ages and interests to experience creativity in motion.
Community is at the core of everything the center does. Under the leadership of Executive Director Kristine Lewis and a dedicated board, MACC has rap-
During the holiday season, the center transforms into a festive gathering place.
idly fostered a strong team of staff and volunteers who bring diverse artistic perspectives and disciplines together. The result is a space built by artists, for artists, and for everyone who appreciates art in all its forms. Inside, the galleries regularly
PROVIDED PHOTOS
Give the Gift of Art
Looking for a timeless gift this holiday season, or for Valentine’s Day, a birthday, or anniversary?
Name a seat at the Monument Arts & Cultural Center and leave a lasting mark in Bennington’s creative home.
A Monument Arts Center Gift Certificate lets your friends and family experience creativity, inspiration, and joy all year long!
Gift certificates start at just $25 and can be purchased in $25 increments for any amount you choose. They can be used toward gallery admissions, unique treasures in our Gift Shop, or Art work, tickets to our in-house performances — making them a perfect fit for every art lover.
For a $300 donation, have your loved one’s name engraved on a plaque affixed to one of the center’s 311 theater seats.
It’s a beautiful way to celebrate someone special while supporting local arts and live performance.
Reserve your seat today and view the seating plan at the MACC website.
showcase works from local and regional artists, while the theater and music programs bring the stage to life with professional performances. Each event and workshop is carefully curated, reflecting the team’s vision of redefining what a community art center can offer its audience. Even the gift shop, located right in the lobby, is thoughtfully stocked with Vermont-made products, artist-created items, jewelry, and more, making it a must-visit stop for art lovers and holiday shoppers alike.
During the holiday season, the center transforms into a festive gathering place. A beautifully decorated Christmas tree brightens the lobby, while the Holiday
Market fills the Covered Bridge Museum space with handmade crafts, baked goods, and gifts.
This year’s Christmas Craft and Gift Market runs every Saturday from November 15 through December 20, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring regional artisans such as Deb Higgins (Art Pouring), Corrine Bakaitis (Jewelry & Hair Pieces), Dyna Weber (Bakery), Diane Loizidis (Pillows), and many more.
Adding extra holiday cheer, Santa Claus will be at the center every Saturday from November 15 through December 13, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., with a photographer on hand for children and pet pictures. For a $5 donation, visitors will receive an electronic photo, a memorable keepsake for the season.
Adding to the excitement is “A Bennington Christmas Carol,” a new musical by Brian Haner that
for children under 14. Group rates are available for parties of 15 or more.
For those eager to expand their artistic skills, MACC will host a Painting the Figure Indoors Workshop with Corey Pitkin on November 7, 8 and 9 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. In this three-day workshop, Corey Pitkin PSA, IAPS/ MC will guide students through his approach to creating moody, evocative pastel figure paintings that use interior spaces to tell a story. Topics discussed will include not just the technical hows of simplified anatomy and perspective, but also how color, light, and mark-making influence the perception of a scene so an artist can cultivate a desired mood. Another great artistic opportunity is the Oil Painting Workshop with John MacDonald on December 6 and 7, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The two-day class offers a comprehensive approach to painting, from reference selection to composition and final details, and is limited to 14 participants. The fee is $375, payable in advance by contacting Linda Masten at lindamarymasten@gmail.com.
Check out our website for artist workshops coming up
reimagines Dickens’ beloved tale in 1926 Bennington, Vermont. Familiar local family names and landmarks are woven into the story of redemption, with twelve original songs bringing the narrative to life. Audiences will recognize favorite MACC performers including Brian and Suzy Haner, David Sutton, Danny Townsend, Evan Pringle, Jessica O’Connell, Lauren Biasi, Michelle Marrocco, Mary Jo Greco, Hope Jasper, Shelli DuBoff, Ingrid Madelayne, Phoenix Madison, and Tess McHugh, among others.
Directed and choreographed by Kristine Lewis, the show runs December 5–7, December 11–14, and December 18–21.
Tickets are available now on our website https://www.monumentcentervt.org/christmascarol $40 for adults, $30 for seniors, $25 for students, and $15
And if you’re looking for a meaningful way to support the arts, consider giving the experience of live entertainment, or even leaving your own mark on this beloved local venue.
For a $300 contribution, supporters can have a loved one’s name embossed on a plaque affixed to a theatre seat at the Monument Arts & Cultural Center. With only one plaque per seat among the 311 available, this unique opportunity is a timeless way to commemorate a birthday, anniversary, Valentine’s Day, or any special moment. Naming a seat doesn’t guarantee availability for performances, but if you plan early, you might just find yourself sitting in “your” seat.
With its blend of art, performance, and community spirit, the Monument Arts & Cultural Center continues to elevate Bennington’s cultural scene, one show, one artist, and one inspired visitor at a time.
Thinking outside-the-box for kids’ gifts
Children may look forward to the holiday season more than most people. The holiday season is an opportunity for kids to tear open wrapping paper and see the amazing gifts they’ve received this year.
Although toys and games are typical gifts for children, there are many other items that go beyond these staples to make for unique and creative gifts that can spark imagination or boost physical activity. Shoppers can consider these outside-the-box gift ideas when shopping for youngsters this holiday season.
• 3D pen or printer: Kids can design and build amazing objects that encourage them to employ their creative side.
• Soap-making kit: These skits spur creative endeavors and ultimately produce useful finished
results. Soap or perfume kits are great for hands-on sensory learning. Such gifts also teach some components of science and math by requiring users to follow the recipe.
• Robot building kits: Take building kits one step further with items that can move. Robot kits combine play with engineering basics.
• Interactive books: Children can solve puzzles or make choices to move the story along. These types of books may even appeal to the most hesitant readers.
• Greenhouse, terrarium or bonsai tree kit: Put together the materials needed for kids to grow something special. They can nurture the plant along the way.
Dress up trunk: Fill a box or a trunk with various dressup costumes and accessories and let children’s imaginations run wild. This will spur hours of imaginative play and crazy combinations of clothing.
• Bug collection kits: Budding entomologists can observe insects close up, and then release them back into the wild.
• Geocaching app: Let kids find objects hidden all over their neighborhoods in real-world outdoor treasure hunts. Geocaching utilizes GPS coordinates to find hidden containers, called geocaches, placed there by other players.
• Various craft supplies: Let kids create any and all of their fun ideas by compiling a kit full of various craft supplies. From beads to wooden letters to paints to paper, there are plenty of items to be made.
• Hiking attire: Get kids out into nature by supplying the gear needed to take to the trails.
• Adopt a star or planet: Children can adopt and name a star or planet and get a certificate honoring the event.
• Time capsule: Let children store favorite items tucked away for safe keeping, where they’ll remain until unveiled in the future. Parents and other holiday shoppers can think creatively when it comes time to choose gifts for children.
Vermont Symphony Orchestra Performs Annual Family-Friendly Event, “Holiday Pops”
December 5-7, 2025 in Barre, Burlington, and Rutland
Submitted by Vermont Symphony Orchestra
Burlington, VT – October 16, 2025 – The Vermont Symphony Orchestra (VSO) returns with its beloved Holiday Pops concert series, taking place December 5–7, 2025, in Barre, Burlington, and Rutland. This festive tradition features classic holiday favorites, including Richard Hayman’s Carol of the Bells, excerpts from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker Suite, readings from Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, and Leroy Anderson’s Sleigh Ride to close the program.
“Each year, we eagerly anticipate sharing this cherished program with communities across Vermont,” said Andrew Crust, VSO Music Director. “Featuring beloved seasonal classics, an ex-
citing new commissioned work, and evocative spoken narrations woven throughout the performance, this year’s program offers something to delight every listener.”
The 2025 Holiday Pops concerts include young singers from the Opera Company of Middlebury (OCM) and two Vermont-based guest narrators.
M.T. Anderson, an award-winning children’s author, will read excerpts from Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, accompanied by musical selections. Jazz legend Marty Fogel will narrate the world premiere of local composer Michael Schachter’s The First Snow of Chelm, inspired by a Jewish folktale.
“The Opera Company of Middlebury is thrilled to collaborate
in this beloved holiday program with gifted young singers, ages 10 to 17, from its Youth Opera and Children’s Chorus programs,” said Sarah Cullins, OCM’s General Director and Director of Education and Outreach.
About the Vermont Symphony Orchestra: With a legacy of more than 90 years delivering top-tier musical performances and educational programs, the Vermont Symphony Orchestra is a cultural cornerstone in the region, enriching communities and the lives of Vermonters statewide. With a commitment to artistic excellence, innovative programming, and community engagement, the VSO has established itself as one of the country’s premier state orchestras. For more information about the Vermont Symphony Orchestra, visit VSO.org. For press release related questions, please contact Abbey at abbey@cultivatepr.co.
A guide to thoughtful gifts for coworkers
The holiday season finds people making shopping lists that include gifts for all of the special people in their lives. Such lists also feature the people with whom individuals may spend the majority of their time each day: coworkers.
Gifting coworkers can strengthen professional relationships, build camaraderie and show appreciation while on the job. A well-chosen gift can leave a lasting impression, whether it’s given for a birthday, promotion or the holiday season. According to a 2019 survey from Office Depot, 70 percent of employees said their workplace had a holiday gift-giving tradition like Secret Santa or White Elephant. It is important to balance thoughtfulness with professional decorum when selecting gifts. These guidelines can help you navigate workplace giving.
• Consider company culture. One of the first aspects of gift giving among coworkers is understanding the culture of the company. In some businesses, gift exchanges are commonplace and encouraged during team celebrations or the holiday season. In others, they may be rare or even frowned upon. It is always a good idea to check with human resources before choosing a gift, particularly for those who are new to the company.
• Avoid personal gifts. When selecting gifts, consider thoughtful items that are not too personal. These can include desk organizers, coffee mugs, plants, notebooks, photo frames or even gift cards to nearby restaurants.
• Be mindful of food and beverages. When choosing to give a gift of food, be aware of any dietary restrictions and aller-
gies the gift recipients may have. Also, while a gift of wine or another bottle of alcohol may seem fitting, one never knows if a person is abstaining from drinking, so it’s best to avoid such gifts in the workplace.
• Consider personalized gifts for close colleagues. Giving personalized gifts to close coworkers can be a great way to show appreciation when one knows the recipient well enough. For example, if he or she can’t survive without coffee each morning, then a gift of an engraved insulated coffee tumbler can be perfect. If the coworker mentions being part of a book club, a specialized bookmark or gift card to a bookstore will be fitting.
• Be careful with humor. When gifting a funny present, avoid anything that can be misinterpreted or considered offensive. It’s best to avoid any political humor. For those unsure about whether a gift might be taken the wrong way, skip that gift and choose another option.
• Limit the cost. Some coworkers may be friends, but it is best to keep all gifts inexpensive and of the same value if the plan is to gift everyone in the department. According to the Office Depot survey, 27 percent of respondents felt meeting a spending limit is very important. The general range of gift prices at the workplace is between $20 and $30.
One of the best ideas for company gifting is to see who might want to participate in a gift exchange, and then everyone brings a grab bag gift. Then there isn’t pressure on any one person, and gifts are distributed randomly.
Gifting between coworkers can be thoughtful and foster stronger relationships if done correctly.
The King’s Knit Wit: Cozy Creations & Holiday Cheer in Downtown Bennington
BY AHMAD YASSIR Vermont Country Magazine
It’s officially sweater weather in Southern Vermont, the season for warmth, creativity, and handmade charm. If you’re looking for the perfect holiday gift or a new winter hobby, head to The King’s Knit Wit, one of Downtown Bennington’s newest and most delightful additions.
Owned by Douglas Cardoza and Patrick Kincaid, two retired teachers from California with a shared passion for equality, creativity, and community, The King’s Knit Wit has quickly become a haven for fiber artists and craft lovers. After years in the classroom and a successful run with a craft shop in Georgia, the pair has brought their joyful spirit to Vermont, where their new shop celebrates the art of handmade living.
Winter in Vermont calls for cozy textures — mittens, hats, and sweaters made from beautiful yarns that tell a story. The King’s Knit Wit carries a stunning selection of Koala, Alpaca, Yak, Kathmandu, and vintage yarns, plus a variety of heavier options perfect for winter projects. Whether you’re gifting or creating, you’ll find everything you need to wrap up something meaningful this season. For an extra thoughtful touch, the shop offers custom gift baskets that can be mailed anywhere in the country — filled with yarns, needles, and accessories for both beginners and experienced knitters alike.
Beyond shopping, The King’s Knit Wit is all about experience and community. Every Wednesday at 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., the shop hosts open Knit-
ting Sessions, welcoming locals and visitors to stitch, chat, and share ideas. Their Mystery Knit Along series adds a playful twist to the craft, offering a surprise project kit for $90. The shop’s Craft Room is open whenever they are, with groups like the North Bennington Spinners (second Saturdays) and Yarn Therapy Group (every Saturday) gathering regularly to create together.
And because no creative session is complete without something warm to sip, The King’s Knit Wit also serves comforting seasonal drinks such as
Butter Rum Coffee, Chocolate Pistachio, Pumpkin Spice, Hot Apple Cider, and Wassail. Retail shelves are stocked with tea bags, infusers, mugs, soft sculptures, and local art — ideal gifts that pair perfectly with Vermont’s handmade spirit.
This holiday season, discover the heart of craft and comfort at The King’s Knit Wit, where creativity, community, and cozy living intertwine.
The King’s Knit Wit, 520 Main St, Bennington, VT. Open Tues–Sun: 10 AM to 6-ish and Monday: By appointment only.
Special and a ordable homemade gifts
The holiday season is a joyous time of year, but it also can be expensive. According to the National Retail Federation, American consumers spend an average of $998 on gifts and additional holiday items each Christmas. In 2024, the anticipated spend for holiday travel, entertainment and gifts was expected to top $1,600 per shopper.
While some people have no qualms about spending so much come the holiday season, others may be tightening their budgetary belts this year and could be interested in some cost-effective gift options. Homemade gifts are very thoughtful, and they tend to be more budget-friendly than some commercially sourced items. Check out these inexpensive homemade gifts.
BATH BOMBS
Bath bombs are fi zzing, scented balls that dissolve in bathwater. Popular retailers sell bath
bombs, but such products can be expensive. However, bath bombs are easily made at home with some basic ingredients like baking soda and citric acid. Simply search online for popular bath bomb recipes and then wrap the fi nished product in cellophane treat bags with ribbon.
PHOTO ORNAMENTS
There are various ways to create photo ornaments, which provide an excellent reason to make prints of some of your favorite images. Insert a print inside of a clear ball ornament, purchase a small photo frame and add a hook for hanging, or use a photo transfer product to transfer photo ink to another object, like a cardboard or wood cutout. Recipients will love hanging these thoughtful photo ornaments on the tree or around the house.
SUGAR SCRUBS
Just like bath bombs, it’s relatively easy to recreate a spa expe-
Someone Been Naughty
rience by gifting homemade sugar scrubs. These scrubs are made from mixing sugar with coconut oil and a few drops of essential oil for a scented boost. If desired, add vitamin E oil or jojoba oil to soothe the skin even more.
POTTED PLANT
Utilize an interesting container in lieu of a traditional flower pot to put a creative and personalized spin on this gift. A coffee mug with a witty saying can house a plant or even a small ramekin picked up at the dollar store. Choose a plant that matches the care style of the recipient. Some-
one whose green thumb isn’t perfect may appreciate a cactus or another succulent, which tend to be low-maintenance.
PERSONALIZED STICKERS
Many people now have printing and cutting craft machines that enable them to expand their crafting options at home, or even start home businesses. Kids may appreciate a stack of homemade, personalized stickers they can use to adorn water tumblers, phone cases or notebooks. Homemade gifts are thoughtful and often inexpensive options for creative types shopping on a budget.
METRO CREATIVE GRAPHICS
Tasty chocolate squares — make a — Perfect Party O ering
Holiday parties help make the month of December a festive time of year. Office parties, family gatherings and school functions dot many people’s social schedules during the holiday season, and that means hosts are forever on the lookout for tasty fare to serve their guests.
Many holiday gatherings are informal affairs where foods
might be passed around a room or presented buffet-style. In such instances, it’s not uncommon to see a bevy of small bites on a kitchen countertop or dining room table. Hosts planning such events can offer guests a touch of everything, including something decadent like these Chocolate Squares courtesy of Lines+Angles.
Chocolate Squares
(Makes 3 to 4 dozen)
1 cup honey 1/3 cup granulated sugar
7 tablespoons butter
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
3 tablespoons cocoa
3 teaspoons baking powder
2 eggs
2 tablespoons rum
2 pounds marzipan
1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Oil a rimmed cookie sheet.
2. Heat honey, sugar and butter in a saucepan until sugar and butter are melted, stirring constantly. Let cool.
3. Mix flour, pumpkin pie spice, cocoa and baking powder together and set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the eggs with the rum. Add the cooled honey mixture and mix. Slowly add in flour mixture and mix until smooth.
5. Spread dough onto cookie sheet, approximately 1/2inch thick. Smooth top and bake for 20 to 30 minutes, or until wooden toothpick inserted in center of cake comes out clean. Let cool.
1/3 cup icing sugar
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 cup apricot jelly
2 cups chocolate, dark or milk
1 cup icing sugar
4 to 5 tablespoons milk or water
1 tablespoon butter
1/4 cup white chocolate, melted
6. To assemble, knead marzipan with 1/3 cup icing sugar and almond extract. If too soft, add a bit more icing sugar.
7. Roll out marzipan mixture between two layers of plastic wrap until it is the size of a cake.
8. Cut the cake horizontally to make two layers. Brush bottom layer with jelly or marmalade and then cover with marzipan.
9. Next, brush jelly or marmalade over marzipan layer. Cover with top cake layer. Cut into approximately 1-inch squares.
10. In a double-boiler, melt chocolate and mix with 1 cup icing sugar, the water or milk and butter.
Dip “dominosteine” in chocolate and let set on cookie rack until chocolate has hardened. Place melted white chocolate in a small piping bag and decorate the chocolate squares with dots of melted white chocolate for a domino decoration.
