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Holiday Gift Guide, 2020 Local Buying Options Provide Unique Alternatives By Chris Rudisill | QNotes Contributor
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s COVID-19 cases surge across the state, the holidays are sure to look different this year. Resisting the urge to host parties or see family (in person) could just save a life, and with potential lockdowns looming, this year’s gift guide was created with the pandemic in mind. All the research was done from the safety of home and all the retailers included had to offer delivery or minimal-contact pickup. This year’s list also includes locations in Charlotte, Raleigh and the Triad and is focused on those locally-owned businesses listed at area LGBTQ chambers or community centers and foundations. There are some unique options this year to spread the holiday shopping, so pull up your laptop or phone and start shopping.
The Queen City Resident Culture Brewing Company 2101 Central Ave., Charlotte, N.C. Founded in 2017, the Charlotte-based brewery has been called one of the nation’s “elite.” Just days after the pandemic caused them to close their taproom, Resident Culture owners setup a drive-through. Beers are available in four-packs of bottles or cans, and the company has custom merchandise, including a new “super soft &
launched Charlotte Edition: Coffee for the Front Lines on GoFundMe.com. The project raises money to provide coffee, bakery items and vegan/vegetarian meals delivered to local hospital workers. Order your holiday treats at easidelocaleatery.com or click the “How You Can Help!” button at the top of the page to be linked to the project.
This fitness and dance studio opened in the middle of the pandemic and featured Erica Chanel as a special MC and performer during its September grand opening with a percentage of their sales donated to Charlotte Black Pride. Virtual classes are available from $30 to $60 on polebodyarts.com.
super sexy” hooded sweatshirt just in time for the colder temperatures. Order online at residentculturebrewing.com. Eastside Local 3102 Eastway Dr., Charlotte, N.C. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat for your vegan friend or wanting to try a healthy holiday meal, Eastway Local offers contactless pickup. Their Bitchin’ Brownie Bites are special order and come in coconut, double chocolate or orange varieties and the café features full holiday menus ready to order. If you’re looking for ways to help a local healthcare hero this season, Eastside Local, Move That Dough Baking Company and Dream Out Loud Media have
Moxie Mercantile 2008 Commonwealth Ave., Charlotte, N.C. The Plaza-Midwood boutique gift shop launched a mobile version of the store called “Mabel” and started doing pop-ups around town after the pandemic began. The owner, Michelle Catelloe, even landed a grant to buy a second custom cart and you can follow Mabel’s moves on the retailer’s Facebook or Instagram. Shop online at moxiemercantile.com, where you’ll find a variety of gift options. Pole Body & Arts 9539 Pinnacle Dr., Unit 350, Charlotte, N.C.
White Rabbit 920 Central Ave., Charlotte, N.C. Our Charlotte holiday list isn’t complete without including White Rabbit, a retailer serving the LGBTQ community for decades. The store offers an array of cards, books, movies, gifts, adult novelties, designer underwear and all things gay. While the store is still open and taking precautions for COVID-safety, you can also call in an order at 704-377-4067 for contactless pickup. See something on the retailer’s Facebook.com/whiterabbitstore page and call ahead for options.
The Triangle Western Dragon Teas and Tisanes Online, Raleigh, N.C. You can find this local tea company at locations around the Raleigh-Durham area, but online shopping is the best option during the pandemic at see next page u
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qnotes
Nov. 27-Dec. 10, 2020
