2 • Gift G u id e | N o vem b er 1 5, 201 8
Holiday cheer in Sonoma County Bring the family, friends and the kids, and revel in the enjoyment of small city, one of a kind treasures that will surely bring joy and holiday happiness
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ravel during the holidays is special. It's a time when towns, and the people who live in them, are celebrating. In Sonoma County we have small towns that share in the joy of the holidays with festivities, shopping and world class dining. It is the perfect destination for all of your holiday needs. There is so much to be discovered, and shopping locally helps strengthen our diverse merchants and their communities. Sonoma County locals believe in sustainability, farm to table, and quality. So get in the car and head out for an adventure in Cloverdale, Healdsburg, Geyserville, Windsor, Guerneville or Sebastopol. loverdale is Sonoma County's northernmost town. It is known for its burgeoning arts community and quaint, charming downtown. The shop owners are friendly and down to earth, making for a day of relaxed enjoyment. You won't be bothered by crowds here. Stroll along the shops and be delighted in the choices of one of a kind collectibles such as coasters made with recycled wine corks. Or unique fabric for the hand sewn gift, vintage clothes from some of the coolest decades, and artisan culinary goodies. Grab a cappuccino and a piece of amazing gluten free cake from the coffee shop for an afternoon treat. ealdsburg is in the heart of wine country. It is an antique lovers dream and a hipsters delight. You can discover handmade jewelry, fine Italian shoes and upscale outfits for the kids or baby. You can also find a precious gift for your beloved furry friend, like chef inspired doggie treats and knitted sweaters. The wineries are a perfect place to pick up a fine bottle of wine or buy a case to ship home as a gift. Don't forget to wander away from the square. On the side streets you won't want to miss the beautiful spools of yarn for the knitting enthusiast, the gorgeous leather handbags or the home goods store with scented candles that are to die for. Spa treatment anyone? How does a hot stone massage or a wine and honey wrap sound? It's the epitome of luxury. indsor is just down the road from Healdsburg, about 10 minutes on Highway 101. Cruise into town and find your way to the Windsor Town Green. There is something for everyone on your list in Windsor, but if you are specifically
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looking for jewelry, you have come to the right place. Envision diamonds, platinum, gold, precious gems and silver. Necklaces, earrings and rings for every budget and statement pieces meant to impress. For the adventurist, maybe a new bike or new gear. Visit the bookstore for that hot new release or the classic novel that is begging to be reread. A candy lover in the mix? You will find more choices of candy and gourmet chocolates than anywhere else; toffee, chocolate turtles, and truffles to name a few. Trendy pieces of clothing and accessories for the teenagers, and who wouldn't love a gift certificate to a coffee house? uerneville is an eclectic, soulful town. It has a charming, active Main Street with many shops and restaurants. Step back in time and visit the 5&10 store with a little bit of everything from games to pet gifts. On Main Street is a renovated historical building that now serves over-the-top homemade pies and ice cream. Your taste buds will go wild for flavors such as maple bourbon bacon brittle or lavender honeycomb. You can buy whole pies and pints of ice cream as gifts for the host or hostess at the next holiday party. ebastopol is a little bit hippie and rich in good vibes. Here you will find gifts for the cocktail connoisseur and the caffeine lover alike. Visit the distillery that promotes "grain to glass" by using only organic Red Winter wheat. Then stop at the cafe that brews organic yerba mate tea and sample the classic sparkling gold; can't go wrong with a case of that. Discover other jewels like homemade soaps, featuring flavors such as Santa Rosa plum and nutmeg or California mission fig and honey. They make soap for the four legged kind too. Everybody in your house can smell as fresh as a garden herb. Have a friend with a green thumb? You won't find cooler gardening supplies anywhere else. Maybe even a Venus fly trap can top your gift list. e hope the holiday shopping bug has grabbed your attention. There is so much to do and see in these beautiful northern California towns. Bring the family, friends and the kids, and revel in the enjoyment of small city, one of a kind treasures that will surely bring joy and holiday happiness. – Sonoma West Archives
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