Holiday gift guide
BY KATIE WORKMAN Associated Press
A gift doesn’t have to be big or pricy to feel thoughtful. Instead of the usual bottle of wine, give something that makes your recipient feel truly seen: a little edible treasure that nods to their hometown, heritage or favorite trip from years ago.
It’s a deliciously personal way to say “I know you.”
Regional condiments are like souvenirs, celebrating local flavors. A jar of barbecue sauce, a bottle of hot sauce or a regional mayo can tell a story and capture the essence of a place. Here’s a handful of beloved sauces, spreads, jams and more that make tasty and personal small gifts.
The condiments generally hover around the $10 to $15 mark, making them an economical pick.
Hot sauces and BBQ staples
Adoboloco hot sauces, from Hawaii’s island of Maui, carry a tropical punch with bold island chiles, perfect for grilled fish or roasted veggies. The ingredient lists are short and the peppers are grown in Hawaii itself.
In the South, Big Bob Gibson’s barbecue sauces, from Decatur, Alabama, are known for their smoky, tangy flavor, with the Original White Sauce a mainstay (especially on smoked chicken).
Pitmasters at Franklin Barbecue, in Austin, Texas, o er sauces and rubs that are rich,
bold and unmistakably Texan. Also hailing from Austin are Yellowbird hot sauces — the organic habanero and serrano hot sauces and the Classic Blue Agave Sriracha are particularly beloved.
For a taste of South America, Tari hot sauces from Peru showcase native peppers, such as aji amarillo and rocoto, both grown in the Andes. The ingredients are ground on a traditional batan (a stone mortar), creating sauces with a bright and fruity (not scorching) heat that elevates dishes from grilled meats to vegetables.
Specialty condiments
Duke’s Mayo is a century-old Southern classic, now based in Mauldin, South Carolina. It uses just the yolks of eggs (no whites) for extra richness, and has two kinds of vinegar for extra zing. The mayonnaise adds tang and creaminess to sandwiches, potato salads and more. (Some fans have even gotten mayo tattoos promoted by Duke’s — that’s brand loyalty.) Duke’s is generally available nationwide, but isn’t as much of a household name as Hellman’s and Kraft outside the South.
The rich texture and subtle
umami punch of the Japanese Kewpie mayo have inspired a global following. It also uses just the yolks of the eggs, and also includes rice vinegar and a dash of MSG. Put it on sushi or okonomiyaki, or use it as a base for dressings. Handmade small-batch condiments like Auntie Rana’s, made in New York’s Hudson Valley and in Maine, and inspired by South and Southeast Asian flavors, can bring a family-rooted touch to meals. Think Naga garlic mayo, mango achaar and smoked chili oil.
These kids books from 2025 make great gifts for all
BY DONNA EDWARDS Associated Press
Look no further for great gift ideas for your kiddos. The Associated Press scoured the bookshelves for standout 2025 releases to share the love of reading with your child, student or friend, and came up with this list for the holidays.
Board books and readto-me books (ages 0-3)
“I Love You, Little Moose!” by Sandra Magsamen. A fiveline poem about nature and all the things we love about it, with vibrant colors and bubble-letter text. This board book also has soft plushie antlers on top. Cartwheel Books, $8.99.
“Why Does the Wind Blow?” by Eric Carle. Science made easy in classic Eric Carle style! This quick read explains in simple terms how wind blows, aided by illustrations and one Very Hungry Caterpillar. World of Eric Carle, $5.99.
“Little Heroes of Color: I’m A Little Hero” by David Heredia. Heroes range from hardworking Jim Thorpe to inventive Arvind Gupta to fearless Sonia Sotomayor. Rhyming and repetition make complicated words and ideas easier to understand. In the back, readers will find a mirror with a message that they’re a little hero, too. Cartwheel Books, $9.99.
“Everywhere You Are” by Victoria Monét, illustrated by Alea Marley. This sweet book rea rms a parent’s love for their child even when they’re not physically together. Grammy winner Monét’s musicality shines in this lullaby, illustrated in a colorful, swirly, star-speckled outer space. G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books For Young Readers, $18.99.
Early readers (ages 3-8)
“Bitty and Bub, Best Buds” by Janee Trasler. Five short, silly comics follow fun-loving friends Bitty and Bub. It’s a great introduction to reading comics, using speech bubbles in simple panel progressions. Holiday House, $14.99.
“Don’t Trust Fish” by Neil Sharpson, illustrated by Dan Santat. Why read another boring animal book when you can read something hilarious? The
Gifts to light up the silver screen for movie lovers
BY LINDSEY BAHR
KATIE WORKMAN PHOTOS VIA AP
A variety of Adoboloco sauces from Hawaii’s island of Maui are displayed in New York.
This image shows specialty condiments Duke’s Mayo, a century-old Southern classic, left, and Japanese Kewpie mayo.
Tips for gifting 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% 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 anyone navigate workplace giving.
n 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.
n Avoid personal gifts. When selecting gifts, consider thoughtful items that are not too personal. These can include desk organizers, cof-
fee mugs, plants, notebooks, photo frames, or even gift cards to nearby restaurants.
n Be mindful of food and beverages. When choosing to give a gift of food, be aware of any dietary restrictions and allergies 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.
n 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 cof-
fee 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.
n 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.
n 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% of respondents felt meeting a spending limit is very important. The general range of gift prices at the workplace is
DID YOU KNOW?
Advent calendars are a common sight in many households each December, and some historians believe this unique tradition can be traced to a creative nineteenth century German housewife. Though Britannica notes the precise origins of Advent calendars are still debated, one theory behind the popular tradition suggests a woman in Munich created the Advent calendar as a way for her young and impatient yet excited son to count down the days to Dec. 25. Though details are fuzzy and difficult if not impos -
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.
sible to confirm, this legends suggests the crafty German mother filled 24 different small boxes with a baked treat, allowing her son to open one each day during Advent, the nearly monthlong period of preparation for Christmas that begins on the fourth Sunday before the holiday and ends by Christmas Eve. While this origin story connects Advent calendars with Christianity, and many Christians still make it part of their Christmas celebrations, many modern people with no such affiliation also incorporate the calendars into their holiday season routines.
Gifting
Ideal gifts for those who love the outdoors
Many people find 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 longterm 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.
n First aid kit: No matter the activity, having an upto-date and well-stocked first 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.
n 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.
n 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.
n 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.
n 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.
n 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.
n 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 hands-free and sheds light on surroundings or up-close tasks, like setting up fishing hooks or field dressing game.
DID YOU KNOW?
METRO
Every year certain gifts emerge as the “hot” toys and games for children. These are the presents kids are eager to find wrapped up and ready for them. Adults often scramble to secure these popular items. According to the United Kingdom-based retailer Argos, the following are among the most popular items children were asking Santa Claus to deliver over the previous decade.
2024: BeyBlade Xtreme Battle Set
2023: Nerf Elite Double Punch
2022: LEGO Icons Optimus Prime “Trans-
n 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.
n 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.
formers” Robot Model Set
2021: Bluey Family Home Playset
2020: Hatchimals Pixies Crystal Flyers
2019: Furreal Cubby Bear
2018: Fingerlings Untamed T-Rex and Dino Cage
2017: Cozmo, White Robot
2016: Hatchimals, Purple Egg
2015: Barbie Saddle ‘N Ride GG25A194
9 pitch-perfect holiday gifts for the music lovers in your life
BY MARIA SHERMAN Associated Press
Shopping for a music fan is no easy task. It seems like it should be: Know their favorite artists? Simply buy them an album on the physical medium of their choice. But how can you be certain they don’t already own it? (Because let’s be honest — if they’re an obsessive, they probably own multiple pressings.)
The best presents are a bit more creative than that. Don’t know where to begin? We’ve got your back.
Here’s a gift guide for the audio lover in your life — from a massive new oral history courtesy Paul McCartney to a pocket-size drum machine,
some Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg gin, and so much more.
Back in black
What do you get the classic rock ‘n’ roll fan in your life?
Something that lets them share their enthusiasm with others, of course. Bicycle playing cards make the perfect stocking stu er, and their AC/DC collection o ers a personalized touch. Peep Angus Young and his signature axe on this deck; it’s enough to make anyone want to break out their guitar ... or, at the very least, play a little poker. $8.99.
Loud and clear Every music enthusiast needs a decent speaker in
their life. And for the more eccentric listener, only a truly unique device will do. That’s where Uncommon Goods’ Acoustic Gramophone Amplifying Speaker enters the conversation. This beautiful smartphone speaker — handmade from walnut wood — naturally amplifies. That’s right: There are no cords, wires, batteries, solar panels
or whatever else involved. Simply slide your phone into the slot, press play on your favorite streaming platform and let the natural acoustic enhancements happen. $100.
Dolly it up
It’s hard to go wrong with Dolly Parton. So, make your holiday shopping easier by gifting a country connoisseur her latest co ee-table book, “Star of the Show: My Life on Stage.” It’s the third and final installment in her photographic trilogy of big ol’ books — following “Songteller,” which was all about her lyrics, and “Behind the Seams,” about her daring and culture-shifting fashion. Parton has arguably saved the best for last: This text is all about her performance, o ering both an in-depth personal and professional history. Plus, it’ll look great in any living room. Random House. $55.
Hosting a party? Grab the gin and juice
For the 21-and-older hiphop crowd: This one is for you. While most gins are a bit polarizing — non-fans think the liquor is too bitter, or too botanical — Still G.I.N., the brainchild of rap royalty Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, hits the right notes. The o cial description of their gin’s flavor profile includes “notes of tangerine, jasmine, and coriander for an unforgettable aromatic
finish.” None of your holiday party attendees will complain about its distinct, delicious — and best of all for those on the fence — unobtrusive taste. $36.99 for a 750ml bottle.
March to the beat ... of your own drum
Loving music is one thing. Making it is another. For the aspiring producer, prolific percussionist or virtuosic songwriter, look no further than a Stylophone Beat Drum Machine. The pocket-size device allows its user to make beats on the go. Because who knows where inspiration will strike? It’s best to have access to four sound banks (rock, techno, hip-hop and beatbox) and a stylus on hand at all times. And if that’s not enough of a selling point: It also features a built-in speaker and headphone socket, so you can listen and play wherever you are. $40 from the Museum of Modern Art’s online store.
Grab your pava Bad Bunny’s latest album, the ambitious “Debí Tirar Más Fotos,” is a love letter to Puerto Rico. It e ortlessly combines modern genres — house rhythms, electronic production, reggaeton — with salsa and nylon-stringed plena guitars. In his music videos and at his historic residency in San Juan this summer, the global superstar continued to embrace traditional Puerto Rican iconography. That included
the use of pavas — straw hats traditionally worn by jíbaros, Puerto Rican rural farmers.
His o cial merchandise does the same and has been discounted for the holiday season. Especially attractive is the Bad Bunny Pava T-shirt, with its fashionable high neck and artful illustration of Bad Bunny in a pava — lifted from his 2025 Met Gala look. $40.
Get ‘GUTS’-y
Tour books are a dime a dozen these days and with good reason. They make for great gifts! High-resolution, never-before-seen images are ideal for the young superfan — and Olivia Rodrigo knows that. Her “GUTS World Tour Book” boasts 136 pages of images and some text detailing her energetic run of shows, alongside a sticker sheet, limited-edition poster and more. While the stan in your life awaits Rodrigo’s third album, surprise them with this. Available via Rodrigo’s merch store for $38.
Gonna be golden
For the K-pop lover — heck, for the animated family film fan — there was no bigger pop culture story in 2025 than “KPop Demon Hunters.” The women of the fictional girl group HUNTR/X as well as the heartthrobs of demon boy band Saja Boys no doubt inspired a million cosplays. The most envy-worthy of their fashions is likely HUNTR/X leader Rumi’s bright yellow bomber jacket and, luckily, Netflix has it available for purchase on their webstore. It’s unique enough to function as a costume but also sporty enough for everyday wear. $89.95.
Let ‘em in Paul McCartney has teamed up with editor Ted Widmer for a new oral history, “Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run,” compiled from over 500,000 words of interviews.
It’s an impressive undertaking that follows the band from their founding in the 1970s to their dissolution in 1981, featuring extensive commentary from McCartney as well as co-founding members, the late Linda McCartney and Denny Laine, and many more. For the Beatles fan in your life and then some. Liveright. $45.
Couples Intensive - which gives you a year’s worth of therapy in two days. Call for your free 30-minute consultation.
Jayson Carmona
Michelle Inauen MA,
NETFLIX VIA AP
This product image shows a jacket worn by the character Rumi, right, in the animated film “KPop Demon Hunters.”
LIVERIGHT VIA AP
This cover image shows “Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run” by Paul McCartney.
MOMA VIA AP
This product image shows the Stylophone Beat Drum Machine.
for watching “Jane Austen Wrecked My Life” or “Materialists” ). There’s also a “French New Wave” candle that would work well with Richard Linklater’s “Nouvelle Vague.” Other scents include “Mystery,” “Fantasy,” “Macabre,” “Villain Era,” “Bad Movie” and “Main Character.” Starting at $24.
A Roger Deakins memoir
Even if you don’t know the name Roger Deakins you certainly know his work — simply put, he’s one of the greatest working cinematographers in the business. His credits include “Fargo,” “The Big Lebowski,” “No Country for Old Men,” “Sicario,” “Skyfall” and “1917.” Fittingly, his memoir
“Reflections: On Cinematography” is uniquely visual, with never-before-seen storyboards, sketches and diagrams. The 76-year-old Oscar winner also looks back on his life, his early love of photography and how he found his way into 50 years of moviemaking, where he’d find longstanding partnerships with some of the great auteurs, from the Coen brothers to Sam Mendes and Denis Villeneuve. Hachette Book Group. $45.
Baby’s first movie book
These adorable and beautifully illustrated board books take parents and kids on a journey through genres, from “My First Hollywood Musical” and “My First Sci-Fi Movie” to the very niche “My First Giallo Horror” and “My First Yakuza Movie.” There are also three box sets available for $45 each. Oscar-winning “Anora” filmmaker Sean Baker called them his “go-to gifts for new parents.” From ‘lil cinephile. Starting at $15.
Pajamas fit for a KPop Demon Hunter
Rumi’s “choo choo” pajama pants would make a cozy gift
for days when you find yourself chanting “Couch! Couch! Couch!” Don’t understand what any of that means? Don’t worry, the “KPop Demon Hunters” fan in your life will. Available from Netflix. $56.95.
The Celluloid card game
Who’s the biggest film buff in your family or group of
friends? This clever card game might have the answer for you. Each Celluloid card contains prompts (like location, character and action) and you have to pick a movie that fits as many cards as possible. $19.
An expressionistic dive into Chloé Zhao’s ‘Hamnet’
Oscar-winning filmmaker
Chloé Zhao, actor Jessie Buckley and photographer Agata Grzybowska collaborated on a gorgeous coffee-table book about “Hamnet,” opening in theaters in limited release on Nov. 27 and expected to be a major Oscar contender. The film, based on Maggie O’Far-
OSCILLOSCOPE LABORATORIES VIA AP
rell’s story, which won the National Book Critics Circle prize for fiction, imagines the circumstances around the death of William Shakespeare’s 11-year-old son and how it may have influenced the writing of “Hamlet.” The coffee-table book, called
“Even as a Shadow, Even as a Dream,” is not a making-of, or behind-the-scenes look in any conventional sense, but an otherworldly, haunting companion piece of carefully chosen images and words. Mack books. $40.
An alternative streamer for cinephiles
If Netflix is too pedestrian for the cinephile in your life, the Kino Film Collection offers a robust and rotating lineup of classic and current art house and indie films. Categories include Cannes Favorites (like Yorgos Lanthimos’ “Dogtooth”), Classics (like “The General,” “Metropolis” and “Nosferatu”) and New York Times Critics’ Picks (like Jafar Panahi’s “Taxi” and Agnieszka Holland’s “Green Border”). At $5.99 a month or $59.99 year, it’s also less expensive than the Criterion Channel ($10.99/month, $99/year) and Mubi ($14.99/ month, $119.88/year).
with gifts for everyone on your list
This product image shows “The Wes Anderson Archive,” a box set of 10 films by the filmmaker.
MISE EN SCENT VIA AP
This image shows a variety of Mise en Scènt’s film-inspired scented candles.
This image shows the card game Celluloid, a gift for film buffs.
book
B.
A girl’s grandma explains Grandmother Moon to her. The author’s Indigenous storytelling tradition is extended by dreamy full-page paintings. Includes a Moon Calendar and a guide to reading the calendar on the scales of Turtle’s back. Beaming Books, $18.99.
Middle grade (ages 8-12)
n “Dory Fantasmagory 7: Center of the Universe” by Abby Hanlon. Book 7 in the silly illustrated series that’s a perfect bridge into chapter books. In this story, Dory has a new rival. Dory’s zany antics and odd friends could elicit laughter from any reader. Dial
Books, $17.99.
rentine. So what if they don’t have superpowers? These supersmart best friends are
Young adult (ages 12+)
n “The Story of My Anger” by Jasminne Mendez. Told in verse and as a play, this empowering story follows Yuli, a junior at a Texas high school, as she learns how to handle racism, the pressure to shine, and stress at home with a widowed mom living with a chronic illness. Dial Books, $19.99.
n “The House of Quiet” by Kiersten White. A Gothic mystery that explores class struggle and what it means to make a positive impact in the world. The stunning ending pulls the pieces together without a single detail wasted. Delacorte Press, $19.99.
ready to take on supervillains! This hilarious, hybrid graphic chapter book includes science-backed instructions for making sorbet and cardboard grappling hooks. MIT Kids Press, $19.99.
n “When We Were Monsters” by Jennifer Niven. Arlo and Effy trade off narrating this genre-bender of dark academia, murder mystery, thriller and romance. A “Frankenstein” motif throughout the novel conveys themes of monsters and fate vs. free will. Knopf Books for Young Readers, $20.99.
n “The Weirdies” by Michael Buckley, illustrated by Forrest Burdett. From the creator of “Sisters Grimm,” these 10-year-old triplets and the world they live in are weird — and highly entertaining. Pencil-hatching illustrations accompany Lemony Snicket-esque humor and fourthwall breaking. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, $14.99.
n “The Poisoned King” by Katherine Rundell, illustrated by Ashley Mackenzie. It’s up to 12-year-old Princess Anya to save the dragons and her kingdom. The hotly anticipated Book 2 of the Impossible Creatures series is a fantasy adventure driven by an unyielding belief in the power of goodness. Knopf Books for Young Readers, $19.99.
n “Bunns Rabbit” by Alan Barillaro. The other rabbits fear that Bunns’ short ears are a bad omen. Full of heart, this mature, tender chapter book showcases descriptive writing and stunning, dramatically lit illustrations. Candlewick, $18.99.
n “Leave It on the Track” by Margot Fisher. After her dads die in a fire, Moose moves to a new state to live with her older half-sister, who convinces her to try roller derby. Fisher’s debut grabs you and doesn’t let go, tackling grief, being LGBTQ+ and finding community. Dutton Books for Young Readers, $19.99.
n “Take Up Space, Y’all” by Tess Holliday and Kelly Coon. A body positivity book with guides and tips, from finding your fashion to having a healthy relationship with food to dealing with labels. It always defers to consulting your doctor for medical needs like skin problems and mental health challenges. Running Press Kids, $13.99.
n “I Wish I Didn’t Have to Tell You This: A Graphic Memoir” by Eugene Yelchin. The sequel to “The Genius Under the Table” also stands on its own, chronicling a Jewish man’s escape from Soviet Russia in the 1980s with a unique art style that incorporates photographs. Yelchin’s mom and grandmother provide comic relief with their melodrama and uncanny wisdom. Candlewick, $22.99.
Taste of home
Jams and preserves
From San Francisco, We Love Jam offers seasonal, small-batch jams such as their popular Blenheim apricot jam, made from one of the last remaining orchards of these endangered apricots.
Katie Workman writes regularly about food for The Associated Press. She has written two cookbooks focused on family-friendly cooking, “Dinner Solved!” and “The Mom 100 Cookbook.” She blogs at https://themom100.com/. She can be reached at Katie@themom100.com.
For fruit lovers, American Spoon, in Petoskey, Michigan, delivers artisanal preserves and sauces perfect for toast, charcuterie boards or baking gifts. Michigan cherry fans might swoon over a jar of their famous sour cherry preserves, and their Red Haven peach preserves feature hand-peeled peaches grown specifically for American Spoon. Marmalade Grove makes beloved citrus marmalades in Ojai, California. Handpicked pixie tangerines, Cara Cara oranges infused with hibiscus, Meyer lemons and honey — each flavor captures the sunny citrus of the area.
n “Maker Girl and Professor Smarts” by Jasmine Flo-
KATIE WORKMAN VIA AP
A bottle of Big Bob Gibson Original White sauce is displayed in New York.
DUTTON BOOKS FOR YOUNG READERS/CANDLEWICK/DIAL BOOKS VIA AP
This combination of book covers shows “Leave It on the Track” by Margot Fisher, left, “I Wish I Didn’t Have to Tell You This” by Eugene Yelchin, center, and “The Story of My Anger” by Jasminne Mendez.
12 gifts for crafty people
Craft enthusiasts can be easy people to shop for come the holiday season. Shoppers can simply fuel their loved one’s passion for crafts by keeping their supplies fully stocked or introduce them to new crafting techniques.
There are roughly 85 million active creatives and 30 million sewists in the United States and Canada, according to Customcy, a custom product manufacturer. Millennials account for 41% of consumers in the craft market, according to the Center for Generational Kinetics. These 12 gift ideas will be perfect for creatives who want to enjoy their passion for crafting to the fullest.
1. Organizers: Craft supply organizers can keep people’s gear neat and tidy in bins or compartmentalized boxes.
2. Gift cards: A spending spree at a nearby craft retailer can help crafters get everything they need.
3. Rotary cutters: While quality scissors are a necessity, a rotary cutter can make fast work of slicing through materials.
4. Cutting mat: A self-healing cutting mat is ideal for model-making, sewing and paper crafts.
5. Cutting machine: A cutting machine, like those offered from Cricut or Silhouette, can help people complete a vast number of projects. These machines can cut vinyl, paper, labels, and even fabrics and foam for certain models.
6. Pattern books: Those who enjoy needlework, crocheting or knitting can benefit from books that o er patterns or digital sewing ideas.
7. Yarn and thread: High quality yarns and threads can elevate completed projects.
8. Paper or canvases: Fine artists and painters will need places to display their creative visions. A stock of mixed media paper and canvases means art can be made
whenever inspiration strikes.
9. Resin supplies: Resin products have become more popular and crafters who enjoy such projects will benefit from epoxy resin and molds or acrylic pouring kits.
10. Clay: Those who enjoy making clay-based creations can always use more clay in a variety of colors and new clay sculpting tools.
11. Floral supplies: Whether live flowers or artificial, foam, floral tape, stem snips, and ribbons can help people create beautiful designs.
12. Home improvement: Many crafters can benefit from having a dedicated space to engage in their projects. A gift of minor home renovations to create a crafting room or area in an existing spot can make a crafter very happy. Crafting is a popular hobby with scores of enthusiasts. Catering to their hobbies with special gifts will keep crafters busy and happy throughout the year.
Let charitable gifts spread joy and benefit more than just recipients
METRO CREATIVE SERVICES
Charitable giving increases significantly in the months surrounding the holidays. Approximately one-third of annual giving happens in December, and 10% of all giving occurs in the last three days of the year, according to Charities Aid Foundation America.
The surge in donations typically occurs with people’s desire to spread holiday cheer, enjoy tax advantages and help people in the community, says Nonprofit Source.
Some people are compelled to donate in the name of another person. Here are some ideas for charitable holiday gifts that benefit many.
Donate in someone’s name
To honor a loved one who may be living or deceased, or who fought an illness and won, you can donate to a nonprofit in the name of that loved one. Many charities o er printable or physical cards to let the recipient know a donation has been made in his or her name.
Giving back through gifts
Certain products purchased feature proceeds that go toward a charitable cause. For example, every purchase of TOMS shoes helps fund mental health access and community development, while the body care products from Thistle Farms are made by women survivors of tra cking, prostitution and addiction. Other products may help feed the hungry or support cancer patients.
Supporting animals
A symbolic animal adoption can support conservation efforts around the world. Making a donation to the World Wildlife Fund in someone’s name, for example, enables you to get a plushie, certifi-
cate and information on the animal the contribution will be helping.
Fair trade gifts
Making a purchase of fair trade items means you’re often buying handmade and ethically sourced goods. These gifts support artisans in developing countries and help fund community projects.
Gift recipients can feel pride in ownership of an item that was designed and purchased with the greater good in mind.
Charity gift cards
Charitable gift cards, like those available from TisBest Charity and CharityChoice, let the gift recipient choose
which nonprofit will receive the funds.
Support special businesses
O er gift cards or take people to dine or shop at businesses that support those with special needs. For example, No Limits Cafe in New Jersey is a full-service restaurant that trains and employs adults with intellectual disabilities. Dining there will help to continue to support these important efforts to give every employee a sense of pride and purpose. Charitable gifts make a recipient feel special and can make many additional people feel good as well.
METRO CREATIVE SERVICES
Charitable gifts make a recipient feel special and can make many additional people feel good as well.
METRO CREATIVE SERVICES
Crafting is a popular hobby with scores of enthusiasts. Catering to their hobbies with special gifts will keep crafters busy and happy throughout the year.
