We focused on the kitchen for our holiday gift giving with a budget of $50 per person, since we embrace the belief that one nice gift is more desirable than two or three small ones. In addition to kitchen-centric gifts you can wrap with love, we also chose a mix of gift cards your recipient can apply toward a larger purchase.
Are there other locally made or sold items you would like to see highlighted in a similar feature? Please send your suggestions to [email protected] for consideration.
CHEESE BOARDS BY A & E STONEWORKS AT MONKITREE
Both attractive and practical, these multi-use boards are perfect for Mainers living away from home, like seasonal snowbirds and loved ones employed in exile. Available in two materials with two different, budgeted price points, this gift idea is sure to serve many.
Granite $46, Slate $28. 263 Water Street, Gardiner, monkitree.com
FOOD DEHYDRATOR FROM AUDETTES ACE HARDWARE
The Nesco three square foot model works with many fresh foods, including meat for making jerky. The hunters in your life will like the sample seasoning and cure packs that are included. Maybe homemade deer or wild turkey jerky will become gifts of their own.
$49.99 22 Peck Farm Road, Winthrop, acehardware.com
MINCEMEAT AT EMERY’S MEAT AND PRODUCE
Emery’s is known for their own support of local farms and growers, and their seasonal housemade mincemeat should put them on the map as well.
Made from beef, suet, raisins, apples and apple cider vinegar, molasses and spices, this gift (baked ahead or not) can be rounded out with a pie plate found at one of the many businesses highlighted on the Gardiner Main Street website.
$14.99 for 8 oz. 35 Bridge Street, Gardiner. emerysmeatandproduce.com
TRUCKER HATS AT KENNEBEC CABIN COMPANY
Absolutely no one wears a hairnet in the kitchen at home so tuck yours up in this colorful, hand-embroidered, carrot-themed cap. If you can bear to part with it, give it as a gift to someone who will appreciate the stylish craftsmanship sold by this iconic Maine institution, also known as the “Maine Cabin Masters”. Available in two colorways, along with strawberry, pine tree, bee and wildflower designs.
$42. 915 Western Avenue, Manchester
shop.kennebeccabincompany.com
MAINE MADE CRAFTS
Between now and Christmas, The New England Craft Fairs Association will hold three fairs in Augusta alone (see page 2 for details) with the mission of introducing shoppers to artisans they won’t find in big box stores that offer unique, handcrafted pieces. We’re positive you’ll find the perfect gift for in or out of the kitchen.
EARRINGS BY TRACEY’S TREASURES AT 202 ANTIQUES AND FLEA MARKET
Every meal tastes better when the chef is wearing a fabulous pair of earrings, and at this price point, you can get them a pair for every day of the work week. These one-of-a-kind polymer clay earrings are lightweight and made with genuine stones and cunning charms. Good luck not getting lost in all the antiques, collectibles and cool stuff in the market.
$50 for five. 2451 US Route 202, Winthrop, facebook.com/Rte202antiques
LOCAL SERVICE PROVIDER AND RETAILER GIFT CARDS
If you’re of the mindset that gift cards are impersonal, it’s time to take another view. Gift cards can show respect for a certain recipient’s practical or choosy ways, make a dent in the budget of a big purchase, or signify a meaningful investment in a local business.
Bob’s Cash Fuel 424 Main Street, Madison
Caswell’s Grocery Liquidation Center 68 Armory Road, Waterville
K&G’s Hardware 65 Main Street, Richmond