Whether you’re stumped on what to buy your best friend or just need a little extra inspiration, this year’s holiday gift guide is packed with great ideas. We asked a few members of our own community to share what they’re planning to wrap and place under the tree, from apparel to art to baked goods.
Alex Beal
Manager, Amundsen Sports; Photographer
The best gift Alex Beal ever received? “A Trek bicycle, when I was seven,” he says. “Nothing else even comes close.” The Boulder native, a professional photographer who also manages the local outpost of Norwegian retailer Amundsen Sports, cherishes the holiday season as a time to source gifts from around town — especially when it comes to high-quality outdoor gear and cool camera equipment.
1. Beanie, from Canoe Club, $98
2. Cross Country Skiing at Devil’s Thumb
3. Film Camera, from Key Camera in Longmont
“He doesn’t have a website, but ask for Dave,” Beal says. “He will set you up with an awesome gift.”
4. Gift Card to Little Horse Vintage on Pearl and 22nd
5. MSR Titan Double Wall Mug, from Neptune Mountaineering, $50
Wendy Talmon
Owner, Wandertree Fiber Art and Interior Design
Wendy Talmon, a Boulder-based artist who handmakes small- and large-scale fiber sculptures, prefers to browse local boutiques in person rather than shop online when it comes to finding the perfect presents for her loved ones. “I love to touch and see things firsthand,” she says. This season, Talmon has her eye on unique finds ranging from cozy socks to stunning florals.
1. Sterling Silver and Turquoise Ring, from Avery Lee Jewelry, $325
2. Lara Floral Arrangement, from Fiori Flower, $125-$350
3. Marcus King Vinyl, from Paradise Found Records and Music, $14-$33
4. Service Works Corduroy Chef Pants, from Acme Find Goods, $110
5. Kati Von Lehman Coffee Mug, from Cedar & Hyde Mercantile, $58
6. Red Silk Scarf, from Hapilee Handmade, $50
7. Hansel From Basel Crew Socks, from Jones + Co., $14
Erin Pommer
Brand Director, Frasca Hospitality Group
“I love thoughtful gift giving,” says Erin Pommer, hospitality veteran who manages brand partnerships, strategic communications, and events for Frasca Hospitality Group’s six restaurants. “The kind that isn’t from a list, but from a moment of inspiration when something feels just right for someone I care about.” Pommer’s gift picks are things she’d love to receive herself — immersive experiences and yummy treats from around town. “I’m so proud of where we live,” she says, “and inspired by the risk-takers who bring their ideas to life and give us something special to enjoy.”
1. Glassware and Gifts, from Jones + Co.
2. The Downtown Boulder Gift Card
“Your recipient can choose from over 60 restaurants, bars and retailers,” Pommer says.
3. Pastries and Shortbreads, from Süti & Co.
“I would audibly squeal with delight if I received a box of Swedish Cardamom Buns or Chocolate Ganache Shortbread. Chef and owner Andrea Uzarowski has been under the tutelage of some serious Michelin-starred chefs like Rene Redzepi and Ana Ros.”
4. Wine, from Persona Wine Shop or Public Wine Co. in Lafayette
5. Cookbooks and Culinary Tools, from Peppercorn
6. Kids Cooking Classes, from Gray’s Misen Place
7. Juices and Wellness Shots, from Wonder Press Juice
8. Donations For (and From) Food Lovers
“Incredible nonprofits like Good Work Meets Good Food and Farm to Food Bank make sure our community is fed, and they’re a meaningful way to give in someone’s honor.”
Susan McGrady & Emily Canova
Owner & Creative Consultant, Low Rider
Low Rider is known as a treasure trove for contemporary and vintage wares spanning home, fashion, art, and more, but this month, owner Susan McGrady and creative consultant Emily Canova look outside the store for inspiration. “We believe in the creativity of curation and community,” McGrady says. Their gift picks reflect a discerning eye for inimitable items discovered throughout Boulder.
1. Vintage Jewelry, from Erica Simon Jewelry
2. Artworks by Whitman Lindstrom
“We are especially drawn to this particular work, as it captures the magic of our neighborhood,” McGrady says.
3. Planter, from Michelle Polizzi Ceramics, $400
4. Custom Rosewood Lamp with Navy Shade, from Alexa Allen Designs, $895
5. “Hay Hygiene” Painting, by Jason Kapella
“He captures a view of historical life with striking clarity and boldness.”
6. “What Do We Know About Mothers?” Handwoven Shetland Wool Tapestry, by Darcie Shively, $2,000
Todd Reed
Owner, Todd Reed Jewelry and Victor Bonnaire Vintage Watches
In Todd Reed’s Pearl Street studio, he and his master artisans craft every piece of jewelry by hand for a truly bespoke collection of earrings, necklaces, rings, and other singular pieces. Reed’s holiday gift ideas are as unique as his creations, from beloved Boulder shops that showcase community creativity. “I feel that shopping locally is supporting artisans and retailers, as well as being part of something really beautiful and cool,” Reed says.
1. Adlan Fragrances Midnight Oil Candle, from Jones + Co., $85
“I love this little neighborhood shop,” Reed says.
2. Visit to Seidel City Contemporary Art Gallery
3. Mushroom LED Night Light, from Süti & Co., $47
4. Vinyl Records and Vintage Goods, from Little Horse in Louisville
5. Goffa Men’s Half-Zip Norwegian Wool Sweater, from Amundsen Sports, $749
“I always shop this micro brand that has turned massive.