You’ve made your list and checked it twice. Well, at least once before getting overwhelmed and hitting up the Keurig for a third cup of coffee.
And now that your caffeine is back in hand, here’s what you’ve managed to put together so far on your 2017 holiday list:
– Put up festive decorations (interior and exterior).
– Make sure fridge does not resemble apocalypse.
– Order presents for friends and family.
– Pick up five backup presents in case a random gets you a gift. Candles work in every situation.
– Wrap said presents.
– Don’t forget stocking stuffers. (Secret stash of Halloween candy and miscellaneous items from junk drawer narrowly saved your Santa butt last year.)
If you’re like me, the stockings try to end you every year. As if we don’t have enough to think about, after weeks of staring at empty stockings, you forget to stock the little suckers. This year you are going to avoid the walk of shame to the freezer for frozen Snickers bars and plan ahead.
In true Chicago fashion, you might be delayed, but you’ll come out on top. So let’s hit those stocking stuffers the only way we know how–Chicago style.
Megan Lee Designs
Megan creates some of the best local t-shirts and infant onesies around. Prints range from “Midwest is Best” to “Chicago Love” and beyond. The beanie hats are also a perfect addition to any stocking on your list. Hometown pride stocking stuffers are available at multiple locations.
Art Effect
Like a page straight from my Pinterest board, Art Effect is filled to the brim with giftable treasures. The Chicago flag candles and matching mugs are solid stocking stuffers and are available in their Lincoln Park store.
Alioto’s Gift Shop
It will be hard to visit this store and leave with only one thing. For the youngest sports fans in your home, Alioto’s carries Blackhawks and Bears Beanie Ballz (a version of Beanie Babies) available in their Oak Park store.
Paper Source
Little compares to giving or receiving a handwritten note, especially if the stationery features The Bean or the Chicago skyline. Matchbooks, stamp sets and magnets are also available, and make great additions to any stocking. Check local stores for specific availability or order online.
Team Blonde
Aside from hosting an array of local Chicago designers, Team Blonde sells one of my favorite purchases ever: the Skyline Bar Necklace in silver, gold or rose gold. Necklaces are available in their Forest Park shop.
Neighborly Shop
Neighborly Shop sells a Chicago Skyline Embroidery Kit anyone with a crafty thumb will enjoy. This gift was made for a Chicagoan.
Cat Painter
This local babe sells Chicago-themed napkins, aprons and tablecloths. Why gift a household item? They’ll appreciate the thoughtfulness of looking like they’ve spent hours in the kitchen when in fact Whole Foods dropped off the catering. Plus, who doesn’t look good in an apron?
Scratch N Sniff
This Oak Park gifting gem carries gifts for animals and animal lovers. There is a mini dog treat case with divine looking donut shaped biscuits perfect for the fur baby in your family. Scratch N Sniff also carries Cubs gear for pets such as hats, warm-up jackets, collars and scarves.
Fannie May Skyline Mint Meltaways
One of our favorite pastimes in Chicago is visiting Fannie May Chocolates. Mint Meltaways and chocolate bar gift sets are available in Chicago edition wrapping and they are gluten free!
Dark Matter Coffee
You’ve been good this year, so your coffee should be good too. Like, really good. This Chicago coffee roaster will make your morning routine electrically charged. You know, in a good way. Their Holiday Blend is everything.
Rhine Hall Distillery
Their tall & skinny bottles were basically made to fit in your stocking. This is the gift you will keep for yourself and enjoy in a coffee mug when the extended family arrives. You’re welcome. Their Oaked Apple Brandy is incredible–but really, they all are. They are also made locally in West Town.
