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Welcome to ParentMap’s all-local holiday gift guide, curated by ParentMap’s senior editor, an enthusiastic gift giver who is on a mission against plastic. As a bonus, many of these finds come from indie makers and sellers of color, and everything on this list costs less than $100.
Whether you’re shopping for a spouse, a little reader or treating yourself, this guide will help you celebrate the season with unique flair while supporting our vibrant Puget Sound–area small-business community.
Ceramic animal cup, $28
For the whimsical animal lover in your life, artist Cary Lane’s ceramic animal cups from Seattle Art Museum’s gift shop are sure to bring some sweetness to every sip. Handcrafted in Bellingham, these charming porcelain cups feature delightful creatures and wishes of luck, and are perfect for hot coffee or green juice. Dishwasher- and microwave-safe.
Warrior Belt hoop earrings, $40
I’m a ’90s-raised gold-hoops-forever kind of lady, so it’s with serious enthusiasm that I share these Warrior Belt hoop earrings, designed by Diné/Navajo and African American artist Ahsaki LaFrance Chachere. These gold-plated hoops feature a striking diamond design inspired by West African mud cloth symbolizing strength, bravery and protection, while the inset turquoise enamel honors Diné traditions. Eighth Generation is a Seattle-based art and lifestyle brand owned by the Snoqualmie Indian Tribe.
“The Universe in 100 Colors,” $25
For the visual learner on your list, “The Universe in 100 Colors” by Tyler Thrasher and Terry Mudge is sure to be a fascinating eye-opener. This stunning new coffee table book from Seattle-based publisher Sasquatch Books explores colors you’ve likely never seen, through vivid images and fun facts that blend art, science and design. Whether it’s cosmic latte or dragon’s blood, the entries in this colorful collection are perfect for anyone interested in understanding the world in a new light.
Mushrooms and Moths baby set, $58
Sorry, grown-ups, but this Pacific Northwest–inspired set only comes in sizes for newborns through 18-month-olds. The cozy Mushrooms and Moths top and bloomers set by Baby Nesh Organics is made from organic cotton and is ethically crafted in Oregon.
Flame of the Forest fragrance, $93
Made by hand in small batches on Bainbridge Island, Anjali’s Flame of the Forest perfume is a captivating fragrance inspired by the lush memories of the perfumer’s childhood in India. With top notes of bay leaf and pink pepper, and heart notes of champaca flowers and saffron, this one-of-a-kind fragrance captures the essence of forest trees on fire with blooms.
“A Flash of Color and Light,” $19
Introduce budding makers to the fascinating life of world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly with “A Flash of Color and Light” by author Sharon Mentyka and illustrator Shelley Couvillion. This gorgeously illustrated picture book biography by Little Bigfoot, the children’s imprint of Seattle-based Sasquatch Books, teaches children about the history of glassmaking through the remarkable story of Chihuly’s life journey of resilience and teamwork as he overcame personal challenges while finding his creative vision in the process. Best for ages 5–9.
Flower press, $35
A beautiful addition to a child’s desk or a seasoned crafter’s workspace, this classic flower press is a lovely way to reconnect with nature and preserve blooms kept from special events or gathered in everyday backyard foraging. Measuring 6 by 6 inches square, this easy-to-assemble flower press is crafted from laser-cut plywood. It includes five sheets of corrugated card and eight sheets of sugar paper, providing plenty of materials to press floral finds for cards and crafts. As a bonus, for every flower press sold, the company plants a tree.
Shiro plum preserves, $16
Every jar of Ayako & Family’s shiro plum preserves is bursting with heritage and flavor. Made from Yakima-grown plums and hand-preserved in Seattle, this jam blends the soft, honey-like sweetness of shiro plums with a hint of candied lemon, perfect with scones or baked chicken. Ayako & Family is a local, multigenerational Japanese American family business. Pro tip: Pair this spread with a pair of Eighth Generation’s Wild Plums crew socks for a very sweet gift.
Wild Plums socks, $18
Bring some sweet style to your wardrobe with Eighth Generation’s Wild Plums crew socks, designed by Anishinaabe/Ojibwe artist Sarah Agaton Howes. These socks combine traditional Ojibwe beadwork patterns with a modern color palette inspired by the plum trees that flourish around the Pacific Northwest. Eighth Generation is a Seattle-based art and lifestyle brand owned by the Snoqualmie Indian Tribe.
“Emerald Street: A History of Hip Hop in Seattle,” $25
For the music lovers and history buffs on your list, “Emerald Street: A History of Hip Hop in Seattle,” by our city’s coolest professor (and my coolest friend), Daudi Abe, is the perfect gift for sharing four decades of cultural innovation in the Pacific Northwest. With an introduction by the one and only Sir Mix-A-Lot, this fascinating book from the University of Washington Press takes readers from Central District rap battles to the many ways Seattle hip-hop has impacted politics, fashion and the meaning of community all over the world.
Honey-sweetened limoncello, $48
For the cocktail enthusiast who appreciates a little brightness in their glass, Letterpress Distilling’s limoncello offers a delightful twist on a classic. Crafted in Seattle with real lemons and sweetened with Pacific Northwest honey, this limoncello balances sweet and sour for a smooth, citrusy finish. Whether enjoyed neat or in a festive cocktail, it’s a refreshing, all-natural taste of Italy with a local touch. Editor’s note: Prices were current at the time of publication, but can change.
Japanese folding utility knife, $46
Kobo Seattle’s Japanese folding utility knife is a beautiful blend of craftsmanship and tradition. Featuring a warikomi steel blade and brass handle, this handmade knife uses friction to stay open, presenting a simple yet elegant design. Perfect for the adult collector or outdoor enthusiast who appreciates finely made tools with a touch of history. Made in Japan.
