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Holiday Gifts from Philadelphia Brands That Don't Scream 'Tourist'

This unique list of gift ideas is perfect for buying local without buying lame

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By
Philadelphia Local Expert

 
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    Best Holiday Gifts That Support Philadelphia Brands

    Finding the perfect gift for that person in your life can often be quite challenging, whether it be for the holidays or any time of the year. If you're looking for a gift that will remind your recipient of or inspire them to visit Philadelphia (but isn't a kitschy, touristy tchatchki), here's a terrific list of items that will fit the bill. Whether you're looking to garner a laugh, draw upon old memories or simply show the recipient that you know them and you've come up with something truly special, 10Best is here to steer you straight.

    Photo courtesy of greenfrog119

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    Gift Certificate for Reading Terminal Market

    If you know your gift recipient is a foodie, yet don't quite know what to select for them, you're in luck. Gift certificates are available for Reading Terminal Market that save the day. You can determine the amount you want to spend, and the certificates are available in any denomination. Good at almost all of the stores in the market, these certificates allow the recipient the freedom to indulge their food desires in a place well known in the city for turning out exquisite culinary delights. Yum!

    Photo courtesy of ccharmon

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    Cool Philadelphia-Area Clothing from Duke and Winston

    If clothing is your thing (or your gift recipient's), Duke and Winston, a funky local clothier, offers up many cool options. Comfortable t-shirts, hoodies, long-sleeved tops and even doggie wear adorn their shop and beg to be worn. They'll soon become favorites, as they look as good as they feel. Local without screaming that you're a recent tourist, this line is sure to complement whomever is lucky enough to get to wear it. Graphic t-shirts can be picked up for $32, long-sleeved shirts for $38 and hoodies for $72.

    Photo courtesy of Duke-Winston.com Blog

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    Lovely Local Baubles

    For the down-to-earth yet modern female in your life, local jewelry maker Sarah Lewis creates wearable art that's a wonderful complement to any outfit. These one-of-a-kind pieces are available in several collections, and they showcase the beauty and serenity of nature. Classic styles, as well as those with a more modern and freer influence, line the shelves and spaces at Adorn, her Fishtown shop. Choose from earrings, necklaces and bracelets, as well a variety of clothing and small gift items. Prices are quite moderate and generally range from $28 to $198.

    Photo courtesy of Adorn

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    Pesonalized Correspondence from TwoPaperDolls

    Unique invitations; announcement, personal and business cards; signs; monograms; engraving; labels; seed packets; and other personalized items are created for that special person in your life at TwoPaperDolls. They make everything they sell at their suburban Philadelphia location. Let them design a holiday card just for you, ramp up your business cards or print an inspirational quote in a quirky font that'll perk up your space like nobody's business. Buying local has never been so attractive.

    Photo courtesy of Nan Palmero

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    A One-Day Glassblowing Class at East Falls Glassworks

    What better gift to get the person who has everything than a class to learn about something interesting and fun? East Falls Glassworks in Philadelphia offers a variety of opportunities to discover glassblowing, including an introductory day that starts at $135. Students will make colorful blown and sculpted pieces, such as seasonal paperweights or ornaments. Costs include a materials fee and instruction, and students are treated to a fun and interesting afternoon in the process of creating a finished item they will treasure. Weekend or six-week classes are also available.

    Photo courtesy of East Falls Glassworks

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    Handmade Pillowcases from MeLongings

    Sometimes the perfect pillow just makes a room. Finding that perfect pillow, however, may just be the hardest thing you do all year. Enter Philadelphia's own Chanee Vijay, artist and textile designer behind melongings studio. Vijay uses organic materials and hand prints all of the designs on the pillowcases herself from her studio in the city's Society Hill section. You'll just love her products for their simple attractiveness. Pillowcases range from about $65 to $75. Other items include aprons and block prints.

    Photo courtesy of Melongings

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    Treats from Shane Confectionery

    Nothing says, "Happy Holidays!" quite like a sweet treat, and Philadelphia's own Shane Confectionery really knows its treats. Since its creation in 1863, the store, located at 110 Market Street, has been producing candy for locals and visitors alike. Today, customers can purchase seasonal assortments including chocolates, chocolate-covered pretzels, fudge, bagged candy, licorice, caramels and gifts to sweeten their recipient's day, no matter what time of the year it is. Delicious gifts made right in Philadelphia will definitely please both friends and family.

    Photo courtesy of Shane Confectionery

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    Bike Utility Belt from Fabric Horse

    For the bicycle commuter or the rider who just likes to be uber organized, this Philadelphia-made biking utility belt is just the thing for carrying stuff. Comfortable, compact, yet able to fit so much of what today's rider needs in its slender profile, this piece will probably be one that's used daily. Designed and hand-constructed by Fabric Horse of South Philly, these vegan goods proudly feature reused, repurposed and recycled materials to create the most durable item possible. They even feature coordinated seatbelt webbing and Cordura lining for a true workhorse of a product. They retail for $112.

    Photo courtesy of Becky Stern

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    Organic Products from Jahaya

    What's so special about skincare products from Jahaya's? These specialty items were designed with one goal in mind: to fill the void that existed in the skincare industry when it came to homemade, organic, quality goods sourced from all-natural ingredients. Purchase items directly from the store for that special someone who appreciates organic, natural goodness, and watch their skin improve and glow. Jahaya's also provides services at their Germantown Avenue location, including facials and body detox, spa and skincare parties/demonstrations as well as fundraising support. Their entire line-up ranges in price from about $8 to $20.

    Photo courtesy of sunshinecity

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    Shirts from 611 Lifestyle

    The bold and fearless gentleman in your life deserves duds from Philadelphia's 611 Lifestyle. Founder and designer DJ Nigel Richards began his clothing line after being inspired by the Philadelphia record store and label, 611 Records. He continues to gather ideas and ways to expand his brand through his travels throughout the world. Your man can reap the benefits of this travel and inspiration through the attractive and innovative attire and accessories sold here. Richards successfully combines solids and patterns, as well as textures, to create unique pieces and lines that stand apart from the masses. With shirts running at about $76 and plenty of options in that category, you can set your fashion sights on something out-of-the-ordinary and fun, no matter what your fashion needs may be.

    Photo courtesy of bptakoma

Don't get overwhelmed with holiday gift giving. These great local gift ideas are top-notch — Photo courtesy of JD Hancock

When it comes time to get that person you care about a Philadelphia-themed gift for the holidays, many people come up empty-handed. After all, you can browse the city's stores endlessly and still come up with nothing special or original, or even appropriate. Asking others can sometimes work, but what you really need is a list you can refer to with some ideas that are practical yet show you put some time and thought into the gift.

10Best comes to the rescue! These gift ideas not only support local brands, but also deliver wonderful products into the hands of your recipient.

Got a person in your life who likes cool clothing? Why not grab a shirt or an accessory from local clothier Duke and Winston? Fun and funky, this Philadelphia retailer prides himself on attire that is comfortable yet not stuffy.

Find his creations at his Northern Liberties store, and grab the goods that highlight the original person in you or your recipient. It's local without being loud or cheesy, which is always a plus.

If your eyes are drawn more towards a gift of edible delights, this city has plenty to offer in that category. Head on over to Reading Terminal Market, and treat yourself or someone you care about to a gift certificate so they can pick out the food items that strike their fancy.

They may have a tough time choosing, as this place offers delicious options galore, from all over the Philadelphia region. They're sure to have plenty to choose from.

You may also want to pick up a box of confections from this area's own Shane Confectionery. Shane's has been creating delicious pieces for generations, and they offer specialty treats that are perfect for any holiday celebration.

Grab a gift box or an arrangement of chocolates, hard candy, caramels or other collection to sweeten up any gathering.

What's inside the colorful, beautifully wrapped presents in YOUR gift bag? — Photo courtesy of Kevin Dooley

Other great ideas that keep it local to Philadelphia are participation gifts, like a certificate to a class at East Falls Glassworks so your recipient can make a gift that's uniquely their own.

You know your recipients, and we know Philadelphia. Combining the two leaves room for wonderful items that support local businesses, yet leave your special person with a gift that is like no other.

The city is full of boutique owners, local craftsmen and women, artists, designers, creators and builders who make products you'd be amazed to discover.

So delve into the city and see what you come up with for your holiday gift list!

About Sharon Rigney

Sharon Rigney wouldn't mind receiving a gift from any of these wonderful Philadelphia-based featured retailers.

Read more about Sharon Rigney here.

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