OUTSIDE

Maybe it’s the chill in the air, the splashes of crimson in the trees, or the sound of a familiar melody you haven’t heard since, oh, about a year ago. Do hints of the impending holidays send you straight to the nearest mall, where you fight fellow frenzied shoppers for mass-produced presents?

This year, forgo the status quo. Instead, take a deep breath, peruse the following pages, and then do some shopping you can really feel good about.

Like an army of Santa’s helpers, many of your creatively gifted neighbors are busy in their workshops crafting one-of-a-kind items that are sure to garner many oohs, ahhs and heartfelt thanks from your loved ones this year.

Clifford Creations

Rhonda Clifford has been in the bead-stringing biz for about nine years. She’s best known for her Mommy Bracelets, understated personalized keepsakes for the mom who likes to keep her little ones close to the cuff at all times. Some of her bolder pieces include earth-hued earrings, necklaces and leather belts embellished in buckle bling.

Clifford kicked off her crafting career after seven years working retail at Castle Gap jewelry. As a stay-at-home mom, Clifford says she is eternally in need of a creative outlet.

The jewelry business “kind of keeps me from going nuts”, she jokes.

WEBSITE: Clifford-creations.com

PRICE RANGE: $10-$110

CONTACT: 214.342.8101

Corner some of Lake Highlands’ most talented gift makers at Santa’s Secret Shop, Thursday, Dec. 3, 6-9 p.m. and Friday, Dec. 4., 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the home of Rhonda Clifford, 9433 Faircrest.