DISCOVER OUR FAVORITE
MAINE GIFTS WE’VE GOT
ADVENTURE SEEKER
SOMETHING for your
for Everyon
for the
for a
GREENER holiday
for the
foodies
teacher
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION OF THE BANGOR DAILY NEWS • 2021
2 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2021
Publisher RICHARD J. WARREN Advertising Sales LAURIE CATES lcates@bangordailynews.com
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Contents for a greener holiday
for a great experience
02 DREAMING OF A GREEN CHRISTMAS
22 GIVE THE GIFT OF A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE
for outdoor fun
for teachers
06 GIFTS THAT FUEL OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
for travel lovers 08 GIFTS FOR RETIREES WHO CAN’T WAIT TO TRAVEL
24 GIFTS THAT WILL MAKE YOU THE TEACHER’S PET
for teens & tweens 26 WHAT TO GET YOUR TEENAGER
for foodies
maine gifts 12 OUR FAVORITE MAINE GIFTS TO GIVE
for shopping local 18 EAT, SHOP & ENJOY DOWNTOWN BANGOR
28 GIFTS FOR HOME COOKS 30 GREAT HOMEMADE FOOD GIFTS
for homebodies 32 THE GIFT OF BEING COZY AT HOME
WE’VE GOT LOTS OF WAYS FOR YOU TO
BUY LOCAL!
Throughout our Holiday Gift Guide you’ll find dozens of Maine-made products, local shops and area artisans offering incredible products, food and more to make your holidays a little brighter. We’ve got something for everyone on your list. And if you need even more ideas, visit sites like MaineMade.com and MaineOutdoorBrands.com to find hundreds of Maine artisans and makers. Support your friends and neighbors by giving locally made gifts this holiday season. Seawicks Candles, on page 9
Perry Home Naturals, on page 25
Jack & Mary mittens, on page 7 bangordailynews.com BANGOR DAILY NEWS / 1
GREEN GIFTS
Dreaming of a
GREEN CHRISTMAS
YOUR GUIDE TO AN ECO-FRIENDLY HOLIDAY SEASON BY JANELLE JUNDT
The
holidays are a magical time. The smells, tastes, sounds and time with loved ones all bring our hearts joy. Unfortunately, the holidays can also produce a lot of waste. It can be challenging to be eco-friendly and mindful of the environment when you are making gift selections for family and friends. This compilation of gift and giving ideas will make those special to you smile and be kind to the earth as well. • EXPERIENCES OVER MATERIALS THINGS: One way to reduce waste is to give people things they can do instead of items they may not need. This could include tickets to a show or sporting event, gift certificates to their favorite restaurants, paint and sip gift certificates, national park season passes and more. Check out our list on page 22 for more experience ideas! • DIY GIFTS: People love quality homemade gifts, and it gives you an opportunity to possibly give new life to things you aren’t using around the house. If you have kids, get them involved in the process. Your family and friends will love homemade gifts made with care. You could make ornaments, snow globes, blankets, plant pots and more. Spend some time searching the internet and you will find so many great ideas to try this year. • CONSUMABLES: Who doesn’t love homemade goodies? There are so many holiday cookie and sweets recipes (see page TK for a great list of homemade foods worthy of gifting). You can also make homemade bread, flavored oils, jams,
2 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2021
ONE OF THE BEST WAYS TO HAVE A GREENER HOLIDAY...
BUY LOCAL Supporting local businesses that produce their products with local ingredients is a great way to reduce the carbon footprint of your gift. Getting goods or gift cards from local farms, artisans or grocers can make a huge positive impact. Things made by small local businesses are usually made with extra care and will last for years to come. Here are a few green gift ideas from Maine vendors — and you’ll find even more throughout our magazine. Support your friends and neighbors and give one-of-akind gifts this year!
REUSABLE TOWELS & BOWL COVERS FROM ANNE RIGGS DESIGNS
pickles or hot sauces. Getting someone a quality bottle of liquor or a locally made beer is also a great idea (make sure they recycle). You can also make DIY consumables like soaps, bath bombs, candles and more — or purchase them through a local Maine vendor. • SUBSCRIPTIONS: Covering someone’s subscriptions for a while or giving gift cards for services can really mean a lot to someone you care about. You could get someone a TV streaming service you know they have been wanting to try, audio book subscriptions, bus or train fare, cleaning services for their house or a gym membership.
We’ve got the perfect gift that’s both sustainable and stylish. Anne Riggs Designs creates handmade reusable products for your home and family, from paper towels, cloth napkins and bowl covers to baby wipes and makeup pads. New this year, you can purchase a sustainable gift box that includes several reusable products. ANNERIGGSDESIGNS.ETSY.COM
CONTINUED ON PAGE 4...
LINEN GOODS FROM AMPHITRITE STUDIO Did you know linen is made from the flax plant, is twice as strong cotton and will last several decades, even with regular use? Amphitrite Studio, located in midcoast Maine, offers linen napkins, tea towels, table cloths, runners, bedding, towels, aprons, face masks and more. Find them in stores like Trove in Searsport, The Lost Kitchen in Freedom, Jessie Tobias Design in Camden, The Harlow in Hallowell and online. AMPHITRITESTUDIO.COM
bangordailynews.com BANGOR DAILY NEWS / 3
GREEN GIFTS ...CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 • ZERO WASTE REPLACEMENTS: For the person in your life trying to reduce their carbon footprint, why not get them tools that will help their cause. Reusable straws, coffee mugs and food storage containers are all great to help reduce the amount of trash we produce each year. You could get them beeswax wraps, bulk containers, jars, cloth napkins or paper towels, or package-free beauty products. You can also make a donation to have their carbon footprint offset through various online programs that plant trees, improve supply chains, support green energy projects and more. • WRAPPING: One of the biggest areas for waste during the holiday season is wrapping. Wrapping a gift in paper that will just be thrown away is not always the best option for the environment. Luckily there are some eco-friendly wrapping alternatives you can try this year. You can wrap your gift in old newspapers, paper bags or extra paper around the house. Use what you already have first. You can also put your gift in a reusable shopping bag. Now your loved one has an extra reusable tote to bring with them to the grocery store. You could also put gifts in reusable containers, wrap them in blankets as an extra gift or fabric samples they could use in their next craft project. There are so many ways to reduce your holiday waste this year. Have fun finding the perfect gift for your loved one and the earth!
4 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2021
OUTDOOR FUN
GIFTS THAT FUEL
Outdoor Adventures EXPLORE THESE IDEAS FOR THE OUTDOORSPEOPLE IN YOUR LIFE BY AISLINN SARNACKI
As
the COVID-19 pandemic swept the world in 2020, people in the outdoor industry noticed some interesting — and heartening — trends. Visitation to parks and other outdoor destinations spiked. Kayaks and bikes flew off the shelves at outfitters. It was clear that many people were embracing the outdoors as a safe place to exercise and have fun. Now more than a year later, that trend continues. Those who perhaps never considered themselves to be “outdoorsy” before are becoming experienced in all sorts of activities, such as hiking, fishing, snowshoeing and ice skating. So while combing over your list of people to buy for this holiday season, consider that the longtime outdoor enthusiast may not be the only one who’d love an outdoor-related gift. Maybe someone in your family has shown an interest in birding or mushroom foraging during the pandemic. Perhaps a friend picked up deer hunting this past fall. If so, you’re in luck. Outdoor adventures require plenty of gear for comfort and safety. Here are just a few gift ideas to get you started. OUTDOOR NECESSITIES Whether a person camps, canoes or cross-country skis, there are some simple items they’ll need. A headlamp, for example, is an important safety item for all outdoorsy people. Other items that fall into the category of universal usefulness include warm wool or synthetic socks, a nice backpack or drybag, a water bottle or thermos and a first aid kit. The three top survival tools all outdoors-people should carry in Maine are: a knife or multitool, a whistle and the means to build a fire such as waterproof matches or a flint and steel firestarter. Navigational tools are also great gifts for any outdoors-person. Handheld GPS devices, ranging in price from $100 to over $400, are perfect for finding your bearings and tracking adventures. A compass designed for orienteering, which costs between $25 and $60, is another great option. And if your gift-receiver doesn’t know how to use a compass, throw an instructional book into the gift. It’s a great skill to have. GIFTS THAT INSPIRE Sometimes it’s fun to give an experience as a gift, or something that inspires an experience. Guidebooks and maps are especially useful in planning new outdoor adventures. And gift cards for things like rock climbing lessons or bird tours can help someone step outside their comfort zone or visit new places. Gift cards for overnight stays at wilderness retreats or campgrounds can also make for great gifts, as can a lift ticket to a ski mountain or a Maine State Park Pass or an annual pass to Acadia National Park. Have a conversation with the person you’re buying a gift for and see if they’re looking to pursue any new outdoor activities. That may guide you to purchase them snowshoes, hiking poles, ice fishing traps or fly tying equipment. Each activity has its own special gear
6 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2021
BUY LOCAL!
MITTENS FROM JACK & MARY DESIGNS Keep your loved ones toasty and warm on their next outdoor adventure with handcrafted mittens made in Maine. Jack & Mary mittens are created from recycled wool sweaters, lined with cozy fleece and finished with a button. Warm and versatile, these mittens are wonderful for adventuring outside, walking the dog, driving, jogging, biking or just plain looking cute! JACKANDMARYDESIGNS.COM
that they’ll need to collect. Every little piece of equipment helps. Your gift might give them that extra push to try the activity they’ve been daydreaming about. BANG FOR YOUR BUCK Many inexpensive outdoor items are especially useful. An emergency blanket or bivvy, for example, costs between $5 and $20. Used in survival situations, that tiny piece of gear can be used to trap in your body heat and help stave off hypothermia until help arrives. Freeze-dried food packets, energy bars and drink mixes make for great stocking stuffers. Bug repellent, chemical hand and foot warmers, water purification tablets and sunscreen also fit the bill as inexpensive and something that outdoorsy people often need to replenish. If you’re looking to add a personal touch to your gift, you could create a big bag of trail mix out of quality, handselected ingredients. Or you could dig up a recipe for nutrition bars or another snack that would last well on an outdoor trip. For more ideas, visit or call your local outfitter or sports shop. They’ll have the scoop on the latest gear and most popular items for each type of outdoor adventure. bangordailynews.com BANGOR DAILY NEWS / 7
TRAVEL GIFTS
Gifts for Retirees
WHO CAN'T WAIT TO TRAVEL
GIFTS TO HELP THEM TAKE TO THE SKY OR HIT THE OPEN ROAD COURTESY OF METRO CREATIVE
Retirement
provides a chance for adults who have worked throughout their lives to take a step back, relax and enjoy the fruits of their labors. Though the most indelible image associated with retirement might once have been a rocking chair, modern retirees like to get up and go, and holiday shoppers can take that joie de vivre into consideration as they look for the perfect gift for retirees who can't wait to fly the friendly skies or hit the open road. · MAPS: It might seem simple, but roadmaps can be an ideal gift for retirees. A recent poll from RBC Wealth Management found that 63 percent of Americans age 50 and older say travel is an important retirement goal. Roadmaps of their own country or a foreign country can help seniors plan their dream vacations. Seniors can study maps and create their own routes as they visit popular tourist attractions and find lesser known locales along the way. · VOUCHERS/GIFT CARDS: Airline vouchers can inspire retirees to take to the skies and visit locales that have long taken up real estate on their bucket lists. If seniors prefer to take to the open road, hotel vouchers or Visa gift cards that can be spent anywhere that accepts credit cards can help pay for gas, meals or entry to popular parks and tourist attractions. · PROJECTOR AND PORTABLE SCREEN: Retirees may want to get away from it all, but that doesn’t mean they have to leave everything behind. A projector and portable screen can let on-the-go seniors enjoy movie night under the stars or watch their favorite teams even when they’re far from home. This can be an especially good gift for retirees who are anxious to gas up their RV and leave home behind for a few weeks. · LIFETIME PASS TO WORLD-RENOWNED PARKS: All United States citizens or permanent residents are eligible for the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Senior Pass, which provides access to more than 2,000 recreation sites across the country. Those sites are managed by federal agencies like the National Park Service, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and the Bureau of Reclamation, among others. A similar system is in place in Canada, where adults age 65 and up can gain unlimited admission for a full year to more than 80 Parks Canada locations across the country. · TABLET: Of course, retirees may still want to enjoy some of the comforts of home while they’re off in parts unknown. A new tablet can help traveling retirees read the latest bestsellers and stay in touch with family and friends via video conferencing apps like Zoom. Many campgrounds and hotels now provide free WiFi to guests, so a tablet can be just what on-the-go retirees need to stay connected to life back home. Holiday shoppers can make the season bright for their favorite retirees who can’t wait to spend their newfound free time traveling the world.
8 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2021
BUY LOCAL!
MAINE BICENTENNIAL TOTE FROM SEA BAGS Maine’s 1901 state flag is not only historic, but full of maritime meaning. The North Star has long been a tool for sailors and the pine tree made our state’s unique flag recognizable at great distances. The interior of this bag features the script from the 1819 Maine State Constitution. A great way to show your pride in the state of Maine as you travel or a fantastic gift for a history buff. SEABAGS.COM
We have your
SKI WICKS FROM SEAWICKS CANDLE CO. “Hit The Slopes” with warm Frasier Fir scented candle from Seawicks. Inspired by fresh powder and ski days, this 100% soy candle will have you in the mountains in no time. Seawicks candles can be found in Weatherbird in Damariscotta, Hatch in Brunswick, C-Salt Gourmet in Cape Elizabeth, Wholefoods in Portland, L.L. Bean Home Store in Freeport and more. SEAWICKS.COM
Best selection
of local & global in THE area! we have fun beverage accessory gifts
for the hoLIdays!!
LARGEST BEVERAGE STORE IN THE STATE!
21 washington st DamonsBeverage.com Penobscot Plaza, next to Quality Jewelers
CONVENIENTLY LOCATED
DOWNTOWN!
bangordailynews.com BANGOR DAILY NEWS / 9
MAINE GIFTS
Our
Favorite
MAINE GIFTS
10 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2021
So many amazing things are made right here in Maine.
We asked our staff to share their favorite Maine-made gifts to give (and get). WHAT MAINE-MADE GIFT DO YOU LOVE TO GIVE? Home-made pepper jelly! WHY IT’S SPECIAL: Because it is homemade.
From L AURIE C ATES
SALES R MANAGE
WHO IT’S PERFECT FOR: It is perfect for anyone who likes spicy food but I really make it for our daughter — it is her favorite. COST: Under $5 per jar — one batch makes a lot! WHERE TO GET IT: Ingredients come from Hannaford and jalapenos come from my garden
WHAT MAINE-MADE GIFT DO YOU LOVE TO GIVE? Works by Devenney Pottery, the husband and wife team of Jefferson-based Joseph and Mary Devenney.
From EMILY BU RNHAM B DN REPORTE R
WHY IT’S SPECIAL: The Devenneys have been making beautiful pottery in Maine for more than 40 years. WHO IT’S PERFECT FOR: People who love simple, elegantly designed ceramics, like a sturdy, beautiful and useful mug or bowl. COST: Prices start at $26. WHERE TO GET IT: The Devenneys sell at places like The Rock & Art Shop in Bangor and Ellsworth, and at Archipelago in Rockland.
bangordailynews.com BANGOR DAILY NEWS / 11
MAINE GIFTS
From B A RB MO W ER ADVERTIS ING & L AYOUT COORDIA TOR
WHAT MAINE-MADE GIFT DO YOU LOVE TO GIVE? Lobsters and inhouse smoked salmon from Pine Tree Seafood & Produce Co. WHY IT’S SPECIAL: Maine lobsters are sourced from the bay in Scarborough from the local fisherman’s co-op. Plus the owners are Central Maine guys, Jim Hartley from Corinna and his father-in-law Dick Whitmore, former Colby College basketball coach. WHO IT’S PERFECT FOR: Out-of-state relatives who are hungering for Maine seafood, especially now that traveling is not that easy. COST: Check their website for current prices. WHERE TO GET IT: At pinetreeseafood.com or call them at (207) 730-7121 or stop in at 655 US-1 in Scarborough.
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WHAT MAINE MADE GIFT DO YOU LOVE TO GIVE: Making wine at Central Farmhouse to give to many people on your list. You can take a wine making class and come away with many bottles of wine to drink or share with friends. WHY IT’S SPECIAL: Friends and family will love having a delicious beverage for the holidays made by you. You can even do festive DIY labels to add a personal touch. The wine classes are fun and you can do it with friends. You can choose from so many different options and select the perfect wine you know everyone will enjoy. WHO IT’S PERFECT FOR: Anyone on your gift list who enjoys a glass of wine at the end of a long day. COST: The classes are free but you pay for the Wine Kits which range from $80 to $170 dollars. There is a $25 bottling fee and it is $17.50 for a case of bottles. One kit will make you 27 bottles of wine and the experience is fun which makes it well worth the price. WHERE TO GET IT: Head down to the Central Street Farmhouse in downtown Bangor at 30 Central St.
Fr om LE JANEL J U ND T
NCE FREEL A WRITER
BUY LOCAL!
CHRISTMAS STOCKINGS FROM AWAY UP NORTH Give your family handcrafted and personalized Christmas stockings and Balsam pillows! All made from wool fabric and designed to reflect images and memories of the northwoods of Maine. AWAYUPNORTH.COM
GIFT CARD TO GOVERNOR’S RESTAURANT & BAKERY Give the gift of Gov’s just because, for holidays or any special occasion and make that someone special smile! Gift cards can be purchased online and shipped to an address you choose or purchased in person at any Governor’s Restaurant location. E-Gift Cards can be purchased online and sent by email to arrive within a few minutes. GOVERNORSRESTAURANT.COM
bangordailynews.com BANGOR DAILY NEWS / 13
WHAT MAINE-MADE GIFT DO YOU LOVE TO GIVE? Silver jewelry by Terry Strickland of Old Town.
MAINE GIFTS
WHAT MAINE-MADE GIFT DO YOU LOVE TO GIVE? Hiker boot socks from Northern Solstice Alpaca Farm.
From MARCIE S COOMB
GR APHIC R DESIGNE
WHY IT’S SPECIAL: My husband and I visited their farm this summer (a must see destination... they give free tours!) and picked up a pair of these in their gift shop. They boast of their insulating properties on their website, and it’s true! Wonderful socks! WHO IT’S PERFECT FOR: Almost anyone! COST: $22 WHERE TO GET IT: At their gift shop in Unity or online mainealpacaexperience.com.
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WHY IT’S SPECIAL: The bright sterling silver bracelets, necklaces, earrings and rings are hammered into unique designs that can be worn for any occasion. The complexity of the pieces range from simple hoop earrings to an intricate Byzantine necklace built out of hundreds of linked rings. I own many of his pieces, including a peace sign necklace and dragonfly earrings. WHO IT’S PERFECT FOR: Someone who enjoys local, handcrafted jewelry — and wears silver! The pieces are classic and high quality. Even if someone doesn’t wear a lot of jewelry or they steer away from anything flashy, I bet they’d love to wear one of his simpler designs. COST: Ranges from $5 rings to a $165 Byzantine necklace. WHERE TO GET IT: Visit karrottop.craftah.com. Many of his pieces are sold at the Rock & Art Shop in Bangor and Stars Fine Jewelry in Damariscotta. Also, keep an eye out for the artist at local craft fairs.
From AISLINN SARNACK I
FREEL ANC E WRITER
bangordailynews.com BANGOR DAILY NEWS / 15
MAINE GIFTS
From AM Y ALLEN
BUY LOCAL!
SPECIAL SECTION S EDITOR
WHAT MAINE-MADE GIFT DO YOU LOVE TO GIVE? I’ve got a big family and with any luck I’ll actually get to see them in person this Christmas. Our celebrations always center around food, and a charcuterie board is often the centerpiece. I love to find (and taste) Maine-made cheeses, jams and spreads, fun crackers, prosciutto, nuts, stuffed olives, crusty baguettes and more — and Bangor Wine and Cheese is a great spot for everything you need. Showing up to a party with a charcuterie board is a surefire holiday hit.
WHY IT’S SPECIAL: A good charcuterie board has a little something for everyone. You can also find some really beautiful Maine-made boards on which to serve all your delicious goodies — put it all together and leave the board behind as a gift to the host. It’s the perfect present. WHO IT’S PERFECT FOR: Holiday hosts and anyone who loves good food. COST: Depends on what you include on your board. WHERE TO GET IT: Bangor Wine and Cheese in downtown Bangor has everything you need to create a beautiful charcuterie board, including a huge selection of artisan cheeses, cured meats, locally made chocolates and hundreds of wines to pair with your creation. Eat More Cheese in Belfast is another great spot to check out if you’re on the midcoast.
HANDBAGS FROM JANELL BAGS Just when you thought that there were no American-made bags! They’ve made a comeback! Janell Bags are designed and handcrafted in Newport, Maine. Classy colors and classic styles. Find us at janellbags.com and in our NEW retail shop in Newport! You can love your handbag again! JANELLBAGS.COM
WHAT MAINE-MADE GIFT DO YOU LOVE TO GIVE? A fresh L.L. Bean wreath. WHY IT’S SPECIAL: It gives your home a woodland Christmas feeling and lets you have a piece of “Maine” anywhere you are celebrating the holidays. WHO IT’S PERFECT FOR: Friends and family who live out of state. COST: $45-$60. WHERE TO GET IT: Visit llbean.com. You can also find Maine-made wreaths that are ready to ship from a variety of different local crafters and farms. Just search online!
From R AVE C AROLINA GR APHIC DESIGNER
GLUTEN-FREE GIFT BOX FROM BOX OF MAINE Looking for the perfect gift for your gluten-free friends? The folks at Box of Maine have compiled a tasty selection of Maine-made products for those who are trying to remove gluten from their diet. The gluten-free boxes are just one of many box options featuring iconic Maine gifts, treats and items that will bring back fond memories of our great state. BOXOFMAINE.COM
16 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2021
SHOP LOCAL
EAT, SHOP & ENJOY
Downtown Bangor SUPPORT YOUR NEIGHBORS BY MAKING DOWNTOWN BANGOR YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING HEADQUARTERS
S mall
businesses long have been the heart and soul of local communities. There is something to be said about being on a first-name basis with a local restaurateur or another small business owner, as such familiarity often translates into exemplary service. Consumers who want to help their favorite Downtown Bangor businesses thrive can use the holiday season and beyond to set the course for success. · SHOP LOCAL. The concept is simple but effective. Opting to shop in local stores over larger conglomerates and franchises can help small businesses take root. And chances are your gifts will be one-of-a-kind.
· PURCHASE GIFT CARDS. All businesses have slow periods, and post-holidays is often a time when sales stagnate. Gift cards may bring new customers into local businesses who might otherwise not have patronized them, potentially creating new repeat customers. · EAT, DRINK & BE MERRY. The holiday season is chock-full of opportunities to get together with friends for drinks or dinner out, as well as entertain in your own home. Holiday hosts can rely on nearby restaurants and other food and beverage businesses to cater holiday parties. And while you’re out shopping, enjoy all Downtown Bangor has to offer, including great restaurants ready to feed hungry shoppers.
· TALK THEM UP! Mention small businesses on social media. If you’re excited about a find, share the news! When shopping in local stores, snap pictures of products and overflowing shopping bags and post them online while praising local businesses. It’s also a great way to let others know what you’d like to see in your own holiday stocking. · THINK ABOUT SUBSCRIPTION GIFTS. Enrollment in a health club, massage therapy service or theater tickets are gifts that keep on giving for the recipient, but also help ensure consistent incoming cash for the business providing the service. make towns and cities unique.
Find Great Holiday Shopping, Dining and Entertainment in Downtown Bangor!
VISIT DOWNTOWNBANGOR.COM
bangordailynews.com BANGOR DAILY NEWS / 19
SHOP LOCAL
Find Great Holiday Shopping, Dining and Entertainment in Downtown Bangor!
VISIT DOWNTOWNBANGOR.COM 20 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2021
bangordailynews.com BANGOR DAILY NEWS / 21
EXPERIENCE GIFTS
Give the Gift of a
MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE
GIVE THEM SOMETHING THEY'LL REMEMBER LONG AFTER THE HOLIDAY SEASON
When
BY ERINNE MAGEE
it comes to receiving gifts, it’s hard to remember exactly what was unwrapped the year before, especially if the present was a material item. Experience gifts, on the other hand, tend to stay with us even long after we’ve completed the “doing.” Whether you’re able to gather with friends and family in person or not this holiday season, sending an experience unique to your loved one’s interests echoes a sentiment that sometimes gets lost in big box store gift cards or other possessions. Here are 7 gift ideas to help create everlasting memories for your loved ones:
AIRLINE OR LODGING CERTIFICATE: Staycations are still on the rise with experts seeing no sign of the trend slowing down anytime soon. If you know someone who wants (or needs) a getaway, lodging and airline (or other transportation) gift cards can be a welcomed surprise. If you aren’t sure of hotel preference or even location, no sweat! Many hotels fall under a larger brand umbrella that offers several choices. The ever-popular vacation rental also allows for receiver’s choice, and in Maine, this might include a good old fashioned overnight uptacamp.
PURSUE A PASSION: Long lost hobbies don’t have to be such. Whether an online or in-person class, lesson, skill or certification, there are options for all ages and interests. Choose from languages, team sports, summer camps, yoga classes, music lessons or memberships or even a certification that matches a back-burner calling.
GUIDED TOURS: Playing tourist in your own state can be a fun opportunity to hear someone else’s perspective on a place you know and love. This can be a gift for a tour that already exists, or, if you don’t see the right fit, get creative and curate your own tour. Kids may like to be led around town sampling French pastries. Wrap a beret and take them on an adventure.
PRIVATE CHEF: Food is the love language of many. Hiring a private chef can give someone a night off from cooking or let your foodie throw on an apron and learn a new dish or fresh technique on a classic recipe.
PHOTOSHOOT: Maybe your person needs a headshot for their new business or you have a friend who loves to be in front of the camera. This gift option isn’t just a thoughtful experience but also supports a local artist.
SUBSCRIPTION BOXES: While this seems material at first glance, several subscription boxes prompt interacting. Solve crimes together, grow plants, have your date night pre-planned, try a new recipe, get your bake on or craft to your heart’s delight. Choose the duration of these boxes so it becomes an ongoing gift that meets your desired frequency and budget.
SURPRISE ROADTRIP: There’s something about getting behind the wheel of a car and exploring new land or taking a different scenic route. The bonus here? When someone else does all the planning! Rent their favorite car, preload the GPS (or send addresses of destinations if you aren’t going with them), throw in a gas card and go wild with the road trip snacks.
22 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2021
BUY LOCAL!
CUSTOM CANDLE MAKING EXPERIENCE FROM SEA LOVE | A CANDLE BAR AND BOUTIQUE Maine’s 1st DIY custom candle-making experience is located in the heart of Dock Square in Kennebunkport. Explore 100+ fragrance oils to craft your own scent and pour your own candle. Perfect for friends, couples and holiday parties! SEALOVE.COM
bangordailynews.com BANGOR DAILY NEWS / 23
TEACHER GIFTS
GIFTS THAT WILL MAKE YOU THE
8 GIFT IDEAS TO BRING A SMILE TO A TEACHER’S FACE
The
BY WANDA CURTIS
holiday season is a great time to show our appreciation for all the teachers who work our children all year long. Throughout the pandemic, school teachers have been on the front line — here are a few ideas to say thank you.
5. TOTE BAG: Every teacher can use a tote bag. Many are simple to make and can be personalized by using the teacher’s favorite colors and special interests. Patterns are available in most fabric departments and online, and some are even reversible.
1. PERSONALIZED FACE MASKS: Many school districts are now requiring teachers to wear masks. So why not provide a favorite teacher with a supply of attractive face masks which can be personalized to match their profession? Some online companies now allow consumers to choose the color and designs of masks, including the printed names of subjects such as reading, math or social studies, as well as pictures of school items such as books or pencils, or even basketballs for the coaches in your child’s life. (The CDC recommends that all masks be at least two layers thick with a nose wire.)
6. SCARF & GLOVES SET: Whether store bought or homemade using a teacher’s favorite colors, a scarf and gloves set always comes in handy during the winter. Sets for both men and women can be found from many local Maine artisans.
2. BASKET OF SNACKS: Most teachers can use a pick-me-up snack during the day. Why not find out their favorite snack foods and fill a decorative basket with those items? Include nutritious items like trail mix or raisins or granola bars. Throw in a few small scented pine cones and include a nice holiday bow and the gift will be complete.
8. CANDY JAR: The holiday season is a great time to share a decorative candy jar filled with homemade fudge, tiny candy canes or other holiday delights from local bakeries and candy makers. Tie some holiday ribbon around the jar with a bow or wrap a short string of tiny twinkling Christmas lights around it for a festive touch.
3. HOT DRINK MIXES: As winter rolls around the corner, most people enjoy a hot drink to get warmed up. Hot cocoa, herbal teas and even powdered soup mix in a decorative basket make a nice gift. Those items along with a personalized mug are sure to bring a smile to a teacher’s face. 4. SCENTED CANDLE: After a long stressful day at work, many people enjoy lighting a scented candle at home to create a warm, relaxing atmosphere. Find out the teacher’s favorite scent and add a Christmas candle ring for a nice holiday touch. 24 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2021
7. CALENDAR BOOK: Every teacher needs a calendar book to schedule and keep track of both personal and school activities. Many styles and sizes are available, and some include calendars for multiple years.
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MORE GREAT GIFT IDEAS...
TEA SAMPLER KIT
TENSION RELIEF GIFT SET
MUG BUDDIES FROM
FROM TEA MAINEIA
BY PERRY HOME NATURALS
MUG BUDDY COOKIES
Give a little relaxation in a cup. Sampler kits from Tea Maineia include five 1 oz. packages of loose tea and 20 tea filters. Kits are available in their Winterport store and online. Check out 130 varieties of loose tea, many of which are blended in-house, along with a large selection of tea pots, tea cups and tea accessories.
Who couldn’t use a little tension relief? This handcrafted gift set contains an aromatherapy eye pillow, a small custom-blend Tension Relief room and linen spray, a chickadee sachet filled with organic lavender and a hand-stamped tree design sachet. You can choose which blend to use for the eye pillow and the scent for the tree sachet, including Maine balsam fir or organic lavender.
Mug Buddy Cookies specializes in handcrafting whimsical 3D mug topper cookies called Mug Buddies. Each cookie is made from scratch before being hand decorated and assembled by a team of icing artists. And the best part — they taste as good as they look! Order online or find local retailers on their website.
TEAMAINEIA.COM
PERRYHOMENATURALS.COM
MUGBUDDYCOOKIES.COM
bangordailynews.com BANGOR DAILY NEWS / 25
TEEN GIFTS
WHAT TO GET YOUR
Teenager
5 GREAT GIFTS FOR TWEENS AND TEENS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
COURTESY OF METRO CREATIVE
Children
often marvel at the world around them. They’re delighted to receive just about any toy, and play with items that others may not see as fun — including everything from mixing bowls to cardboard boxes. Slowly that cherubic toddler turns into a school-aged wonder, and later into a young adult trying to find his or her place in the world. With each passing year, the task of finding gifts for tweens and teenagers becomes that much more challenging. While most parents and other relatives may never seem “cool” in the eyes of their teens, they can gift the tweens and teens they love with presents that will earn them a few extra brownie points. The following are five gift ideas that are tailor-made for tweens and teens. 1. LED STRIP LIGHTS Every kid wants to customize their rooms as they see fit. Teens can utilize LED strip lights to create a unique ambiance that reflects their style. These often self-sticking ribbons of lights adhere right to walls. They come in a variety of lengths so they can be used to frame the perimeter of the room, if desired. Complete with multicolored options and a remote control, teens can set their room colors as their mood dictates. 2. GIFT CARDS Teens try to keep up with the latest styles. A gift card or clothing gift from one of their favorite retailers can help them build their ensembles that much quicker. Aeropostale, Abercrombie & Fitch, Hollister, Forever 21, Zumiez, American Eagle and Tilly’s are just some of the stores popular among today’s tweens and teens. 3. WIRELESS EARBUDS OR HEADPHONES Wireless headphones are used on a daily basis by tweens and teens. They rely on them for listening to music, watching movies on their devices and even during remote learning sessions. There are many brands to choose from, and Beats by Dre and Apple AirPods are among the most popular. 4. SNEAKERS AND SHOES Sneakers have long been popular gifts for teenagers, but they tend to be costly, especially for trending styles and brands. Vans Slip-On® Core Classics, Converse Chuck Taylor All Star High Top Sneakers, Reebok Club C 85 Vintage, Nike Air Force One and Adidas Sobakov are popular among today’s tweens and teens. In addition, thanks to the resurgence of 1990s style, Dr. Martens boots are once again in demand. 5. VIDEO GAME CONSOLES Each gamer has his or her preferred platform for gaming. From the Nintendo Switch to the Xbox Series X to the Sony PlayStation 5, these systems are in high demand. Due to that demand, these products may be harder to find the closer you get to Christmas Day. Grab them while you can and soak in the smile on your favorite tween’s or teen’s face. Teens and tweens are notoriously challenging to shop for. However, with some knowledge, loved ones can find gifts tweens and teens are more likely to use and enjoy.
26 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2021
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HOT COCOA MIX FROM BIXBY CHOCOLATE Warm some hearts this holiday season with Bixby Peppermint Drinking Chocolate. Rich dark chocolate and peppermint are ready to be melted into the milk of your choice, creating a thick hot chocolate drink that is simply delicious! Available at independent stores across Maine or online. BIXBYCO.COM
bangordailynews.com BANGOR DAILY NEWS / 27
FOR HOME COOKS
Gifts for
HOME COOKS 10 GIFT IDEAS FOR PEOPLE WHO LOVE TO COOK
Many
people know someone who loves spending lots of time in the kitchen. Certain home cooks may enjoy whipping up favorite recipes, while others might get excited about experimenting with new flavors and ingredients. A love of cooking paves the way for many different gifting opportunities. Foodrelated gifts also come in a wide variety of price points, making it easy for shoppers to spend as little or as much as they want. Check out these 10 gift ideas for the foodie on your holiday shopping list. 1. SHEET PANS: They may not seem like the most sexy or high-tech tools of the kitchen, but sheet pans are among the most versatile. They can be used for cookies, sheet pan cakes, oven-frying cutlets or fries, or even serving as the perfect bases for candy brittles. 2. AIR FRYER TOOL SET: By now many people have hopped on the air fryer bandwagon, but they may not have all of the accessories to take air frying to the next level. From spatulas to tongs to silicone brushes, an air fryer tool set can make meals even more delicious.
28 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2021
COURTESY OF METRO CREATIVE 3. DUTCH OVEN: You’d be hard-pressed to find a more hard-working tool in the kitchen than a Dutch oven. These heavy, often enameled cast iron vessels come in various quart sizes. They can be used to cook stews, breads, cakes and much more. 4. KITCHEN COMPOST BIN: Home cooks who want to cut down on waste will appreciate a countertop compost bin to gather food scraps. 5. SERVING BOARD: The rise in cheese and charcuterie boards means cooks will need something attractive to serve their spreads. Wooden and stone boards are attractive when serving sliced cheeses, crackers, chutneys and other appetizer. 6. ELECTRIC WINE OPENER: Wine is the perfect complement to many dishes, and what easier way to open bottles than with an electric wine opener? Many are compatible with almost any bottleneck and can open several bottles on a single charge. 7. SPIRALIZER: The trend for pasta alternatives continues, and having a spiralizer that can turn vegetables like zucchini into spiraled “noodles” will be handy in most kitchens.
8. APRON AND ACCESSORIES: Home cooks need to protect their clothing in the kitchen. A fashionable apron and matching oven mitts can make a statement and keep clothes clean. 9. MEAT DELIVERY: The number of directto-home meat shipping providers continues to grow. Have quality cuts of meat delivered right to a home cook’s house so that he or she can cut back on trips to the store. 10. NEW BLENDER: Today’s blenders can crush ice, process foods, puree and chop foods. These versatile appliances make a welcome addition to any kitchen. Stock up on food-related gifts now for those people on your holiday shopping list who love to cook.
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KNIFE ROLL FROM WEFT AND WARP Food Network’s Chopped winner and longtime chef Rachel LeGloahec is the owner of Weft and Warp, where she hand-sews and stitches knife rolls made from leather and waxed canvas for professional and home chefs, artists and craftspeople in Maine and beyond. With seven designs and color options (and semicustom features), there’s a roll to carry every chef’s load. Find the knife roll to fit your needs online, or locally at Strata in Portland or the Thompson’s Point Maker’s Market. WEFTANDWARPMAINE.COM
TEA TOWELS FROM EMMA B. GARCELON Give a beautiful, Maine-made kitchen accessory this holiday. Warm 100% cotton hand block or screen printed tea towels make perfect gifts, are eco friendly and will brighten your kitchen or bathroom. Find Emma B. Garcelon tea towels, napkins, prints, tote bags and more online and at Maine retailers like Swallowfield in Northeast Harbor, The Woods Maine in Norway, Maine Craft in Portland, Venn + Maker in Portland and more. EMMABGARCELON.COM
bangordailynews.com BANGOR DAILY NEWS / 29
FOOD GIFTS
GREAT HOMEMADE
Food Gifts
Gifts
from the heart are among the most coveted and appreciated come the holiday season. Hobbyists from all walks of life can turn their passions into handmade gifts, but few gifts may be as welcomed as those that can be eaten. Cooking and baking ramps up during the holiday season. People can turn extra time in the kitchen into opportunities to create festive treats that are ideal for gifting. But which items are the best of the best? Even though tastes are singular, these items will appeal to most foodies and others on your gift list.
SPICE UP THE HOLIDAYS WITH A TASTY HOMEMADE TREAT COURTESY OF METRO CREATIVE
· JAMS AND PRESERVES: Fruit jams and preserves are versatile foods. They are as at home on toast and biscuits as they are as fillings in cookies and tarts. Jams and preserves can be made with relatively few ingredients and work well with seasonal fruits. You can also find a variety of Maine companies selling a wide selection of jams and preserves to satisfy every taste bud. · CINNAMON ROLLS: Warm, sticky and full of aromatic spice, cinnamon rolls are the perfect comfort foods. These rolls do not typically have a long shelf life, so be sure to present them promptly before they get stale. · PANCAKES (OR COOKIES) IN A JAR: If you have a fantastic recipe that you can’t resist sharing, try turning it into a gift. Measure and package the ingredients into mason jars, tie with ribbons and include directions for preparation and cooking. · MINI BUNDT CAKES: Fruit cakes may be a holiday standard, but bundt cakes make for great and traditional offerings as well. Miniature bundts filled with chocolate chips, dried fruits or even those soaked in a favorite boozy-butter glaze can be moist and delicious. · CHOCOLATE BARKS OR FUDGES: Seasonal flavors can come to life in chocolate treats. White chocolate filled with peppermint pieces or dark chocolate and cherry chunks are tasty pairings. Break apart portions of the bark or cut the fudge with cookie cutters and gift inside cello bags tied with ribbons or in cardboard candy boxes. · COCKTAIL SYRUPS: Create spicy or sweet syrups that are tailor-made for enhancing cocktails. Anyone on your gift list can then become a master mixologist. · SHORTBREAD COOKIE ORNAMENTS: Circular shortbread cookies can be decorated with royal icing to look like Christmas ornaments. They can be eaten or even placed on trees to complete holiday decor. · FESTIVE CAKE POPS: Cake pops can be made by mixing homemade or prepurchased crumbled cake with frosting or softened cream cheese and formed into balls. Insert a lollipop stick and dip the balls into melted chocolate or candy melts. Sprinkles, nonpareils or luster dust can be used to enhance the covered pops. Food gifts are perfect for the holiday season. Make your own or pick up goodies from a nearby Maine bakery or food shop and how just much you care.
30 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2021
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LEATHER RECIPE ORGANIZER FROM GALLERY LEATHER Give the foodie in your life a beautiful way to store treasured family recipes with an organizer from Gallery Leather. A Maine-based company, Gallery Leather offers handcrafted planners, journals, albums, organizers and more. Visit the outlet store at 8 Industrial Way in Trenton or order online. GALLERYLEATHER.COM
CHEESECAKE FROM MOMO’S CHEESECAKES Momo (aka Brenda Ledezma) opened Momo’s Cheesecakes back in 2016, and she’s been running her business on the Honor System since day one. Several large double door coolers are filled with up to 70 different flavors of freshly made cheesecake slices and whole cheesecakes that are available for grab-and-go. If you’d like to preorder cheesecake or gift cards just contact us a few days in advance via text message, social media DM’s, email or phone. Your order will be ready in the reserved cooler with your name on it! FACEBOOK.COM/ MOMOSCHEESECAKES bangordailynews.com BANGOR DAILY NEWS / 31
STAY AT HOME GIFTS
The Gift of Being
COZY AT HOME A GIFT GUIDE FOR THE HOMEBODY IN YOUR LIFE
We
BY KATIE SMITH
all have that one (or a few of them) family member or friend who would just rather stay home. They like their quiet space and would choose staying in to watch a movie underneath a cozy blanket than go out for dinner and movie any night of the week. What better way to help them live their truth than to give them something that makes their homebody lifestyle even better and more comfortable? BOOKS Chances are, the homebody in your life loves reading. Books make such a great gift and give us something to look forward to after the holiday has wrapped up and we are looking to recharge. If you aren’t sure which genre your homebody likes and you don’t want to spoil the surprise you can select a cookbook, a great coffee table book or even a journal. BLANKETS Homebodies can never have enough blankets. They need one for every room, plus a few extras. If you aren’t sure of their color scheme you can never go wrong with a neutral color like camel, tan, ivory or gray. GOURMET COFFEE AND/OR CHOCOLATE If they are a coffee drinker, they will love having a variety of coffees to choose from right from their own kitchen. If the homebody you know likes chocolate, then a gourmet stash they can have on hand is the perfect thing to give them. It feels a lot more special to have something fancy waiting for you in the pantry whether you are relaxing on a Monday evening or need to pick me up on a Friday after a busy week. 32 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2021
SLIPPERS It makes sense — if you are home more you wear less shoes. Cozy slippers are a must for the winter months and especially appreciated by those who don’t leave the house much. Something soft and warm they can easily slip on will brighten their morning on those chilly days. GIFT BOX SUBSCRIPTIONS This is a great way to give them a gift that will arrive at their doorstep. There are so many different gift box subscriptions to choose from. You can find everything from makeup to food to pet supplies. CANDLES Nothing makes a home more inviting than a candle. You can choose from several different scents, unscented varieties or even a faux candle in a nice holder that will burn forever. PLANTS Plants make our house feel like a home. You can visit your local florist or greenhouse to pick out the perfect houseplant to keep your homebody company. There are also so many different faux varieties out there if you don’t think they have a greenthumb. LUXURIOUS TOWELS & SCENTED SOAPS Just because they prefer to stay home over traveling doesn’t mean they can't have the feel of a luxury hotel or spa right from their home. And there are lots of local companies that make delicious smelling (and looking) soaps. These make great, pampering gifts on their own, or when added to a set of towels.
bangordailynews.com BANGOR DAILY NEWS / 33
