Holiday gift guide

In 2020, words like strange, odd and unprecedented have lost their meaning, buried under the avalanche of weird that this year has dropped on all of us.

One bit of normalcy, however, is the need to knock out a little holiday shopping. After all, a thoughtful gift still goes a long way toward making the season brighter for that special someone.

As always, your friends at Johnston Now are here to help. We’ve asked around and gathered a few gift giving ideas that will not only tickle the fancy of those on your shopping list, but help you shop local and support your neighbors this holiday season.

With that, we wish you all the best this holiday season. Happy shopping!

Glow Yoga Gift Certificate

If you have someone on your list that’s into yoga, a gift certificate from Glow Yoga in Clayton is a fine choice. They can be used for local handmade items from the Namaste Boutique and yoga classes, workshops and trainings. There are also locally farmed organic CBD flower and pre-rolls, handmade jewelry, essential oils, Glow Yoga apparel and much more. For more details, visit www. glowyoganc.com.

2020 Themed Christmas Ornaments

For just $7.50 for each, you can put an ornament on your tree that tells the world how just you feel about 2020. It’s a different take on the notion of putting a new ornament on the tree each year, but this year, it seems appropriate. This is just one of the many unique and customizable gift ideas on offer at Oak City Collection. For more details, stop by the shop on Third Street in Smithfield.

Black Creek Arsenal Gift Certificate

The folks at Black Creek Arsenal in Four Oaks also have gift certificates on offer. They can be customized to whatever amount you like and can be used on anything in the store. It’s a father-and-son owned gun shop with a full time gunsmith, and they buy, sell, trade, repair, clean and transfer firearms. Ammunition, guns parts and gun accessories are also available. Learn more at www.blackcreekarsenal.com.

Custom Monogrammed Corkscrew

This is a traditional metal corkscrew but with a personal touch. They can monogram it with either a Roman (more masculine) or Vine (more feminine) font for the wine lover on your list. For more details, stop by Oak City Collection on Third Street in Smithfield.

Handmade Chocolate Truffles

It’s hard to go wrong with chocolate, and the folks at The Queen’s Court in Downtown Clayton have just such a treat — chocolate truffles from Sweet Shop USA for $24.99.

“These chocolates are so good, we keep selling out. Customers tell us they are the most incredible chocolates they have eaten! ... Included in this assortment are Double Chocolate, Fudge Love, Over the Top, Red Velvet and Sea Salt Caramel.” To learn more, call 919-631-2443.

Kurgo Bridge

Our friends at Just Dog People always have the best ideas when it comes to man’s best friend, and the Kurgo Bridge is no exception. The bridge provides extra comfort and space while riding your dog in the backseat by “bridging” the gap between the front and back seats. For multi-dog families that have trouble fitting their furry pals in the backseat, this is your answer! It’s $59.99, and you can find out all about it at Just Dog People on Glen Road in Garner (919-977-7822).

Ready Set Escape Gift Certificate

There’s no shame in going the gift card route for gift giving. I’ve done it myself on many occasions. It is, after all, a sure-fire way to make sure the person you’re shopping for likes their gift. But instead of an Amazon or Walmart gift card, why not give the gift of adventure? Ready Set Escape, conveniently located in Smithfield, offers three different escape room adventures guaranteed to thrill adventure seekers. Pirate’s Plunder is a room ideally suited for novice players, Hollywood Heist is jam packed with fun movie references and, for experienced players, Monopoly Mania offers a two-room experience to test would-be escape artists. Because of COVID-19 restrictions, all rooms are private. For pricing or to learn more, visit www.ready-set-escape.com.

Grandpaws K9 Interactive Services Gift Certificate

During this time of year, many people get puppies and rescue dogs for Christmas. However, by February or March, the shelters are full of untrained dogs. Grandpaws can help you build a lasting relationship with your dog and avoid the pitfalls of early dog ownership. Normal price for a consultation is $175, but if you want to give your loved one a gift certificate for a consultation, the cost will be $150. There are also customizable gift cards for other services depending on one’s needs. Learn more at www.GrandpawsK9.com.

Starmark Bob-A-Lot

An interactive dog puzzle toy (available in two sizes) to keep Fido entertained while providing mental stimulation! Dogs get bored easily, so help them challenge themselves to get the treats out in this multi-level toy. The Bob-A-Lot can also be used as slow-feeder for dogs that inhale their kibble too fast. It give a whole new meaning to ‘working for your dinner!’ Pricing ranges from $15.99 to $23.99. Call Just Dog People at 919-977-7822 to find out more.

Mistletoe-Scented Candle

This beautifully scented candle is in a decorative vessel filled with clean burning soy wax. You can re-purpose or refill it long after the wax has melted away. They are hand poured in the USA in small batches and just $19.99. To find more gift ideas at The Queen’s Court, call 919-631-2443.

Round Halo Necklace

Jewelry is always a go-to gift option for that special someone, and you can pick up a piece of timeless elegance at Selma Jewelry. The Lafonn Round Halo Necklace (.62 ct) features Lafonn’s signature Lassaire round simulated diamonds in sterling silver bonded with platinum — all for $140. Learn more at www.selmajewelrync.com.

The Inn at Pine Knoll Shores

Give the gift of ocean proximity with our friends at the Inn at Pine Knoll Shores. Relax in an oceanfront room and let the waves carry your worries away. The facility has a full restaurant and bar, pool, hot tub and workout room. This month, you can book a room for just $99! Learn more at www.theinnatpks.com.

Citizen Promaster Diver Watch

In the interest of equal time, our friends at Selma Jewelry have an option for men, too. With Eco-Drive technology, the Citizen Promaster Diver is powered by light and never needs a battery. This watch is featured in stainless steel with azure blue aluminum bezel and matching azure blue dial. All Citizen watches are 20 percent off, and for more information, visit www. selmajewelrync.com.

HealthQuest Membership and Gift Cards

Give the gift of health! Encourage your family and friends by showing them how much you care about them. Purchase a one-month membership for only $40 through Dec. 31. HealthQuest is loaded with amenities, including: strength training equipment, free weights, pools, steam rooms, massage therapy, personal training, swim lessons, nutritional counseling, child care services and more. You can also purchase gift cards at HealthQuest for any amount that can be used for any service or pro shop items. Massage gift cards are also available, and through their loyalty program, if you buy five massages, the sixth one is free. Visit www.johnstonhealth.org/ healthquest or call 919-938- 7581 to learn more.

CC Fur Pom Toboggans

The CC Fur Top Toboggans from 104 Clothing & Boutique make the best stocking stuffer! There are several pattern and color options just in time for Christmas. Just $24 each. 104 Clothing & Boutique is a small, female-owned business located in the Cleveland Community. To learn more, download their app, find them on Facebook or check out the store on N.C. 42 West in Garner.

Wool Fedora Hats

Clothing & Boutique ($30) are a wardrobe must have! There are solid and patterned belt options and they can be styled with so many outfits all year long. To learn more, download their app, find them on Facebook or check out the store on N.C. 42 West in Garner.