Have you ever noticed how many incredibly talented people are in our area? The Cape Fear Region is FILLED with amazing artists in almost every possible medium.

It’s so easy to spend lots of money online and in big box stores buying things that people will enjoy for a short time but why not spend money locally on something that people will treasure for years to come and will support your neighbors and community at large? Not to mention we have all seen the effects of shipping delays over the past 2 years.

Below is a list of some of my favorite holiday gifts from local artisans. And if you know me personally, you may expect to get some of these in the coming weeks :)

*These are not paid advertisements or endorsements, merely things I like made by people I don’t know personally but are most definitely worth supporting!

Ornaments from Sunburnt Blues

Lynsey at Sunburnt Blues uses resin to recreate the beauty of the ocean. Each piece is handcrafted and unique. I bought some of her ornaments for myself and my clients and honestly, I’m trying to find a place to hang them so they can be out all year. Be sure to check out her charcuterie boards, mirrors, and wall art too!

Each ornament is unique and there are so many styles to choose from.

Abstract Calendar by Ella Friberg

Ella is a former OT like myself and an incredible local artist. The awesome mural on the side of Wilmington Brewing? Yep, that’s Ella. She also has some beautiful abstract paintings that you can see on display locally. If you are looking for a gift that people will enjoy all year, consider giving her 2022 Abstract Art Calendar. Each month’s painting can be trimmed to fit a 5x5 frame. And what’s even cooler? The stand is made by local non-profit Kids Making It, a “youth woodworking program that teaches valuable vocational, entrepreneurial and life skills to at-risk, low income and disadvantaged youth.” Win win!

You could choose to have a calendar filled with beautiful, frameable art…or one with those cheesy motivational quotes with pictures of animals taken in the 80’s. I’m just saying I know which one I would pick…

Pet Portraits by Mossy Fox Studio

Have you ever tried doing woodburning? It’s not easy. And to make it look GOOD? Definitely not easy! Check out these incredible pet portraits by Laura over at Mossy Fox - perfect for the pet lover in your life! The attention to detail, shading, and overall realism of these are truly mind boggling!

*Due to the personalized nature of these commissioned pieces, the piece may not be finished in time to be given on Christmas but the waiting will only make the final product more exciting!

Look at that DETAIL! Holy cow! Also, if you are the owner of this dog and looking to rehome him/her, might I direct you to my contact page…

Ceramic Trees from Clay Hive

Ok, I need to be honest. I am a total sucker for ceramics and pottery. As in, after discovering Shandi at Clay Hive it took me a while to decide which single group of items to highlight. Take a look at these ceramic trees. I may or may not be rethinking my entire Christmas decor setup to incorporate that rainbow of trees. And honestly, I’m also eyeing the herb markers. And the pumpkins. And the bowls. And…

Is there a “select all” purchase option? Because that’s what I want.

Oyster Knives from Cape Fear Oyster Knives

In my house, we are currently celebrating Oyster Season. You may know it as Autumn/Winter. But not around here! If an oyster roast is part of your Christmas dinner tradition like it is for us (or Saturday tradition), then check out these oyster knives. They are beautifully handcrafted and will last forever - meaning you can save your butter knives for things like, I don’t know, butter. Oh, and did I mention that they can also be used as a bottle opener? Yeah, officially the perfect oyster roast tool.

An oyster knife that can open your oyster and your beer. It’s like a spork. But better.

And last but not least, I would be remiss to exclude the return of the beloved…

A Charlie Brown Christmas at The Wilson Center

If you have lived in Wilmington for more than a few years, chances are you have attended the annual production of A Charlie Brown Christmas. Unfortunately the show was cancelled the past 2 years but is making its grand return for 2 performances on December 11. The cast is comprised of Cape Fear Community College students and local musicians and is truly fun for all ages. And did I mention children under 12 are FREE?! Now THAT is a good deal! The event also supports the Good Shepherd Center so bring a canned good or household item to support those in need.

*While children under 12 are free, a ticket is still required for admission.

**As of the time of this post, masks are required and attendees will be socially distanced.