Virginia Gift Guide
You have probably heard Virginia is for lovers, but did you also know it’s a state for people who love to shop local? From the many artisans (jewelry and leather goods to start) and purveyors specializing in Virginia products (wine, anyone?), you can find fantastic gifts for all kinds of different occasions.
As the holiday season is fast approaching, I know I’ll be searching for the perfect holiday gifts for friends and family, so I want to make sure I’m coming up with items with a special and unique touch. Plus, who doesn’t love the added bonus of knowing you are shopping local? It’s such an easy way to support the economy while enjoying local products!
Virginia Gift Guide
I actually got inspired to do this post on a trip to one of my favorite local stores, Brigid & Bess. Full of adorable products from all around the state of Virginia, it struck me just how many options there are when it comes to Virginia gift buying.
What Products Is Virginia Known For
Virginia is known for a variety of items. It’s a great state for wine, craft beer and whiskey. You can find great blue crab and oysters here due to its proximity to the water. It’s even a great state for peanuts! Honestly, if you think of a gift idea chances are there’s a great place here to get it.
From artisans in small towns to bigger groups in the cities, there is such a wide variety of gift options to choose from that sometimes it can be overwhelming to narrow down your ideas. To help with your gift planning, I’ve grouped everything in the following categories:
Art & Design
If you have an art lover in your life, there are several local artisans creating beautiful and unique items. From cardboard animals heads (you read that right) to retro prints, you’ll be able to find objects to suit anyone’s taste.
Animal Head from Cardboard Safari
Looking to add a touch of whimsy to your gift giving? Cardboard Safari makes fun and unique pieces of art for the home. Based in the Blue Ridge Mountains, their method is using technology to make sculptural art out of 100% recyclable materials. Especially fun is their classic collection of cardboard animal heads, including deer, moose and even unicorn.
Pictured: Bucky Cardboard Deer Head from Cardboard Safari (photo courtesy of website)
Print from Barbara Shenefield Art + Design
I personally love Barbara Shenefield’s prints. A former New Yorker based in Charlottesville, VA, Barbara’s 13x19 designs have a clean and colorful feel while also having a bit of a retro aesthetic. You can easily find pieces featuring Virginia/DC landmarks, like the Blue Ridge Mountains or the James River, or you can create a custom piece. There is also the option for framing the piece if you want to make it extra special.
Vase from Everlasting Pottery
Sometimes a pretty piece of pottery can make the best keepsake gift. Handmade in small batches, Everlasting Pottery has pieces that are both beautiful and one of a kind. I adore the vases from their Etsy Store - they are so cute! Fill one with dried flowers (from a local florist, of course) and you have a beautiful present. I’ve actually done this idea for birthdays and it’s always a hit; it would make a perfect gift for a hostess if you are looking for something outside of wine or regular flowers.
Mad Kitchen Co
I’m sure it’s not going to be surprising how much I love a good Charlottesville themed piece of art. When I saw Madison Pollard’s pieces at Brigid & Bess I was obsessed. While she is Richmond based, Madison has several Charlottesville pieces and I love how fun they are. My personal favorite is the downtown art print - it captures the feel of Charlottesville perfectly.
Pictured: Charlottesville Downtown print by Mad Kitchen Co. from Brigid & Bess
Clothing & Jewelry
I always think clothing & jewelry gifts are fun when you know the person really well. I especially love jewelry for a personal and meaningful touch if you want to go sentimental and there are a lot of Virginia based designers to choose from.
Birthstone Necklaces from Anne Vaughan
Handcrafted in Floyd, Virginia, Anne Vaughan’s pieces are one of a kind. Her birthstone necklaces especially make a lovely and thoughtful gift. Delicate and simple, you can choose the metal (silver or gold) and length (16 - 18 inches). I think these would be lovely if you are looking to buy for sisters or a group of friends.
Agnes Wallet Clutch from Awl Snap
Richmond based Awl Snap got its start on Etsy in 2009. They believe leather goods should be of high quality and timeless; as a result, they create gorgeous and classic pieces. I personally think nothing beats a solid wallet clutch and this one can even fit your phone! Plus, it has a removable wrist strap…I’m not going to lie, this is going on my personal wishlist for the holidays.
Pictured: Agnes Wallet Clutch from Awl Snap (photo courtesy of website)
Sweatshirt from Barbabe
Who doesn’t love a cozy sweatshirt in the colder months? Katie Cox creates simple but fun t-shirts and sweatshirts that will make the perfect gift for the sweet but sarcastic person in your life. My personal favorite is the Love That For You hoodie - very cute.
Virginia State Necklace from Girls Day Out
I first became a fan of Girls Day Out when I spotted them at the City Market in Charlottesville, VA. Amy Houston’s pieces are delicate and cute and she is always absolutely lovely to everyone who stops by her stand. While I think her Tiny Deer Antlers necklace is adorable, the Virginia State necklace is perfect to gift for the VA lover in your life.
Pictured: Tiny Deer Antlers necklaces from Girls Day Out (photo courtesy of etsy site)
Domed Ring from Maslo Jewelry
Based out of Richmond, VA, Nicole Maslowski first started her jewelry company by creating pieces from reworked vintage items. Over the years, the style has evolved but still holds onto that feeling of creating something new from the past. The domed rings are timeless and cool, perfect for any classic fashionista in your life.
Recycled Skateboard Money Clip from Scene3Designs
Hailing from Lynchburg, VA, Scene3Designs takes old skateboards and repurposes the materials to make wallets, jewelry and - my personal favorite - this great money clip. An unconventional spin on a classic gift, this product also promotes sustainability. You can order from their website or their Etsy store.
A Custom Piece from Sister Sister Jewelry
As I mentioned, I think sentimental jewelry pieces can make the most meaningful gifts and they don’t get more meaningful than the pieces from Sister Sister. Inspired to create jewelry after losing her sister, Lisa Maurer makes pieces to honor loved ones by getting to know your personal stories. As a result, you are left with something incredibly special your recipient will be able to cherish forever.
Virginia Experience Gifts
Sometimes the best gifts are fun experiences. They are also a fantastic way to support local businesses. From cooking classes to food tours, there isn’t a shortage of unique experiences to have. Below are some of my personal favorites for an experience gift.
Book an Experience at Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards
Pippin Hill is known for its beautiful setting, as well as its great food & wine. They also provide several experiences throughout the year, ranging from Estate Tours & Tastings to Cooking School. Booking one of their experiences would make for a fantastic and creative gift your recipient will be sure to remember - and maybe you’ll even benefit from whatever they learn! Check out how to book here.
Have a Foodie Day Out with Discover Richmond Tours
I love food, so much so that I frequently refer to myself as “very food focused”. Unsurprisingly, there is nothing I love more than taking a food tour of a city I’m visiting. I’ve done multiple and they are a great way to explore, learn fun facts about the area and enjoy good food. As Richmond, VA is known for being a great food city, gifting a foodie a food tour would clearly be the way to their heart (or stomach, as it were). Check out the offerings from Discover Richmond Tours - they offer several packages with or without alcohol.
Take in a Show at the American Shakespeare Center
If you have a theater lover in your life, consider surprising them with a weekend away to Staunton, VA. You can book tickets to the current showing at the American Shakespeare Center, Virginia’s premier classical theater, and then make a weekend out of exploring the town itself. You can find their upcoming performances listed here.
Ride the Virginia Scenic Railway
Do you know someone who absolutely loves trains? Why not consider booking a ticket on the Virginia Scenic Railway? Starting off in Staunton, VA in the Shenandoah Valley, you’ll take a scenic ride through the Blue Ridge Mountains. Enjoy a meal and conversation as you take in the views! Once stopped, why not make a night of it and explore the area?
Williamsburg Food Tour
Of course I’m going to suggest another food experience - I’m food focused! However, you have to agree this would be a fun twist on a visit to Colonial Williamsburg; after all, who wouldn’t want to mix history with modern day culinary experiences?
Virginia Food Gifts
With all of the wineries, breweries, distilleries and restaurants in the state of Virginia, it is no surprise food and drink themed gifts tend to be popular. Here is a list of some of the delicious gifts I find the most fun to give.
Allen’s Shortbread
Scottish Shortbread in Charlottesville, VA? Is that a thing? Yes it is, and it is delicious. Passed down over generations, this family owned business creates amazing shortbread that makes for fantastic stocking stuffers, especially for the tea lover in your life. After all, who isn’t a fan of baked goods?
AR’s Hot Southern Honey
I LOVE hot honey. The spicy sweetness goes well with so many things, from almond butter to avocado toast - it’s honestly one of my favorite condiments. AR’s Hot Southern Honey hails from Richmond, VA and is amazing. I recommend this for any foodie in your life, as they’ll be sure to have fun experimenting with ways to use the product. They even have recipes to get you started!
Back Pocket Provisions
Pictured: Bloody Mary mixes from Back Pocket Provisions (photo courtesy of website)
I’m a sucker for a Bloody Mary. If I’m enjoying a savory brunch (or if I need a hair of the dog), it’s my go to drink. However, I don’t think anything beats a super fresh tasting mix and that can be hard to find. This Richmond company sources fresh ingredients that are “flawed” from small farms (the kind of products that don’t look aesthetically pleasing) in order to create four fun flavors of mixes. Delicious and with a good mission, their products make a great gift for the brunch fan in your life.
Barrier Islands Salt Co
Did you know Virginia is home to the longest expanse of coastal wilderness on the East Coast, the Virginia Coast Reserve? Barrier Islands Salt Co uses the salt water from here to make their Pure Flake Finishing Salt. It adds a great touch to whatever you are cooking, whether you’re opting for sweet or savory.
Crescent Simples
Confession: I love making cocktails but I hate making simple syrups. I know it sounds so dumb because it’s not a crazy complicated thing to make, but it’s enough to turn me off from a recipe sometimes. That’s why I was so excited when I found out about Crescent Simples! They use fresh ingredients to make fun flavors that are just what you need to elevate your cocktail game. My personal favorite is the Lime Jalapeño, perfect for a spicy margarita!
(Craft) Beer Me…a Gift Card!
Virginia is full of craft breweries. In fact, it is home to over 200 and so many of them are fantastic! If you have a beer lover in your life, consider different options for beer gifts. You could do gift cards to a favorite brewery, like Richbrau Brewing in Richmond or Starr Hill.
…or a Beer Club Membership
In keeping with the craft beer theme, you could also consider signing someone up for a beer club, like the one offered by Three Notch’d in Charlottesville- it’s a gift that keeps on giving and will keep the recipient’s beer fridge well stocked.
Virginia Beer by Lee Graves
Beer lovers can be bookworms too, so why not give the gift of a book about Virginia craft beer? Written by Virginia Beer Historian Lee Graves, Virginia Beer covers the history of Virginian beer from the Colonial Times to the Craft Golden Age. It’s sure to make for an interesting read…don’t forget to include a six pack!
Whiskey, Anyone?
In addition to having great craft beer, Virginia is also known for its many distilleries. From Gin and Vodka to lots of Bourbon, you’ll have plenty of options, but I think a bottle of whiskey from the Virginia Distillery Company in Lovingston, VA makes for a gift that is quintessentially Virginia.
Gearharts Chocolate
When my husband and I got married last fall, we knew we had to get Gearharts Chocolate as part of our wedding favors. They were a hit and ever since they have been a go to gift for us to give as hostess gifts or to have for our own houseguests. Each piece is beautiful and delicious, but I most frequently recommend the Brown Butter Caramel. I’m convinced it’s the cure to any bad day.
Pictured: Gearharts Chocolate (photo courtesy of website)
Grit Coffee
Some people (such as myself) require coffee in order to start their day. As a result, it often makes the best gift. You can always go the gift card route and support local that way, or you can go a step further and get a subscription to Grit Coffee, which is roasted in Charlottesville and Richmond. They also have cute care packages, like my personal favorite: The Tandem. This package comes with a 12 oz bag and two campfire mugs, which are the best mugs for coffee.
Clark + Hopkins Hot Sauces
I’ve been known to put hot sauce on pretty much everything. Next to hot honey it’s my most preferred condiment and Virginia has a ton of great options. Clark + Hopkins from Richmond, VA is one of them. They are all about bringing the world to your kitchen through their variety of ethnic hot sauces (and Bloody Mary mixes).
Mad Hatter Hot Sauce
Mad Hatter goes a different route and instead focuses on six basic ingredients (including pineapple) to make three sauces with different levels of hotness. Use them as a marinade or a “super condiment” and enjoy leveling up your food.
Soss Hot Sauces
Another great hot sauce option is SoSS, made in Charlottesville, VA. They are about adding flavor to your food in a thoughtful and balanced way, which can be noted by the honest naming of the sauces (like Purple Very Hot Sauce). Gift these to the spice fan in your life.
La Vache Microcreamery Caramels
I don’t know about you, but I love caramels. La Vache Microcreamery uses traditional French technique combined with local ingredients to make custom caramels to melt in your mouth. Try the Fleur de Sel Caramels for a touch of salty sweet goodness.
The Little Things Shortbread
I bought these as part of a hostess gift basket once and my hosts kept raving about them long after. Their Salted Rosemary is their flagship, but they have tons of delicious options to choose from.
MOTHER Shrub
Pictured: Drinking vinegars from MOTHER Shrub (photo courtesy of website)
You’ve heard of simple syrup, but have you heard of drinking vinegar? This sweet and tart non-alcoholic mixer is the missing ingredient you didn’t know your cocktails needed. Try mixing their Grapefruit MOTHER Shrub with vodka and club soda for a delicious Greyhound.
Rappahannock Oyster Co. Gift Package
Rappahannock Oysters are found in the Chesapeake Bay off the coasts of Maryland and Virginia, so it’s no surprise there are a lot of oyster lovers in this state. While the thought of mailing oysters may seem absurd, The Rappahannock Oyster Co. offers a fun oyster gift package complete with oysters, hot sauce and a shucking glove and knife. It would certainly provide a unique gift experience!
Pasta from Scratch Pasta Co.
Based in Lynchburg, VA, Scratch Pasta Co. is focused on making small batch pastas using local ingredients. Create a gift basket of their Tomato, Basil & Garlic Fusilli with a light red sauce and a bottle of a local red for a delicious meal.
Square One Organic Spirits
Square One Organic Spirits is a great spot to look if you want a perfect gift idea for any mixologist. What began as a female founded Vodka Company, Square One has become so much more and now has a whole line of mixers and ready made cocktails. Why not put their traditional vodka, their Lively Lemon mix, club soda and two fun & festive glasses in a basket for a gift someone won’t forget?
Sugar Cubes from Storied Goods
If you are looking to enhance your cocktails or your coffee (either works for me!), try Storied Goods Sugar Cubes from Roanoke, Virginia. With options like Rose Petal for your champagne or tea and Cinnamon-Vanilla for your coffee, they are a big way to add flavor packaged in a cute little cube. See their options here!
Virginia Peanuts
I’m not going to lie - this is a hard gift recommendation for me because I developed a peanut allergy as an adult and it was a sad day. I used to eat peanut butter all the time and so peanuts have become a sore subject for me. However, I know they are huge here in Virginia and would be remiss not to include. As I cannot confirm which ones are best, I will say I’ve heard Whitley’s are pretty classic Virginia. If I could try them without needing an epi pen, I would probably go the Dill Pickle route. Please gift them to someone in your life who will enjoy peanuts for me.
Virginia Wine
Fortunately, I have not yet developed a wine allergy (knock on wood) and Virginia has no shortage of wineries. With so many holiday parties about to start up, wine also makes the perfect hostess gift. I always recommending grabbing a bottle or two of a local wine for something nice and simple, or you can go all out and create a gift basket centered around a few wines. Lastly, there is also the option of signing someone up for a wine club at one of the wineries. I personally am a big fan of the Smuggler Society Wine Club through Pollak Vineyards in Greenwood, VA - the spot is gorgeous and the wine is wonderful!
Gift Ideas for the Home
I know not everyone is into art or a foodie, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t great Virginia gift options left to choose from. What about a gift for the home?
Alexander Brothers Travelers Journal
While these are a bit more functional than they are decor, these journals are beautiful and look lovely on a table or a desk. Use it to jot down notes, recipes or ideas. It’s the perfect gift for the thoughtful introvert in your life. These four brothers have a lot of beautiful products on their site so be sure and check out all they are creating using local materials.
Dip-a-di-do-da
If you know someone who likes to host parties frequently, these dip bowls will make for a gift sure to please. Created by the owners of the Richmond based Decorum design firm, these cute bowls are fantastic because of how simple they make things. Rather than dumping the contents of a store bought container of hummus or guacamole into a bowl, these are made to fit the actual container - it disguises the container and makes for less mess! Your consummate hostess will thank you profusely for how much easier you’ll be making things for them.
Join or Die Knives
If you told me when I started this list that I’d be including a knife site I probably would have been very confused. I’m more of a light a candle and drink wine person and tend to be timid about knives; however, when my husband told me about Join or Die Knives I realized I needed to include them.
Handmade in Richmond, VA, they have everyday knives, oyster shuckers (to go with other items on this list!), kitchen knives and more. Their focus is on using the traditional craft of knifemaking to create quality pieces. They also offer classes like Introduction to Knife Making for those interested in learning about the craft, which would also make a great gift.
Pewter Jefferson Cups
Back in 1810, Thomas Jefferson had these cups commissioned by a silversmith. Present day the design is still going strong. After all, who doesn’t love a good cup? Available through Monticello, these cups give a piece of Virginia history and work great for serving up a festive punch. You can even get them engraved with the initials of the recipient for an extra personal touch.
Viktoriya Samoylov Fine Art Wood Slice Pet Coasters
A ton of my friends are obsessed with their dogs and I can relate - I’m obsessed with mine! As a result, I know firsthand how excited I get when I receive a gift representing my puppy and that’s why I fell in love with these coasters. Made by Viktoriya Samoylov in Harrisonburg, VA, these coasters are absolutely adorable and the recipient will love the thoughtfulness behind them.
The Wild Wander
Another find from Brigid and Bess, The Wild Wander creates works from original illustrations in Richmond, VA. I absolutely love their tea towels, like this Oyster Shucking Guide towel. Wouldn’t it be so cute matched up with the Oyster gift package? Honestly, a lot of their products would go well with a ton of the items on this list if you wanted to have a theme present.
The Win Candle
There is a reason candles are a popular gift to give - so many people love them! They are the perfect way to make things cozy or to add to the ambiance. The Win Candle, created by a VCU Alumnus in Troy, Virginia, punches things up a notch. With scents like Cereal and Coffee Shop, you can expect a bit more whimsy here.
Health & Beauty
Rounding out the list, we have the health and beauty items. These are perfect for the stressed out family members in your life - think of it like gifting someone their own personal spa day!
Treat Someone to Selfcare with APOTHEC
Located in Richmond, VA, APOTHEC is woman founded and focused on skincare, massage therapy and culinary arts - a winning combination, if you ask me. Everything they make is handmade using all natural ingredients.
For the locals, consider gifting a spa service to your stressed out friend. If you want to treat someone to a self care at home experience, they also have candles, body polish, tea and more. Consider putting together a care package for something thoughtful and fun.
Products from Elodie’s Naturals
Do you know someone obsessed with clean beauty? If so, you’ll want to check out Elodie’s Naturals for gift options. Not only do they have a ton of clean beauty products available (like The French Balm Caramel) , they also have the option to take an in person class at their northern Virginia location to learn how to create personal skincare suited to the individual.
Sitronu Man Up Shaving Kit
If you’re looking for something special for the man in your life, consider the Sitronu Man Up Shaving Kit. This company specializes in clean and eco-friendly items inspired by Nordic culture but made in Huntly, Virginia. The products are plant based and this set also includes a stainless steel shaving bowl, a shaving brush, and a soft shoe mitt. It’s also packaged in a cute and reusable box - a great gift idea!
Sydney Hale Hand and Body
Richmond based Sydney Hale Co has beautiful candles and lovely home fragrances to spruce up any space, but they also sell great hand and body lotions. These would make fantastic stocking stuffers or hostess gifts! They also have the added bonus of dog items for sale and 10% of the proceeds of all of their sales (not just dog items) go to animal rescue, so you’d be supporting a local company with a great mission as well.
There you have it: my extensive guide for all things Virginia gift giving! Until next time, cheers and happy shopping!
