Local Picks For Your Last Week Before Christmas Shopping, Courtesy Of This Rhody Writer

It’s December in New England; the skating rink is open, we’re all bundling up, and it takes an average of twenty minutes to get out of the Providence Place parking garage. This means everyone is looking for that one hot gift to give.

Most of us will be buying a broad stroke of gifts this year for everyone in our lives. From children to partners, and even our beloved pets. And it’s more difficult than ever to find that one thing everyone is hoping for.

At this point most of us have a fancy phone or cool gadget, so maybe it’s time to think outside of the box. We’ve been talking with some of our friends around the Ocean State to find items you might not have thought of yet. So get ready to check out these awesome gift ideas from some of the hippest local businesses in Rhode Island.

Clad In is a Wayland Square staple. An apparel boutique pulling merchandise from domestic and international designers. It holds down the corner of Angell Street and Wayland Ave in Providence’s Eastside. Every Friday this December they’ll be hosting a holiday cheer event from 4 PM to 6 PM that includes wine and cheese!

While you’re there check out the line of Jianhui London Bracelets. Made entirely from tiny pieces of rubber crocheted together to give you a look you won’t find every day. The Annemieke Broenink necklaces, made from textured nylon these versatile and stylish necklaces are from the Dutch designer for whom they’re named.

Nestled in the heart of downtown Providence is Queen of Hearts and Modern Love. This dog-friendly shopping experience is a great storefront with a variety of choices for everyone. It’s a good thing they offer complimentary gift wrapping because you’ll need it once you step through the doors. Know someone who’s always on the go? This 25oz Dipped Canteen can help, be it hot or iced this will help keep whatever you’re drinking the right temperature for hours. For the host with the most in your friend group check out this Serving Paddle with Shot Glasses. Score points with your girlfriend or wife by giving them The Lauren Wallet, a beautiful multi-pocket wallet made out of top-grain leather.

Henry's Bear Park on the corner of Rochambeau and Hope is one of the few dedicated toy stores in Providence. It has an incredibly wide range of high quality toys and educational products. Since I have a headstrong daughter of my own Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls is now on my personal shopping list. Have a little one who’s eyeing American Idol? Start them off right with the Blue Tabeoke Blutooth Karaoke System. Looking to create the next piano prodigy? That road starts here with the Rock and Roll It Piano.

Just about two blocks further down the way is Studio Hop. Colorful and pleasant this small Hope Street staple is filled with fine art, furnishings, jewelry, and antiques. For those on your list who love any of the above pick up one of their Ceramic Bread Dock Bowls from Eli D. Tegu. For the more accessory-minded take a look at Heather Guidero Jewelry’s rings, vintage necklaces, or a silk screened scarf by Kevin Harris. @studiohop.ri on Instagram

If you’re looking for the perfect stocking stuffer for the jewelry lover in your life head over to Garden City. Providence Diamond is Rhode Island’s premier jeweler, and three of their hottest holiday picks for this season are: The Statement Ring (Every woman needs a statement ring in her life. Perfect pops of color from the David Yurman Chatelaine Collection.), Delicate Everyday Pendants (Everyday delicate sparkle to wear alone or to layer with others. Yellow gold, White gold, Rose gold, or mix and match.), and Sexy and Fabulous Diamond Earrings (Show your style with sexy stilettos. They aren't just fabulous shoes!).

Good shopping everyone, maybe this will help tip the scales for you this gift-giving season. However and whatever you celebrate this winter, I hope it turns out to be a safe and fun time of year for you.

Merry everything and thanks for reading!

+ Colin Carlton

About Colin

Colin is a local author and freelance writer.

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