With less than two weeks until Christmas, there’s one important question to ask yourself: “have I finished the Christmas shopping?”
It’s usually about now that panic sets in as you sit in front of a blank notepad, pen poised, ready to write a list of all the people you need to buy for and the gift they will receive. The stress is real. But it doesn’t have to last – especially if you choose to shop local.
This year has seen the ‘shop small’ movement gather momentum.
Supporting local businesses is also the perfect opportunity to show that lucky person just how much thought and care you put into choosing the perfect gift – or experience – for them.
So, for those of us who are still to finalise our Christmas shopping (or start it – no judgement), here are some South Australian gift ideas that are sure to put a smile on your loved ones’ faces.
CREATIVE GIFTS
Tiny finery, care of Naomi Murrell
Local designer Naomi Murrell creates what she refers to as “tiny finery” – simple yet stunning jewellery designed to be worn and enjoyed every day.
Naomi’s collection includes earrings, rings, necklaces and bangles in various metals and pops of subtle (and not so subtle) colour.
These gorgeous little pieces are “big on hope, happiness and simple pleasures” …what’s not to love about that?
Tea tastes better in this. Science fact. Katia Carletti
There’s something extra special about enjoying a cup of tea or coffee in a beautiful handmade ceramic mug and Adelaide ceramicist Katia Carletti creates the most exquisite pieces.
Katia makes all of her work with a hand made, pinching technique in her home studio, using reduction fired stoneware. Her focus is on creating pieces that are functional and feel nice to hold, look at and use, drawing inspiration from repetition in nature, folk art and the need for practical vessels in the home.
Katia’s pieces are available for purchase at Jam Factory.
Austin Bloom: the chance to create your own floral masterpieces. And then wear them.
Flowers are a guaranteed winning strategy, however, go one better with a gift certificate for one of Adelaide’s leading florists – Austin Bloom.
The team at Austin Bloom regularly hold workshops throughout the year, ranging from one-off events such as creating a floral bouquet to a six-week Introduction to Floristry course. Give the gift of creativity.
FOOD AND DRINK
Cheers.
Craft beer has seen a surge in popularity over the past few years and every craft brewery has a unique story to tell (and beer to serve).
This three-hour walking tour around the Adelaide CBD will give the lucky recipient a new perspective on the history of beer, how it’s brewed, and why craft beer has become such a significant part of SA culture.
There’s also plenty of opportunities to try various craft beers – obviously – and enjoy some food along the way.
They learn to make gorgeous food, you get to enjoy their new culinary skills. Win/win.
Cooking Classes
Impress the fussy foodie in your life with a cooking class: they get to explore their culinary skills with hands-on sessions with in-the-know instructors, and you benefit when they want to show them off. Everyone wins.
Adelaide locals Sprout offer up classes on everything from entertaining to summer seafood, while Sticky Rice Cooking School is a great choice for Asian delicacies, with classes ranging from Thai to Vietnamese to yum cha.
Gracing George AKA why did I ever use a plastic bag to take my wine to the family BBQ?
Gracing George Wine Bottle Carrier
They’ll look the goods turning up to the next family barbeque with this wine bottle carrier by Adelaide artisan Gracing George.
Handmade from cotton sash cord with a leather handle, it’s the perfect way to transport their favourite drop in style.
Just make sure they bring your favourite wine(s) to your next get together.
GIFTS FOR THE LITTLE ONES
What is Grug, exactly? You might find the answer at his latest show.
Grug is a legend of Australian children’s literature and Adelaide’s Windmill Theatre Co has brought the lovable larrikin to life in his very own stage production.
In his latest show, Grug and the Rainbow, our grassy little friend is fascinated by the world around him and full of determination, embarks on an epic journey to reach the rainbow that always seems just beyond his grasp.
Featuring clever puppetry, plenty of surprises and gentle storytelling, this show has been especially created for the littlest theatregoers and Grug fans of all ages.
Little Picassos and Frida Kahlos getting their art on. Photo courtesy Teacher Types.
Encourage your budding artist with classes to inspire their creativity.
Little Picassos started in 2003 with eight preschool children and is now all grown up, hosting around 400 children across the three studios (Glenelg, Hyde Park and Woodcroft) on a weekly basis.
Little Picassos provide art experiences that give each child the opportunity to create in a vibrant art studio especially designed for children, and is recognised for its innovative sessions that promote creativity, build self-esteem and value the individual.
A junior keeper and a hippo.
Who doesn’t love the zoo? Trick question. Everybody loves it.
Impress your little animal lover with an Adelaide Zoo membership, which provides 12 months of free entry to Adelaide Zoo, Monarto Zoo and most major zoos in Australia.
The membership also provides various discounts, including animal experiences such as the Junior Keeper – a half-day experience assisting the keeper to feed and care for the animals in the Children’s Zoo.
Here’s to making this Christmas a memorable – and local – one.
Sonia Bavistock is a fashion and lifestyle blogger and also has her own social media management and copywriting business. Sonia is passionate about all things South Australia and can often be seen dining out with a glass of wine in hand.