Regardless of which holiday you celebrate this season, finding the perfect gift for someone special can be challenging at best and downright frustrating at times. If you're looking to give something meaningful, one-of-a-kind, and unforgettable, all while supporting local artisans and creators, look no further. We've compiled a list of some of our favorite things made right here in Cortland County.
There's a little something for everyone in this Shop Small Saturday Guide (including you!), but don't stop there. Cortland County is brimming with too many beautiful boutiques, quaint antique shops, and galleries to mention. Check out our full shopping list here!
THE CRAFTER
Whether they love to knit, crochet, or felt, you'll find Stramba Fiber Mill, Studio & Store is brimming with one-of-a-kind, hand-dyed yarns, fibers and fleeces. A cornucopia of color made from sheep, goats and alpacas is a symphony for the senses and endless inspiration. Is your crafty friend perhaps someone who never quite gets around to finishing their latest project? Stramba Fiber Mill also carries a stunning selection of finished fiber art. From cozy hats and toasty mittens to dyed silk scarves and wall tapestries, you are bound to find something beautiful to box up for the holiday. Not a fiber fan? Let them get their hands dirty at Cortland Pottery Works. With classes ranging from glaze your own to intermediate throwing, there is something for every level of potter. Do they love pottery, but not the clay under their nails? Check out their annual Student Show & Sale on November 29.
THE FOODIE
They say the fastest way to a persons heart is through their stomach, and we couldn't agree more. It's a good thing Cortland is home to so many incredible makers, roasters and farmers. Since everyone loves a hearty breakfast, might we suggest a local breakfast basket for the holidays? First things first, it wouldn't be the holidays with out some of Trinity Valley's signature eggnog. My favorite way to enjoy this seasonal delight is a heathy glug of the spiced varsity in my fresh brewed Coffee Mania Holiday Blend. It wouldn't be breakfast with out some eggs. I'm currently obsessed with the rich taste of Quackhead Hollow Duck Farm's eggs. Scrambled with Trinity Valley's tomato basil cheese curds and I'm in seventh heaven. You can find all this and more at The Truxton Outpost (arguably the world's cutest county store). While you're there, don't forget a jar of Food & Ferments Pickle Juice for the piece de resistance- a Pickle Bloody Mary! Made with Brand Y Distillery's Jimbo's Not Foot-Made Vodka, you'll make the VIP list for next year's holiday celebration.
THE FASHIONISTA
We all know one, the person who always looks so effortlessly put together. They casually combine the newest trends and vintage pieces, creating show-stopping looks. Their style is bold, timeless, and completely covet-worthy. Surprise them with something one-of-a-kind from Crown City Curiosities this season. From trending vintage ware to curious collectibles, you're guaranteed to find something that will make the fashionista in your life go gaga over your gift. While you're there be sure to check out the card creations from Good Neighbor Art. Theses Cortland-centric cards are the perfect way to say it with style this holiday season. Complete your ensemble with a one-of-a-kind piece by local jeweler June Dee Jewelry. Her handcrafted pieces feature vibrant, pressed flowers suspended in resin and featured in everything from hair clips to earrings. Shop her fantastic floral creations at the Truxton Outpost.
THE SERIOUS ART COLLECTOR
Their house is a literal gallery, floor-to-ceiling adorned with original art. This holiday, add a little mirth to their collection with an original piece by Michelle LoGerfo. You can find her quirky sculptures and paintings at the Ake Gallery, along side Paul Kozlowski and Peter Hannan. Ake is brimming with art inspired by mischief, a little mayhem, and lots of laughter. Or, bring a smile to the face of the serious art collector with a in your life with a unique piece by Luke Dangler that will always make them think of you with a chuckle. Luke's iconic piece “Cageling”(where Nicholas Cage struggles to cope with his new life as a duckling) even comes in stickers, for the water bottle art collector. You can find his work at Cinch Art Space along side dozens of other talented local artists.
THE THEATERGOER
While a gift card may often seem impersonal, your culture vulture bestie will be beyond thrilled to receive a gift certificate to The Cortland Repertory Theater or The Center for the Arts of Homer. With year-round entertainment, national acts, plays off-broadway, and live shows ranging from rock-n-roll to reggae, they are bound to find an event that tickles their fancy. Extra perk, if you're lucky, maybe they'll invite you! Want to hand over more than just a gift card? Grab some Center for the Arts swag, like their covetable sweatshirts and signature truckers caps. Or, for something a little more sentimental, Cortland Repertory Theater's annual ornament featuring the iconic Little York Pavilion makes for a lovely keep sake.
THE WELLNESS WARRIOR
Is their signature move the Warrior Pose? Do they own more than one pair of hiking boots and perpetually smell like pine? Then you're in the right place. Hailed as a space for discovery, Cortland's Wellness Studio is a place to stretch your mind and body. With class ranging from Heart Centered Yoga's Yoga for Everyone or or Meditation Mama's guided meditation & sound healing, there something for every hippie heart. Or, take it outdoors to Lime Hollow Nature Center. The visitors center gift shop features unique creations by the students in their BOCES youth program, locally crafted items, and my favorite, their super soft Lime Hollow merch. With unique educational programing, from youth to adult, you're sure to find something to peek your nature nuts interest. At the end of a long day, if you find yourself saying "take a bath, you dirty hippie!" head over to Daisy Hollow Farm. All their bath and body products are handmade using natural ingredients, sourced from the farm. From sugar scrubs to soaps, shampoos to salves you'll find something for everyone. We especially love the Rose Geranium Spa Kit. This handcrafted gift set includes Rose Geranium Facial Soap and Facial Lotion, a clay mask kit, and a natural Witch Hazel toner.
THE BOOKWORM
We all have that one person on our list. No matter where they go, there is always a book in their bag. Make this season extra cozy with the perfect collection for curling up by the fire. Begin with a good book. I recommend local author Adrienne Morris's latest book, "By the Shores of Solon Pond." This 1865 period drama takes place at a favorite Cortland County fishing hole. This tale of heroism, sacrifice, and family devotion is perfect for the book lover in your life. You can find a copy the Cortland County Historical Society bookshop. No reading session is complete without a good cuppa. The Experience Cortland camp mug has a following for a good reason. Big enough to warm both hands, its perfect for tea. Find yours at the visitor's center. Speaking of tea, Nipotina Herb Farm's tea collection has something for everyone. We love the Replenish Tea, made with locally gown, organically raised herbs, the cinnamon basil is the star of this blend. You can pick a jar at Hollenbeck's Cider Mill. While you're there, grab a jar of Gridley Hollow Honey for the finishing touch.
THE HOSTESS
It's been a long day of shopping. Your trunk is full, and your toes are dragging. You're in desperate need of a pick me up, and you suddenly remember you need to grab something for this evening dinner party host. Or, a simple thank-you gift for your neighbor that pitched in when your oven quit working during Thanksgiving prep. Or, maybe a little something for your kid's teacher, whose winter break cannot come soon enough. Common Grounds has got you covered. Swing into the Crescent Commons and grab yourself a latte, a gift card (or super cute Cold Brew sweatshirt) and a beautiful bouquet by Floristry, all wrapped up and ready to impress. And maybe one for yourself too. After all that shopping, you deserve it.
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