Program Director Rhett Reeves shares her favorite ideas for heartfelt gifts from businesses, friends, and partners in Chattanooga and around the South.
It's that time of year when the frenzy of gift-giving and holiday errands really make us falalalala-crazy! As the boxes stack up outside your front door, don't forget that personal touches from thoughtful and local vendors make your gift all the more special.
FOR THE HISTORY BUFF: Power and Destiny by Jon Meacham
The historian in your family will love this chronicle of George H.W. Bush's life by Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer Jon Meacham. Encounter human flaw, noble action, and humility in this striking read of a modern American president. Pick yours up today at Chattanooga's indie bookseller, Star Line Books!
Image from Penguin Random House.
FOR THE COZY KID: Anthropologie "Icon" Mug + Hottie Hot Chocolate
The rainy day snuggler in your life will love this winning combination of an adorable illustrated mug and peppery hot chocolate from Chattanooga's delectible Hot Chocolatier. Trot on down to Anthropologie at Warehouse Row to find this perfect mug. BONUS: toss in a subscription to Garden & Gun magazine to keep the good reads coming.
Image from Anthropologie.com.
FOR THE FOODIE: TN Charcuterie + Cheese Basket
My favorite for family members back home on the Georgia coast. Hop on over to see our friends at Main Street Meats and pick up a bundle of charcuterie and cheese from local farms like Sequatchie Cove. For the meats, keep it classic with bresaola or prosciutto or spice it up with sopressata. I love Sequatchie Cove Creamery's Dancing Fern and Shakerag Blue cheese (sold at MSM). This combination is always a hit, 'cause no one does local like Chattanooga. BONUS: stop by Sophie's Shoppe on the North Shore to pick up a classy soapstone cheeseboard!
FOR THE BEER SNOB: A Growler of Scottish Ale by Chattanooga Brewing Company
You really can't go wrong with this one. Get familiar with this awesome local brewery. Brewga (all levels yoga + beer) on Tuesday evenings, Pint and Poultry Night on Thursdays, great beer and an awesome location right by Finley Stadium. Try their seasonal Scottish Ale.
Image from Chattanooga Brewing Co.'s Facebook page.
FOR THE MUSICIAN: Oxford American: Georgia Music Issue
The "Music Issue" of the Oxford American magazine (published every December) is widely-known as some of the best music writing around. In the 2016 issue, your musician friend will find well-written, quirky articles about Georgia's music icons like Otis Redding, OutKast, and the Indigo Girls. Check out the table of contents and order the issue here.
FOR THE BOOKWORM: South Bound Season Subscription
Obviously, we're throwing in some shameless self-promotion. But seriously, this is a first-rate series of authors coming into Chattanooga. Anyone you know who reads will enjoy attending these one-of-a-kind events. You don't even have to read the book! Just come and listen to the author read and chat about life, inspirations, the muses, etc. Have a beer while you're here and check out the new Arts Building. Plus, you'll be supporting educational enrichment in our local schools: 5 of the attending authors will be leading seminars in Chattanooga high schools! Purchase yours here by December 15 to ensure delivery by Christmas!
Image of Harrison Scott Key by Chia Chong | Styling by Amy Zurcher
FOR THE ARTSY HIPSTER:
Silkscreen Posters from
The Bitter Southerner's General Store
I simply cannot wait to order these prints and have them framed as a pair in my office. Rich with Southern funkiness and off-beat graphics, these posters designed by Methane Studios will add personality to any room. If you're not familiar with the cool kids at The Bitter Southerner, you should be. They send beautiful photographs and essays (and cocktail recipes) once a week to your inbox. Based out of Atlanta, they have their thumb on the pulse of the contemporary, "hip" South.
Shown: "Rise & Shine" and "Southern Words" silkscreens.
Images from The BS General Store website.