It’s beginning to look a lot like the holidays, and it’s a thrill to see Made in America gift guides making the rounds. I have seen at least three in the last few weeks. I would be remiss if I did not highlight a list of gift ideas that are made in North Carolina. Take a look at the list below and become inspired. Maybe you can find a gift for everyone on your “Nice” list this year.
Clothing and Accessories
- Diamond Apparel golf shirts
- 100% Eco-friendly clothing made by Dirtball Fashion
- Leather handbags made by R.Riveter
- Base-layer Polarmax apparel to keep you warm, dry and comfortable during winter outdoor activities
- If there is a bow tie aficionado in your life, something from High Cotton Ties might fit the bill
Outdoor Activities
- Light, powerful fishing rods made by Cashion Fishing Rods
- Custom bicycles from Kish Fabrication or electric bike manufacturer Huck Cycles, the only electric bike builder on the East Coast
- Diamond Brand sustainable camping gear
- If you’ve been really good this year, maybe you’ll receive a boat from KenCraft Boats
- Premium cycling apparel made by Kitsbow
Household
- Whimsical, beautiful cutting boards from Coastal Carolina Cutting Boards
- Custom chef’s knives made by Nicholas Nichols using reclaimed wood from the USS North Carolina Battleship as well as other unique materials.
- Tools such as axes, hammers and yard tools from Council Tool; custom metalsmithing tools from NC BLACK Co; cordless power tools from DeWalt; and tools from Snap-On
- If you are already missing summer, a hammock from The Hammock Source could be just the thing
Food and Beverage
- Potent potables other than wine or beer: Bedlam Vodka, a variety of spirits made by Fair Game Beverage Co as well as bourbon made by Olde Raleigh Distillery
- Piedmont Candy Company in Lexington, NC, maker of Red Bird puffed mints and candies
- And what would Christmas be without a fruitcake from Southern Supreme?
Toys and Hobbies
- Custom guitar made by Fritz Guitars
- Wooden toys handmade by Quality Woodcrafts
- During the pandemic, many of us have rediscovered a love for puzzles. Heritage Puzzles has ready-made puzzles available or you can design your own.
We make so many amazing things in North Carolina that it would be easy for me to keep going and going and turn this into one of those old Sears Wish Books (some of you may remember those!). I hope you’ve been inspired by some of the items on this list. The key point is that we still make things – many, many things – in this state and nation, and it is an honor and delight for me to highlight these products.
Sending best holiday wishes to you and yours.
PS if you are shipping anything and use bubble wrap, it’s another product made in NC. I could make another long list of packaging made in the state, but we’ll save that for another time.
Happy Holidays!
