Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1437729
GIFT GUIDE WHEN 'THANK YOU' JUST ISN'T ENOUGH BY RACHELLE WILSON | PHOTO BY MARIAH GANDY 1. Plant from Mossy Corner Nursery and Market 3131 U.S. 41 South, Forsyth | @mossycornernursery 2. Janelle Monae's 'Electric Lady' on vinyl from Fresh Produce Records 451 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. | @freshproducerecords 3. Sari blanket from Travis Jean Emporium 522 Cherry St. | @travisjeanemporium 4. Gather tray from A Touch of Glover Flowers and Gifts 'T is the season of giving and gratitude. As you find yourself on the move to and through the holidays, arm yourself with giftable, local items to leave behind for those who have opened their homes to you and yours. The giving of a host/hostess gift might seem like a tradition of times past, but let me make a case in favor of incorporating it into your seasonal plans. Firstly, and simply, gratitude is always in style. Don't let the hustle and bustle distract you from expressing your thanks outwardly in a way that reflects what you feel inwardly. Secondly, for those of us who may not be the baking sort, a hosting gift can off-set the offense of out-sourcing that dessert you were tasked to bring. Thirdly, if you are traveling, bringing a locally-sourced item can share the love of your hometown and inspire a return visit in the future. Though you could always bring a tried and true bottle of wine, allow me to suggest something more unique for your next visit — like beer. Downtown Macon has multiple great breweries and a four pack or even a growler of your favorite brew is a fun spin on the traditional hosting gift. Or, take a walk up the street to Travis Jean's Bohemian Den or Fresh Produce Records to find something bold and inspiring to share. For something a little more classic, try a serving tray, house plant or pair of earrings for your selection. These local spots are worth the trip and have great selections. As a way to get the most impact out of this endeavor, consider looking to local nonprofits for items they may offer as part of fundraisers. In this way, your gifts can bring twice the joy. The cookbooks featured here highlight recipes from local eateries and benefit nonprofit Rebuilding Macon. Speaking from experience, they are always a hit. The Otis Redding Foundation has many great options in its gift shop, but my favorite is this lyric print by Macon artist Brandie Lee. For the antique-lover or conservationist in your life, check out Historic Macon's Flea Market. That place truly is a gold-mine; I recently found these old tiles that can be repurposed as trivets. And for the person who has everything, try giving an experience. A pottery class from the 567 Center might just do the trick. 3 5 4 100 maconmagazine.com | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2022