By Emma Shaughnessy
The holiday season is in full swing, which means it is the prime time to start shopping for gifts.
One of the best parts of the holiday season is getting to spend time with loved ones. After a long, stressful year, gift giving is a special way to express gratitude and love for friends and family. A daunting task, many people find it difficult to determine the perfect gift to show how much someone is appreciated. Whether this means finding the right gift for a family member, or maybe a Secret Santa gift for a coworker, there are many local shops on Siesta Key that offer something for everyone. Let’s explore some, and take note of their suggestions.
Gidget’s Coastal Provisions
Located in the Village, it has gifts made by artists locally and across the United States at a wide price range. Pamela Sparkle, the general manager, noted the store’s most popular gifts this holiday season are its 3D lighted sea glass trees and flat shabby plank palm trees with colored lights by Salty Signs Designs.
Marji Engle, the artist behind the pieces, employs women from all walks of life to help create the products.
These gifts are very popular and support a passionate Florida artist who aims to encourage her employees to follow their dreams.
Gidget’s also sells holiday decorations that embrace Florida’s culture. The store has oyster trees and oyster wreaths for beach lovers, as well as a Christmas version of its popular suncatcher ornament.
For people looking to give a more expensive gift, the store offers products by Gigi Moda and Hook and Tackle, as well as Carmen Sol Bags. Items from these designers would make a great high-end Christmas gift.
Visit Sparkle at the store for some unique Florida-inspired pieces and other niche products.
Green Turtle Shell & Gift City
It’s another local store with a variety of options, located in Southbridge Mall.
One gift sold year-round that is especially popular during the holiday season is painted sand dollar ornaments. They come in many colors and designs such as starfish, manatees, and pelicans. These ornaments are perfect for people who love coastal life and the Florida sun.
The store also carries products by My Sweetest Honey, a local honey company based right here in Sarasota. Two popular items include a 1-pound baby bear and a lotion bar made with honey. These gifts are suitable for people who like to support local businesses and enjoy self-care.
Another local product for people who prefer an extra kick in their food is Gator Sauce. This delicious hot sauce would make a fantastic stocking-stuffer or small addition to any gift. The employees are very knowledgeable about the store’s products and are more than happy to help pick out an appropriate present.
Florida Salt Scrub products, made in Delray Beach, are also in demand and offered at the store.
Sunshine & Sand Hidden Treasures
Located in Crescent Plaza it’s owned, operated, and managed by Dawn Henson. It has many unique gift options for people of all ages.
And the store carries products made by seven local artists based in Sarasota. Some of these items include paintings, salt and pepper shakers, cheese boards, and Tiger Fire Sauce, a local hot sauce.
Quintessential for any foodie, these products would be ideal for anyone planning to host holiday festivities.
Two simple, yet popular, products that the store also sells are socks with humorous sayings and T-shirts made from recycled plastic bottles. Henson notes that the T-shirts are incredibly soft and are a great gift for any environmentalist.
The store also sells Lizzy James jewelry, including a two-in-one necklace and bracelet that is suitable for anyone wanting to spruce up their wardrobes.
Instead of holiday shopping at large retailers and businesses, spread the love this holiday season by shopping at local businesses. Not only does shopping locally support other residents in the Sarasota area who own and operate these businesses, but it is also a great way to get to know members of the community.
Rather than struggling to think of a gift to purchase for a loved one, visit these enchanting shops for unparalleled customer service and local finds suitable for people of all interests and ages.
Author: Siesta Sand