Buy Local: Unique Last-Minute Gift Ideas

Short on time? Has gift-giving inspiration eluded you?  These offer creative gift ideas that anyone will appreciate.  

Good Dirt, owned by local Rob Sutherland, has a special going on for Christmas. Buy a hand-made coffee mug, ($25-35), and get a bag of 1000 Faces coffee for $10. For the budding artist in your circle of friends or family, purchase a gift certificate for a pottery class ($20).  Visit their shop at 510 B North Thomas St. 

This cute children's shop has a wide variety of gifts to choose from, including hand-made felt puppets ($11.75).  They also offer an assortment of art supplies, including woodless colored pencils, beads and string.  Crafting classes are available here, too. Visit their shop at 815 W. Broad St.

Bee's Knees Bakery and Gifts
What do you get for someone who already has everything?  Dessert! Stop by the Bee's Knees, located at 1880 Epps Bridge Parkway, Suite 108, for a homemade cake or a few scrumptious cupcakes.  While you're there, grab a bite of lunch to rejuvenate you.  This time of year can be stressful and hectic, so remember to slow down and take time to enjoy the season.

Locally Grown Gift Certificates
These gift certificates are sold in increments of $1. While fresh groceries are an unusual gift, no one will turn down fresh, homegrown produce.  They can choose from interesting delectables like shiitake mushrooms, farm fresh eggs, local unprocessed honey and a wide variety of vegetables and meats. Visit their website to place an order.  

Athens Locally Crafted
This virtual marketplace offers selections made by local crafters and artists.  Choose from children's toys, bath and beauty products or handcrafted jewelry. The dragonfly ring, European leaf earrings and fingerless gloves are eye-catching and sure to please the women in your life, while the glycerin pig soap and knitted rolled hats will get a smile from the men.