If you are looking for that unique gift for hard to buy for person…look no further! In a world where too much cheap stuff is shipped in from other locations, I would heartily encourage you to purchase local.
One of my very favorite things to do is support artists directly. (So begins the shameless plug of small business owners/artists that I personally buy from repeatedly.) The four artists showcased below are incredibly talented women create stunning one of a kind gifts that show thoughtful consideration as a gift giver. As a bonus, you are helping sustain artists, their craft, and our local economy.
Become Spellbound
Instagram: @become_spellbound, website: becomespellbound.com
I saw Kari Dern’s work on instagram several years ago and fell in love with it. When I finally reached out to purchase a piece, I discovered she lived in the same town as I do! Now I call this beautiful soul “friend” and couldn’t feel more blessed.
Samples of Her Work
These are a few pieces from my personal collection but will give you an idea of some of the range of her work!
Blue Druzy 
Rainbow Labradorite 
Moonstone 
Crystal 
Assorted Gemstones
Who To Buy For?
Her jewelry has a raw beauty to it and is one of a kind. These are statement pieces that become fast favorites. If you have a gemstone lover or someone with a flair for the dramatic, I’d recommend looking at her jewelry. If you want to gift someone a little bit of magic, you MUST check out her site!
Purchasing Tip
Check out her instagram feed and her website. If you see a piece you love, purchase it immediately!! She showcases available work on instagram and does regular posts on her website – but her inventory moves fast!
Lilian Asterfield
Instagram: @ladyasterfield, website: lilianasterfield.com
I met the talented Nicole Deponte at an American Craft Council show in Baltimore more than a decade ago. I’ve been a patron of hers ever since and think she’s one of the loveliest people I know. She’s a sculptural artist by education who transformed a bundle of vintage ties into a long running business.
Samples of Her Work
I have an embarrassingly large collection of Nicole’s work and I can’t say that I won’t buy anymore. I’m sharing only a few to give you a sense of the range of her pieces. They make anything you’re wearing…elegant!
Assorted colors and styles
Who To Buy For?
Nicole’s pieces are both whimsical and classic at the same time. They are equal parts avant garde and retro-retro (think Victorian ruffs). These beauties are statement pieces AND extremely wearable. They can be worn with ANYTHING! If this sounds like any of your “hard to buy for” people, definitely check it out! It’s the gift you don’t realize you need until you own it!
They fasten easily, most of them with a single large snap. They are winter neckwear for me (very toasty). I wear them with t-shirts. I will put one on with a business suit for a meeting, to elevate my outfit. I’ve worn them with formal wear, t-shirts and jeans, in place of a necklace with a dress, over a sweater, with my fall or winter coat.
Purchasing Tip
You can find classic, vintage, and one-of-a-kind pieces on the website. The simple patterned ones feel very wearable (and they are) but it’s the patterned and multi-colored vintage, one-of-a-kind pieces that really shine! I intentionally chose not to share any one-of-a-kind ones I have because you won’t get anything like them.
I’m sure it’s too late now, but if you have a bunch of dad’s or grandpa’s ties, you can have custom pieces made. If you ask me, that’s the ultimate present! If I had a plethora of cool ties, I would commission some pieces from Nicole as gifts for other family members. Wearable keepsakes. What goes under the tree? A box with a promise of sculptural, wearable art to come!
Acid Queen Jewelry
Instagram: @acidqueenjewelry; website: acidqueenjewelry.com
I discovered Alex Camacho’s work through @becomespellbound and was immediately mesmerized. I am drawn towards striking but simple pieces (can you tell?!) and her work with both gemstones and geometric designs are elegant and magical.
Samples of Her Work
As I noted, I have only necklaces but you can see what I mean about simple elegance.
Who To Buy For?
Though I’ve only purchased necklaces from her (my fingers are too small for even the smallest standard size rings), her rings catch my eye. They are also bold pieces that have a simple elegance to them. Her pieces are great as a signature piece of jewelry to be worn with nearly every outfit.
Purchasing Tip
Piece availability depends on the specific gemstones she has to work with at the time. For the 2020 holidays, purchase in-stock pieces. You can always order a custom piece but you’ll have to wrap an IOU since all pieces are hand crafted. Another idea is a gift card so your recipient can pick their own statement piece.
Lilliput Hats
Instagram: @lilliputhats; website: lilliputhats.com
Karen Ruiz is another artist I met a few years ago at an American Crafts Council show in Baltimore. Her skill as a milliner (that’s hat maker to you and me!) and my love of hats make for a perfect pairing. The thing I love best about Karen’s designs is…they are all so unique! The hats I’ve purchased from her all feel very different. They can be worn daily and are another signature piece for the right person!
Samples of Her Work
Every time I look at the inventory, I want to buy several different hats. Next time I see her, I’m sure at least one more will be going home with me!
Different Styles and Materials
Who To Buy For?
Hat lovers – men or women – will LOVE the array of options in Karen’s online store. These are beautifully crafted, custom designed hats. One of a kind? You will not see anyone else in the same hat! Every day wear, signature look, easter sunday or any horse race…the reasons to wear a gorgeous hat are endless!
Purchasing Tip
The stock changes seasonally so if there are things you like, snatch them up when you see them. You can always contact her with questions or any advice for getting the perfect piece for someone!
If you don’t find what you need in this list but would like ideas, drop me a line. I had to edit this list so it wasn’t too long, but I have tons of other small businesses I love to support based on the quality and craftsmanship of their goods.
You have the most perfect long neck for Nicole’s creations.
Author
You are too sweet! Can’t wait to go back to the ACC some day with you!