I long for the holidays meandering around stores with my Grandmother; touching a fabric, smelling a candle, tasting a chocolate sample, listening to holiday music being piped in to add to the festive mood. Shopping was an event. It appealed to the senses in a way internet shopping can’t. And you know what else those afternoons did? They created memories. Memories that I hold dear to my heart.
Recently, my mother and I decided to spend a few hours at the Annapolis Towne Center to recreate those days and tick off our shopping list. Here are just a few suggestions to please everyone on your list this year.
The Cocktail Lovers
Know a couple with the lovely Braxton Wine and Spirits Cabinet from Great Gatherings? Help them stock it with quality wines and spirits from Bin 201.
The Retro Gamers
Who WOULDN’T want to take a trip down memory lane with an air hockey table or standup arcade of Miss Pac Man and Galaga? Find both at Great Gatherings.
The Keepers of Your Secrets
My dogs know everything, and still love me. Naturally they deserve the best. Stop by Loyal Companion and pick up some treats, balls, collars and bully sticks for your furry friends.
The Ornament Maker
Pier 1 Imports is the perfect place to find just the right decorations that show off your festive spirit. From gorgeous new ornaments to holiday table accessories and unique gifts to seasonal accents, Pier 1 has something for everyone on your list.
The Anglers
All Tackle has everything the anglers need from rods to bait and tackle, all weather gear, a vast line of YETI items and books written by local authors. They also have a large selection of footwear and apparel to choose from.
The Resolution Maker
For those who stick to their resolutions, stop into Charm City Run and pick up their must haves to pound the pavement. Everything from new running shoes, apparel, gloves, socks and energy snacks.
The Planner
2020 is on our doorstep. Another year, and decade, to get it right. Paper Source has you covered for all of your datebook and planner needs. While there, pick up all of the holiday wrapping you’ll need to wrap up the haul you just scored in a single afternoon!
The Sunday Sauce Maker
Giolitti’s Deli reminds me of my Grandmother who religiously made Sunday Sauce. Know someone like her? Stop by and stock them up on everything you need to put together an Italian Festa!
The Cannibis Curious
Cannibis is the craze now, isn’t it? Visit About Faces Day Spa & Salon and check out their Cannibliss Organic Skincare line.
The New Mom
There is no end to the gifts that new moms deserve.
Check out Dear Mom wine from Giolitti’s – it is a no brainer; Patchology under eye patches (my favorite) from About Faces Day Spa and Salon; Pajamas and slippers from Anthropologie; and a cozy wrap from Lou Lou.
The Family
Put down the phones and play a board game as a family! Pick one up at Great Gatherings. Or, grab all of the home décor knick-knacks you need at Bed Bath & Beyond to show off how much you admire your loved ones.
The Caffeine Cravers
Baltimore Coffee & Tea Company made it easy to buy for my dyed-in-the-wool caffeine nut friends. With plenty of flavors of both teas and coffees, this stop is a must.
Blog written by Aimee Lubin.
All images courtesy of author.