A guide to the perfect gift for everyone on your list

Holiday gift-giving doesn’t just express appreciation or affection; it also strengthens bonds and creates memories. So, finding the perfect gift, no matter how small or inexpensive, requires some thought and effort.

“Whether it’s something funny, pretty, nostalgic or supportive, gift-giving is a self-expression of love and friendship,” said Andra Ziebol, the novelty, toys and books buyer for Patina Stores, which has eight locations in the Twin Cities.

Max Zdon, the co-owner of Longfellow neighborhood gift shop Corazon, has advice about knowing which present will be the perfect one.

“We believe gift-giving is a celebration of relationships, so you should endeavor to find something that brings to mind the receiver, and makes you smile in the process,” he said.

Here are ways to mark the special relationships in your life with thoughtfully curated gifts.

Catch of the day: The moisture-wicking merino wool Lake Trout Crew Socks honor Minnesota anglers. “These fish socks from Hippie Feet are soft, temperature-regulating and perfect for everything from wilderness treks to cozy nights at home,” said Patrice Bradley, CEO and creative director for Duluth-based MinnBox, which recently launched its build-a-box shop. “Even better, each pair gives back, because $1 goes directly to Friends of the Boundary Waters to support conservation up north.” (MinnBox: Trout crew socks, $26)

Gatsby speakeasy: Plan a romantic holiday date night at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, which is open until 9 p.m. Thursdays and 5 p.m. on the other days (except Monday, when it is closed). First check out the “Gatsby at 100” exhibition, which runs through March 22, 2026, and then surprise your sweetie with a copy of “Speakeasy Cocktails: 50 Classic Cocktails From the Decades of Decadence,” which you can pick up at the museum shop. Even better? You’ll get to enjoy those tasty libations on the next date night. (Mia store, 612-870-3100: “Speakeasy Cocktails,” $9.99)

Dough ho ho: Pull this Santa’s Cottage KidDough Play Kit out of your bag the next time the grandkids get restless, and you’ll be in the running for Grandparent of the Year. The kit, available at Patina, features buildable dough, a reindeer go-kart, faux snow, holiday charms and figurines. It’s perfect for children ages 3 and up. (Patina: Dough play kit, $24.95)

Stirring choice: The Stirsby can quickly become your host’s favorite kitchen tool. The wooden spoon is finished with a food-safe walnut oil, protecting it from cracking and warping, and can be used to mix sauces, stir-fries, soups and risottos. Jacquelyna Figueroa, a store manager at Mia, said the spoon created by artist John Danicic of Edina, is pronounced “stirs-bee.” “Each one is unique,” she said. (Mia store, 612-870-3100: Stirsby, $20)

Flower power: If you’ve been following the culinary exploits of the Duchess of Sussex on the Netflix show “Love, Meghan,” then you know edible flowers are having a bit of a moment. She uses them as a garnish for salads, scrambled eggs, French toast and yogurt parfaits. (She hasn’t sprinkled them on “H” yet, but give her time.) You also can beautify cocktails/mocktails by freezing flowers in ice cubes. “I love this interesting take on something practical,” said Bobbi Barron, co-owner of Hazel & Rose in Minneapolis. “They feel like a fun and whimsical gift that can elevate anything from a dish or cocktail at a dinner party to a relaxing bath or cup of tea.” (Hazel & Rose, 612-788-4178: Edible flowers, $34)

Sweet ending: Celebrate the sweet-toothed friend who always asks for an extra fork when ordering dessert. This ice cream bowl from Frogtown Pottery is crafted by Forest Lake potter Fred Yerich. Ready to add a cherry on top? Fill the bowl with melt-in-your-mouth cashew brittle from Twin Cities actor/singer and candymaker Thomasina Petrus, whose business is 100% woman- and Black-owned. “Both gifts are unique and handmade in the neighborhood,” Zdon said. (Corazon, 612-556-7498: Ice cream bowl, sold only in the store, $24; cashew brittle, $7.99)

Lip service: Consider giving that friend who’s always rooting through her purse for her worn-down ChapStick an upgrade; give her a Rouge Lip Jelly Tint by Facile. The lip balm is available at the North Loop boutique Parc Shop. “It plumps, moisturizes and comes in a gorgeous rouge color,” owner Thao Nguyen said. It will be one lip balm she never loses. (Parc Shop, 612-353-4966: Rouge Lip Jelly Tint, $15)

Bright idea: Now that the sun is setting around noon (OK, maybe it just feels that way), you’ve probably noticed neighbors heading out for runs or dog walks in the dark. Make their winter brighter — and safer — with a warming and rechargeable LED beanie. (Patina: $17.95)