Not sure what to buy that Texan you love? Natives and naturalized transplants have an affinity for all goods stamped with the Lone Star seal of approval, but buyers are quick to forget this fact as soon as Cyber Monday clutters inboxes. To keep your Shop Small Saturday spirits about you all month long, take another gander at Tejano-made merchandise.
Wine On
To drink the fruits of local labors, William Chris Vineyards is a must-try label for vino lovers. Nestled in the heart of Hill Country outside Austin, the vineyard grows several different grapes onsite and harvests other varieties from viticultural partners in the High Plains and far west reaches of the state. Try the Rhône-inspired Roussanne or the vineyard’s flagship wine, the Enchanté, which blends the profile of a merlot with a cabernet sauvignon and a petite verdot. A two-bottle set begins at $65 or splurge on a set of six reds for $250. Visit WilliamChrisWines.com.
Sparkle and Shine
Jewelry artist Cary OKeefe has capitalized on contrasts. Her eye-widening statement necklaces and earrings explore the relationship between natural and manmade, sweet and strong. Using rare and earthy elements, OKeefe has been hailed for the high-quality feel of her designs, especially her pieces that feature Persian Turquoise found only in a now-closed Iranian cave or pieces of North American Queen Conch shells. The craftsmanship of every piece comes at an enchanting price point, with earrings beginning at $25 and necklaces as low as $150. Shop her now at Fort Works Art (2100 Montgomery St., 817-759-9475).
Grace & Grit
Second only to adult women, adolescent girls are hard to shop for. Grace & Grit is a subscription box service that highlights one historical female figure each month. Amelia Earhart, Marie Curie, Sacagawea, and Harriet Tubman are just some of the featured legends. A small book provides thoughtful activities and challenges to empower young women to be more confident in their academic and personal lives, plus a spirited little accessory connected to that month’s character. For the holidays, the company is also running a Girl-to-Girl Giveaway — a buy-one/give-one program that lets subscribers send a free box to a friend who lives in North Texas. Visit GraceandGritBox.com.
Affordable Art
Stop into Fort Works Art (2100 Montgomery St., 817-759-9475) for a print (or two) by TCU alum and Hunting Art Prize winner Marshall Harris, whose prints of his larger-than-life photorealist drawings are just as big as the originals, measuring five feet in height or more. Each piece –– including his well-known depiction of Amon Carter’s saddlery and the pistol-slinging “Hand that Feeds” –– is a limited-edition masterpiece hand-signed by the artist and perfect for the budding or seasoned art collector on your list.
Game Day Divas
When the NFL started enforcing clear-bag policies, Dallas businesswoman Jenn Zalesky saw a fashionable business opportunity. Through her company, Game Day Divas, she sells clear purses that are actually on trend, unlike cheaper totable alternatives. The bestseller is the classic envelope clutch that can be worn five different ways in addition to clutch: crossbody, wristlet, double strap, or “The Fancy Fanny” style. Purse chain material comes in gold, silver, and gunmetal. Customized holographic details are also available. Pricing starts at $38. Visit GameDayDivas.com.
Tadpole Attire
If you know a tiny horned frog in need of new threads, the Frog Fan shirt by Happy Lark is an adorable addition to any infant or toddler’s wardrobe. Depending on what’s in stock, the shirt comes in gray or white with purple print. Sizes range from 3 months to 24 months. Price is $25. Visit 5816 S. Hulen St. or call 682-841-1027.
Box of Spirits
Distilled in white oak barrels, the Single Malt Scotch Whiskey from Acre Distillery (1309 Calhoun St., 817-632-7722) is the latest libation making glasses clink and Fort Worthians drink this holiday season. The Fort Worth company released this new, 100-proof heat-packing whiskey in late November. Buy a bottle for only $45. Upgrade to the gift set for $12 more, and your purchase comes with two rock glasses and a swanky gold gift box. Shopping for a gin, vodka, or bourbon fan? The same special applies, although price points vary this month since all bottles are 15 percent off in celebration of the company’s December anniversary.
And if you hate all of these ideas, you can always buy someone a Texas-shaped tattoo. Those never seem to go out of style.
