Each year, I look forward to highlighting a holiday gift guide for makers, artisans, and other creatives in my home state of North Carolina. It quickly became my favorite holiday gift guide series and you can find the guides from prior years housed here (which still continue to be relevant gift ideas, by the way). This year, I’m sharing 10 of the best NC based gift ideas and am so excited for some fresh takes for 2021.
One of the reasons I get so much enjoyment out of writing about North Carolina is getting to share the best of the people around the state. With that in mind, this year, I wanted to especially emphasize gift ideas that correspond with potential trip ideas. This is a nod to my goal to visit all 100 counties in North Carolina which you can read more about here. I also have pulled together different gift ideas from each part of the state and attempted to distribute these ideas between lesser known areas from around the state.
Gift Guide: Top 10 NC Gift Ideas
NC GIFT IDEAS:
one // two // three // four // five // six // seven // eight // nine // ten
Last year, David and I went to Asheville for our holiday gift to each other and received a jar of Asheville Bee Charmer honey. Honestly, I’ve been hooked ever since! The Smoking’ Hot Honey is a really fun option and has a variety of uses and comes in two different sizes.
It’s no secret that I am a big BBQ fan and it’s eastern North Carolina sauce or nothing for me. Carolina Brewery has 4 different types of sauces and rubs, and combining these 4 would be a great gift idea! These include: Eastern Carolina BBQ Sauce, Carolina Gold BBQ Sauce, Carolina Dry Rub, and Sriracha Steak Sauce. You can order these online, find them at retailers throughout North and South Carolina, or at the breweries in Chapel Hill and Pittsboro.
I asked my followers on Instagram what were some of their favorite NC made products, and I had several submissions for Chapel Hill Toffee. While this is a repeat feature in one of my NC gift guides, I completely agree with those who shared this as a favorite. It’s a great stocking stuffer, hostess gift, or gift to share with neighbors.
One of my favorite authors, Kristy Woodson Harvey, just happens to be from North Carolina and her Peachtree Bluff series has long been a favorite. I was over the moon when she announced she had written a holiday themed novel, Christmas in Peachtree Bluff, and the Murphy sisters have such dreamy traditions! If you’d really like to make a special gift, gift the whole set of the Peachtree Bluff series.
These gorgeous oyster ornaments are so pretty by Emily over at Davis Designs. I couldn’t pick just one favorite between the sweet Santa design and that holiday tartan. She also has a chinoiserie option plus the 12 days of Christmas which are all just stunning!
Edenton Harbour Tea Tin is a flavorful blend of Jasmine and Earl Gray tea. The purchase of a tin supports the Edenton Woman’s Club and the Edenton Historical Commission. I received a tin of this tea when David and I visited Edenton over the summer and it is such a delicious blend. Orders can be made by phone to the Penelope Barker House Gift Shop at 252-482-7800 or at the Welcome Center. A great time to visit would be for the Edenton Historical Commission’s 40th Annual Christmas Candlelight Tour taking place December 10-11, 2021.
David and I absolutely adored our recent stay at the Mast Farm Inn in Valle Crucis, NC. I absolutely love their Shea Butter Soap, Herbal Bath Grains, and Shea Butter Lotion. All together, this set makes a wonderful gift idea for someone who might be harder to shop for, who enjoys a good self-care Sunday, or even as a hostesses gift. Call to order 828-963-5857 or email them at stay@mastfarminn.com. Or, if you’re in the area, stop by to browse the gift shop. And while you’re there, stay for an appetizer and a cocktail at the Valle Tavern.
I recently discovered Piccadilly, a mother, daughter, and daughter-in-law team based out of Charlotte, that designs these beautiful high-waisted midi skirt with a single-tier design hitting just above the ankle. With a removable tie, side zipper, elastic waistband and pockets, it is incredibly versatile no matter what your life style might be.
If you’re looking for a fun weekend experience while avoiding potential supply chain delivery delays, head to Seagrove for the Celebration for Seagrove Potters Studio Tour November 19-20, 2021. Seagrove is a short day trip from Raleigh or Chalrlotte (an 1.5 hour from each city) and is a great way to experience the world-famous Seagrove Pottery while also shopping local. I personally love this potter’s tea pots and mugs and would pair really nicely with the Edenton Harbour Tea for a North Carolina gift set.
One of my favorite discoveries in North Carolina over the last couple of years has been the Yadkin Valley Wine Trail (seen here and here). Shelton Vineyards 2 5 9 Petit Verdot was one of the best wines that I purchased and it makes a delicious gift for the holiday season.
Shop these NC Gift Ideas:
Lots to love!! Thank you SO much for including Christmas in Peachtree bluff!