Local Picks for Summer Gifting
/For yourself (!) or a host with the most
By Emmel El-Fiky, photography by Jennifer Chase
With the vacation season officially kicking off, plan now for festive gatherings and cookouts. And now’s the time for buy-ahead gifts for your summer hosts that they’ll appreciate much more than a bottle of wine. We wandered down to the wonderful source of local gifting, Shop Made in DC, featuring locally-crafted goods, DuPont Circle’s hub for local artisans.
Stitch & Rivet DC Tote Bag
From work to the beach, tote bags are a great option for summer, and this Stitch & Fix option is the perfect mix of durability and style. Handcrafted and environmentally-conscious, tote bags made in Brookland come in a variety of finishes, including leather and vegan fabrics. Featuring the District flag motif, this bag is ideal for those hustling and bustling in DC this summer. $66, shopstitchandrivet.com
Swig 6 oz. Stemless Flutes
These 6 oz. stemless champagne (and wine flutes) are the ideal gift for those who love to enjoy a sip by the sea, without the hassle of classic drinkware. These flutes are made from stainless steel and are guaranteed to keep your drink colder for longer. Plus, this Richmond-based company offers them in a variety of trendy colors, to fit any personality! $19.95, swiglife.com
The Neighborgoods “Cutie Pie” Onesie
When they have you at hello with presentation. What better gift for the new parents in your life than a onesie packaged in a berry box for their little “cutie pie!” These 100% cotton onesies come in a variety of food-themed designs. $26, theneighborgoods.com
Oh-Mazing Snackable Granola in Lemon Bar - $7.99 for 10 oz.
Sweet and crunchy granola is a packable wonder for a picnic, and a great addition to a scoop of ice cream after a day in the sun. Made in DC, without nuts, soy, wheat or preservatives, this organic snack, available in a variety of flavors. $7.99. ohmazingfood.com
The Neighborgoods “You’re a Peach!” Greeting Card
Nothing says thanks quite like watercolor fruit! These adorable greeting cards are perfect for all occasions – celebrations, birthdays, anniversaries and new babies. Think lots of food-related puns guaranteed to make the recipient smile. $5. theneighborgoods.com
8 Myles Pineapple Buffalo Sauce
8 Myles puts a nice spin on comfort food, and now is the time to check out this sauce. Made with real fruit and no added sugars, the gluten-free sweet and spicy buffalo and barbeque sauces are meant for chicken, fish, or even mac and cheese. Redefine the limits of summer comfort food with this DC-made sauce. Other varieties available too. $7.99, 8myles.com
The Fancy Schmancy Co Curious Crackers
Sometimes we just need to get our snack on, and The Fancy Schmancy Co has us covered this. These crackers come not only in a variety of shapes, but also in a variety of flavors. This sweet and savory, with pairings that standout. Made with organic ingredients, there are two vegan options. Find Fancy Schmancy at Shop Made in DC, other gourmet shops, as well as in several Whole Foods stores across the DMV. thefancyschmancy.com
Gordy’s Pickle Jar Spreads
Gordy’s Pickle Relish and Cherry Pepper Spread are classics. We have to have them for deviled eggs, bruschetta, and of course our grilled sausages and hamburgers. Find Gordy’s products at Shop Made in DC and beyond. Also, shop online at their website. $10. gordyspicklejar.com
Don’s Cocktail Vinegars
New cocktail mixers by the Shrub District will have guests thrilled at your elevated bar game. Try some of our favorites, Mint Julep and the Old Fashioned, made with real fruit and no additives. You can find these mixers at Shop Made in DC, as well as all across the DMV. For a full list of retailers and to shop online, visit shrubdistrict.com. $12
True Syrups & Garnishes Authentic Ginger Syrup
This fresh ginger syrup is an ideal gift for those who love authentic flavor in their drink mixers. Known for their top quality Tonic Water and Grenadine syrups, True Syrups & Garnishes specialize in pre-prohibition recipes, striving for historical accuracy in all of their recipes. The refreshing taste of natural ingredients in these syrups will be a hit with cocktail fans and history buffs alike. $17, truesyrups.com
Chocotenango Bean to Bar Happy Medium Milk Chocolate
The perfect ending to a summer evening is relaxing at home with a glass of wine, soft music, and of course, chocolate to treat yourself. And the chocolate of choice of to enjoy is the Chocotenango Bean to Bar chocolate. These chocolate bars are single-sourced from the Dominican Republic and made in DC. Available in lots of sweet (and sometimes spicy) variations. Shop online (until it gets too hot), or find at Shop made in DC or other retailers. - $8.50, chocotenango.com
