It’s that time of year when it’s hard to buy for the “person who has everything” – but the hyper-local and outdoorsy culture of Leelanau County shops make it a cinch. Here’s a quick peek at the delicious goodies you’ll find if you spend a day cruising the “pinky” to fill stockings and fulfill wish lists!
Do you have a rock lover on your list? The Bear Den Gallery in Suttons Bay has a few things to go with their few million rocks. Check out their pillows and blankets with a Petoskey Stone design for in the house. For on the beach, check out their forager bags – instead of stuffing rocks into coat and sweatshirt pockets, let them go hog wild with the “bear paw” bags with mesh bottoms in colorful red, blue, or yellow.
The Happy Woman in Suttons Bay has the slippers of all slippers. And look at the mushroom ones – if you have any morel hunters on your list who can be playful, this is the move! Their insides are lined with delicious soft faux fluffy fur. These were just too cute to not include in our list.
For the crafty one on your list, try Happy Woman’s perfect summary of Leelanau summers – green, green, and more green. This beginner Summer Tree Cross Stitch Kit includes a pattern chart that is printed in a large format making it easy to follow. Threads are pre-sorted on a card. If you’re brand new to cross stitch, the illustrated “Guide to Cross Stitch” booklet shows you all you need to know!
Nature Walk Studio in Empire has everything for the outdoor enthusiast on your list but look at these exquisite fish decals – for a water bottle, a car window, or simply a beautiful little thing to tuck in a stocking (next to the coal). Created from original paintings by artist and teacher Ted Hansen.
Someone who has lost someone might enjoy a cardinal patch at the Nature Walk Studio. They signal a “hello” from heaven and are often a sweet, quiet nod at someone’s loss at this time of year. The cardinal patches are from Bird Collective, which has donated over $100,000 to bird conservation and advocacy groups.
Speaking of birds - these charming (and novel) screen magnets are back in stock and bring a cheerful splash of color to any screen or single-pane window. The collection was inspired by the idea that birds can be spiritual messengers. (The magnets are also useful for hiding a snag in your screen). Each bird features a powerful earth magnet, outdoor paint, and a detailed design. Choose from cardinal, bluebird, hummingbird, or goldfinch. Order online or stop into Two Fish Gallery in Leland.
New exclusive puzzle alert! For the nerd in your herd, pick out an heirloom-quality puzzle featuring local stones! Rockhound Courtney Poloney snagged this colorful collection while walking North Beach. (Yep, just around the block from Two Fish’s store in Leland.) Each puzzle has a few uniquely shaped pieces for your delight… and challenge. Get your puzzle (and rock hound) fix exclusively at Two Fish Gallery, in-store or online.
Crystal River Outfitters in Glen Arbor specializes in everything “Northern Michigan” – here is just a taste of their many Michigan-themed gifts to pick from. From cards to magnets to shot glasses. So many delicious stocking stuffers await the Leelanau junkie on your list. This collection of businesses is a total delight and you could seriously and easily buy for everyone on your gift – from their M22 wine to a gift certificate for a bike or kayak rental. Talk about a hyper-local experience, ha!
Northport Trading Post is an "as local as possible" gift shop/rock shop. They make their jewelry and crafts from local stones. They also do all of their lapidary work right in the store. You’ll find anything you can dream of with stones! Check out these funky and fun spoons! Can you give them anything better to “hold” Leelanau close all year round?
Happy holidays and happy shopping in Leelanau! Most of the shops offer their wares through online ordering. Many have limited winter hours, so check their store website or Facebook page for hours. Enjoy!
