The holidays have arrived, which means gift giving is upon us. The challenge might be that you have many people to buy for, but are on a budget. Not to worry as many stores offer some wonderful gifts for under $20.
In Vineyard Haven, SBS The Grain Store has a lot to offer and some of it is an unexpected pleasure. A line named Simply Be Well, organic solutions for wellbeing, range from body wash with a natural antibacterial bamboo sponge ($11.99) to natural cleaning products and purse-sized hand creams ($2.99) in such flavors as Rosemary Mint to travel beauty kits ($19.99).
For the hardworking man in your life, a pair of the Polarex Glomitts ($16.99) might be more appreciated. The Glomitts have the warmth of a mitten, the dexterity of a glove, storm tech lining, and a polar grip to make them the must have in hand coverage.
On Main Street in Vineyard Haven Timeless Treasures, that unique clothing, housewares, and accessories store under the black and white striped awning, find cozy cashmere socks by Bella in colorful designs ($16) to Mackenzie Childs holiday paper party supplies.
Down the street, Night Heron Gallery – the artisan run gallery that is filled with numerous Island artisans’ works – offers a plethora of specialty made gifts, many of which are in keeping with a budget. Beldan K. Radcliffe’s decorative tiles printed with images of Beldan’s original etchings with Chine-collé are $15 each or four for $50, while L.A .Brown has the highly sought after photo tea towels for $17 each or 3 or $45, and Nicholas Thayer’s hand painted Majolica side bowls are $16. Another of the many options offered here are ornaments ranging from ceramics to paper, which range in price from $8 to $16.
Oak Bluffs is bustling with holiday activity and many shop-ortunities. Lemonade, a unique accessories store, is currently operating as a pop-up shop highlighting organic and artisan made products, from the handcrafted bracelets made by Laura Hearn Caruso of M.V. Treasures, to the button down shirts that have been re-purposed by artisan C. Phelan Phillips into kitchen aprons, for $18. Still not sure? Spend some time at the large table in the center that is covered with scented body soaps and candles belonging to the Madame Falgoux line.
There is not enough space in the paper to cover the choices you will have if you visit The Secret Garden, also on Circuit Avenue. This gift shop is full of unique finds to the well-known lines of such greats as Crabtree & Evelyn and Vera Bradley. Choosing to keep their secrets so that you may discover them on your own, I will share the sale on the Vera Bradley line, which would allow you to purchase many things from the line or under $20. Some examples include their key hook for $2.50, their zip ID case for $9, a hard eyeglass case for $16, and the large change purse for $19.50.
If you have a man’s best friend to buy for, Good Dog Goods is ready to help. Dogs always enjoy a good treat and with the many gift boxes full of wonderfully themed treats ($7.50 to $14) you might find that your best friend won’t leave your side. Dog lovers might love a Vineyard Seadogs 2013 Calendar ($16) or perhaps a dog inspired wine bottle stopper ($19.95) along with a small dog book ($14.95). Keep in mind that their holiday collars and matching leashes are in and ready to go home with you.
Heading to Edgartown? A visit to Sheila Allen Styles on Main Street should be on your list of to do’s. Aside from the revamping of the store to include some new, higher end items like Italian leather bags, you can find many colorful items for under $20. Young girls will squeal with delight in finding the decorative fingerless gloves ($15) or a large hair bow ($8 to $12) under the tree.
Next door, Sun Dog, a gentleman’s clothing and accessories store, offers multicolored socks ($12) by Izod and Wigwam to kick up a man’s wardrobe. They might also enjoy a warm, yet stylish, Peruvian Wool Hat to complete their look.
Wherever you choose to shop on-Island, take the time to look around and surprise yourself with all the amazing gifts available at reasonable prices.
Katryn Yerdon is the Shop Talk columnist for The Times.
