You’ve likely seen the gift guides with suggestions for DC experiences and the one especially for teens… and now here’s a round-up of gift ideas for the adults in your life. (And maybe some inspiration for your wish list too.) Happy Gifting!
Softest Sweaters
Cashmere always makes a great gift — it’s luxurious and useful (so warm for winter) — and the kind of item some people may not splurge on for themselves. There are also so many amazing sales on sweaters to take advantage of right now!
Accessories — Luxe and Fun
A perfect way to give them something really nice, without going full splurge on a large item. Or a great way to give them something practical and/or fun.
Pampering Experiences
Make them feel coddled with some relaxation or sprucing up.
Balian Springs Day Spa – I recently spent a day at this spa with indoor and outdoor hydrotherapy pools, saunas, an infrared area, and a great cafe — and it was wonderful. Kind of like a nicer Spa World (which I also like) but without the required nakedness.
Great Getaways
Gift the whole fam or just the adults (or even just your partner) an escape to a driving-distance resort — or maybe even a destination further away.
Salamander Resort – A luxury spot in Middleburg, VA, with awesome amenities (for all ages) and a location near great wineries.
Tides Inn – A lovely, relaxing resort on Carter’s Creek, which leads to the Chesapeake.
Jim Thorpe – Plan a trip to this fun, quirky PA town that’s especially great for outdoorsy peops.
Greece – Go all out and gift your family an awesome vacation! (Portugal is pretty fantastic, too!)
This post contains affiliate links, which means if you click on one and make a purchase, I may get a small commission. This helps me continue to produce KFDC, all completely free to readers. Thank you so much for the support!
For the first time ever, I’m expanding on the tried-and-true, DC-inspired KFDC gift guide with collections of ideas curated for specific groups of giftees. This one is for the teens, who can be kind of tough to shop for since they tend to be more selective about their stuff (mine are, anyway). But these ideas, hopefully, will be helpful as they come from both my experience with two teenage kids and actual input from the teens themselves. Happy Gifting!
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Wearables
What they wear is a top priority for many teens, though they can be picky about what it is. Here are some ideas that seem to be somewhat universal faves.
Brandy Melville – Sasha would be happy with just about anything from here.
Good Sports
For teens who are into watching sports, tickets or gear for their favorite teams is guaranteed to be a score. And for those who are sporty, there are also a few ideas to upgrade their activities.
Spikeball – The preferred lawn game for the teen set.
Bike – Holidays are a perfect time to upgrade their (two) wheels.
Ski Gear – If they’re headed downhill, make it more fun.
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Glam Up Gifts
For girls and guys who like to elevate their look with a little makeup and accessories, here are some things to help that would make great gifts.
Dyson Hair Dryer – I’ve been told by a certain teen, that this would be the ultimate gift.
Tatte – Tasty treats, coffee drinks, and yummy sammies.
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Fit for a Teen
The gym is a new hangout spot for many teens I know, which is not a bad thing at all (imo), so get them gear to supplement that. Or the gym membership, if they don’t yet have one.
That’s Entertainment
If they love live music, good theatre, or watching movies, surprise them with tickets to see it. (Or bring an entertainer to them!)
What’s on your teens’ wish lists this year? Let us know in the comments! Also, be sure to check out the DC-inspired gift guide for experiences and more local things that teens will dig.
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This post contains affiliate links, which means if you click on one and make a purchase, I may get a small commission. This helps me continue to produce KFDC, all completely free to readers. Thank you so much for the support!
A holiday photo fave: Her first Christmas, his fourth (and obviously an unwrapping pro even then)
This gift guide probably looks familiar, and that’s because you’ve likely seen it before — a version of it, anyway. Over the nine years I’ve been sharing it, the general ideas haven’t changed very much (nor has the above photo that I adore or most of this intro, for that matter). While the specifics are always updated, the overall concepts have remained pretty consistent over the years. That’s because these recommendations are meant to reflect the spirit of my blog — of adventure, discovery, local culture, and family time — and these ideas do just that. (Plus, I think they’re really good suggestions! 🙂 )
Something that will be different this year is the extension of this gift guide. This list of all DC-inspired recommendations is the core of it, but I’ll be sharing a few separate curated guides for specific groups of giftees. You’ve already seen Emily’s post with suggestions for the 8 & under crowd. Look out for one just for the t(w)een scene along with gift round-ups for adults.
For now, just like the last many years, I’m sharing some things our family has really enjoyed around the area and think would make fantastic presents for a variety of people. This also gives me a chance to highlight local places and businesses offering unique experiences and products as well as people and organizations that are doing great things. And then there are ideas that are simply fun and enriching and showcase the incredible, dynamic city that is Washington, DC. None of these recommendations are sponsored; they’re just experiences, places, adventures, and products that I truly like and think you and yours might, too. Happy gifting!
* * *
HOT TICKETS
Live entertainment is a great gift for any age
There’s so much great live entertainment coming to local stages soon, that would make fantastic presents for kids and adults. KFDC Tip: Before you buy, check for ticket deals here as you may be able to get discounts to some productions. Here are recommendations for shows coming up soon and even a few running during the holiday season.
For the people, young and old, in your life who like active thrills and challenges, a gift card or season pass for one of these action-packed pursuits is strongly recommended.
*Kraken, which opened this past spring, offers pickleball, roller skating, axe throwing, a rage room — and gift certificates! *REI has all kinds of classes and events for those who like outdoor recreation. * A season pass to a local ice skating rink will delight peeps who like to lace up and glide. * For bigger winter fun, how about an Epic Pass? It grants access to ski resorts all around the country, including several within driving distance of DC. * And for when it warms up, there are several great ropes courses in the area, with something suitable for every age. The Adventure Park at Sandy Springis our favorite, and their annual Holiday Sale begins soon! * A gift card for a paddling excursion is also good one for when it’s back in season. *Capital City Circus School has classes in flying trapeze, static trapeze, silks, juggling trampoline, and more. Read more about it here (from when it was Trapeze School NY). *iFLY Loudoun offers a one-of-a-kind exhilarating opportunity to experience sky diving without stepping foot in (or out of) an airplane. Read more about it here. (Post is about my experience, but my kids have done it, too!) *The St. James has Super, Awesome, & Amazing fun at its activity center and indoor waterpark. * Kids love scaling the colorful walls at ClimbZone. *TopGolf, with area locations at National Harbor and Germantown, is a fun place to practice driving balls from their hitting bays. * A sightseeing boat tour is a cool way to get a new view of DC — and have some fun on the water.
* * *
ELEVATED EXPERIENCES
A peek at Encanto x CAMP that is sure to be a delight for kids
DC is known for its many free attractions, but there are some places and experiences that require admission. So, make a visit to one something special by giving it as a gift. Here are some to check out that are worth the splurgy entry fee.
* Enchant the kids with Disney Encanto x CAMP — part toy store/part interactive experience, and only here December and January. * The Museum of Illusions will blow their minds. * Clue them in with a Watson Adventures scavenger hunt – read more about it all in this KFDC post. * An adventure at Escape the Room is a perfect present for puzzle solvers. * Beat the Bomb is a new “real life video game” — and super fun, from what I hear. * A Sleepover at the National Archives is like a real-life Night at the Museum. * Give adults a day of relaxation at Balian Springs Spa. * Cat people will love Crumbs and Whiskers, the cat cafe where they can cuddle with kitties and enjoy a coffee. *Pinstripes takes bowling & bocce up a notch with good dining, to boot. * The Mansion on O Streetis easily one of the neatest places in DC…a self-guided tour and secret door hunt is practically guaranteed to delight any giftee. * Exhibits at ARTECHOUSE are unique, immersive, and fun to experience. * For cinema lovers, dinner (or lunch) and a movie at The Alamowould make their day (or night). * There are many awesome attractions in Baltimore that would be great to gift. * Several holiday light displays run into January.
* * *
MEMBERS ONLY
Become an insider at the National Children’s Museum
Membership really does have its benefits! You can get first dibs on tickets to events and shows, exclusive access to special offerings, and/or free admission to places, perfect for those who have favorite spots they frequent often. Here are some local attractions with membership options that would make for excellent gifts:
* At the National Children’s Museum, get a year of free admission, invites to special programs, members-only hours, & 10% off in the gift shop. (Starts at $225 for families.) Read more about the museum and get a glimpse here. * National Building Museum memberships get you all into exhibits and some programs free of charge, members-only birthday parties, advanced camp registration, preview invites, and more. (Starts at $90/year for families). * Make someone a Smithsonian Associateto get them special benefits, access, and discounts for all kinds of Smithsonian programs. (Starts at $50.) *The Lane, a play and social space for families in Ivy City, offers unlimited visits and free coffee. (Starts at $125/month.) * Sign kids up for their favorite sports team fan club that offers all kinds of fun benefits, for low cost or even free. A few of our local pro sports team have them: Nats, Spirit, Caps. * For adults who enjoy performing arts, the Kennedy Centermembership gets them ticket priority, special event invites, and discounts on parking, dining, and the gift shop. (Starts at $75.) * Teen gift? Gym membership! They all seem to be joining these days (at my gym, anyway). I highly recommend OneLife Fitness (formerly Sport & Health and Results before that). Of course, this is can be a gift for an adult, too.
* * *
KEEP IT CLASSY
Give the gift of soccer this season
Has your child expressed interest in a particular activity? Give them a boost by getting them into a class! Here are some recommendations.
The gift of sports is no-brainer for those who love them. Our local sports teams, pro and college, have experiences (ie, games) and merch that fans will cheer about when they receive them. Here are links for all of them, and note that some are offering special holiday packages, too!
We have some pretty amazing museums in our city, and many of their gift shops — that are also online — echo the impressive collections with items that are an extension of their programs. It’s not just prints of paintings you see; you can buy books, puzzles, accessories, gadgets, games, housewares, and lots of children’s items that are artistic, clever, and innovative. Just about all of the Smithsonian Museums and National Zoo have wonderful gift shops. And I highly recommend browsing the shops of some of the other museums in town — I’ve purchased gifts over the years at every single one of these. * Planet Word * International Spy Museum * National Gallery of Art * National Building Museum * Phillips Collection * Library of Congress * National Museum of Women in the Arts
How about a gift that includes your whole gang? Present them (and yourself!) with a family portrait session. And like the last many years, I’m recommending just the right photographer for it. As mentioned in previous gift guides, I have adored Darcy Troutman’s photos forever, starting with her former blog, No Monsters in My Bed. But over the last several years, she’s launched her own photography business capturing families and weddings, helping people make and preserve memories. Her style is unique and the photos gorgeous, but her real-life, let-the-moment-seize-you approach to her work is what really makes it special. Also, she’s hilarious and sweet and really comfortable to be around, the ideal personality for the job. Plus, her photos will not only capture this time in your lives, they’ll make for great gifts for extended family throughout the year, too.
* * *
DESIGN TIME
Give design guidance from a guru
If there’s someone in your life who wants an update to their home, but needs some guidance going about it, gift them the help of an expert. Margaret Carroll is an architect and design consultant extraordinaire and, full disclosure, a really great friend of mine. But that just means I know first hand that she has a keen eye for style and the sharpest aesthetic of anyone I know, from the perfectly picked tile in her bathrooms (and in mine!) to the pretty booties on her feet. Her own home was even featured in Bethesda Magazine!
* * *
GIVE FREELY
The gift of a local fossil hunting adventure — and it doesn’t cost anything
Of course, not all gifts have to come with a hefty price tag. There are so many magical yet still inexpensive experiences to be had in the DC area, some without even spending a dime. You can creatively package them up — perhaps a big, fun card with a photo — and promise a visit. Some suggestions:
* Perhaps the best gift of all is quality time with the people in our lives, so be sure to take advantage of it during the season. The 2023 KFDC Guide to the Holiday Season Around DC is full of ideas for doing just that. Happy Holidays!
A holiday photo fave: Her first Christmas, his fourth (and obviously an unwrapping pro even then)
If this gift guide looks familiar, that’s because you’ve likely seen it before — a version of it, anyway. Over the eight years I’ve been sharing it, the general ideas haven’t changed very much (nor has the above photo that I adore). While the specifics are always updated, the overall concepts have remained pretty consistent year after year, as I want my recommendations to reflect the spirit of my blog — of adventure, discovery, local culture, and family time — and these ideas do just that. (Plus, I think they’re really good suggestions! 😉 )
So just like the last many years, I’m sharing some things our family has really enjoyed around DC and/or think would make fantastic presents for a variety of people. This also gives me a chance to highlight local places and businesses offering unique experiences and products as well as people and organizations that are doing great things. And then there are ideas that are simply fun and enriching and showcase the incredible, dynamic city that is Washington, DC. None of these recommendations are sponsored; they’re just experiences, places, adventures, and products that I truly like and think you and yours might, too. Happy gifting!
HOT TICKETS
Concert tickets would make a perfect teen (or adult) gift
There’s so much great live entertainment coming to local stages soon, that would make fantastic presents for kids and adults. KFDC Tip: Before you buy, check for ticket deals here as you may be able to get discounts to some productions. Here are recommendations for shows coming up soon and even a few running during the holiday season.
For the people, young and old, in your life who like active thrills and challenges, a gift card or season pass for one of these action-packed pursuits is strongly recommended.
*iFLY Loudoun offers a one-of-a-kind exhilarating opportunity to experience sky diving without stepping foot in (or out of) an airplane. Read more about it here. (Post is about my experience, but my kids have done it, too!) * The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring, one of our favorite outdoor places to play, is an exciting aerial forest experience, where adventure-goers navigate ropes courses in the trees, with climbing for kids as young as 5 years old. Check out their annual Holiday Sale! In the meantime, read more about the adventure in this KFDC post. * Many local ice skating rinks have season passes available for peeps who want to practice their triple lutzes and spins — or just like to glide around. *Ski season is starting, and White Tailis an easy-from-DC place to go for downhill fun. Read more about it and find links for other regional ski resorts here. *Trapeze School New York in DC has classes in flying trapeze, static trapeze, balancing and acrobatics, trampoline, and more. Read more about it here. * Give a gift card for a paddling excursion (for when it’s back in season). *The St. James has Super, Awesome, & Amazing fun at its activity center and indoor waterpark. * Kids love scaling the colorful walls at ClimbZone. *TopGolf, with area locations at National Harbor and Germantown, is a fun place to practice driving balls from their hitting bays. * A sightseeing boat tour is a cool way to get a new view of DC — and have some fun on the water.
Hang out in Dunder Mifflin at The Office Experience
ELEVATED EXPERIENCES
DC is known for its many free attractions, but there are some places and experiences that require admission. So, make a visit to one something special by giving it as a gift. Here are some to check out that are worth the splurgy entry fee.
*The Office Experience offers a tour of Dunder Mifflin…a simulated version of it, anyway. Explore re-created sets loaded with authentic, fun details and recall many funny moments from the show. It’s in town through January 16. * The Mansion on O Streetis easily one of the neatest places in DC…a self-guided tour and secret door hunt is practically guaranteed to delight giftees of all ages. * Exhibits at ARTECHOUSE are unique, immersive, and fun to experience. * For movie lovers, dinner (or lunch) and a flick at The Alamois a perfect present. * Thrill them with a visit to the International Spy Museum. * History buffs will enjoy exploring Mount Vernon, George Washington’s former digs. * There are many awesome attractions in Baltimore that would be great to gift. * The Calvert Marine Museum is a super interesting non-DC museum, too. * Several holiday light displays run into January.
Gift the whole fam membership to t he National Building Museum
MEMBERS ONLY
Membership really does have its benefits! You can get first dibs on tickets to events and shows, exclusive access to special offerings, and/or free admission to places, perfect for those who have favorite spots they frequent often. Here are some local attractions with membership options that would make for excellent gifts:
* National Building Museum memberships get you all into exhibits and some programs free of charge, members-only birthday parties, advanced camp registration, preview invites, and more. (Starts at $90/year for families). * At the National Children’s Museum, get a year of free admission, invites to special programs, members-only hours, & 10% off in the gift shop. (Starts at $190) Read more about the museum and get a glimpse here. * Sign kids up for their favorite sports team fan club that offers all kinds of fun benefits, for low cost or even free. A few of our local pro sports team have them: Nats, Spirit, Wizards, Caps * For adults who enjoy performing arts, the Kennedy Centermembership gets them ticket priority, special event invites, and discounts on parking, dining, and the gift shop. * Teen gift? Gym membership! They all seem to be joining these days (at my gym, anyway). I highly recommend OneLife Fitness (formerly Sport & Health and Results before that). Of course, this is can be a gift for an adult, too.
CLASS IT UP
The gift of music lessons
Has your child expressed interest in a particular activity? Give them a boost by getting them into a class! Here are some recommendations.
The gift of sports is no-brainer for those who love them. Our local sports teams, pro and college, have experiences (ie, games) and merch that fans will cheer about when they receive them. Here are links for all of them, and note that some are offering special holiday packages, too!
The Spy Museum shop is full of intriguing inventory
We have some pretty amazing museums in our city, and many of their gift shops — that are also online — echo the impressive collections with items that are an extension of their programs. It’s not just prints of paintings you see; you can buy books, puzzles, accessories, gadgets, games, housewares, and lots of children’s items that are artistic, clever, and innovative. Just about all of the Smithsonian Museums and National Zoo have wonderful gift shops. And I highly recommend browsing the shops of some of the other museums in town — I’ve purchased gifts over the years at every single one of these. * International Spy Museum * National Gallery of Art * National Building Museum * Planet Word * Phillips Collection * Library of Congress
INDIE PICKS
A trove of games and puzzles at Labyrinth
Shop for unique gifts and support independent businesses around the city. Here are some of our go-tos for gift shopping close to home.
How about a gift that includes your whole gang? Present them (and yourself!) with a family portrait session. And like the last few years, I’m recommending just the right photographer for it. As mentioned in previous gift guides, I have adored Darcy Troutman’s photos forever, starting with her former blog, No Monsters in My Bed. But over the last several years, she’s launched her own photography business capturing families and weddings, helping people make and preserve memories. Her style is unique and the photos gorgeous, but her real-life, let-the-moment-seize-you approach to her work is what really makes it special. Also, she’s hilarious and sweet and really comfortable to be around, the ideal personality for the job. Plus, her photos will not only capture this time in your lives, they’ll make for great gifts for extended family throughout the year, too.
DESIGN TIME
Give design guidance from a guru
If there’s someone in your life who wants an update to their home, but needs some guidance going about it, gift them the help of an expert. Margaret Carroll is an architect and design consultant extraordinaire and, full disclosure, a really great friend of mine. But that just means I know first hand that she has a keen eye for style and the sharpest aesthetic of anyone I know, from the perfectly picked tile in her bathrooms (and in mine!) to the pretty booties on her feet. Her own home was even just featured in Bethesda Magazine!
LIFE-n-STYLE
The best fire pit, cozy blankets, and more lifestyle enhancing things
These ideas are a divergence from the rest, as they began in 2020 when Covid prompted a pivot from my usual experience gift theme. But while not necessarily DC-centric, many of these will help with the enjoyment of area adventures — and a few others will enhance time at home.
Of course, not all gifts have to come with a hefty price tag. There are so many magical yet still inexpensive experiences to be had in the DC area, some without even spending a dime. You can creatively package them up — perhaps a big, fun card with a photo — and promise a visit. Some suggestions:
* Perhaps the best gift of all is quality time with the people in our lives, so be sure to take advantage of it during the season. The 2022 KFDC Guide to the Holiday Season Around DC is full of ideas for doing just that. Happy Holidays!
A holiday photo fave: Her first Christmas, his fourth (and obviously an unwrapping pro even then)
If you’ve been reading KFDC awhile, this gift guide — including this very intro — may look familiar. And that’s intentional. In its seventh year, the general suggestions haven’t changed very much (nor has the above photo that I adore). While the specifics have been updated, the overall concepts have remained consistent over the years. That’s because I want my recommendations to reflect the spirit of my blog — of adventure, discovery, local culture, and family time — and these ideas do just that. (Plus, I think they’re really good suggestions! 😉 )
So just like the last many years, I’m sharing some things our family has really enjoyed around DC and/or think would make fantastic presents for a variety of people. This also gives me a chance to highlight local businesses offering unique experiences and products as well as people and organizations that are doing great things. And then there are ideas that are simply fun and enriching and showcase the incredible, dynamic city that is Washington, DC. None of these recommendations are sponsored; they’re just experiences, places, adventures, and products that I truly like and think you and yours might, too. Happy gifting!
HOT TICKETS
Entertain the gift idea of tickets to a stellar show
There’s so much great live entertainment, both currently running and coming to local stages soon, that would make fantastic presents for kids and adults. KFDC Tip: Before you buy, check for ticket deals here as you may be able to get discounts to some productions (I’ve noted some, but more deals may come up). Here are recommendations for shows coming up soon and even a few running during the holiday season.
From action-packed activities to more mellow pursuits, there’s a perfect adventure for everyone. And there are many around the DC area that would be ideal as holiday presents. A gift card for one could be a small stocking stuffer with a big, happy impact.
* The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring, one of our favorite outdoor places to play, is an exciting aerial forest experience, where adventure-goers navigate ropes courses in the trees, with climbing for kids as young as 5 years old. They are having a Holiday Sale on November 19. In the meantime, read more about the adventure in this KFDC post. * Many local ice skating rinks have season passes available for peeps who want to practice their triple lutzes and spins — or just like to glide around. *Ski season is starting, and White Tail is an easy-from-DC place to go for downhill fun. Read more about it and find links for other regional ski resorts here. *Trapeze School New York in DC has classes in flying trapeze, static trapeze, balancing and acrobatics, trampoline, and more. Read more about it here. *iFLY Loudoun offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience sky diving without stepping foot in (or out of) an airplane. Read more about it here. (Post is about my experience, but my kids have done it, too!) * Plan for a paddling excursion when it’s back in season — 2022 passes are available for many locales. *The St. James has Super, Awesome, & Amazing fun at its activity center and indoor waterpark. * Kids love scaling the colorful walls at ClimbZone. *TopGolf, with area locations at National Harbor and Germantown, is a fun place to practice driving balls from their hitting bays. * Exhibits at ARTECHOUSE are unique, immersive, and fun to experience. See the latest one here. * There are many awesome attractions in Baltimore that would be great to gift. * The Calvert Marine Museum is an interesting non-DC museum to check out. * A sightseeing boat tour is a cool way to get a new view of DC — and have some fun on the water. * Many holiday light displays continue into January.
MEMBERS ONLY
Become an insider at the National Children’s Museum
Membership really does have its benefits! You can first dibs on tickets to events and shows, exclusive access to special offerings, and/or free admission to places, perfect for those who have favorite spots they frequent often. Here are some local attractions with membership options that would make for excellent gifts:
* At the National Children’s Museum, get a year of free admission, invites to special programs, members-only hours, & 10% off in the gift shop. (Starts at $190) Read more about the museum and get a glimpse here. *The Lane Social Club for families in Ivy City offers unlimited visits, 10% off cafe purchases, and access to members-only events. (Starts at $95/month) * Sign kids up for their favorite sports team fan club that offers all kinds of fun benefits, for low cost or even free. A few of our local pro sports team have them: Nats, Spirit, Wizards, Caps *National Building Museum memberships get you all into exhibits and some programs free of charge, members-only birthday parties, advanced camp registration, preview invites, and more. (Starts at for $90/year for families). * For adults who enjoy performing arts, the Kennedy Centergets them ticket priority, special event invites, and discounts on parking, dining, and the gift shop. (Starts at $75/year)
KEEP IT CLASSY
Dance your way into their hearts by gifting lessons they’ll love
Has your child expressed interest in a particular activity? Give them a boost by getting them into a class! Here are some recommendations.
The gift of sports is no-brainer for those who love them. Our local sports teams, pro and college, have experiences (ie, games) and merch that fans will cheer about when they receive them. Here are links for all of them, and note that some are offering special holiday packages, too!
The Spy Museum shop is full of intriguing inventory
We have some pretty amazing museums in our city, and many of their gift shops — that are also online — echo the impressive collections with items that are an extension of their programs. It’s not just prints of paintings you see; you can buy books, puzzles, accessories, gadgets, games, housewares, and lots of children’s items that are artistic, clever, and innovative. Just about all of the Smithsonian Museums and National Zoo have wonderful gift shops. And I highly recommend browsing the shops of some of the other museums in town — I’ve purchased gifts over the years at every single one of these. * International Spy Museum * National Building Museum * Planet Word * Phillips Collection * National Museum of Women in the Arts * Library of Congress
INDIE PICKS
A trove of games and puzzles at Labyrinth
Shop for unique gifts and support independent businesses around the city. Here are some of our go-tos for gift shopping close to home.
*Labyrinth Game Shop on Capitol Hill is the place to go for the best board games and puzzles. Period. *The Pretzel Bakery is our hands down neighborhood fave for savory & sweet treats. * Book it to one of these local, independent shops to find good reads for your giftees: Kramerbooks in Dupont Circl, East City Book Shop on Capitol Hill, Solid State Books on H Street NE, Hurray for Booksin Old Town Alexandria, Loyalty Bookstore in Petworth and Silver Spring, Politics & Prose at Union Market, The Wharf, and Northwest, and Capitol Hill Books, a legendary used books shop. * Check the above shops for Secret Washington DC: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure by JoAnn Hill — it’s a fantastic book, filled with intriguing stories and interesting facts about DC. * Local organization Rosie Riveters has books, notecards, and STEM kits for girls. * Food for thought: A gift certificate to a local restaurant. * Steadfast Supply is a great store to shop for maker-made and DC-inspired gifts. * Not an actual store, but started locally, Artifcts is a unique online service that helps people for organize, preserve, and share special memories. A subscription would make a wonderful gift.
PICTURE PERFECT PRESENTS
Capture them (and their hearts) with this gift
How about a gift that includes your whole gang? Present them (and yourself!) with a family portrait session. And like the last few years, I’m recommending just the right photographer for it. As mentioned in previous gift guides, I have adored Darcy Troutman’s photos forever, starting with her former blog, No Monsters in My Bed. But over the last several years, she’s launched her own photography business capturing families and weddings, helping people make and preserve memories. Her style is unique and the photos gorgeous, but her real-life, let-the-moment-seize-you approach to her work is what really makes it special. Also, she’s hilarious and sweet and really comfortable to be around, the ideal personality for the job. Plus, her photos will not only capture this time in your lives, they’ll make for great gifts for extended family throughout the year, too.
DESIGN TIME
Give design guidance from a guru
If there’s someone in your life who wants a update to their home, but needs some guidance going about it, gift them the help of an expert. Margaret Carroll is an architect and design consultant extraordinaire and, full disclosure, a really great friend of mine. But that just means I know first hand that she has a keen eye for style and the sharpest aesthetic of anyone I know, from the perfectly picked tile in her bathrooms (and in mine!) to the pretty booties on her feet. She actually did a tear-down/rebuild of her own house, and you can take a virtual tour of it here.
CREATURE COMFORTS
The best fire pit, cozy blankets, and more gifts of comfort (a puppy would be cool, too!)
These ideas are a divergence from the rest, as they are inspired by last year’s guide when Covid prompted a pivot from my usual gifting theme. But while not necessarily DC-centric, many of these will help enjoy area adventures — and a few others will help enhance time at home.
Of course, not all gifts have to come with a hefty price tag. There are so many magical yet still inexpensive experiences to be had in the DC area, some without even spending a dime. You can creatively package them up — perhaps a big, fun card with a photo — and promise a visit. Some suggestions:
*Perhaps the best gift of all is quality time with the people in our lives, so be sure to take advantage of it during the season. The 2021 KFDC Guide to the Holiday Season in DC is full of ideas for doing just that. Happy Holidays!
are always a hit.
