 Like everyone else this month, I’m thinking about Christmas gifts for my relatives. My brother, son, daughter, grandkids and relatives-by-marriage are sprinkled around the Oregon-Washington area. The grandkids are easy to buy for because they want toys but the adults have pretty much everything they need. I want to give thoughtful presents, something that evokes memories of Iowa for my brother, son and daughter all of whom were born in Des Moines. Perhaps things they can’t easily get in their large cities of Portland and Seattle; items that would be consumable, useful, beautiful or at least generate a chuckle.
You’re probably anticipating a sales spiel right about now for our winery products. Yes, we have great wine made from Iowa grapes, wine accessories, artwork and books, but allow me to expand on that. Lately I’ve been seeking out creative entrepreneurs that work at home in our local area. A majority of this population consists of women who craft, sew, write books, or paint. Many make pottery, candles, jewelry, bake cupcakes, and produce honey, jams, jellies, dips and sauces. If you’ve been to any of the abundant craft - vendor shows or pop-up shops, you know what I mean. There is a huge selection of unique and creative gifts to consider giving this year that are made in our local area. Please visit the pop-up shop every Saturday in December at 210 E. Robinson St. in Knoxville for Iowa-made products or pick up some wine produced at the Nearwood Winery & Vineyard location, 2 miles south of Knoxville on Hwy 14. If my relatives are reading this, I think they may have an idea what they will be getting from me.
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