Midwest Gift Guide 2020

While my roots lie in Minnesota – there is SO much goodness in the Midwest too. To kick off my holiday gift guide extravaganza, I’m starting with some amazing makers in the Midwest! From Indiana to Iowa, read on below for some unique gifts for that hard to shop for person (some even include exclusive discounts too!) While price point is important to me, most of these featured items are under $50 too!

Local Box – Door County Delivered

Wisconsin

I had my first Door County experience this summer and I have to say it was a trip to remember! Both Eric and I say it is definitely a repeat trip as this little magical peninsula in Wisconsin just captured our hearts. If you’ve been then you know what I’m talking about! Reminisce on your trip until you can get back for a visit with a curated box from Door County Delivered – it’s a service delivering local Door County products straight to your doorstep so you can experience the taste and charm of Door County with local products from various local businesses. They just launched their Holiday Sweet Tooth Box too! (Pictured above) Use code lizannelately for 5% off premade boxes!

Holiday Tees – Boat House Apparel

Iowa

Who doesn’t love a good graphic tee – especially during the holidays?! A favorite go-to of mine, Boat House Apparel is a thriving women owned small business located in Okoboji, Iowa. They really curate the cutest goods but make even better graphic tees and sweatshirts! All designs are made in house by their team and sold online and in their adorable shop in Arnold’s Park! Check out their Holiday Collection here and use “MN20” for 20% off your order!

Custom Map Planter – Place Value Pottery

Missouri

Perfect for the new plant mom or dad with ongoing wanderlust, these custom map planters are the perfect gift. Made my Malaika in St. Louis, you can choose your size of planter (starting at $45) and whatever city you want! It’s the perfect balance of practical and thoughtful. She will even send you a proof of the map to approve before she starts. Bookmark her shop for housewarming gifts too!

Tea Towels – June & December

Berkley, Michigan

Named after the month’s their children were born, June & December was founded by Katie and Nick, a husband and wife duo who aspire to have their goods remind you of fond memories. A forester at heart, Katie finds her inspiration for her designs from, you guessed it, nature! Their kitchen towels are nothing short of stunning and perfect for a hostess gift. My favorite for the holidays is the Bough and Berries towel!

Name Crayons – Art 2 the Extreme

Indiana

Great for a kiddo or kid at heart, these name crayons are a great stocking stuffer! The Original Rainbow Crayon Sets was the first of it’s kind to offer personalized name crayon sets. Started by Nicole in Indiana, these are a perfect option (and a great price starting at $19.95) for cozying up at home and coloring! Note: production does take about 4 weeks so order the rainbow crayon sets EARLY here!

Candle – Wax Buffalo

Nebraska

There’s something to say when you find a candle that not only smells amazing, burns amazing, but is also memorable. I discovered Wax Buffalo about 2 years ago and I’ve been obsessed with their scents ever since! While I love a great scent, the ultimate test is if the candle is actually fragrant enough for me. Wax Buffalo, indeed hits all the right notes! All candles are hand poured and small batched in Nebraska from a badass woman maker name Alicia. Cozy up with a classic scent for the holiday, evergreen, or try one of my favorites scents, sweet tobacco.

Snowshoes – Northern Lites

Wisconsin

With another round of winter and quarantine upon us, we are looking for new to us hobbies to keep us sane. One great option is snowshoeing! Northern Lites is based out of Wisconsin and has everything you need whether you are just starting or an expert snowshoer. Pictured above are a beginner friendly set. While they aren’t cheap, living in Minnesota you’ll definitely get your moneys worth! It’s a gift that keeps on giving – especially when you can adventure and explore new areas!

Beeropoly

Nebraska

While this is called “BEER”opoly – you can really pay this game with any adult beverage! I will say you NEED this for your next adult game night. This was actually gifted to me last year from my parents and my friends and I always have an epic time when we play. Started from a husband and wife duo, Jackie + Micah, these boards are crafted by hand in their small shop in Omaha, Nebraska. So gather your favorite brews and friends together and order this board game for a fun night to remember! Or not, depending how many rounds you play, ha!

Hand Painted Note book – Mōglea

Iowa

I discovered this company actually up north this summer and snagged one of these beauties from Mōglea. Each one unique, these are hand-painted and gold stamped in Des Moines, Iowa. For that person who still loves to write notes and to-do lists (me!) these painted notebooks are a thoughtful gift at a great price. Mōglea is an Iowa-based letterpress studio that focuses on the craft of artful stationery and paper goods. Production processes are done by hand and make each piece feel one-of-a-kind.

State Skillet – American Skillet Co

Wisconsin

Looking to leave a lasting impression at dinner parties? Then you definitely need a state shape skillet. Crafted in Wisconsin, these make quite a unique gift that hits close to home. I had to feature the Minnesota Skillet of course! While these skillets are around $130, it’s a great idea for a family gift or someone who really loves to cook or camp!

Infused Cocktail Kit – Aged & Infused

Illinois

Another great option for those cozy nights in, Aged & Infused gives you everything you need for an epic infused cocktails (sans the alcohol). Inspired by the old fashioned, the Naval Glazer is their flagship kit! It comes complete with a 16 oz. glass jar with custom filtering pour spout, pre-measured ingredients, infusion instructions and cocktail recipes. Just add the spirit!

Cozy Night Tea – Big Heart Tea

Missouri

Fresh out with their hygge collection, Big Heart Tea Co is a wonderful option to send a day brightener to a loved one or friend you may or may not get to see over the holidays. OR, cozy up for a night in with holiday movies and a roaring fire with the Cozy Night Tea! Women owned and ran out on St. Louis Missouri, these teas are hand blended with whole flowers and freshly ground spices.

Bath Towels – Georgie

Ohio

Simple, friendly designs for the home these beautiful towels from Georgie are reversible and made from pure terry cotton. Available in both bath and hand towels, the Phoenix collection is a dream-made-reality between 2 Midwestern gals from Ohio. their first collection is so beautifully crafted – I can’t wait to see their second collection!

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I hope I started sparking your ideas on holiday shopping while also introducing to a few new Midwestern Makers! We really do have great talent in the Midwest and now is the time to support local!