Photo by Claudia Holwill
Don’t wait until Small Business Saturday (November 28 this year) to shop local this holiday season. If you’re hosting Thanksgiving, you’re sure to need a few last minute items this week. And if you’re attending dinner as a guest, you’ll need to pick up a small gift for your host. Avoid traffic and the crowds at the mall, and pick up something from one of the many great shops in the neighborhood.
If you’re hosting and find that your roasting pan isn’t the right size, or you need an extra serving platter, swing by Hill’s Kitchen for all your kitchen needs. If you need it, this place will have it. Have you ever tried a smoked turkey? Pick up a smoker from Frager’s Hardware and give it a try! Speaking of Frager’s, its rental arm, Just Ask Rental, is the place to go for extra tables and chairs if you are hosting a large gathering.
For decorating the table, stop by Homebody (now located at 218 7th Street SE) or Salt & Sundry at Union Market for placemats, candleholders and more.
Thanksgiving is more than just turkey. Spice up the side dishes with tasty oils from Sapore,spices from Souk or Bazaar Spices, and fresh cheese from Sona Creamery, Righteous Cheese, or Bowers at Eastern Market.
Now let’s talk about gifts for your host. A bottle of wine is a good standby and you can get an affordable one or a showstopper at DCanter, Chat’s Liquors or Schneider’s of Capitol Hill. But you can also get a bit more creative and thoughtful very easily! The state kitchen towels at Hill’s Kitchen are one of my favorite gifts, along with a DC-shaped cutting board, also available at Righteous Cheese. Salt & Sundry and Homebody are also great for unique gifts. Or you can make the gift for the whole family by picking out a game from Labyrinth Games & Puzzles.
Don’t forget the furry family members! Metro Mutts, Howl to the Chief, and Unleashed all have plenty of gift options for dogs and cats.