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Local Love

Submitted by Alison McGee on December 2, 2010 - 4:52pm

 

 
Two years ago I set out to purchase every single one of my Christmas gifts locally. This turned out to be not much of a challenge.
 
We have a wealth of top-notch producers here in the Berkshires making gift-worthy goods all year long. Here are a few selections of mine from years past:
 
 
Berkshire Mountain Distillers
I gave bottles of their handmade spirits (specifically the Ice Glen Vodka and Greylock Gin).
This year they have a few new selections out, so be sure to check your local liquor stores to see what's in stock. Check their site for cocktail recipes to top it off.
 
Cornelius Applejack
Produced solely from apples, and triple-distilled by Harvest Spirits in nearby Valatie, N.Y., this fresh, mildly tart liquor makes a good gift or the perfect holiday toast.
 
 
Chocolate Springs
Even as someone without a prominent sweet tooth, I can be won over by chocolatier Joshua Needleman's handiwork. Personalized boxes of his unique truffles and bars are a perfect treat... and while you're there, grab a quick mug of his famed hot chocolate.
 
 
 
Museum Facsimiles
I love cards and stationery, not only does Museum Facsimiles offer beautiful antique letterpress cards to send to loved ones, but their small box sets make excellent stocking-stuffers.
 
 
Last but certainly not least, is the Berkshires' bounty of artists and crafters. Two events happening this weekend showcase the handiwork of local artisans ranging from letterpress cards and art, to ornaments and pottery, to food items, clothes, jewelry, and much more. It may very well serve to be one-stop shopping.
 
$4 gets you in the door at the Alchemy Initiative Handmade Holiday Marketplace where entertainment, snacks, and community accompany your holiday shopping.
December 4-5, from 11am-5pm
Alchemy Initiative
40-50 Melville St.
Pittsfield, Mass.
 
Or head to Stockbridge for BerkshireMade's Artisan Fair where even more art abounds.
December 4, 10 am-5 pm
December 5, 10 am-3 pm
Stockbridge Town Offices
50 Main St.
Stockbridge, Mass.
 

Though local shopping may require you to think outside the box a bit, it often won't stretch the budget and is a simple way to give personalized gifts and support the creative economy.

 

 

 

 

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