Kids are the most fun family members to shop for, but each year it can be tough to find great gifts that won’t lose their appeal too quickly or break before New Year’s Day. For some new ideas, we asked Lindsay Ramsey, owner of one of the hottest new toy stores in Northwest Arkansas — Kindness & Joy Toys.
Left: Spin Again is a stacking toy with a spin—literally! Drop the vibrant discs onto the threaded corkscrew pole and go “ooooh” as they spin fast and smooth to settle onto the reversible base. Choosing how to set the base is half the fun for your toddler. Pick either the wobble base or turn it over for a solid seat. Want to make a rainbow? Want to keep all the round-edged shapes separate? You can! Even the smallest disc can spin all the way to the base. Taking the Spin Again apart so you can start spinning again might just be the best part. Lift up on the easy-to-release central pole and all the discs spin off the bottom! (Click HERE to see a video of Lindsay’s son taking this toy out for a little “spin.”)
This visually stimulating toy will keep your little ones enthralled as they practice their hand-eye coordination and baby engineering skills. Great for ages 12 months and up. Cost is $30.
Right: This bow and arrow set from Two Bros Bows comes with bow, two kid-tested, foam-tipped arrows, and a target for hours of imaginative fun. These sets are hand assembled in the USA and available in a variety of patterns. Perfect for ages 6 and up. Cost is $30.
Where to shop: Kindness and Joy Toys doesn’t have a store front, so you can ship the toys to your house or to the person receiving the gift. (She gift wraps! Hurray!) Also, Kindness and Joy will have a Pop-Up Shop at Sara Kathryn’s in Fayetteville on December 10th from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. (if you want to order now and pick up at that event.) They’ll also be at Shop For Mankind/3 Monkeys in Rogers on Thursday, December 15th from 10-2, if you’d like to order and pick up there.
How to contact: Visit website by clicking here; Message via Facebook; Find it on Instagram; Email owner by clicking here.
When your kids want to play and you’re all a little stir crazy (especially during the cold, rainy winter months), a trip to the Amazeum is a gift for the kids AND for a tired mama who just can’t play yet another round of Candy Land right now. That’s why we’re also recommending you give your kids the gift of an Amazeum Family Membership.
The membership will get the kids (and the entire family) free admission for an entire year, special members-only hours, advance notice and special pricing for educational camps and programs, discounts on birthday parties, 10% off at the Amazeum store, and free entry to 350 science museums across the country. Click here for a list of all the perks of membership. Cost of membership is dependent on which level you choose.
Membership packets can be mailed to you or to a gift recipient and usually take 2 weeks to arrive. (Call the museum if you need it faster.) You could wrap up a photo of one of the Amazeum’s cool exhibits along with a note to your child about the membership, and put it under the tree this year.
Where to shop: Memberships can be purchased online or at the Amazeum, located at 1009 Museum Way, Bentonville, Ark.
How to contact: Click here for membership info; Call 479-696-9280, extension 202 or 222 if you have questions.
Bubble and Fizz Shop
Left: The owner of Bubble and Fizz Shop, Heather Francis, is a mother of teens, so she knew exactly what she was doing when she came up with this brightly-colored solid bubble bar she calls Unicorn Poop. This handmade bubble bar is a huge hit with kids of all ages, and tweens and teens love the smell of this one, which reminds us of Froot Loops cereal. Cost is $6 per “poop.” 🙂
Right: Okay, we know saying that something is “da bomb” is SO 2014, but — in this case — we mean it literally. These Bath Bombs from Bubble and Fizz Shop are amazing, and you can pick the scent you think your tween or teen would love most. The one pictured above is the Grapefruit Bellini Bath Bomb, the company’s No. 1 seller. The scent is fresh, citrusy and clean. Use it alone or combine it with another fruit-scented bath bomb for a fruity cocktail in the tub. Cost is $4 per bomb.
Where to shop: Bubble and Fizz Shop is a new local business doing pop-up shops at regional craft fairs, but you can always shop online at the Bubble and Fizz Etsy Shop or message the owner via Facebook with questions and your order. NOTE: Bubble and Fizz Shop will be at the Wampus Wonderland Holiday Arts and Crafts Show on December 10th (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) at the Washington County Fairgrounds. Free admission. There will be arts, crafts, food, music, and bubble and fizz!
How to contact: Visit the website; Follow on Instagram; See more on Facebook.
If you’re shopping for a teenage boy, we feel your pain. It’s tough. We usually go with an Xbox or iTunes gift card (or money for gas and pizza, if he’s driving) because, let’s face it, that’s what a lot of them really want. But if you’re shopping for a teenage girl who wants something a bit more visual to unwrap on Christmas morning, we found some cute options at Blue Moon on the Square in Bentonville. They’ve got tons of cute accessories and bags that work for women of any age, including teens. Here are a couple of options we like:
Blue Moon on the Square
Left: This Embroidered Pom-Pom Clutch is so bright and fun. The lid closure and zippered bottom make it extra secure, and the vivid blues and pinks make it perfect for a trend-loving teen. Cost is $34.
Right: If we buy these Dangle Turquoise Gold Earrings for our tween/teen daughters, we’d totally borrow them and wear them ourselves, too. They are small dangle earrings with a worn gold “Shield of Faith” charm and shiny turquoise beads. The shield represents the “full armor of God” mentioned in Ephesians 6:13-18. Beautiful and meaningful, too. Cost is $18.
Where to shop: 113 N. Main St., Bentonville, Ark. or shop online anytime.
How to contact: Call 479-657-6723; Visit the website; Follow on Facebook; See more on Instagram.
Wit & Whimsy
Left: When someone wears the Space Stitch Scarf (which is also available in navy, black, & oatmeal), people automatically want to touch it and then ask “Where did you get this?” Cost is $32.
Right: The Handmade Artisan Necklace (available in other styles & colors) is pictured here with the Handmade Artisan Bracelet. Aside from being eye-catching, these artisan jewelry pieces are handcrafted, feature compliment-worthy designs, immaculate workmanship and incredible detail. Inspired from the artist’s travels around the globe, they are more than just an accessory, they’re an expressive work of art. Necklace cost is $35.
Where to shop: 528 N. College Avenue, Fayetteville, Ark.
How to contact: 479-935-3420; Click here to visit the Wit & Whimsy website.
Valere Rene
Left: The large zip-closure cosmetic bag in Americana Plaid is the answer to our prayers because it is LINED and WIPEABLE! Hallelujah! No more worrying about liquid items spilling during a trip. This one is generous in size, measuring 8 inches tall by 12 inches wide by 4 inches deep. And this homegrown Arkansas brand is always made in America. Love, love it! Cost is only $29.99.
Right: If your husband needs to get you something worthy of the mother of his children, may we suggest you drop a few hints or send him a link to this Jillian Bag in Leopard? It will quickly become your go-to “my whole life is in here” bag, featuring leather handles, vegan leather bottom, and a fully lined interior in leopard print fabric with a leopard front pocket. It measures 16 inches high, 11 inches wide and 6 inches deep. (Fyi… there’s a medium-size cosmetic bag in leopard that would go perfectly with the Jillian tote bag. It would also make a perfect gift for a friend and costs only $19.99.
Where to shop: The Valere Rene store is located at 210 S. 1st St., Rogers, Ark., and you can also find select Valere Rene items at boutiques and salons throughout Northwest Arkansas. Click here for a list of retailers.
How to contact: Visit the website; Follow on Instagram; Visit on Facebook; Browse on Pinterest; Follow on Twitter; See the brand on YouTube.
Belle-women.kids.gifts
Left: This clean and classic Structured Top in Blush is so timeless that she won’t ever need to push it to the back of the closet and wait for it to come back in style. This classic look features a collar, pocket, and loose-fitting sleeves. We love the soft, feminine color and could see this being worn to the office, on a lunch date with friends or even dressed up for a night out. Cost is $45.
Right: We think it’s fun to find two items that aren’t in the same category but seem to fit together into a fun theme. We’re calling this gift combo the “Charged Up” package because the fun coffee thermal mug can be used for your own caffeinated charge, and the gold phone charger cable will make sure your phone is charged for the day. Gold is such a big trend this year, so this gift combo is right on point. Thermal mug costs $20, and the gold charger cable costs $18. (Both are under the Ban.do brand name.)
Where to shop:
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Belle-women.kids.gifts @ Tuscany Square2603 W Pleasant Grove Rd. Suite 115Rogers, Arkansas 72758
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Belle-women.kids.gifts @ Wedington Shopping Center3575 W Wedington Drive Suite 2Fayetteville, Arkansas 72704
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Belle-women.kids.gifts @ Walton Blvd1406 S Walton Blvd Suite 6Bentonville, Arkansas 72712
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Belle-women.kids.gifts @ J Street Shopping Center3511 SE J Street Suite 4Bentonville, Arkansas 72712
How to contact: Visit the website; Follow on Instagram; Visit on Facebook; Browse on Pinterest; Follow on Twitter; See the brand on YouTube.
Lauren James
Left and Right: We love a jacket that doesn’t add too much bulk to your body, which is why this Ellison Jacket by Lauren James is perfect. It’s insulated with PrimaLoft so it will still keep you warm even though it doesn’t feel heavy. And don’t get us started on the cute gingham lining. Those are the special touches Lauren James has become famous for. Jacket cost is $139.50. If you’d rather have this jacket as a vest instead, yep… they thought of that, too. The Ellison Vest has all the style as the jacket, minus the arms. Vest cost is $124.50.
Center: You’re going to need something to go under the cute jacket or vest, right? The Texture Long Sleeve Tee is perfect for that. The thermal sleeves are fitted with a thumbhole detail, and we love the way it drapes over the body. It’s available in Sailor Navy, Heather Red or Dark Heather Grey. Cost is $48.
Where to shop: 623 W. Dickson St., Fayetteville, Ark.; Also sold at many retailers in NWA and across the nation. Click here for a list of retailers.
How to contact: Visit the website; Call 1-844-355-7591; Read the Lauren James blog; Follow on Instagram; Visit on Facebook; Follow on Twitter; See more on Pinterest.
Guys can be notoriously hard to buy for sometimes, so here are some gift suggestions most guys would love to unwrap this year.
Rock City Outfitters
Left: This raglan t-shirt from Rock City Outfitters will bring back all the awesome feels he felt when Scott Thurman sank that incredible shot in the final moments of the 1994 game against Duke to bring home the National Championship title to the University of Arkansas. Many of us remember exactly where we were when that happened and just how good it felt. Cost is $26.99. Click here to see more or to order it.
Right: We love it when a Christmas gift makes him smile or laugh as soon as he opens the package, and this shirt definitely delivers on comedy. If your guy loves his favorite beer as much as his favorite team, he’s going to love this shirt. (By the way, Rock City Outfitters shirts are famous for being as soft as butter, so be aware that he might not ever want to take this one off.) Cost is $26.99. Click here to see more or to order it.
Where to shop: Rock City Outfitters is an Arkansas company founded in 2008, selling primarily through its online shop, at select retailers throughout the state and at regional events. (They also do custom orders for groups and organizations, and they’re the company we asked to produce our Mom Prom t-shirts for the past 3 years… because they’re awesome.)
How to contact: Visit the website; Follow on Twitter; Visit on Facebook; See more on Pinterest; Follow on Instagram; Watch the YouTube channel.
NWA Naturals
Take your favorite guy out to the ballgame! Watching the Northwest Arkansas Naturals play ball has become a favorite pastime for thousands of men from all over the region. Here are some of the team’s special gift packages available now.
Above: The Northwest Arkansas Naturals Team Store Holiday Open House will be on Saturday, December 10th. The store will be featuring discounted specials and other activities, including 40% off storewide. Be one of the first to get the new alternate team cap and wrap it up for your baseball lover this Christmas.
Above: The Naturals Holiday Packs will be available for purchase from November 28 through December 22. Holiday Packs cost $25, $40, or $50 and contain a number of benefits including tickets, gift cards, and bobbleheads.
Where to shop: On December 10, 2016, shop during the Holiday Open House at the Naturals Team Store located at Arvest Ballpark, 3000 S. 56th Street in Springdale, Ark. Hours are Monday thru Friday 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. or Saturdays 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. You can also order by phone by calling 479-927-4900.
How to contact: Visit the Naturals website; Check out the team’s Facebook page; See them on Instagram; Tweet at them on Twitter. Call 479-927-4900.
Petit Jean Meats
If your guy never met a piece of bacon he didn’t love, give him a gift that he can’t wait to smell cooking in the kitchen. Plus, he’ll love it that these meats are from an Arkansas-based company, Petit Jean Meats.
Left: The Petit Jean Breakfast Box has a little of everything. In fact, all you’d need to add is eggs and biscuits to round out this feast. The gift box includes 1 Cinnamon Coffee Cake, EZ Carve Smoked Ham Slices (16 oz), Peppered Bacon (12 oz), Thick-Sliced Bacon (16 oz), and Fresh Sausage (16 oz). One woman who has ordered this gift box repeatedly posted this online review about it: “I send the Petit Jean Breakfast Gift Box to my brother and his family in San Antonio, TX every year for Christmas. They tell me, with their three girls, two with husbands, and 3 grandchildren that they could not do without this box. They consider it tradition now, no matter where they end up for Christmas day, to spend the morning eating Petit Jean altogether where they grew up.” Cost is $55.99
Right: The Signature Gift Box from Petit Jean includes one-half of a spiral smoked ham, 24 oz. smoked bacon, and 24 oz. peppered bacon. These are three of the signature items Petit Jean has become famous for. Cost is $74.99
Where to shop: Skip the lines at stores and order directly from the company’s website. They’ll ship it to you or directly to your gift recipient. Click here to shop.
How to contact: We love how easy Petit Jean makes it to get in touch with them and ask questions. Call 1-800-264-2475. Or send an email to contact@pjmeats.com.
Core Beer Co.
Left: If you’ve got a beer lover to buy for, Core Beer Co. has you covered. This year they have a Holiday Gift Basket for sale that contains a growler, a Core t-shirt (with the cute wiener dog on it!), a taster glass, 3 stickers and a koozie! All in a nice gift pack and it’s only $24.99. You can select to pick the gift baskets up rather than shipping to ensure the surprise isn’t spoiled.
Right: Or you can give the gift of a 64-oz growler by itself! They’re only $10. You choose your favorite tap beer and they’ll fill ‘er up! You can just bring the growler back anytime you need a refill. What’s not to love? Core: Take Pride.
Where to visit Core:
- Fayetteville Public House, 3671 N. Mall Ave, Fayetteville
- Brewery Taproom, 2470 Lowell Rd., Springdale
- Har-Ber Pub, 7702 W Sunset Ave., Suite 225, Springdale
- Rogers Pub, 1800 Osage Springs Dr., Suite 225, Rogers
- Fort Smith Pub, 701 Rogers Ave., Ft. Smith
How to contact: Core can be reached at 479-372-4300 or you can stop by one of their various locations above.
Valere Rene
Left: The Tusk Men’s 1/4 Zip Sweatshirt has been crazy popular since it was launched earlier this month. It’s made of a comfy sweatshirt material in athletic grey with a cardinal-colored Tusk embroidered on the left chest. This is an exclusive Valere Rene brand you won’t find anywhere else. Cost is $54. And we love this embroidered Tusk visor in classic khaki! It’s great for him OR her. #fearthetusk Only $28!
Right: Here’s a great top to wear when you’re cheering on Big Red at any U of A game — no matter what the season. The Big Red Tusk Slouchy Tee is slightly oversized, features a subtly speckled fabric in 100% cotton and is so soft and comfy. And that Tusk baseball hat! It’s prefect for the girl — or guy! — on your to-buy-for list. Embroidered Tusk on classic distressed black hat. Sure to become a favorite. Closure is velcro. Cost is only $28 for each item.
Where to shop: The Valere Rene store is located at 210 S. 1st St., Rogers, Ark., and you can also find select Valere Rene items at boutiques and salons throughout Northwest Arkansas. Click here for a list of retailers.
How to contact: Visit the website; Follow on Instagram; Visit on Facebook; Browse on Pinterest; Follow on Twitter; See the brand on YouTube.
Lauren James
Left: Moms don’t play favorites with kids but we definitely do when it comes to sweatshirts. This Shaggy V-Neck Sweatshirt by Lauren James has quickly attained “favorite” status in closets all over Northwest Arkansas and nationwide. It is just.so.soft, and the super light grey color lets the embroidered Hog stand out proudly on the left chest. Throw on a red scarf and you’re ready to hit the Hogs basketball game. Cost is $75.
Right: Is it possible to have a crush on a sherpa pullover? Because I think I’ve developed a thing for the Arkansas Linden Sherpa Pullover. (My friend Lillian bought one recently and says she is in LOVE with it and may not take it off all winter. I can see why.) The sherpa is double-sided, girls, so you can imagine how it feels against your skin. It also has side zippers so you can get comfy when sitting, and it even has a hidden mesh credit card pouch on the bottom hem. Genius! It’s available in different colors and — if you’re an Auburn fan or an LSU fan living in Hog country — there are even other collegiate team insignias available. Cost is $109.50 with the embroidered Hog. (If you want this pullover without embroidery, cost is $99.50.)
Where to shop: 623 W. Dickson St., Fayetteville, Ark.; Also sold at many retailers in NWA and across the nation. Click here for a list of retailers.
How to contact: Visit the website; Call 1-844-355-7591; Read the Lauren James blog; Follow on Instagram; Visit on Facebook; Follow on Twitter; See more on Pinterest.
Left: We’re betting your people don’t have this! Isn’t it cool? It’s a Himalayan Salt Plate with a stand that’s made in Northwest Arkansas. This beautiful, pink slab of salt was originally mined in the Himalayas, then hand-crafted down to individual cooking plates. The owners at Honeycomb said cooking food on salt plates actually uses less salt than when cooking with ground salt, and imparts a rich, subtle flavor you can’t get anywhere else. Use it on the grill or even freeze it to serve cold foods. If your gift recipient enjoys hosting dinner parties, they can allow guests to cook their own food right at the table when you purchase the locally hand-crafted black walnut serving stand. The stands are made in Rogers, by artisan wood designer Don DeSpain. Each stand is one-of-a-kind. 8×8 salt plate $29.99, 8×8 serving stand $85
Right: Rise and grind! Skip the waste and get your caffeine fix in style with Presse by bobble. The 2-piece stainless steel coffee press brews delicious coffee in just 3 minutes. Gourmet coffee couldn’t be simpler – just brew, press and go. This is the perfect unique gift for any French press coffee lover! $29.99
· No plastic pod or paper filter waste
· Made of food-grade 304 stainless steel and food-grade, high-temperature silicone
· Makes up to 13 oz. of coffee – enough to share!
· Top-rack dishwasher safe
· Designed in the U.S.A.
Cooking classes at Honeycomb Kitchen Shop: Honeycomb also offers a wide range of cooking classes in a fully-functioning kitchen located right in their store. Wouldn’t a cooking class be a grand gift to give someone who has everything? Honeycomb works with local culinary talent to host unique classes. They’ve done all kinds of classes already since opening this year, including pizza making, wine and cheese pairing, local cuisine, and even mixology classes. A gift certificate to one of their classes is a great gift for anyone interested in food and cooking. Or? We’ll just say it: a gift to yourself! Wouldn’t a cooking class be a fun date night or night out with friends? Classes typically range from $35-$50 per person.
Where to shop: Honeycomb Kitchen Shop is located at 213 W. Walnut St., in Historic Downtown Rogers.
How to contact: Click here to visit the Honeycomb Kitchen website; Follow them on Facebook; Connect with them on Instagram; Call the kitchen shop at 479-340-1022
Community Creative Center
Painting, pottery wheel & other classes for the grown-ups: Some people are harder to buy for than others. They don’t need one more “thing” to cram into their houses — or more to the point, they don’t need one more thing to dust! That’s where gifts like classes come in. Community Creative Center is not just for kids (although they have some awesome classes and workshops to the littles, too). Maybe your mom, or your friend, or your friend’s mom has always wanted to learn to paint or throw pottery. See? Perfect gift. And it doesn’t collect dust.
Art parties for the grown-ups: CCC also has parties just for the grown-ups. Within walking distance of Dickson Street in Fayetteville, Community Creative Center is the ideal spot to gather some friends and come play in the clay. Party prices include instruction, supplies, and light refreshments for each. CCC’s adult art parties are perfect for occasions like Girls’ Night Out, birthdays, anniversaries and reunions. The group can make a mug, work on the pottery wheel, make chip & dip platters and more.
Community Creative Center’s location: 505 W. Spring St., Fayetteville
How to contact: Click here to see a full listing of adult classes; Click here for more info about art parties; Follow CCC on Facebook; Connect on Instagram; Call the Community Creative Center at 479-571-2706
If your house is already full of “stuff” that the kids don’t play with nearly as much as you’d hoped, consider giving a few “gifts of experience” this year. These types of gifts will give your kids experiences, memories and skills that can last throughout their lifetime.
Kaleidoscope
The Gift of Dance: Our bodies are designed to move, so give your kids the gift of dance in 2017. Purchase a package of lessons, a summer dance camp or even individual lessons with a private instructor. Kaleidoscope is a Mom-Approved Winner for “Best Dance Studio” and is known not only for its outstanding instructors but also for its commitment to values that are important to parents (which means no inappropriate dance music, costumes that are too revealing, or choreography that isn’t age appropriate.) The studio offers lessons in ballet, jazz, hip-hop, tap, contemporary, acrobatics and more. (There are adult classes available, too, and this studio is home to a very strong group of male dancers.)
Having seen this place in action ourselves, the atmosphere at the studio is welcoming, upbeat and absolutely committed to the proper teaching techniques. Click here for more info about the studio.
Studio location: 900 SE Village Loop, Bentonville, Ark.
How to contact: Call studio owner Laine Harper at 479-464-5977 and ask about pre-purchasing lessons. Click here to get updates on Facebook.
The Jones Center
Left: Did you know that you can give your kids ice skating lessons at The Jones Center? The rink is huge and the instructors are amazing. There are several different classes available for various age groups. Cost is about $50, if you register early. (The next session starts in January, so this would be a perfect Christmas or Hannukah gift!) If your kids are already great skaters, consider giving them an ice skating party with their friends. It’ll be something fun to look forward to after the excitement of the holidays is over. Click here for info on ice skating lessons and ice skating parties.
Center: This could be the gift that your kids flip for — literally. Wrap up a gift certificate for gymnastics classes in 2017. (Or you could purchase a 90-minute gymnastics party at The Jones Center and invite up to 25 friends!) Kids as young as preschool up through ages 8 and older can take lessons or do parties. Click here for info on gymnastics lessons and gymnastics parties.
Right: This is a gift idea your kids will never see coming. Give them a gift certificate for a swimming party in the middle of winter! Because The Jones Center pool is indoors, it won’t matter if there is snow on the ground when your kids and up to 25 friends want to go swimming (and sliding down that awesome yellow water slide.) Again, it’s a great way to give your kids something fun to look forward to after the holiday excitement begins to fade. Click here for info about swim parties at The Jones Center.
The Jones Center location: 922 E. Emma Ave., Springdale, Ark.
How to contact: Call 479-756-8090; Visit the website; Follow on Instagram; Visit on Facebook; Follow on Twitter; See more on Pinterest; Watch on YouTube. 
Belle-women.kids.gifts
Left: The Amazing Taste Stemless Glass holds 20 ounces of wine and countless hours of good conversation with your bestie. We love the bright color, gold lettering and especially the sentiment of this gift. We suggest getting one for yourself, too, so you and your friend can sip out of matching glasses. Cost is only $15. (Consider pairing it with a bottle of her favorite wine!)
Right: The Blessings Artisan Trinket Dish comes with a small price tag and a huge heartfelt message for someone who means a lot to you. We love it when a gift for a friend helps remind her of how much you appreciate her. This pretty dish would be perfect to put your rings in when you take them off to wash your hands or put on lotion. It measures 5.5 by 3.5 inches. Cost is only $10.
Where to shop:
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Belle-women.kids.gifts @ Tuscany Square2603 W Pleasant Grove Rd. Suite 115Rogers, Arkansas 72758
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Belle-women.kids.gifts @ Wedington Shopping Center3575 W Wedington Drive Suite 2Fayetteville, Arkansas 72704
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Belle-women.kids.gifts @ Walton Blvd1406 S Walton Blvd Suite 6Bentonville, Arkansas 72712
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Belle-women.kids.gifts @ J Street Shopping Center3511 SE J Street Suite 4Bentonville, Arkansas 72712
How to contact: Visit the website; Follow on Instagram; Visit on Facebook; Browse on Pinterest; Follow on Twitter; See the brand on YouTube.
Walton Arts Center
Dirty Dancing Girls’ Night Out: We love a fun Girls’ Night Out with our friends, so we’d definitely appreciate opening a gift to find tickets from Walton Arts Center inside! One of the best GNO shows at Walton Arts Center early next year is Dirty Dancing. Tickets to this show would make the perfect friend gift. You and your besties will have to wait to see the show until March (it runs March 8-12), but anticipation is half the fun, right? At the show, you’ll be able to sing “Hungry Eyes,” “Hey Baby,” “Do You Love Me?” and “(I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life” together!
Walton Arts Center’s location: 495 W. Dickson St., Fayetteville
How to contact: Click here to see a full listing of shows to choose from; Click here for Dirty Dancing tickets; Follow them on Facebook; Watch on YouTube; Call the theatre at 479-443-5600
Rock City Outfitters
Left: The “Call Me” t-shirt is one of the designs Rock City Outfitters is best known for, partly because you have to be a Hog fan to appreciate what those two words — “Call me” — really mean. This shirt is 100% cotton, unisex sizing, and so soft you’ll want to live in it 24/7. Cost is $26.99. Click here to see more or to order it.
Right: We love how the Homegrown Hoodie says so much without using words at all. Whether you were born in this state or have fallen in love with it and put down roots since you moved here, this shirt shows off your love for all things Arkansas. Cost is $34.99. Click here to see more or to order it.
Where to shop: Rock City Outfitters is an Arkansas company founded in 2008, selling primarily through its online shop, at select retailers throughout the state and at regional events. (They also do custom orders for groups and organizations, and they’re the company we asked to produce our Mom Prom t-shirts for the past 3 years… because they’re awesome.)
How to contact: Visit the website; Follow on Twitter; Visit on Facebook; See more on Pinterest; Follow on Instagram; Watch the YouTube channel.
Scott Frame and Art
Left and Right: Some of the most memorable, special gifts to give or receive during the holidays are the ones that are truly personal. The pros at Scott Frame and Art can help you customize a one-of-a-kind framed memory — something like a jersey, tickets, program, pennant or a photo collage. We love these “Frame Your Game” Custom Shadowboxes featuring sports jerseys, which can either be mounted full-length or folded. (See examples above, left and right.) The reason we both have Scott Frame and Art frames in our own homes is because they have the largest selection in Northwest Arkansas and their framing experts make it so easy to pull a project like this together.
Center: There are so many beautiful places in Northwest Arkansas and so many amazing artists, which is why we love to browse the big selection of local art at Scott Frame and Art. They have Artist Originals and Fine Art Reproductions of special places in Northwest Arkansas. If you want to customize a gift of art for a friend or relative, the shop can produce these Fine Art Reproductions in a variety of sizes on canvas, fine art paper and photo paper. The example shown at center above is a Giclee on Canvas called “Crystal Bridges,” by local artist Jane Garrison-Davidian.
Where to shop: Scott Frame and Art has a location at 2603 W. Pleasant Grove Road in Rogers and another shop at 100 E. Joyce Blvd in Fayetteville.
How to contact: Visit the website; Get updates on Facebook; Call the store at 479-696-8263 (Rogers) or at 479-443-7262 (Fayetteville).
Riffraff
Left: A bad hair day is no problem when you’ve got a cute hat with a little Arkansas pride on it. This Charlie Southern Retro Arkansas Hat is only $28 and would be a great gift for an Arkansas girl.
Right: We adore this Charlie Southern Marble State Long Sleeve Tee. It’s a fun twist on Riffraff’s traditional state designs — with a marble motif! Proclaim your love for Arkansas, mamas! Cost is $36.
Where to shop: 15 S Block Ave, Fayetteville, Ark.
How to contact: Call the store at 479.799.5763; Click here to visit Riffraff’s website. Follow on Instagram; Visit on Facebook; See more on Pinterest; Follow on Twitter; Watch on YouTube.
Kate Austin
Left: Corkcicle Canteens have become so popular with teachers because they tend to have a water bottle or a coffee thermos on their desk all day. With proprietary triple insulation, this canteen keeps beverages cold for 25 hours or hot for 12 wherever you take it. It’s available in 14 colors and four sizes, including the 25oz which holds a standard bottle of wine. Cost is $32. It’s pictured above with a Scout bag, which is a sturdy, wipe-able bag that teachers LOVE. You can carry lunch in it or anything else. Cost is $9.
Right: Your child’s hard-working teacher has EARNED some brownies, right? He or she might eat the brownies right away but this ceramic Brownie Tray (with mix and silver spatula that says “brownie points” on it) will be around forever as a special gift and reminder that “Life is what you bake it.” Cost is $44 for the brownie tray and $17 for the Jingle Bell brownie mix.
Tip: (We always think it’s a special touch to include a heartfelt thank you note from parents and/or your child with any gift that goes to a special teacher.)
Where to shop: Have you seen Kate Austin’s new location at 3046 SE J Street in Bentonville? It’s GORGEOUS. Swing by there and prepare to stay a while because you’ll want to look through all the pretties and try on a few cute clothes while you’re at it. The ladies who work at the shop are always kind and helpful.
How to contact: Call the shop at 479-268-3033; Visit the website: Follow on Instagram; Visit on Facebook; Follow on Twitter; See more on Pinterest.
Kyya Chocolates
Left: Hand-crafted Kyya Chocolate bars. Yes, please! Through adventures to cacao farms around the globe, Kyya crafts distinctive chocolate for their customers. They make small batches of chocolate with hand-picked single origin beans to highlight the unique flavor profiles. A few of these wrapped in a pretty bow would make a teacher’s day! Some of the chocolate bar flavors include Uganda Single Origin Milk Chocolate, Coffee Infused Milk Chocolate Bar, Ecuador Dark Chocolate, Dark Chocolate Infused with Coconut and lots more!
Right: Kyya Bon-Bons. We all know teachers don’t have time to sit around eating bon bons, but with this gift she might be able to occasionally kick her feet up and indulge. This would be a fun teacher gift that says You get me. You totally get me.
Where to shop: Visit the website; Find them on Facebook; Tweet them on Twitter; See pics on Pinterest; Follow them on Instagram; Watch this new video about them on YouTube; Click here to see the full list of Northwest Arkansas retailers where Kyya Chocolate is sold.
How to contact: Using Google, you can find Kyya at 337 North Elm Street, Springdale, Arkansas 72762. For locals, the chocolate shop is in Elm Springs on Highway 112, about 2 miles North of Hwy 412. The shop is open Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. You can also call 1-844-281-4470
Rick’s Bakery
Left: You can’t go wrong with giving a Holiday Gift Tower or Cookie Tray from Rick’s Bakery. Their most popular gift tower is the Silver Bells tower, $35, which includes festive petit fors, rich brownies and more sweet treats.
Right: The cookie trays are also a best-seller around the holidays. They’re available in a 2-dozen tray for $10 and a 5-dozen tray for $25. Each includes a selection of Rick’s most popular tea cookies.
Where to shop: Rick’s Bakery is located at 1220 N. College, Fayetteville. 479-442-2166
How to contact: Visit Rick’s Facebook page; Call the bakery at 479-442-2166 or email them to order at celebration@ricksbakery.com
My Brother’s Salsa
Left: We LOVE this little piggy that’s just right for holding your favorite My Brother’s Salsa flavor. This gift set is $34 and you get your choice of two jars of salsa, a bag of My Brother’s Organic Tortilla Chips and & the small red ceramic pig bowl (red glaze 7”x6”x2.75”; food safe). The whole set is packed in a custom gift box. Click here to order the “Small Red Pig Deluxe” package.
Right: We get so excited about dishes that can go straight from the oven onto the table, which is exactly what the red red & white enamelware plate in this package can do. It’s beautiful and practical. It’s the perfect gift for your friends who love nachos (nacho recipe card included). Food safe, oven safe, dishwasher safe. The $43 package comes with the enamelware plate, your choice of one jar of My Brother’s Salsa and a bag of My Brother’s Organic Tortilla Chips — all packed in a custom gift box. Click here to order the Red & White Swirl Nacho Plate, Chips and Salsa” package.
Where to shop: The gift boxes can be ordered online and sent to you or the gift recipient; or you can order and pick them up at 1006 NW 11th St, Bentonville
How to contact: Visit the Facebook page; Follow them on Instagram; Tweet them on Twitter; See their products on Pinterest; Or call 888-557-2572
Fork & Crust Pie Company
Left: The nickname for this Caramel Apple Pie is “perfection,” and it’s easy to see (and taste) why. It’s made with Granny Smith apples and it’ll be the pie your holiday guests and/or party hosts will still be thinking about well into the New Year.
Right: The Salted Caramel Pumpkin Pie is only available during the holiday season, so get it (and give it) while you can. It really is as good as it sounds.
Pie prices:
- Large 10″ pies are $27
- Petite 6″ pies are $11
- Mini 4″ pies are $4.50
Where to shop: 5208 W. Village Parkway (Suite 11), Rogers, Ark. (Find the shop in the Village on the Creeks shopping plaza, right behind SOHO Clothiers, diagonal from the YMCA. The shop faces the three crosses.)
How to contact: If you would like to order a pie and you live in Northwest Arkansas or Southwest Missouri areas, send the pie girls an email at piegirls@forkandcrust.com. Visit the website by clicking here; Follow on Facebook; Follow on Instagram; See more on Pinterest; Follow on Twitter. Call the shop at 479-268-6634.
Kindness and Joy Toys
No matter how old your kids are, they still love digging into their stockings on Christmas morning to see what small but special gifts might be hidden in there. For some new ideas for stocking stuffers, we asked Lindsay Ramsey, owner of one of the hottest new toy stores in Northwest Arkansas — Kindness & Joy Toys.
Tenzi: Everyone gets ten dice. Someone says “Go.” Then everyone rolls and rolls as fast as they can until someone gets all their dice on the same number. Tenzi is recommended for ages 7 to 97 but can be adapted for players younger than 7 under supervision with the dice. This quick, entertaining game is a great after-dinner activity. Cost is $15. Click here for more info.
Watchitude: Watchitude watches have comfortable silicon slap bands that are printed in full photographic color images. Watchitude watches come in a wide range of colors and patterns, making it the perfect gift for a variety of ages. (Gwen bought one for her daughter and liked it so much she wanted to wear it herself!) Cost is $20. Check out the shop’s Instagram page to see a video of the Watchitude slap watch in action.
Where to shop: Kindness and Joy Toys doesn’t have a store front, so you can ship the toys to your house or to the person receiving the gift. (She gift wraps! Hurray!) Also, Kindness and Joy will have a Pop-Up Shop at Sara Kathryn’s in Fayetteville on December 10th from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. (if you want to order now and pick up at that event.) They’ll also be at Shop For Mankind/3 Monkeys in Rogers on Thursday, December 15th from 10-2, if you’d like to order and pick up there.
How to contact: Visit website by clicking here; Message via Facebook; Find it on Instagram; Email owner by clicking here.
Bubble and Fizz Shop
Left: We fell in LOVE with these Duckie Bath Cupcakes when we saw them at the NWA Boutique Show. We bought several of them for the kids and tweens/teens on our Christmas list. The bottom part of this bath cupcake is a fizzy bath bomb, and the frosting is a solid bubble bath. (Use both for one bath or use one part at a time for two separate baths.) The rubber duckie separates easily from the frosting, and the ducks are available in green, blue, yellow or orange. (During the holidays, you can even get duckies that are wearing scarves and winter hats!) The scent smells like tropical fruits, sugared oranges, lemons, limes and mountain greens. Cost is $6 per cupcake.
Right: What if your kids’ bubble bath soap was squishable and squeezable — something they could shape, mold and play with in the tub? That’s exactly what Bubble Dough can do! It’s a lot like that other famous “dough” kids play with, only this one will help them look forward to bath time and get them clean even when they think they’re just playing. This handmade soap is gentle, light-lathering and available in scents including tutti fruitti, grape, lemon, orange, cherry and even fresh cut grass! It comes in a resealable container so you can save any leftover dough for the next bath. Cost is $2.75 for a 2 oz. ball of dough.
Where to shop: Bubble and Fizz Shop is a new local business doing pop-up shops at regional craft fairs, but you can always shop online at the Bubble and Fizz Shop (on Etsy) or message the owner via Facebook with questions and/or info about your order. NOTE: Bubble and Fizz Shop will be at the Wampus Wonderland Holiday Arts and Crafts Show on December 10th (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) at the Washington County Fairgrounds. Free admission. There will be arts, crafts, food, music, and bubble and fizz!
How to contact: Visit the website; Follow on Instagram; See more on Facebook.
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