Gift local

During this second round of stay-at-home orders you can still get holiday gifts from local stores like these

BY SUN STAFF

There’s nothing like the holiday spirit to pull you out of your COVID-19 shutdown depression! Christmas is still coming, whether you’re ready or not, and there are plenty of local shops that could use a little extra love this winter season. The latest round of COVID-19 restrictions do allow retail operations to stay up and running, albeit at 20 percent capacity, and plenty have adjusted since March to offer online ordering, curbside pickup, and delivery. But they could use your help! And we figured they could use ours too. In this year’s annual Last Minute Gift Guide, we found some Central Coast shops selling locally made goods to give your gift-buying dollars extra local impact. There are so many out there, we couldn’t keep track. 

—Camillia Lanham

Santa Maria Valley

Shopping locally is something you can feel good about year round, but the Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce is layering on some extra incentives for the holiday season this year. The Shop on Us! holiday receipt campaign encourages residents to check off that gift list at Santa Maria Valley businesses and submit the receipts for a chance to be reimbursed. Shoppers must spend a minimum of $50 to qualify for entry, but that total can be cumulative from multiple stores. Receipts must be dated between Nov. 28 and Dec. 21. Those receipts are due by Dec. 21, and winners will be drawn the week of Christmas on Facebook live. Find entry info at santamaria.com/shop-local-win, as well as a list of businesses with holiday deals compiled by the chamber. Here are a couple of our favorite spots:

Old Town Quilt Shop

165A W. Clark Ave., Orcutt
(805) 938-5870
oldtownquiltshoporcutt.com

Introduce the crafty creative in your life to a new hobby by shopping for them at Old Town Quilt Shop. If you know a seamstress, a quilt would be perfect for their next quarantine project. You can find everything they’ll need—from books that teach the basics, to quilting patterns, to seasonal holiday fabrics—at Old Town Quilt Shop, which was named one of Better Home & Gardens’ top quilting shops in the nation. If you’re looking for a stocking stuffer, pick up a festive Santa spool, hand carved and painted by local artist Bill Rodgers. You can also give the gift of creative freedom with a gift card to Old Town Quilt Shop, which will be sold at a discount the week before Christmas. Shop in-store, curbside, or online.

Santa Maria BBQ Outfitters

2936 Industrial Parkway,
Santa Maria
(805) 347-2709
santamariagrills.com

We might not be able to gather for barbecues in the same way this year, but nothing can stop Santa Marians from grilling in the meantime. You can help the meat lover in your life keep their barbecue skills sharp by shopping for them at Santa Maria BBQ Outfitters. Go the whole nine yards with the gift of a backyard barbecue or grill, or supplement your existing setup with grilling accessories. If you do spring for a barbecue during December, you get to spin the Holiday Wheel to win free accessories or a discount off of your purchase.

—Malea Martin

Solvang

Solvang feels festive even outside of the winter months, but come the holidays, the Danish-style city gets downright magical. This year, IDK Events purchased and distributed Christmas trees to local shops (inspiring some friendly decoration competition), and the Solvang Chamber of Commerce dropped off “shop local” signs at more than 100 small businesses around town. Grab a hot chocolate from Good Seed Coffee Boutique on Mission Drive, or a sandwich from Birkholm’s Bakery & Cafe on Alisal Road, and then hit these shops and others:

Pebble People

1608 Copenhagen Drive, No. B, Solvang
(805) 688-7616
pebblepeople.com

For a unique gift that is sure to spark some giggles, head to Pebble People, a family-run business that’s been in Solvang for more
than 40 years. The shop’s signature Pebble People figurines—glossy rocks with eyes that make them instantly adorable—are handmade in the Santa Ynez Valley and range from just one pebble person to an entire pebble “family reunion.” Put one in a stocking, or get one to represent each family member. Also at Pebble People you can find cuckoo clocks, animated and musical Christmas figurines, fine jewelry, and more. Online orders of more than $100 will receive free shipping from now until Dec. 31. 

Rasmussen’s

1697 Copenhagen Drive, Solvang
(805) 688-6636
rasmussenssolvang.com

If you know someone who is missing international travel during the pandemic, find them a taste of the Danish spirit Solvang is known for at Rasmussen’s. Here you can purchase Scandinavian collectibles, glassware, jewelry, chocolates, and so much more from a family-owned business that’s been selling goods since 1946. Or, for the foodies in your life, check out the store’s wide selection of specialty kitchenware to whip up some classic Scandinavian treats. If holiday spirit is what you’re after, Rasmussen’s also boasts a large selection of Christmas ornaments. 

—Malea Martin

Lompoc

Despite new regulations that require retail stores to stay under 20 percent capacity, the Lompoc Chamber of Commerce is determined to keep business flowing in the city during the busiest shopping season of the year. The organization is encouraging shoppers to celebrate Small Business Saturday by spending, their dollars locally every weekend, and it’s helping “pivot our local businesses when they need assistance setting up online shopping options,” Chamber President Amber Wilson said. Pop in to A Little Something Special and More for local, handmade goods; stroll into Certain Sparks Music for the melodious-minded person on your list; or check out these options: 

South Side Coffee Co. 

105 S. H St., Lompoc
(805) 737-3730
facebook.com/southsidecoffeecompany

Whether you need to fuel up before a holiday shopping spree or you’re looking for a locally crafted and curated gift, South Side Coffee can do it all. Order a seasonal peppermint bark mocha to sip on while you browse South Side’s selection of artisan goods ranging from locally sourced oil and vinegar and handmade Christmas ornaments to embroidered patches and repurposed furniture and decor from Vintage Souls. You can also purchase coffee by the pound or a South Side gift card for the coffee lover in your life.

Surf Connection

1307 N. H St., Lompoc
(805) 736-1730
surfconnection.net/shop

Surf Connection is any surfer or skater’s dream shop, and the carefully curated apparel and boards they carry make it a favorite among local shredders. But you can also find unique Lompoc-themed goods at Surf Connection that would make any born-and-raised local happy to unwrap. From an “I Love Lompoc” ceramic mug, to a Lompoc T-shirt in the style of the iconic California state flag, to locally poured Christmas candles from Mooseberry Mountain, you’ll find something for just about everyone on your list here.

—Malea Martin

Nipomo

You can do more than just get a Christmas tree from Holloway’s Farm (which is now open for business with COVID-19 safe measures in place) in Nipomo this year. There’s no real Main Street to cruise for quick and easy shopping, but everybody knows that the best treasures are worth the hunt. So head out to Delicias de Mi Tierra Bakery to get a box of delicious Mexican holiday-themed pastries. Or hit up the Willow Lights fundraiser every weekend until Christmas to see some gorgeous and holly jolly displays. And, if you’d rather play it safe and shop from the comfort of your own home, here are a couple of options:  

Truly Gifted

(805) 266-9655
facebook.com/trulygiftd
truly-gifted.com

After decades in the retail industry, Nipomo resident Marina Garcia-Endert launched her own professional gifting company, Truly Gifted, in September 2019, where she offers a variety of the usual gift baskets, boxes, and packages with a personal twist. “It’s kind of more like a custom gift,” Garcia-Endert said, “instead of something that’s just thrown together.” Using Central Coast products like 805 BBQ sauce, Ray’s Own Brand jerky, and Jocko’s steak seasoning, Truly Gifted baskets offer a taste of home and help support other local businesses too. And with a plethora of customizable options—guests can include engraved cutting boards or monogrammed ribbons—each gift feels unique. Garcia-Endert delivers locally and ships everywhere. Order a Truly Gifted basket by calling Garcia-Endert or visiting her online. “I’ll work with any budget,” she said. 

Waqaq Art

waqaq@aol.com
(805) 478-4135
facebook.com/Waqaq-Art-126729734031012

As one of the few Chumash artisans out there, Rosemary Castillo takes seriously her mission to use traditional materials and methods in her work. The contemporary and traditional Native American jewelry artist cuts and hand polishes her own beads, and uses everything from abalone, shells, seeds, and bones in her jewelry. “There’s more to Native American jewelry than silver and turquoise,” Castillo said. She makes sure to bring her own modern style to every piece, using designs that she sees in her dreams and often including unconventional products. “To show that we evolve as a people like everybody else,” she said. “We are not a stagnant people. And we are not an invisible people.” Castillo takes orders through her Facebook page, over the phone, and via text. She prefers to meet her customers somewhere in Nipomo for pickups, but she also ships! 

—Kasey Bunash

Grover Beach

Locals and businesses alike can spread holiday cheer by participating in the Holiday of Lights Virtual Decorating Contest. Just decorate your house or business in a manner that’s as extra as possible, submit photos to gbparks@groverbeach.org by Dec. 16, and you could potentially win yourself bragging rights. Fortunately, Grover Beach’s local businesses have products that are just as fun and festive as the city itself. Head to Bittersweet Brewing Company to get growlers for all the self-described beer connoisseurs, and get everyone you know customized clothing at KJB Screen Printing and Embroidery. Here are some other options:

Nan’s Pre-Owned Books 

1328 W. Grand Ave.
(805) 489-7510
nanspreownedbooks.com

You all know about Nan’s. It’s been around for 34 years, after all. But in August of this year, Nan herself retired and passed the beloved used bookstore down to her granddaughter, Kassi Dee. “I was pretty much raised in this bookstore. So this is just like my home,” Dee said. Whether you’re looking for used books to stuff into stockings, or something more specific, the staff at Nan’s can help you find it. And from a safe distance! Just call in or email your requests, and Dee said she’ll go on the hunt for your books. If she doesn’t have it, she can order you a new copy to pick up at the curb. Amazon might be more convenient, but when you order through Nan’s, you’re helping a local, family-owned business stay afloat, Dee said. 

Central Coast Beauties 

480 W. Grand Ave., suite C
(805) 888-7427
centralcoastbeauties.com

While hairdressers have been able to reopen on some level during the COVID-19 pandemic, Central Coast Beauties owner Jessica Blanco said aestheticians haven’t really had that opportunity, and she just recently had to vacate her commercial lease. Her storefront will be closing sometime around January. But Blanco is making the best of an unfortunate situation. She’s long had a line of locally made, clean skincare products, dubbed SLO Vibes. Body butter, hydrating face and body mist, hand lotion, diffuser oil, and perfume—Blanco makes it all! With all natural products that are all under $50, SLO Vibes offers an affordable way to treat yo’ self or someone you love. You can order SLO Vibes products through the Central Coast Beauties website or give Blanco a call. She ships and delivers anywhere in the Five Cities area. 

—Kasey Bubnash

Arroyo Grande

While Arroyo Grande’s much-anticipated holiday shopping event, Elegant Christmas, typically falls on one night in December each year, this year’s will run all month in an effort to reduce crowds. Shoppers who make purchases at local shops in the Village throughout the month can post a photo to Instagram or Facebook with the hashtag #Love4Local and tags @VisitArroyoGrande, @SouthCountyChambers, and the business they’re supporting to be eligible for various prizes, including a staycation package. Don’t forget to check out Lady Di’s Boutique, a fairly new women’s clothing store that sells some clothing and jewelry made by local artists, and Posies, a retailer with all kinds of goodies you can find in the store or online. Here are some others with goodies you might like: 

Lookie Loops

carol@lookieloops.com
(805) 400-0017
lookieloops.com

Arroyo Grande resident Carol Chenot used to get frustrated every time she had to dig through her purse to find her sunglasses. So she invented Lookie Loops, hand-sewn pouches for sunglasses with straps that loop around the handles of other bags. Eventually she added similar pouches for phones, keys, and books. But she never imagined that one day her best seller would be a pandemic-safe face mask. Here we are in 2020, and Chenot has made more than 4,000 masks, which she’s sold and donated. With free delivery through the month of December, Lookie Loops make for cute and useful stocking stuffers or gifts. Plus, Chenot has an established online presence. Order through her website or on Facebook, and most orders will be shipped out the following day. 

The Sports Dugout 

109 E. Branch St.
(805) 474-4918
facebook.com/sportsdugoutag

If you have a sports lover in your life—and we all pretty much do—the Sports Dugout in the Village of Arroyo Grande is the place for you. Owners Lance and June Gonzales keep the store stocked with everything from team mugs, flags, and hats, to totally unique pieces, like framed photos, helmets, and balls signed by the greats themselves. They even have sports-themed gift baskets! So whether your loved one is a serious collector of sports memorabilia or just really needs a new Dodgers jersey, a gift from the Sports Dugout is sure to knock it out of the park. 

—Kasey Bubnash

Pismo Beach

From tchotchke tourist items to T-shirts, taffy, and surfboards, Pismo Beach certainly has the beach town holiday gifting vibes on lockdown, including that sweet vision of bright Christmas tree glory at the end of the Pismo pier. And if you’re out strolling for more than beachy brilliance, there are also plenty of other locally owned spots to shop for gifts, including The Bling Boutique, which carries women’s jewelry, accessories, and clothing; Cove by Van Rozeboom Interiors for upscale home décor with a Central Coast flair; and Pismo Beach Coins Etc. Gallery for antiques and collectibles to treasure. Looking for something else? Maybe these stops will have the perfect treasure:

Tastes of the Valleys

911 Price St., No. A
(805) 773-4763
winesneak.com

With carside, curbside, concierge, and in-store service options, Tastes of the Valleys wine shop and bar has made it easy to find that perfect local bottle or two of fermented grape juice for the wine drinker in your life. Tastes of the Valleys has a Central Coast wines holiday three-pack ready to roll at a discounted price. For $72, you can snag a 2016 chardonnay from Campion Winery in Monterey, 2018 Roke pinot noir from SLO’s Topotero Vineyard, and a 2017 red blend from Folded Hills in Santa Ynez. Face masks are required for in-store browsing, but you can also order online. You can call, email, or text if you need some help making a selection; local delivery is free with $100 purchase; and they also ship! 

Pismo Beach Surf Shop

470 Price St.
(805) 773-2089
pismobeachsurfshop.com

Holiday gifts don’t always have to be tangible. You can also give a memory brought to you by local guides in local waters. There’s nothing better than being outdoors while everything else is on lockdown due to COVID-19. The Pismo Beach Surf Shop offers kayak tours of the Pismo caves; kayak fishing; surf lessons; and surfboard, kayak, stand-up paddleboard, boogie board, and skim board rentals. They even have beach cruisers and electric bikes for rent. Plus it’s the oldest surf shop on the Central Coast (founded in 1962), is connected with the Pismo Beach Dive Shop (think scuba diving), and comes complete with a surf shop and museum with a large collection of vintage surf boards. You can book a lesson, tour, or rental online. Call for details.

—Camillia Lanham

Contact Sun staffers through the editor at clanham@santamariasun.com. 

This article appears in Dec 10-17, 2020.