As moms, we know who brings the true sparkle and shine to all the seasonal activities – it’s you mama! It’s hard work bringing tidings of comfort and joy to our loved ones all season long, but we’ve got your back. While we can’t trim your tree or deck your halls, the cheerful CMB elves are here to help give you some amazing ideas on how to #shopcbus2018 this season.
Below you’ll find gift ideas, most of which can be found at local businesses throughout Central Ohio, including Experiences, Sweet Treats & Delicious Drinks, Gifts for the Ohio Lover, Gifts from Local Shops, and even a section on Out of the Box gift ideas. Let us know when you’re out shopping using #shopcbus2018!
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from all of us at Columbus Moms Blog
P.S. To help make your season extra merry and bright we’ve added a little surprise at the end of the post
This guide is brought to you by the wonderful businesses featured throughout the guide. We couldn’t have done it without them! But rest assured, each item was personally checked out and reviewed by the CMB staff.
Experiences
Everyone loves the gift of experience! Below we’ve got three local businesses that your friends and family will love to receive a gift card for!
The Little Gym Gift Card
Give the gift of The Little Gym! With retail items, special winter camp and Parent Survival Nights and weekly classes, you’ll be able to check off all the kiddos on your gift list! The Little Gym offers Parent-child classes for children under 3, Pre-k for children 3-6 and Grade School classes for 6-12 year olds.
CMB Review: Great for kids of all ages, we have loved attending the Little Gym since my oldest was 18 months. He’s now almost 4 and continues to improve in his gross motor skills, learning team building techniques, as well as his listening skills, all while getting energy out and, most importantly, having FUN!
Where to Buy
Beat the winter blues by enrolling your child in weekly classes and winter camps at The Little Gym! Our non-competitive gymnastics based program is designed for children 4 months-12 years of age. At The Little Gym of Polaris, our environment is fun, but our purpose is serious. That’s why we embrace a proprietary philosophy called Three-Dimensional Learning, in which physical activity is a conduit for nurturing your whole child. The Three-Dimensional Learning approach to skill development means that every class we offer fosters growth in three holistic dimensions—Brain Boost!, Get Moving! and Citizen Kid!
Location: Polaris
Lazer Kraze Gift Card
The best gift of all is to let them pick whatever they want to do at Lazer Kraze! From awesome laser tag to bouncing off the walls on the trampoline or a round of Cyber Sport, there’s something for even the biggest kids on your list!
CMB Review: With two locations to choose from (Lewis Center and Gahanna), Lazer Kraze is a perfect spot for those cold winter days. This gift is best for older kids, and makes a great stocking-stuffer.
Where to Buy
Lazer Kraze is an entertainment facility featuring laser tag, trampolines, inflatables, cyber sport, an arcade, pizza and soft drinks. There are two locations serving the Central Ohio region, each with slightly different offerings. Be sure to check out the website for more information.
Locations: Lewis Center and Gahanna
The W Gel Manicure
Give the gift of pampering! The W Gel Manicure includes a soak in essential oil, , nail and cuticle care, epsom salt scrub exfoliation, massage, and gel polish.
CMB Review: The W Nail bar is above and beyond most of the salons I’ve been to. Because they specialize in manis and pedis, all of the techs really know what they are doing and it is a job well done. A manicure is a treat for me these days, and I was not disappointed. My gel manicure lasted a MONTH before I had it removed and replaced with regular polish, which lasted a full week before chipping. Quality, relaxation, and pure indulgence. The perfect gift for any mama, friend, or daughter.
Where to Buy
The W Nail Bar is an all natural nail bar. We specialize in offering the best manicures & pedicures in town! The W focuses on not only quality services but also customer service & sanitation.
Locations: Short North, German Village, and inside of DSW Easton and DSW Polaris
Yummy Eats and Delicious Drinks
The following, locally sourced, treats and drinks are perfect for the adult beverage aficionado in your life, a lovely gift for the hostess with the most-est, or the BFF who has everything.
Meza Wine Club Membership
Meza’s Monthly Wine Club subscription makes the perfect gift for any wine lover! Enjoy two bottles a month, notes on the wines, tons of member perks and delivery options!
CMB Review: We all have that friend/family member who has everything, yet you still want to treat them to something nice. A wine club membership is the perfect option! It’s a recurring gift, something they will use up, and with two bottles a month not overwhelming.
Where to Buy
Meza Wine Shop stocks a collection of 800+ wine labels and continue to grow and expand their assortment. Meza brings their customers a unique assortment of wines that are top quality and affordable. Whether you are looking for a great weeknight wine or a special bottle to commemorate an occasion, Meza has a variety of offerings that will fit your needs.
Store Location: Uptown Westerville
1/2 Gallon Tin of Dark Salted Caramel Popcorn
Our signature Dark Salted Caramel is a surefire way to bring the family together this Holiday Season! Shirley’s Caramel To Die For popcorn gets a generous drizzle of rich and creamy dark chocolate and a sprinkle of sea salt in this popular recipe. As always, Dark Salted Caramel is hand crafted in small batches. Enjoy it in this 1/2 gallon tin and you can bring the tin back to refill at a discount!
CMB Review: If you entertain a fair amount over the holidays this is the perfect treat to have on hand, place in bowls around your house during a party for guests to munch on or include in a dessert buffet. The 1/2 gallon tin is a great size, perfect to bring to a hostess, or gift to a friend or family member with a sweet tooth.
Where to Buy
Shirley’s Gourmet Popcorn has many mouth watering flavors that will excite your taste buds and make you smile, plus they’re adding new flavors all the time. Made fresh so it stays delicious, Shirley’s flavors are divided into three categories: Original, Classic, and Premium, plus two different container options: bag or tin.
Store Location: Uptown Westerville
Watershed Distillery Bottled Old Fashioned
Looking for a gift that’s as delicious as it is convenient? Watershed Distillery’s Bottled Old Fashioned is ready to go right out of the bottle. We did the hard work for you; open, pour, enjoy with friends and family. Find Watershed’s Old Fashioned, along with Watershed Vodka, Four Peel Gin, Nocino, Apple Brandy & Ohio Bourbon, available in Columbus liquor stores. Made in Ohio, enjoyed by you.
CMB Review: Delicious! I recently enjoyed a Watershed Old Fashioned on a girls night out and I loved it. It was strong and flavorful, and even after multiple rounds of ice (I’m a slow drinker!), never lost it’s kick or taste. My husband and I always stock a full bar, especially around the holidays, and this will definitely now be added to the menu.
Where to Buy
Watershed Distillery was built to make exceptional spirits. Firmly rooted in the belief that success doesn’t happen overnight and certainly not by chance, Watershed seeks to create and celebrate change within the community and beyond. Columbus based distillery, home to spirits and cocktails by the bottle, offering tours, a full kitchen, and private events.
Location: Grandview – bottled beverages also available at liquor stores
Cucumber Habanero Simple Syrup
The cucumber lends a refreshing cool, crisp flavor with the habanero adding a kick at the end that makes you want to come back for more. Pairs well with white tequila or vodka. Can also be used to add a twist to your Bloody Mary, Moscow Mule or Margarita.
CMB Review: You get a lot of syrup in the bottle for not a lot of dough – excellent bang for your buck! This is a perfect stocking stuffer (if you do larger gifts in stockings), as part of a bar themed gift basket, or for a host or hostess gift. I’d also recommend this for any friends or family who don’t drink, but want to spice up their sparkling or flat water.
Where to Buy
ROOT 23 makes all-natural simple syrups used to make craft cocktails or non-alcoholic drinks. We have seven unique flavor combinations that can easily enhance your cocktail game including Cherry Almond, Cucumber Habanero, Grapefruit Basil, Maple Cinnamon, Pear Rosemary, Vanilla Ginger & Blueberry Mint. We also offer a sampler pack that makes a great gift for that hard-to-buy-for person on your gift list!
Locations: Check out their website for where to buy and where to taste locations
For the Ohio Lover
Below you’ll find great gift ideas for the Ohio proud, the Buckeye born and bred, and the lover of the Heart of it All.
"The Scarlet Cleat" & "The Three Little Buckeyes and the Big Bad Wolverine"
“The Scarlet Cleat” is a gridiron twist on the classic Cinderella story, where a little Buckeye named Fubsy gets a shot at his dream to play for the Ohio State Buckeyes. With a, “Bippity-Hut, Bippity-Hike!” his fairy godcoach Woody helps him prepare, but is it enough? “The Three Little Buckeyes and the Big Bad Wolverine” is an Ohio State vs. Michigan themed adaptation of the classic three little pigs story. Follow along as the three little Buckeyes take on the Big Bad Wolverine in a fairy tale rivalry showdown that is sure to put a smile on any Buckeye’s face.
CMB Review: Perfect for the little Buckeye in your life, this gift makes for a great sibling item (one for each!), gift for a friend’s kiddo, niece or nephew. Pair it with a fun OSU shirt, hat, or ornament and you’ve got a perfect gift pack for a true Columbus kid!
Where to Buy
Danny Kelley – the author and illustrator of these two books, is a Central Ohio native. Having grown up here and attended Ohio State University, Danny became a school teacher and was eventually inspired to write these two books, based on classic fairy tales, but with a central Ohio twist. For more about Danny, check out his personal website here. To purchase his books, follow the website link below.
Buckeye Teething Necklace
Chewable buckeye necklace for OSU mamas and their teething babies! A fun and unique gift for a new or expecting fan, this necklace is soft on gums and provides relief for teething babies. The beads are made from food-grade silicone similar to pacifiers and bottle nipples, and are completely free of BPA, PVC, phthalates and toxic materials. Necklaces are made with durable silk string and have a breakaway clasp, so they won’t break or hurt when overeager little ones pull on them.
CMB Review: As so many of us mamas know, teething babies are no fun, and I personally have used all kinds of teething products to help soothe aching gums. I love that this necklace is on theme, allows for a buckeye fan to show their support all while holding a baby who will chew on just about anything! Plus I love that this is a local, mom-run business with products inspired by her real life.
Where to Buy
Buckeye Baby Beads is a company specializing in Buckeye Teething Necklaces and Accessories for OSU Fans. All items are handmade in Columbus Ohio using beads made of food grade silicone, and make great gifts for the new or expecting buckeye in your life. Buckeye Baby Beads was started in 2015, and is owned and operated locally in Powell. Products are available at children’s and specialty stores throughout Ohio, and on Etsy.
Custom Created Ohio T-Shirts and Clothing
Custom created Ohio theme holiday shirts, sweatshirts, pillows, and even i-Phone cases. CBUS Gals Design is focused on creating witty, funny, cute and sassy original designs for print on tees, tanks, sweatshirts and more.
CMB Review: Local love is all the rage right now, and for good reason! I love that this is a personalized gift that shows some Ohio spirit, is festive, and is supporting a local mom-run business.
Where to Buy
Founded by Abby Hallstrom and her sister-in-law Cari Jones, the girls focus on Ohio-themes as well as designs specifically for moms, families and Disney-fans! Cari has been a professional designer for over 12 years and Abby has endless ideas for shirts that graphics that grab your attention! Together, they are CBUS Gals Design!
Local Gift Shops
Looking for that personal touch this holiday season as well as a variety to choose from all while supporting local businesses? Then you need to check out these local shops, both virtual and brick-and-mortar, for the perfect shopping experience.
JellyCat Holiday
Explore all the quirky cuteness of JellyCat – irresistibly cuddly toys that are sophisticatedly silly & hilariously humorous – a perfect gift for all ages!
CMB Review: Adorable and oh so soft! My kids enjoy snuggling with these plush toys, but they also make a cute display at holiday time. This is a perfect stocking-stuffer (cute to stick in the top of the stocking!), kid-friendly hostess gift, or wrapped with a bow under the tree.
Where to Buy
bliss life + style is a modern, whimsical and vibrant everyday gift store, featuring a well-curated collection of jewelry, home accessories & fragrance, paper goods, and gifts created by local artisans as well as unique brands from across the globe. We create customized gift boxes for all occasions, so let us create the perfect gift for that special someone on your list. Stop in and enjoy our fun and relaxing atmosphere and highly personalized customer service.
Location: The Shoppes at River Ridge, Dublin
C.C. Scarf, Head Warmer and Glove Set
Soft and cozy, the C.C. outerwear line is the perfect accessory for cold winter Ohio’s, providing warmth and fashion. Available in a variety of colors, this is the perfect gift for others or self!
CMB Review: The C.C. scarf, head warmer and glove set are a classic outerwear combo that any Ohio girl can appreciate. Super cozy, they are the perfect accessory for winter strolling or sled riding. This is a wonderful gift for any of the women or girls if your life, or even as a special holiday treat for yourself.
Where to Buy
Ella Ann Boutique was started by two moms, Kristen Whitaker & Melissa Yerkes, in April 2018. Our goal is to provide easy to wear, trendy, and affordable clothing! Stylish and comfy looks are what we strive for. We want you to be able to pull out an outfit and start your day with confidence and look amazing while running errands, picking your kids up from school or out for a date night! We love the versatility of our clothes too. Transitioning a top from summer to fall or winter to spring is effortless with Ella Ann Boutique. It’s the little moments in life that make the biggest memories and we want you to do it with style!
Handmade Cat Hat for Kids
Purrfect for cold weather! Little ones stay cozy in fair trade alpaca blend animal and monster hats, handmade by artisans in Peru and Bolivia. Women work in knitting cooperatives and are guaranteed a fair wage and safe working conditions. Artisans can build better lives for themselves and their families as a result. These unique and ethical woolens come in adult and kid sizes, so the whole family can have fun staying warm!
CMB Review: Absolutely adorable, such a wonderful gift for any kiddo. It’s super soft, so even the most sensitive child will be able to wear the hat comfortably and keep warm all winter long. Plus, what a wonderful way to introduce the concept of fair trade to your little ones. The mission behind the hat is so important, it makes this a truly wonderful gift.
Where to Buy
A visit to Global Gifts is a unique experience. From jewelry and home goods to toys and food items, our stores are filled with handmade, one-of-a-kind items you won’t find anywhere else. But that’s not the best part… At Global Gifts, our products are fair trade, which means that your purchase supports fair wages, gender equity and safe and dignified working conditions. Global Gifts is a locally-owned nonprofit organization with four locations in central Indiana and Ohio. We are supported by a small staff and a dedicated team of volunteers.
Location: Short North
Buffalo Plaid Poncho
Cozy up with this stylish poncho, you’ll be plaid you did. It’s the perfect addition to your winter wardrobe. 100% Acrylic
CMB Review: Love this poncho! Warm and cozy, cute and stylish, perfect for all body shapes and sizes. It is one of those gift items that any woman would be happy to receive, and I would be happy to give.
Where to Buy
A local boutique filled with beautiful and unique clothes and accessories just for YOU! Our collection is curated for women to feel comfortable regardless of where they are going, what they’re doing, or what stage of life they’re at. Don’t forget about our kid friendly shopping experience – the boutique also features a playroom for your little ones. Stop by soon to explore your true style.
Location: Powell
Out of the Box Gift Ideas
Below are three gift items that we love. Why? Because they are completely unique, original, and definitely out of the box.
Fridge Fresh
Fridge Fresh is the top kitchen gadget to prolong the life of your fruits and vegetables by 7 to 10 days, saving over $2,000 per year in groceries on average. This product is also a toxic free odor remover for refrigerators.
CMB Review: Super unusual and super practical gift idea. Definitely a gift to give to those closest to you, and no doubt, it would be a much appreciated gift for a long time.
Where to Buy
At Activated Oxygen Technologies, we strive to provide families with various wellness products that incorporate modern day technology with activated oxygen. For many families, wellness starts at home. That’s why we are dedicated to creating products that provide households with a multitude of wellness solutions. Our current activated oxygen products range from air purifiers for both homes and vehicles to pet products and even refrigeration products.
Children's Shoes
Inside each Lucky Shoes location we carry the largest selection of children’s shoes in the area. Including Uggs and the Stride Rite collection, known for its ability to give your toddlers the confidence and support to take first steps. And while we measure and fit the tiniest toes, our professional shoe fitters offer personalized service and expertise on brands you (and your feet!) will love, too.
CMB Review: We all know how quickly kiddos move through their shoes, but we also know that it’s so important to have quality coverings on their oh so active feet. A gift card to lucky shoes, or even a cute pair of boots is a wonderful gift for any kiddo this holiday season.
Where to Buy
Locally owned and operated since 1919, Lucky Shoes offers comfort, fit, and value. We invite you to come to our Lucky Shoes stores and experience the professional fit that only we offer. A highly trained Fit Specialist will gladly help you find the perfect fit for all of your footwear needs. With style and selection for all ages, you’ll be able to find shoes for everyone in your family.
Location: Easton
Hand-Dyed Bamboo Rayon Socks
What are Socks For Hope™? Every time you purchase a pair of socks or footies, we will donate a pair to a local homeless shelter. Why socks? Socks are the most needed clothing item at homeless shelters. These Bamboo Rayon socks will be the softest socks you will ever wear!
CMB Review: Love these socks! Not only do they support an absolutely wonderful cause, they are soft and comfy, and have a wonderful fun look. Perfect as a stocking-stuffer, or part of a larger package gift. Great for all ages, male and female.
Where to Buy
Dyetology is a line of unique, hand-dyed accessories and apparel using natural fibers (Cotton, Rayon, Bamboo, Silk) founded and designed by me, Jackie Ayres. Dyetology was born out of my love for color, hand-dyeing and wanting to give women one-of-a-kind clothing that not only looks beautiful but also feels so good, you won’t want to take it off.
Christmas Giveaway!
Enter to Win the CMB Holiday Gift Guide Grand Giveaway!
That’s right! For the first time ever, the holly jolly elves at CMB are gifting one of our favorites (that’s you!) a gift from each and every one of the businesses listed above! We love everything on this list so much, we want one of you to enjoy every single item – keep them for yourself or move the holiday cheer forward by gifting one or more items.
Happy Holidays!
Valued at over $675, here’s what’s included in the giveaway:
- $77.00 Gift Card for Little Gym
- $100.00 Gift Card for Lazer Kraze
- $40.00 Gift Card to W Nail Bar
- 1 bottle of Old Fashioned from Watershed Distillery
- 1 bottle of Cucumber Habanero Simple Syrup from Root 23
- 2 bottles of wine from Meza Wine Bar
- 1 1/2 Gallon Tin of Dark Salted Caramel Popcorn from Shirley’s Gourmet Popcorn
- 1 copy each of “The Scarlet Cleat” and “The Three Little Buckeyes and the Big Bag Wolverine” by Danny Kelley
- 1 Buckeye Baby Teething Necklace from Buckeye Baby Beads
- 1 Ohio Holiday Ornament Tote Bag and 1 OHIO Reindeer Unisex 3/4 Sleeve Tee from Cbus Gals Design
- 1 JellyCat Holiday Plush from Bliss Life & Style
- 1 Handmade Cat Hat from Global Gifts
- 1 C.C. Knit Scarf, Headwarmer, and Glove Set in Gray from Ella Ann Boutique
- 1 Buffalo Plaid Poncho from Pine & Blush
- 1 Fridge Fresh from Activated Technologies Inc.
- 1 Pair of Hand Dyed Socks from Dyetology
- 1 $50 Gift Card from Lucky Shoes
Rules for Entry:
- Enter to win using the button below
- For extra entries, like and comment on our Facebook post announcing the Holiday Gift Guide
- All entrants must be 21 years or older to win
- Pick-up/delivery of giveaway items will occur within a 25 mile radius of 43230. Winner must be able to accommodate this geographic requirement.
- Giveaway ends on November 30th at 11:59pm
- The winner will be randomly selected and directly e-mailed and announced on Facebook.
Love all the great prizes here! I especially like the W Nail bar to get some mom pampering. 🙂
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