The holiday giving season is right around the corner… and it will be upon us before we know it.
Before moving to Vermont, each year my husband and I looked forward to giving our loved ones gift cards to restaurants we thought they would enjoy trying. Now, we’ve had to change our gift-giving style a bit. Since moving to Vermont, we’ve begun to find joy in selecting unique Vermont gifts for each of our family members and friends.
Here is a list of our top picks for unique Vermont gifts that you can purchase and ship or order and send directly this holiday season:
Feed Me
Dakin Farms Breakfast Box– Dakin Farms is a staple in the Burlington area. Ship a traditional country breakfast in classic barn box. It includes maple syrup, pancake mix, bacon, and jam. It will remind any Vermonter of home or entice your family and friends to come for a visit.
Vivid Coffee– Vivid Coffee got its start in Winooski, Vermont, in 2015. You can shop their diverse collection of curated coffees right on their website. Prices range from $10- $12 for an 8oz bag. You can pick some up at one of many Burlington area coffee shops and ship to a family member or friend, or order online. They will ship anywhere in the US. Consider pairing with a mug, perhaps from Bennington Potters.
Cabot Cheese– Vermont is known for its sharp, delicious cheddar cheese. At the top of the list, you’ll find Cabot. Shop online or drop in the visitor center in Cabot, VT or one of the Farmers’ Stores in Waterbury and Quechee. Consider pairing with a marble cutting board from the Vermont Marble Company.
King Arthur Flour– This employee-owned company offers many great gift ideas. Visit the flagship campus in Norwich, VT where you can enjoy yummy treats at The Baker’s Kitchen or take a class at the Baking School. Hit the website, not just to shop, but also to find some tried and true recipes.
VT Nut Free Chocolates– This local company offers fine gourmet chocolates that everyone can enjoy. This is a perfect treat for a friend or family member with a nut allergy. They can enjoy delicious chocolate risk-free. For your peace of mind, you will find a complete ingredient list on their website. You can shop online or find it at retailers across the country.
Vermont Brownie Company– This local Vermont company out of Shelbourne is celebrating their 10 year anniversary. They offer gourmet brownie gifts delivered right to your home. This holiday season, consider gifting a gift box or monthly gift program.
Snowflake Chocolates– These yummy treats are handmade in Jericho, VT. You can purchase at the retail store in South Burlington, in Jericho, or online. They offer Christmas selections and encourage ordering early in the holiday season. This company has won our collective hearts with their hand-batched, custom-made treats.
Palmer Lane Maple– What kind of Vermont themed gift would be complete without including some award-winning maple syrup? Palmer Lane Maple is located in Jericho, VT. Purchase syrup, maple candy, and other maple specialties. Bonus, you can check the status of orders on their website.
Brown & Jenkins– This company is a family owned and operated Vermont coffee roastery operating since 1984. They provide 100% Arabica coffee beans freshly roasted in Vermont. This company also provides delicious rubs. Order online because shipping within New England is only $4.95!
For the Littles
Little Green Pear– Out of Burlington, VT, you can order handmade and adorably packaged baby gifts and accessories. Options range from bows to wooden teething rings, baby quilts, booties, and much more.
Vermont Teddy Bear– Don’t forget about this nationally known and recognized local gift option! There are endless gift options here. Visit the factory in Shelburne, VT or order online. Perfect to pair a Vermont Teddy bear with a flannel blanket from the Vermont Flannel Company.
Turner Toys & Hobbies– This shop offers smart toys for smart kids: science toys, educational aides, puzzles, STEM, building, and more! There is a retail store in Essex Junction, VT but you can also order online. Possibly pair a new board game or puzzle with comfy PJ’s from the Vermont Flannel company.
For the Home
Bennington Potters– This pottery is functional, durable, and beautiful and is handmade in Bennington, VT. Shops are located in both Bennington and Burlington. They also sell and make handmade stoneware. Visit the website for an entire list of creative gift ideas and to place an order.
Simon Pearce– Shop here for hand-blown glassware, tableware, lighting, and home decor. Each piece is handmade, unique, and lead-free. Visit the flagship store and mill in Quechee or the store in Burlington, or order online.
Vermont Marble Company– Visit the Vermont Marble Museum in Proctor, VT and pick up some unique Vermont marble gifts to send to friends and family. Gift options include cheese boards and utensils, picture frames, and vases. The online gift shop is open year round.
Andrew Pearce– This wood workshop is located in Hartford, VT and offers premium wood bowls, cutting boards, and wood gift sets. One of the top sellers is a gift set with a salad bowl, salad servers, and premium wood oil. Purchase at the workshop or online.
Bentley Snowflake– Not only beautiful, but these are also, by definition, unique. Start a tradition and gift a timeless snowflake to the same family member or friend each year. You can purchase on site at Vermont Snowflakes in Jericho or order online and read up on the history of these unique Vermont gifts.
Wild Wood VT– Check out this shop for Vermont made hand turned wooden creations. Shop high quality pieces like my wooden travel mugs, tap handles, and salt and pepper mills. Products ship from Hinesburg, VT.
JK Adams– These award winning products are manufactured in Dorset, VT and carry a 100% guarantee. They pride themselves on producing high-quality kitchen and housewares products by hand from North American hardwoods. Consider gifting one of their carving boards, serving boards, or rolling pins.
Farmhouse Pottery– At their shop in Woodstock, these old-world potters use simple tools to produce authentic pottery. Visit them in their workshop or online. Orders can be placed in the shop or online.
Anna Vreman Gallery– Colorful paintings of Vermont landscapes are the perfect gift. Anna Vreman has been painting for more than 20 years. Prints can be ordered at her online gallery.
Pampering
Ma & Pembum– Gorgeous bags! This company specializes in small batch leather accessories, handbags, and jewelry. And this company is incredibly special as half of the profit from every sale is donated to organizations that fight to end human trafficking. They also offer bundles: bag and wristlet bundles, wrist wrap bundles, and tassel bundles. Support this local treasure, and feel good about where your money is going. You can order online.
Red House VT Bags– You definitely want to gift one of these waxed canvas bags to your stylish friend or aunt. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes and styles. Each one is 100% hand made in their home studio and each is more gorgeous than the next. Subscribe to their newsletter and receive 15% off of your next purchase. Bags can be purchased online or at the studio located on Mill Street in Burlington.
Vermont Beard & Mustache Co.– Launched in 2014, this company has a simple goal: to grow a stronger, smoother, and healthier beard while improving skin health. They are based in Williston and sold in many local retailers. You can also purchase their beard conditioners, shave oils, and combs online. They are currently offering free shipping with promo code: FREEGROUNDSHIP.
Heady Topper (Alchemist Beer)- This is the first thing all of our out-of-state friends ask us for. Unfortunately, there is a purchase limit of 4 four packs per purchase. The last time we were able to buy some as a gift, the interaction involved a backroom deal and cash only exchange. Plan ahead if you intend to gift this. It is not easy to get. You can check out the Alchemist brewery and visitor center in Stowe.
LimeLife by Alcone– Skincare and makeup galore! Lots of holiday gift ideas here. Free shipping on orders over $58. As a bonus, get tips and tricks for using these high quality products from our writer, Halie.
Made on Main VT– Here you can find gorgeous makeup bags and travel accessories. All products are handmade in Manchester, Vermont. Browse the tote bags, makeup bags, and sunglasses cases for simple, practical, and well-made holiday gifts.
Tata Harper Skin Care– At Tata Harper skin care, you’ll find uncompromising beauty for uncompromising women. These products are natural and non-toxic and the business is headquartered on a farm in Shoreham. You can purchase at Sephora or online.
Ursa Major Skincare– Operated out of Waterbury, this skincare company offers healthy and effective products. Shop the products online or at various retailers. Not sure what you might want to order? Get a Bestsellers Trial Kit for only $25.
Apparel
Darn Tough Socks– Every pair of their socks are crafted in Northfield, Vermont and made of ethical Merino wool. Their products carry an unconditional lifetime guarantee. They are carried in numerous stores throughout Vermont (and the entire country), but you can also order online, if you prefer. Everyone wants these socks.
Vermont Flannel Company– There aren’t many gifts that scream ‘Vermont’ quite as loudly as flannel. And, if you are going to gift someone flannel, it better be from the Vermont Flannel Co. You can buy for women, men, or children. If you don’t feel comfortable guessing sizes, you can gift a blanket, scarf, fanny pack, beer hug, or wine sleeve. Check out the shop in downtown Woodstock or order online.
Literally, Anything you can Imagine
Kat’s Paws– Kat’s Paws is a mother-daughter team creating all sorts of sewn and quilted goods. Grab a catnip pillow for your furry friend and browse the baby and household items while you’re at it! Kat and her mom can sew anything you want- from coasters to reusable makeup wipes, to bowls, and everything in between. The quality is exceptional.
Vermont Country Store– You can basically get anything you’ve ever wanted in the traditional country store, in their catalogue, or on their website. This country store opened its original location in Weston, VT in 1946 and it is still owned and operated by the same family. Though they’ve added an additional location in Rockingham and a distribution center in North Clarendon, the original Weston location is still fully operational. What better representation of traditional Vermont life than a gift from the original Vermont Country Store.
Lure Your Entire Family or Friend Group to Vermont
LuannBailey Photography– Gift your family or friends a photo session with the amazing photographer, Luann Bailey! Bonus, they need to visit you in Vermont the redeem it! The perfect idea for grandparents who live out of state.
Mia Moran Photography– Specializing in family and newborn sessions, anyone would appreciate the gift of precious memories frozen in time. Mia is based in Burlington. Check out Mia’s beautiful photography on her website and book a session for a friend or family member.
Stephanie Brigan Photography– Another awesome Vermont based photographer. What better gift than memories that will last a lifetime?
Please remember to shop local, and let us know your family’s favorite unique Vermont gifts this holiday season!
