Homemade gifts may be the most thoughtful and likely to warm hearts during the holidays, but some presents on people’s wish lists just can’t be whipped up without a little professional help.
If the next best thing to homemade is something locally made, then holiday shoppers are in luck. Whether in the market for a present oozing with local craftsmanship or something for that hometown cheerleader on your list — the type
who eats, drinks and wears their Long Island pride — our gift to you, dear readers, is this bountiful guide to gifts made for and by Long Islanders.
You’re welcome.
Alegna Soap
Crafted by a Long Island mom when her kids left for college, Alegna Soap is a homemade soap company that produces sugar scrubs, bath washes and soaps. If you can’t find a product for your friend or loved one, you could buy them a seat in a soapmaking class taught in Bethpage where they leave with a handout that includes safety instructions, a necessary equipment list, step-by-step instructions, soap recipes, and over three pounds or approximately 12 four-ounce bars of soap. Products can be purchased online and different types of soap classes include a Soap Nite for an intimate evening out with friends, a Private Soapmaking Class, and a Long Island Lotion-Making Class. Alegnasoap.com Products $5-$25. Classes $40-$400.
Long Island Candle Factory Candle
Who doesn’t love candles? They light up our homes, top our birthday cakes and make the perfect gift for the person who has everything. The Long Island Candle Factory has 27 different scented candles made of natural soy wax in locally themed scents such as “Long Beach” and “Montauk Mist.” Candles can be purchased online. longislandcandlefactory.com $12-$22.
Screenprinted Bag
A nice gift for the person who has it all? A screen-printed bag with their initials on it. It’s the perfect lunch bag, purse or summer tote. These customized bags are available at Signature Gifts in Huntington, where they also sell monogrammed water bottles, totes and blankets. 147 Woodbury Rd. # G, Huntington. signaturegiftsinc.com Bags $35-$150.
Imu Gifts and Accessories
This local company that sells “cultural boho-chic” bags, jewelry and scarves was influenced by the owner, Maria’s, pet bunny named Imu. imugifts.com $15-$150.
Cozy Cocoon Swaddle
Not sure what to get that person on your list with a new bundle of joy? Try handmade swaddle blankets and wraps for newborns in sweet styles such as “Baby Bee,” “Baby Business” and “Big-Shot Baby.” 2475 Charles Ct., North Bellmore. cozycocoon.com $24.95-$49.95.
Dog Treats
Don’t forget your four-legged friend! Barkfield Road has homemade dog treats and toys to put in your pup’s stocking this season. 3 Hewitt Sq., East Northport. barkfieldroad.com Prices vary.
Incense and Sage
Give your friends and family peace of mind and serenity this holiday season with A Time For Karma aromatherapy products, purpose bracelets and rose quartz. 14 South Village Ave., Rockville Centre. atimeforkarma.com Bracelets $15.
Long Island Wine
From Bedell Cellars to Wölffer Estate, there are dozens of local vineyards offering an impressively lengthy list of vintages and vino varieties. Show your love by driving out east for a bottle or case, or just head over to your local wine shop and make like you drove hours for the perfect gift. liwines.com Prices vary.
Long Island Native Mug
Can the person you’re shopping for typically be found bragging about Long Island bagels and pizza while listening to Billy Joel nonstop? A great gift for your diehard Long Islander would be a Long Island Native Mug. You could give it as-is or stuff it with a gift card to his or her favorite coffee spot. cafepress.com $$9.95-$17.95.
Long Island Beer
The ideal present for your dad, grandpa, uncle or friend who loves suds? A 6-pack or growler of locally brewed beer. And thanks to the current craft brewing boom, there are also dozens of microbrews to choose from, including some that are made with locally grown ingredients. libeerguide.com Prices vary.
Allie’s GF Goodies
Got someone on your list with a food allergy? Let them enjoy some allergen-free holiday treats that won’t require a trip to the doctor. Best part? Allie’s hosts allergen-free holiday house decorating events every Sunday in December until Christmas, so you can make your own! 1B West Village Green, Hicksville. alliesgfg.com $55.
