If the decorations and music all around you are any indication, the holiday season is here. For many, that means it’s time to start thinking about what gifts to buy for the important people in your life.
There’s no doubt all some people want is a shiny new laptop or smartwatch. But for those on your list who will appreciate a local touch, here’s a list of D.C. area-businesses that might offer the perfect gift.
District Cutlery
A good knife can change everything for a home cook. District Cutlery is a D.C.-born business that offers a wide range of knives as well as sharpening services. Check out the blades yourself at the shop in Union Market, or browse online, where you can also buy a gift certificate.
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A post shared by District Cutlery (@districtcutlery) on Oct 15, 2019 at 10:14am PDT
Custom Ink
Some people need a gift with a custom touch. With a user-friendly online design studio, a T-shirt from Custom Ink could be the way to go. While it’s cheaper to buy in bulk, you can still order a single custom tee or other apparel.
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A post shared by Custom Ink (@customink) on Nov 29, 2019 at 6:56am PST
UrbanStems
For that certain someone, a flower arrangement could send the right message. UrbanStems offers same-day deliveries for flowers across the District. For the suburbanites in the surrounding area, next-day delivery is available.
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A post shared by UrbanStems (@urbanstems) on Dec 5, 2019 at 9:32am PST
Territory Foods
Send something tasty to the foodies and food-conscious in your life. This Arlington, Va.-based company delivers prepared, health-conscious meals throughout the area. Meals can also be picked up in “community fridges” scattered in gyms and other places. The meals are available as a subscription service, and you can buy a gift as well.
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A post shared by Territory (@territoryfoods) on Nov 25, 2019 at 6:18pm PST
Framebridge
Framebridge is the D.C.-based picture frame business that makes it easy for that family photo to stand out. Shop online or check out the stores on 14th Street and in Bethesda, Md. Online, you can upload a photo straight from your gallery or Instagram feed and place an order with free shipping.
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A post shared by Framebridge (@framebridge) on Dec 5, 2019 at 3:16pm PST
Shop Made In DC
It’s in the name. Shop Made In DC’s whole premise is to be a hub for local creators to have a place to market their wares. The shop makes it easy to find locally made products, including artwork, crafts, apparel, decor and other things. You can head to the locations in Dupont Circle, Georgetown or the Wharf to browse for a gift that says “I shopped for this in D.C.”
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A post shared by SHOP MADE IN DC (@shopmadeindc) on Dec 4, 2019 at 5:04am PST
Editor's Note: DC Inno independently selects gift guide recommendations based on its continuous reporting on the DC startup ecosystem and other research. It doesn't receive any affiliate link compensation or other considerations.