This is a big ole list. And it’s a selective one, as there are lots of great gifts for less than $50 to buy in Nashville this season. With our Foodie Gifts Under $15, an article next week on Gifts That Give Back, and still another upcoming one on Luxe Loves: The Gift List, we are working overtime to make sure you have plenty of options to find the perfect gift!
Here we go …
For the head of the home
A different kind of candle
These candles will please the pickiest of gift recipients! Each candle is handcrafted by piecing together real tree bark. No worries about the wood burning, as it’s lined with metal. The wood is mango wood, which is a sustainable, fast-growing tree that is indigenous to South Asia. What makes this even better? They are made ethically in small batches in Decatur, GA! Available this holiday season at Gus Mayer, with prices starting at $26.
Available at Gus Mayer during the holidays | Prices start at $26.
Wicker serving trays
Epergne is a fabulous new home store that just opened its doors on Highway 100. We spotted these woven wicker serving trays among all the other elegant pieces and had to add them to the list. Ideal for holding drinks or even coffee table books, these are two great pieces for holiday entertaining that are sure to be used for a variety of tasks all year long. $35 to $45
Woven wicker serving trays, $35 and $45 at Epergne
Coasters
White’s Mercantile is chock-full of gorgeous home goods, artisan gifts, leather wear and even pet accessories! We stumbled upon these beautiful cork-backed coasters, handmade from marble and decorated with woodland imagery, which make a wonderful gift for friends, family or hostess. At $45 for a set of 4, this is a gift we can afford.
Handmade coasters, $45 for a set of 4 at White’s Mercantile
Salt and pepper
S and P shakers come in all shapes and sizes, but this stunning set from Fabu struck our eye as something extra special. Inlaid with bone and mother of pearl, these shakers are both functional and decorative. They make a great gift for foodies, new homeowners, brides-to-be, in-laws and just about anyone in your life who spends a little time in the kitchen. $48 at Fabu
Bone and mother-of-pearl salt and pepper shakers, $48 at Fabu
For the Christmas lover
Wreath
While some houses are already decked with lights, wreaths, garlands and other holiday decorations, there are still the handful of us who like to wait until after Thanksgiving. Now that December 1 has come and gone, we find it appropriate to get into the Christmas spirit. These fresh, fragrant, 24-inch wreaths from Santa’s Trees start at $26 and are the perfect gift to get someone in the holiday spirit.
Wreaths at Santa’s Trees come in all sizes and varieties, and some even come with a bow!
Music box
The Beveled Edge has so many gifts under $50 that it was hard to select just one. Always packed full with local treasures and unique holiday treats, The Beveled Edge is a one-stop shop for gift getting. This music box caught our eye, with its whimsical winter scene and gorgeous melodies. It is a perfect gift for those who adore Christmas and the special memories the holiday brings.
The Beveled Edge has a huge assortment of holiday goods, like this charming music box for $39.95.
Christmas pillows
Needlepoint pillows add some holiday cheer to a home and make the perfect gift for anyone in your life. These pillows are affordable, and make great gifts that will get put to good use immediately! Choose from gingerbread men, snowmen and other holiday scenes for a festive gift. Found at Obelisk (inside Bradford’s Interiors). Prices start at $42.
Christmas pillows from Obelisk, starting at $42
For the entertainer
Antler serving pieces
These serving pieces add elegance to any cheese or charcuterie plate. Gift one or many of these pieces to your favorite entertainer, who is sure to get lots of use out of them around the holidays. Found at Harpeth Gallery, each is only around $30, and the shop is teaming with fabulous holiday gift ideas for every price point.
These serving pieces from Harpeth Gallery have antler handles and are all around $30 each.
Cocktail spinner
It’s hard to receive this gift and not immediately want to create new and fun cocktails. Take cocktail crafting up a notch and instead of shaking or stirring, try spinning! We all have a friend or family member whose love for cocktails ensures there will be a fun beverage at their events. This cocktail spinner will lend them a hand and let them experiment with something new. We just hope you get to try their tasty concoctions. $29.95 at Absolution
Found at Absolution, this Quench Cocktail Spinner is bound to make cocktails taste even better! $29.95
For the one who has everything
Stationery
Break away from traditional holiday cards this year and send friendly correspondence on one of these adorable doggie note cards! Perfect for thank you notes, gift cards or just spreading holiday cheer, this great collection, which features illustrations from Bay Area artist Rigel Stuhmiller, is available at The Paper Place on Bandywood Drive for $15.50.
Dog note cards, $15.50 for a set of 8 cards and 8 envelopes at The Paper Place
Soap and soap dish
Cadeau is a hip 12South boutique stocked with fabulous gifts for home and body. These vegetable-based soaps are not only gorgeous, but they also alleviate dry winter skin. Coupled with a matching glass dish, these soaps are the perfect holiday goodie for your girlfriends! The different colors and fresh scents will fit seamlessly into any home.
FRINGE soaps, $10 each; FRINGE soap dish, $18 at Cadeau Nashville
Hatch exclamation tee
The perfect example of the hipness of Hatch, this exclamation T-shirt ups the cool factor for any lucky recipient. An ideal selection for the guy who’s so hard to shop for, the cotton tee speaks volumes, in a low-key, laid-back way, of course! Shop at Hatch, 222 Fifth Ave. S. in Nashville or online at countrymusichalloffame.com. $25
Hatch Show Print exclamation tee is the perfect combo of hip and hometown. $25 at countrymusichalloffame.com
Lingerie
Hanky Panky is a brand beloved for their chic (and comfy) lace panties. Super soft and available in assorted cuts and colors, Hanky Panky underpants are the perfect stocking stuffer for gals who know the importance of good underpinnings. This colorful bunch was spotted at Habit on Bandywood Drive.
Hanky Panky underwear $20 at Habit
Monogrammed cocktail napkins
For the friend or family member who has everything, consider taking the time to order custom-designed cocktail napkins from Ink Nashville. Your gift recipient will know immediately you took the time to order something unique, just for them. And you will probably give them something they never would order for themselves. Prices start at $30 for a pack of 100.
Look at these gorgeous designs, which represent only some of the fabulous creations at Ink Nashville. Monogrammed cocktail napkins start at $30 for a pack of 100.
For Nashville’s biggest fan
Nashville photos
These black-and-white photos beautifully capture some of Nashville’s most iconic places and make for a lovely gift. Grab one of these for a college student to remind him or her of home. Everyone loves to have a piece of Nashville hanging on their walls. Found at The Dotted Line, these photos add to black-and-white photo enthusiasts’ collections. $45 each
Black-and-white photos of Nashville landmarks at The Dotted Line. $45 each
Cutting board
This Tennessee-shaped bamboo cutting board will have many uses as a serving platter, cutting board or wall plaque. Perfect for indoor or outdoor entertaining, this piece will be loved by all who have a special place in their heart for Nashville. Found at Bliss Home for just $24.95
Nashville cutting board at Bliss Home, $24.95
Local pride with humor
These tops from Pieces boutique in Germantown are affordable and just plain fun! There are many other options available at the store for both him and her from the Project 615 line. One hundred percent of the profits sold from Project 615 T-shirts are given to world-changing organizations. Give this gift that gives back. The shirts below are (left) $39 and (right) $29.
Nashville friends and family — and those outside the area — will all enjoy these fabulous tops. At Pieces boutique in Germantown for $39 and $29
Nashville money clip
Whether buying for your local loved ones or searching for the perfect item for family far away, give the gift of hometown pride with this Nashville money clip by Chart Metalworks. Available at The Willow Tree in Sylvan Park, the 1 1/2-inch cartographer clip is made of bronze and features a snippet of a Middle Tennessee map. Elegant yet sturdy, it’s a heartwarming gift for any man on your list. $45
Nashville money clip at The Willow Tree, $45
For the Beauty Queen
Nail polish is a go-to gift for ladies. Everyone loves a good color, but hates to splurge on a good brand. Treat your favorite beauty queen to a bottle of Smith & Cult polish from Element Salon. Drop it in her stocking or wrap it in a bow … either way she will be thrilled!
Smith & Cult nail polish, $18 at Element Salon
Batch Southern soap sampler
Give the gift of Southern hospitality to loved ones near and far with a Batch Southern soap sampler. And while Batch subscriptions are always lovely and are available in three-, six- or 12-month options, this soap box is an excellent choice for a one-time gift. Included are three handcrafted soaps from three fabulous Southern cities: Sweet Olive Soap Works from New Orleans, Little Seed Farm from Nashville and Heart of Eden from Memphis. Available for $19 at batch.is
Batch Southern soap sampler, $19
Body Butter
Kai body products feel absolutely divine and are perfectly scented with the essences of fruits and herbs. This Kai Body Polish is a fabulous scrub comprised of exfoliating salts and sugars that leave the skin absolutely luminous! You can find an assortment of Kai products, along with other fashionable apparel and accessories, at Stacey Rhodes Boutique in Brentwood.
Kai body polish, available at Stacey Rhodes for $40
For the bag lover
Cosmetic bags
While The Cosmetic Market has tons of holiday gift sets from our favorite brands, including Moroccan Oil, Philosophy, Bliss, Butter and bumble and bumble, for under $50, we could not stay away from their selection of cosmetic bags. All makeup lovers need a chic makeup bag to tote around all their goodies. This Pencil Case Print Trina bag comes in two different sizes for $12 and $15.
Cosmetic Bag, $12 | At The Cosmetic Market
Statement clutches
Kayce Hughes‘ eye for a sophisticated look at an affordable price never fails. Her store is filled with incredible accessories under $50. This clutch caught our eye, as it combines a touch of the classic look with a bit of sparkle. Give the gift of a perfect accessory that will be used for years.
The Noel clutch, $40, and the Georgia clutch, $46 at Kayce Hughes
Spirit of Nashville tote
Give the gift of Nashville to go with a Spirit of Nashville tote bag. The 10-inch-by-14-inch bag is made of 100 percent cotton and features a selection of some of the most popular iconography from the series. Stop by the store at 116 29th Ave. N., in Nashville (Mon.-Fri. from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.), or order online at andersondesigngroupstore.com for $19.99.
Spirit of Nashville tote, $19.99
For the one who adores jewelry
Giving Key necklace
These necklaces make great style statements but offer a give it forward attitude. Each key has a powerful word engraved (faith, love, strength, etc.) on it. If you are wearing the necklace and come across someone who needs this word embracing them, take it off and pass the necklace on. These make great gifts that are bound to create countless smiles along the way. Found at SOCA for $45
Latch key takes on a whole new meaning with The Giving Keys, $45 at SOCA.
Layered jewelry
These metal pieces, crafted by a local jeweler, are simple yet elegant, and with clean lines and stunning detail, they’re perfect for delicate layering. We love the price tags almost as much as we love the intricate use of metal. It was hard to pick a favorite, but we fell for this necklace, $30, and these stackable rings, starting at $15. For these and more pieces from the line, stop by Moda.
Necklace, $30, and stackable rings, starting at $15 | At Moda
Beaded bracelets with charms
Nashville women are still loving a wrist of arm candy, and Hemline is stocked with a plethora of jewelry options. There are a variety of colors and messages available. Buy one, or mix and match for a collection. Great for stocking gifts or as a nice Secret Santa treat, these bracelets are sold individually at Hemline for $28.
These bracelets come in many colors at Hemline and are just $28 each.
Nod to our country’s heritage necklace
This very cool necklace is found at one of the most fun places to shop in all of Nashville: Two Old Hippies. The store continues to evolve: it’s a wonderful men’s and women’s boutique and music store with a large selection of fabulous gifts at all price points, including this necklace, which is just $46. This statement piece is a great gift for jewelry lovers.
Necklace at Two Old Hippies for $46
Spiritual bracelet
Vignette in Brentwood is full of stylish home décor, fashionable apparel and accessories, plus sweet gifts for friends and family. We love this dainty charm bracelet that is packaged with an inspiring message of faith. This is a great holiday gift for girls of all ages!
Faith blessing bracelet, $38 at Vignette
For the one who is always chilly
Super soft scarf
The cold temperatures have us wishing we could use our favorite blankets as a fashion accessory. Thankfully, this warm and oh-so-soft scarf is the perfect solution to those cool days. When filming for WKRN at POSH at the Hill Center, we couldn’t get over the ample size and softness of this scarf. We thought it was fine cashmere, but it is acrylic! Just $30, and this scarf comes in a variety of traditional plaids.
This plaid scarf is super warm and mimics cashmere, but is just $30! Available at POSH
Colorful scarves
While Boutique Bella is known for its jeans, we are always drawn to their racks of scarves. A fashionable addition to any LBD or holiday outfit, these scarves are the perfect accessory for your BFF, coworker or family member. Keep them warm this winter. With prices starting $36, this is a gift we are happy to give!
Scarves, starting at $36, at Boutique Bella
Neutral knit scarf
There’s no such thing as too many scarves, especially when the one you choose to buy this season is a super-soft basic that pairs with literally everything in your wardrobe! Spruce in Brentwood is full of tasteful gifts for you and your home, and we were thrilled to find this cozy scarf among their other stylish offerings!
Beige knit scarf, $48 at Spruce
For the pickiest of men
Cuff Links
As we all know, finding good gifts for guys is always challenging. Thankfully, The Oxford Shop has some great stocking stuffers under $50 to help us out, including Knotz brand unique knotted design cufflinks. Sold for $9.50 at The Oxford Shop, these affordable cufflinks are a great gift for men of all ages. Grab a couple for their stocking, or pick your favorite colors for a low-cost gift.
Knotz cufflinks, $9.50 | At The Oxford Shop
Nice boxers
Chances are that your man is due for some new boxers, and these from J.McLaughlin fit the bill nicely. The matching bag, with a button closure, makes them perfect for travel. Available in many colors, you’ll surely find the perfect pair for any man in your life. At J.McLaughlin for $38
These boxers are super-soft and come in their own matching travel pouch. $38 at J.McLaughlin
For the kiddos
Onesie
This adorably festive onesie is 100 percent certified organic cotton to keep your little one nice and cozy. Made in sizes 3 months to 18 months, this one-piece outfit is perfect for babies of all ages. We can promise that whoever gets this gift will be the best dressed one in the room. $39.50 at Tweed Baby Outfitters
One-piece, $39.50 at Tweed Baby Outfitters
Fun socks
Let her wonder how you knew that these were all the rage among her peers. For the tween set, these funky, boldly patterned socks are just what you need to gift to let her know you’re still on your game and know what is cool and what is not. $8/$14 each at Snap Girls
Knee-high socks are $14 per pair. Ankle socks are $8 per pair. Available at Snap Girls
Toboggans
These cozy, red toboggans from Plaid Rabbit are too cute to pass up! Keep your little ones warm this winter with one of these super soft caps adorned with a festive pom pom! $36
Red pom pom hat by Bella Bliss, available at Plaid Rabbit for $36
Giant gummy worm
Sugar Dive is filled to the brim with candies and novelties to make the little ones go bananas, and your kids will go bonkers over the world’s largest gummy worm. For special stocking stuffers and unique candies, Sugar Dive is one-stop shopping.
What’s not to love about a ginormous gummy worm? Available at Sugar Dive for $50
For the outdoor soul
Inflatable solar lanterns
Inflatable lanterns make great gifts that may just surpass some electronics in the WOW factor. Powered by solar energy, these Luci lanterns come in two options: white light and color-changing. Better yet, they are waterproof. Great for parties, fishing, camping or just a fun way to read to kids at night, this gift is sure to be different than anything else! $14.95 (white light) and $24.95 (choose from seven different colors AND white light) at Cumberland Transit (in the camping section in back).
Inflatable solar lanterns, $14.95 to $24.95 at Cumberland Transit
Keep your beverage hot or cold
Swell bottles have a huge fan base because they keep beverages cold for 24 hours and hot for 12 hours! Sizes are 9-ounce ($25), 17-ounce ($35) and 25-ounce ($45). Available at e. Allen boutique in the Gulch. We’ve also spotted some at Woo Skincare + Cosmetics in Green Hills.
Swell beverage bottles range from $25 to $45 at e. Allen boutique in the Gulch.
Herb markers
There are a few herbs that even those with brown thumbs try to grow each year. Know which herb is which with these herb markers. Made of silverplate, these are found at Hester & Cook for just $34 for the five-piece, hand-stamped set.
Basil, thyme, rosemary, sage and oregano herb markers from Hester & Cook for just $34.95
Fleet Feet tees
Running out of gifts to get your favorite runner? While a great pair of socks will never fail, how about you switch things up and get them a new T-shirt? These super-soft shirts from Fleet Feet ring in at $20 and are unisex, so they are perfect for any runner you know.
Fleet Feet tees, $20
For the foodie
Olive oil
This extra-virgin olive oil is crafted from olives that grow on Napa Valley-grown trees imported in 1994. The olive oil itself is extra delicious, and the chic aluminum packaging is an added bonus. Available in two different size bottles: 10.6 ounces for $30 and 18.5 ounces for $40. Available at KORE +nashville
Extra-virgin olive oil, $30/$40 at KORE +nashville
Raw honey sticks
From fresh-pressed juices to crunchy kale salads and protein-packed bars, The Juice Bar has tons of yummy goodies to leave you satisfied and refreshed. We were smitten with these delicate raw honey sticks, which can be stirred into any hot beverage for an extra dose of sweetness. Sourced from Williams Honey Farm, these sticks are a thoughtful foodie gift with local flair. At $7, they make an excellent gift to give with a gift card to the person who loves hot beverages!
Williams Farm raw honey sticks, available at The Juice Bar for $7
Oakley Pickles
Leave it to Apropos to add something local and delicious as a quick holiday gift to grab. If you don’t know the story of Oakley’s pickles, they are made from a secret family recipe with a unique blend of spices over a 14-day process. This two-pack jar is already wrapped and ready to go. $16.50
Oakley pickles available at Apropos for $16.50
Chocolate and wine
There is perhaps no better combo than a great red wine and some delicious chocolate, and we found a great pairing at Harvest Wine Market. Lagusta’s Luscious chocolates pair perfectly with a nice bottle of Barahonda Barrica 2011 wine. With different flavors, including rosemary sea salt caramel and praline, these vegan/dairy-free treats are a fun gift for anyone who has a strong hankering for chocolate. The wine is rich blend of Monastrell and Syrah, which offers luscious blackberry and cassis blended with spicy oak. Paired with chocolate, it’s pure decadence. $17.99 (wine) and $10 (chocolate)
Barahonda wine, $17.99 and chocolates, $10, at Harvest Wine Market
Duck fat caramels
Savory and sweet combinations can’t be beat when it comes to holiday snacks. Give your foodie friends something they’ll really savor this season, like Olive & Sinclair‘s artisanal duck fat caramels, the perfect gooey bite that satisfies all of your cravings. They took first place in the Garden & Gun “Made In The South” awards this year … with good reason! $19.99
Duck fat caramels, $19.99 from Olive & Sinclair Chocolate Co.
A gift bag of fresh pressed juice
We all have a friend who would love nothing more than a six-pack of freshly pressed juices. Treat that friend right with this gift set from Juice Nashville. It comes with its own soft cooler. Remember, the juices can be put in the freezer and retain all of their goodness, and Juice Nashville delivers! $40
The Gift Juice Box from Juice Nashville, $40
Cookies and brownies
Why choose cookies OR brownies? Send the best of both sugar confectionery worlds with this “harmony” gift pack from Christie Cookies, which includes 12 gourmet cookies and 12 gourmet brownies. Nashville-owned-and -operated, this local company continues to wow us with delicious treats. $41.40
The “harmony” gift tins from Christie Cookies include 12 large cookies and 12 large brownies. $41.40
BOOKS
Strong Inside
This is the book we are most excited to read this month. Strong Inside is the previously untold story of Perry Wallace, who attended Vanderbilt University in the 1960s and became the first African-American basketball player in the SEC. “Strong Inside is not just the story of a trailblazing athlete, but of civil rights, race in America, a campus in transition during the tumultuous 1960s, the mental toll of pioneering, decades of ostracism, and eventual reconciliation and healing.” —Andrewmaraniss.com. Available online or at local bookstores BookManBookWoman and Parnassus. $35
Written by Nashville’s own Andrew Maraniss, this is THE must-read book of the season and makes a perfect gift. $35
World Whisky
Whisky affection seems be going nowhere but up. Treat your friend to World Whisky, a guide to the best whisky in each nation around the world. Having this book on your coffee table ensures that someone will pick it up, which is why it makes for a gift that is sure to be used and appreciated! Now you can argue both the spelling of “whisky/whiskey” and see if you agree with the chosen few! Add a bottle of your favorite whisky to sweeten the pot! $25 at AshBlue
A sure-to-be-referenced guide to the best whisky in the world! At AshBlue for $25
You can buy everything you need inside Nashville’s brick-and-mortar stores. Spend locally this holiday season!
Look for more SB gift guides as the month of December marches on. Look for our Luxe Loves Gift List and our Gifts That Give Back list next week. And make sure to read our 15 Foodie Gifts Under $15! Happy holidays!
