Indiana-Inspired Gift Ideas

If you’re like me, you’re trying to wrap up your holiday shopping. This year, I’ve placed an emphasis on buying local or from independent sources. So I’ve got a few ideas for Indiana-inspired gifts for everyone on your list, regardless of interest.

• For the foodie: The Indiana Humanities Council has developed a fantastic book called Food for Thought: An Indiana Harvest. They were kind enough to send me a copy to look over. Not only is it gorgeously photographed, but it is full of personal stories from the farmers, chefs, and other professionals who are making amazing contributions to our food supply and the way we eat here in Indiana. While it would look great there, you won’t want to let this book just sit on your coffee table, it’s much better placed on your night stand and read from cover to cover. $24.95, all proceeds go toward the Indiana Humanities Council’s programs.
  
•  For the fashionista: Indianapolis Monthly recently launched an Indiana-pride-inspired t-shirt design contest. These shirts range from funky to fashionable to funny. And they are all designed and produced by local artists and designers. Prices range from $20-$28.
• For the hostess: Need a unique hostess gift that’s sure to please? Skip the predictable bottle of wine and go for sweet with some of Ghyslain’s holiday chocolate boxes. I visited this Richmond-based chocolatier a couple of months ago, and you’d swear you stepped into a European pastry shop. Talk about “wow” factor, each piece of chocolate looks like a miniature artistic masterpiece. Prices range from $9-$75.
• For the outdoorsy type: Last year, my inlaws got my husband and I a state park annual entrance pass. We’ve put that to use on countless hiking and camping outings, but perhaps what I’ve loved best about it is that it came with a subscription to Outdoor Indiana Magazine. It’s a publication of the DNR, and it contains really interesting stories about the wildlife you find around the state. $12 for 6 issues per year.
   
• For the kids: I really value experiences over more stuff for my kids. So I’d suggest a membership to one of Indiana’s most family-friendly attractions, the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. $135 for a family membership.

Need more ideas? Check out Indiana Artisan. It’s like the Etsy of Indiana artists, where everything from jewelry to food with Hoosier roots can be purchased.