Stop and Smell the People

Stop and Smell the People Holiday Gift Guide

Need a special Christmas or Hanukkah Gift? I’m here for you. I’ve traveled up and down the Carolina back-roads and discovered mementos with powerful stories attached. Give a gift, take a trip, that will never be forgotten.

1. Fit for a Queen (or King)

If you are not an engraving connoisseur, you are not alone! But when Anna’s first Mothers day rolled around, I knew I needed something special and I knew exactly where to turn. It was a story I told for The Carolina Traveler about a craftsman whose work is so special, he’s designed for the Queen of England and the late Princess Diana. And, best of all, he lives in the Carolinas now. His name is John Flitton. He’s a one-of-a-king highly accomplished hand engraver. And if you think there isn’t a difference between what John can do and what a machine does… you couldn’t be more wrong. When he inscribes a monogram or a date on anything… it’s transformed into a work of art. You’ll find John Flitton at Morrison Smith Jewelers in Charlotte. You can stop by their shop on Providence Road in Myers Park or order something engraved on-line (from jewelry to frames to cuff links, etc). Or if you already own something and want John to engrave it, e-mail him directly. Anna has a locket with her initials and Crowley’s birthday. It’s her favorite piece of jewelry and fit for a Queen!

2. All Aboard!

Trains are making a comeback. Lionel just released it’s Polar Express train which is sure to capture any child’s imagination. BUT, want to send that imagination into overdrive? Head to the Albemarle Music Store in Albemarle, NC. What do music and trains possibly have to do with each other? Nothing. Unless you visit this place. Walk upstairs in this Main Street store and you’ll find yourself in another world. The owners of this store are the ultimate train enthusiasts! And over the years, little by little, they’ve transformed every square inch of that second floor into a magical place that’s made up of tiny tracks, toy trains, villages, villagers, trees, bells, whistles and more than i can describe. It’s a feast for the eyes and hearts of all of us and especially children. The perfect place to visit and purchase your favorite model train! Even if you don’t buy anything, a visit to the Albemarle Music Store is well worth the trip! Call first to make sure the trains are running that day or night.

235 West Main Street

Albemarle, NC 28001

(704) 982 – 3815

3. Out of Your Gourd!

I first met the Gourd Lady in the late 1700s. We’re that old. After our story on Margaret Sparky Sparkman a.k.a the National Gourd Lady aired, The Tonight Show came calling and her next TV appearance was in the seat next to Jay Leno! A fixture at the Southern Christmas Show, it’s hard to beat Sparky’s Santa Gourd. Not a Santa collector? Don’t worry! The Gourd Lady has countless themes (penguins and snowmen) from which to choose! Click here to check out her website and make a connection.

4. The Gift of Addiction

Perhaps a bizarre title for this little holiday entry. But when you try The Mustard Lady’s Must Have Mustard… you’ll know what I am talking about! Leslie The Mustard Lady moved to Fort Mill, South Carolina, from Boston. She packed her thick Boston accent, giant personality and rare knack for creating absolutely addicting mustard. Her obsession started as a hobby and quickly grew into a business. No one knows her secret recipe, not even her assistant! A pack of Leslie’s Must Have Mustard is perfect for a hostess gift or foodie!

5. THEEEE Toy Store!

Forget that big fancy toy store in New York City. Hop in your car and head to tiny Brevard, NC. Right in the middle of town you’ll find the greatest toy store on earth, “O.P. Taylor’s.” Been there, love it. Everyone I know who’s been agrees with me. But don’t go there looking for the latest video game or electronic wizardry… this plays sells only toys that require something long stolen from today’s kids: imagination. Radio flyer wagons, hand-made wooden toys from Europe they have it all in this two-story maze of a store. Plan to spend several hours there. You won’t get board. It’s a true Santa’s toy shop!

Okay, people, get on it! Happy shopping… MR