As the holiday season approaches, there’s a special magic in finding the perfect Christmas gift that not only brings joy to your significant other but also supports the Bellevue community. This year, we invite you to explore the offerings of locally owned stores, where unique treasures await. But before we delve into the exciting gift ideas, let’s take a brief journey through the history of Christmas gift-giving in America.
A Glimpse into the American Tradition of Gift-Giving
The tradition of exchanging gifts during the Christmas season has deep roots in American history. While Christmas celebrations were somewhat muted in the early years of the United States, the 19th century saw a revival of interest in the holiday. The influence of Victorian customs, combined with the rise of commercialism, turned Christmas into a festive occasion centered around gift-giving.
The iconic image of Santa Claus as a gift-bringer was popularized through literature and illustrations, notably in the 1823 poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas.” Over time, the act of giving gifts became an essential part of the American Christmas experience, symbolizing love, generosity, and the spirit of sharing. With that said, here are….
11 Original Christmas Gifts from Local Stores in 2023
- Gift Certificates to Local Restaurants: While maybe not entirely original, did you know that Bellevue has 15 different restaurants, food shops, bakeries, and food trucks that have been voted Best of OMAHA at least once over the past 6 years? Some of the best food offerings in the entire Omaha-Metro are right here in town. A gift certificate to any local eatery is sure to put a smile on the face of your significant other! (Suggestions in Bellevue: Too Many to List)
- Artisanal Jewelry from a Local Goldsmith: Discover unique pieces crafted by local artisans, each telling a story and adding a personal touch to your gift. Or have these artists create a new unique piece from your existing jewelry. (Suggestions in Bellevue: Erwin’s Jewelers)
- Start a New Hobby: Model cars, remote control racing cars, comics, role-playing games, card games, board games, new & rare coins and currency… Explore the shelves of many different Bellevue hobby shops to find a unique gift to either enrich your significant others’ collection or start them off with a new hobby. (Suggestions in Bellevue: Ground Zero Hobby, Victory Hobby, The Game Shoppe, A/K Collectible Model Cars & More, J & J Coins, Gold & Silver Trading Post, and Rickley Sports Cards)
- Locally Roasted Coffee: Elevate your partner’s coffee experience with beans from a nearby roastery, supporting local businesses while savoring the rich flavors of the season. (Suggestions in Bellevue: Elevated Coffee Co. & Taphouse, The Fresh Roast Store, Green Beans Coffee Co.)
- Unique Book Finds from an Independent Bookstore: Unearth literary gems in a local bookstore, each chosen with care to match your significant other’s interests and passions – and Bellevue just so happens to have a brand new local bookstore that could help you with finding something. (Suggestions in Bellevue: 2 Dads & A Bookstore, Ground Zero Hobby)
- Vintage Vinyl Albums from a Local Record Shop: Take a trip down memory lane by gifting a vinyl record or two from your partner’s favorite bands. Bellevue has two local record shops and each may also have turntables available as well. (Suggestions in Bellevue: 402 Vinyl, Record Benders)
- Local or Custom Artwork or Photography: Embellish your home with a piece of local art, capturing the essence of your community and supporting the creative talent around you. (Suggestions in Bellevue: Showtime Photography, TwynSunz Custom Artists)
- Gourmet Treats from a Local Chocolatier or Baker: Indulge your partner’s sweet tooth with handcrafted chocolates or artisanal pastries from a nearby confectionery – Bellevue is blessed to have so many great ‘Sweet Spots’ to choose from. (Suggestions in Bellevue: Cake Expressions, Cake Specialists, The Omaha Bakery, and Chocolat Abeille)
- Craft Beer from a Local Pub: Explore the flavors of Nebraska with a gift card to a local craft beer pub or taphouse, turning every sip into a celebration of community. (Suggestions in Bellevue: Elevated Coffee Co and Taphouse, Olde Towne Tavern)
- Workshop or Class Gift Certificate: Enroll your significant other in a class or workshop offered by a local studio, providing an opportunity to learn and create together. (Suggestions in Bellevue: Thrift T’s, Four-Nir Furniture Co.)
- Original, Unique Gifts and Treats from Local Shops: Bellevue has several retail shops that are loaded with gift ideas and suggestions you won’t find anywhere else in town. Set a goal to visit some of these gems and purchase a few gifts for him or her. (Suggestions in Bellevue: Trees Shrubs & More, Volcanic Peppers, Chocolat Abeille, Dip Cravers, Buff City Soap, Beauty & The Bees Honey, The Fresh Roast Store, Amy’s Hallmark)
This Christmas, let the spirit of giving be intertwined with the support of the Bellevue community. By choosing gifts from independently owned stores, you not only express your love through thoughtful presents but also contribute to the vibrancy and resilience of your neighborhood. May your holiday season be filled with warmth, joy, and the spirit of giving back.
Did we miss one? Is there a locally-owned Bellevue business not listed that could fit into one of the categories above? Let us know and we will add them. eMail news@bellevuetimes.com.
