This month: Five fantastic gadget gifts for the geek in your life.

The post French’s 5 | January 2023 appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

(All photos by Zoe Jennings unless stated otherwise.)

’Tis the season for frantically buying your loved ones Amazon gifts. But what if your hard-earned money went back into the community and not toward a wealthy CEO’s second yacht? We’ve curated a shopping guide for the perfect holiday gifts from our favorite local brands. Our guide features gift ideas found on the shelves of locally owned shops in Boulder County or on the websites of local businesses. We hope you enjoy what the many makers of Colorado have to offer, but the real joy will be in purchasing a gift that you know will positively impact the community around you. From sustainability to LGBTQIA+ rights to bringing joy, each business in our guide has their own noble reasons for putting their craft out into the community. Each store owner had a wonderful story to share and was proud to point out their locally sourced merchandise.

Angie of Angie Star Jewelry poses in her Pearl Street store next to her jewelry.

Cozmo the bird hangs out in Angie Star Jewelry.

Angie Star Jewelry was just one of many stops I made to local stores, with Cozmo the bird, Penny the dog, and Angie the human greeting me as I walked in. Angie Star Jewelry, nestled within the many shops on Pearl Street in Boulder, sells silver handmade jewelry made with ethically sourced materials. Both sturdy and beautiful, the jewelry is displayed alongside delightful decorations like sand dollars, sea shells, and wonderful brass display vessels. Angie has a welcoming energy and told me that she’s lucky that she and her mom, a retired nurse, are so close. Together they run the Pearl Street store and an additional store in Fort Collins. Angie is glad that her mom can work with her and slow down from her busy days as a nurse.

Housegoods

Mugs from Longs Peak Ceramics, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Made by hand in Longmont, these unique mugs and bowls from Longs Peak Ceramics are microwave and dishwasher safe. Longs Peak Ceramics is honest about the fact that their pieces are not flawless but are all one of a kind and not mass produced.

Grizzly Bear Mercantile cozy blanket. Photo courtesy of Lynn Starkman.

Grizzly Bear Mercantile adult and baby blankets can take tough love and are made with soft, minky fabric and attention to detail. Blankets come in various sizes, with premade options.

A bird feeder from Beyond Nature Co. Photo courtesy of Kayla Eggemeyer.

Personal Care Products

Rooted with Ali 3-in-1 spray, dry shampoo, magnesium butter, magnesium spray, sugar scrubs, lotion bars, and lip balms sold at Local Goods Colorado in Lafayette.

Rooted with Ali is a women-owned business in Loveland creating conscious skincare products. Products are made with natural, organic, and wildcrafted ingredients and packaged sustainably. These products are safe for those with skin conditions, with therapeutic-grade essential oils and scents derived from wildcrafted herbs.

Bars of soap from Muddy Mint Soap Co., sold at Maker General in Longmont.

Soaps from Muddy Mint are handmade in Longmont using palm oil-free, all-natural ingredients.

Colorado Aromatics soap, lip balm, and face & body mist, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop.

Derived from ingredients grown on a Longmont farm, Colorado Aromatics skincare products are made to serve the skincare needs of people living in the Colorado climate. With antioxidant-rich herbs, these products help heal the damaging effects from the sun.

Bee-Och Organics body oil, body butter, sugar scrub, sun sticks, and deodorant, sold at Local Goods Colorado.

Headquartered in Fort Lupton, Bee-Och Organics is a woman-owned business specializing in small batch-crafted, cruelty-free, gluten-free, vegan products. There are zero-waste and refillable options for products at their main store.

Yarrow Field and Farm bars of soap, sold at Local Goods Colorado.

Yarrow Field and Farm encourages a soft lifestyle with small batch, natural, botanical skincare products, crafts, and vintage finds.

Magic Fairy Candles bath bombs. Photo taken at Canova Home in Boulder.

With their main store in Longmont, Magic Fairy Candles has a fun, witchy vibe. Selling all-natural soy candles and body products, they sell small batch goods crafted with the intention of unifying love for the journey of every human experience.

Candles

Candelaria candles at Vintrey Honest Goods in Lafayette.

These handmade candles are crafted in the Santa Fe District of Denver. Candelaria’s owner has worked in the candle industry for 15 years and shares that knowledge through educational experiences offered at their store.

Fleetwood Candle Co. candles at Local Goods Colorado in Lafayette.

Fleetwood Candle Co. of Denver is a relatively new business started by a former special education teacher who used art as an outlet when teaching went remote during the pandemic. The candles are bright, fun, and inspired by nature.

Spruced Hen candles, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Spruced Hen Candle Co. draws inspiration from the owner’s Longmont farm. The hand-poured candles and melts are 100 percent soy wax, additive-free, phthalate-free fragrances, and have cotton wicks.

Light Provisions candles, sold at Vintrey Honest Goods in Lafayette.

Inspired by a deep appreciation of cocktails and earthy scents, Light Provisions specializes in artisanal candles to set a peaceful tone in your house. Headquartered in Colorado Springs, the candles are hand poured into reusable vessels.

Clothing

Moore shirts, sweat shirts, and bags, sold at Vintrey Honest Goods in Lafayette.

Inspired by the Colorado landscape, Moore is a family-owned business selling high-quality clothing with hand-drawn designs.

Topo Designs beanies, sold at Vintrey Honest Goods in Lafayette.

Topo Designs began in a Fort Collins basement and has grown into a well-known company creating well-made gear for outdoor adventures.

Food and Drinks

Backyard Bev Co cocktail syrups, sold at Vintrey Honest Goods.

Backyard Bev Co offers a natural, handcrafted option for your cocktails. With Colorado-sourced, full-spectrum CBD, this mixer may actually help you feel refreshed the next day.

Conscious Coffees whole coffee beans, sold at Vintrey Honest Goods.

Based in Boulder, Conscious Coffees lives up to its name by paying above fair trade prices to support farmer cooperatives.

Fatworks premium cooking oil, ghee clarified butter, and chicken fat organic cooking oil, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Out of Longmont, Fatworks is tackling the narrative that fat is bad for you. Made from pasture-raised, non-GMO animals without antibiotics or hormones, Fatworks’ cooking fats are designed to help create a healthy, balanced diet.

Yummy Lotus blackberry serrano lime jam, strawberry grapefruit jam, kiwi poblano jam, strawberry ghost pepper jam, mango habanero jam, and blueberry reaper jam, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Headquartered in Denver, Yummy Lotus offers locally crafted vegan and gluten-free jams made with fresh ingredients in small batches.

Green Belly Foods yellow, red, and green hot sauces, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Inspired by his mom’s traditional Guatemalan hot sauces, Green Belly Foods’ Juan Ignacio Stewart went from selling hot sauces from a tent at the local market to a larger-scale operation.

Whole bean coffees from Traction Coffee Roasters, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

The founders of Traction Coffee Roasters thought up the idea for their coffee roasting company after a mountain bike ride. Their main goal is to make real, authentic coffee.

Venus Spice Co. za’atar premium spice blend, hawaij warming spice blend, shawarma seasoning and rub, sold by Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Noga, the name of the planet Venus in Hebrew, and partner, Kyle, created Venus Spice Co., a Boulder-based spice company specializing in the Middle Eastern flavors of Noga’s family’s recipes and traditions.

Bee Grateful Farm salted honey caramels and lavender honey caramels, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Bee Grateful Farm caramels are handcrafted at a natural vegetable farm in Steamboat Springs.

Stores selling local goods

Vintrey Honest Goods in Lafayette.

Vintrey Honest Goods is inspired by travel and socially conscious consumerism. Through strategic partnership, they aim to abolish human trafficking and uplift oppressed people. The store sells consciously curated household, fashion, and jewelry options. They sell several Colorado brands.

Wolf & Wren Press in Longmont.

Owned by best friends, Wolf & Wren Press combines the traditional art of letterpressing to meet your modern design and printing needs. A portion of their profits goes toward supporting organizations that are creating positive change for the environment.

Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Shop over 100 Colorado brands at Bricks Local Gift Shop for gifts, souvenirs, food, home goods, and more.

Local Goods Colorado in Lafayette.

Local Goods Colorado sells all local merchandise and aims to build relationships with all makers while also promoting community with customers.

Canova Home in Boulder.

Working with local artists and international fair trade groups to bring unique pieces, Canova Home brings unique home, art, jewelry, and more to Pearl Street.

Lula Faye Fiber in Boulder.

Fighting against the fast-moving cycle of fast fashion, Lula Faye Fiber offers handmade textiles that makers can use and then will be returned back to the earth. The store sells locally produced textiles.

Two Hands Paperie in Boulder.

Created in 1993, Two Hands Paperie is a family-owned business selling journals, paper, notebooks, books, cards, art supplies, decorations, and more. The store makes products in house and sells local brands.

Maker General in Longmont.

Maker General is intended to be a “general store” for creatives and makers who work with textiles and fibers. They sell gifts and supplies and offer a variety of maker workshops and classes meant to encourage the creative spirit in the community.

Art

Daniele Gold of Mountainside Acrylics holding one of her psychedelic watercolor paintings. Photo courtesy of Daniele Gold.

Daniele Gold of Denver-based Mountainside Acrylics is an acrylic and graphic artist specializing in feminine, psychedelic, and traveling-inspired art. Selling prints, paintings, and custom designs, each piece combines abstract concepts with the beauty of nature.

Uptripping art, sold at Local Goods Colorado in Lafayette.

Located in Winter Park, Uptripping reflects the global and adventurous lifestyle of its creators.

Chalkboard painting by Grey Grimm, sold at Two Hands Paperie in Boulder.

Specializing in oil, charcoal, watercolor chalkboard design, digital illustration, and murals, Grey Grimm sells art and is available for commissions.

Stickers and prints from Geranium Studio Shop, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop.

Created by two friends hoping to bring joy to others, Geranium Studio Shop sells watercolor art inspired by Colorado landscapes.

Engraved decorative sign by Vicki Riedel, who has three businesses: Green Hen Designs, Rock N Creations, and Riedel Enterprises. Photo courtesy of Vicki Riedel.

Green Hen Designs, Rock-N-Creations, and Riedel Enterprises, operating out of Erie, provide engraving needs for both commercial and personal purposes.

Nisha Fine Art painting. Photo courtesy of Nisha Ghela.

Landscape paintings, both small and large, along with little printed notecards from Nisha Fine Art turn Colorado’s natural beauty into art, perfect for gift giving.

Bird house made by Peter Buwalda of Buwalda Fine Art Studio. Photo courtesy of Kimberly Buwalda.

Art Supplies

Art supplies sold at the Art Parts Creative Reuse Center in Boulder.

The Art Parts Creative Reuse Center in Boulder was founded to help reduce waste. Art Parts has helped keep over 188,000 pounds of creative materials out of landfills. With any art supplies you might need, you can make a local gift at a cheap price without adding more waste to the world.

Paper Cuts Press pencils, sold at Two Hands Paperie in Boulder.

Upcycling and repurposing is the motto at Papercuts Press, which makes fun gifts out of repurposed material.

Coy Ink Studio water coloring and postcards kits, sold at Maker General in Longmont.

Longmont artist Amanda Maldonado of Coy Ink Studio is not only passionate about community and accessibility to art but sells handcrafted pen, ink, and watercolor art.

Wools from High Country Wool, sold at Lula Faye Fiber in Boulder.

Dedicated to connecting people to the land, High Country Wool dyes and handles the wool in a way that makes the wool light, airy, and full of life.

Nanci Hill Feeney Roll-up Caddy, sold at Two Hands Paperie in Boulder.

Nanci Hill Feeney’s roll-up caddies hold pencils, pens, and brushes in fun roll-up containers. For online orders, email nancihillfeeney@gmail.com. Nanci doesn’t have a dedicated website, but can receive order requests through email.

Handmade paper sold and made at Two Hands Paperie in Boulder.

Two Hands Paperie makes paper from recycled t-shirts for your stationery needs.

Cards and Stickers

Sweet & Snarky Greetings cards, sold at Two Hands Paperie in Boulder.

Want a sweet card, a snarky card, or maybe both? Longmont-based, eco-friendly greeting card company has you covered. Sweet & Snarky Greetings creates the fun content and art on their cards.

New parents and gender confirmation cards from Ladyfingers Letterpress, sold at Maker General on Longmont.

Lady Fingers Letterpress is a queer, trans-owned and operated business selling stationery, cards, and gifts out of Colorado Springs. Award winning, Lady Fingers uses their platform to support and create cards promoting women’s, LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and immigrant rights.

Customizable cards at Wolf & Wren Press in Longmont.

Wolf & Wren Press designs holiday cards in house at their Longmont shop.

Stickers made and sold by Wolf & Wren Press in Longmont.

Shop the many fun and colorful stickers made by Wolf & Wren Press in Longmont. The stickers are designed in the shop.

Holiday cards made and sold by Wolf & Wren Press in Longmont.

Holiday cards sold and made at Wolf & Wren Press in Longmont.

Decorations

arubymoon wood block print prayer flags, sold at Two Hands Paperie in Boulder.

Inspired by Tibetan prayer flags, arubymoon makes gratitude and grief flags, cards, and prints with the intention to inspire people to connect, create, and honor life.

Decorative banners, made and sold at Two Hands Paperie.

Made from upcycled saris, tassel banners sold and made at Two Hands Paperie can be strung up, worn, and adored.

Plants

Plants sold at Green Pony Houseplants & Vintage in Louisville.

Furniture

Custom-made table and chairs built in Dancing Grains Woodworks in Boulder.

Dancing Grains Woodworks handcrafts custom-made products out of high-quality wood. The store features already made products and slabs of wood that can be chosen for custom pieces.

Vanier Contour chair. Photo courtesy of Blake Vanier.

A locally run startup, Vanier Contour chairs are handbuilt. The floating slat provides a perfectly contouring sitting experience no matter what position.

Jewelry

Fleetwood Candle Co. earrings, sold at Local Goods Colorado in Lafayette.

Born out of the dark times of Covid, Fleetwood Candle Co. makes fun and colorful earrings too.

Turquoise and silver jewelry sold at Angie Star Jewelry in Boulder.

Jewelry at Angie Star Jewelry includes both silver jewelry and beaded jewelry and malas.

Earrings from Ammonite Swirls, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop.

The husband and wife duo of Ammonite Swirls sell their handmade jewelry to pay for rent, car payments, and food for their cats. They run their ecologically friendly business in addition to their jobs working as a musician and conservationist.

Rubarb Jewelry earrings, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Friends Ruth and Barb became friends and quickly started making jewelry together. Rubarb Jewelry handmakes simple but elegant jewelry.

Pets

Winnie Lou the Canine Co. Berry Boost Bones and Carrot Doggie Treat, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Winnie Lou started as a food truck and now brings dog products made from Colorado farms to fur families all over the state. Only real, whole foods are used in their products.

Suzie’s CBD Treats Original, Apple, and Pumpkin Bites, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Does your dog deserve to chill out? Suzie’s CBD Treats offers many yummy products for your animals containing CBD grown on their Fort Collins farm.

Local Shops Online

Holiday Markets & Fundraisers

Memberships to Makerspaces

The artists and makers in your life may appreciate memberships to local makerspaces as gifts.

Tools and warehouse space are available to members of The Gizmo Dojo makerspace in Northglenn.

The Gizmo Dojo: A makerspace located in Northglenn. Memberships start at hobbyist level at $50 a month for those looking to do personal projects enthusiast level at $100 for those who will be more involved at the dojo, and small business level for $250 for those wanting to sell products out of the dojo. All levels include 24/7 access to the building.

TinkerMill warehouse for makers is open 24/7 to members.

TinkerMill: Located in Longmont, members get full access to the workshop space, discounted classes, 24/7 access, voting rights, and reservations. Memberships available for $30 dollars a month for people with limited income, $60 for individuals, $90 for a bundle good for five people, and $120 for a corporate bundle of five employees.

Small businesses donate 250 percent more than large business counterparts to community causes. Over $9.3 billion would be returned to our economy if every U.S. family spent just $10 a month at a local business. Maybe this year our holiday season can mean more than convenience. Purchases from local businesses can pay for the lives of those around you and go toward causes that make our community better.

The post Community over CEOs: Local Retail Guide 2022 appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

This month: Five great gifts for your sainted mother on Mother’s Day

This cutting board, personalized with your own handwriting: $55

This cozy cloud cotton robe: $109

This diffuser/humidifier for the arid Colorado nights: $44

This loud bluetooth speaker for bike rides: $80

This handy box garden for cooking spices: $110

The post French’s 5 | April 2022 appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Chocolate is a decadent gift at any time of year, but during the holidays you want the confection to look as good as it tastes. After all, it’s got to keep up with a seasonal focus on appearance and be every bit as good as packages wrapped and ribboned to sparkly perfection, outdoor lighting displays that are the pride of a neighborhood, and the outfit carefully chosen for a holiday party.

Three local chocolatiers have this covered. Though each has a different take on their approach to chocolate and none could be mistaken for any other. All are visually stunning and perfect for hostess and teacher gifts,adding sparkle to a dessert tray, or a treat after a long day of holiday shopping and errands.

Robin’s Chocolates

Robin Autorino found her love of chocolate as she studied patisserie in France and worked at Flagstaff House, Brown Palace Hotel, and the Dushanbe Tea House. Chocolate-making was not her first choice of a career. In fact, for many years she believed she was allergic to it. Eventually, she learned she could tolerate most varieties of higher-grade, cleaner versions. That discovery fueled one of the basic premises of how she works today  – using the best ingredients possible including French Valrohna chocolate.

Today, she operates Robin’s Chocolates out of a kitchen and retail space on Airport Road in Longmont. Her classical training works with her choice of ingredients to ensure a strong, rich flavor profile such as holiday selection of figgy pudding or hot buttered rum. “If you bite into the Raspberry heart, you know it’s raspberry. That’s always been my emphasis for all of my flavors. You know what they are,” she said.

Autorino also takes her time to be sure that the look of each chocolate is exactly how she envisions it. Often, this requires what she describes as painstaking airbrushing. It’s not easy, but she feels it’s worth it to achieve the right presentation to go along with her flavors.

Stam Chocolate. Photo: Deborah Cameron

Stam Chocolate

At this time of year, stepping into Stam Chocolate’s retail space on Lafayette’s S. Public Road is like entering a holiday special. An array of chocolates in a case span two-thirds of the length of the retailer’s showroom and towers of multi-sized foil-wrapped Santas, advent calendars, and chocolate reindeer complete the look and make for one of a kind holiday gifts.

These chocolates can be purchased in Colorado, but they come from Belgium, where they’re shipped to the location. The same family has been making milk and dark chocolate confections for more than two centuries in a traditional Belgian style.

As Matthew Brundridge, owner of Stam’s Colorado location said, “Today, the great, great, great, great, great grandson of Jacobus Stam makes our chocolate. Through depressions, recessions, world wars, and global pandemics, we have an uninterrupted line of confectioners doing what they can to make the world a sweeter place.”

Piece, Love and Chocolate. Photo: Deborah Cameron

Piece, Love and Chocolate

This Pearl Street destination offers a chocolate-themed refuge from the rigors of holiday shopping and events. It also offers a wide range of things chocolate – from a gift-worthy cake that’s sold whole or by the slice, to a range of drinks.

“Everything we make must speak chocolate first,” said owner Greg Amorese. “We produce somewhere around 50 different types of truffles and take extreme care with them. For example, with our Mayan spice truffle, we roast our own blend of three types of chilis, or for our port and fig truffle we make a ‘pate fruit’ that’s layered into the truffle.”

But the flavors of its chocolates are matched by their distinct representations of Boulder — there are chocolates that show off the Avery Brewing A and the CU Buffalo, for instance. That’s what earned it a spot on its list.

The post Chocolate Holiday Gifts 101: Three Chefs Make Chocolates that Look as Good as Everything Else Does this Season | Foodie appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Mother’s Day is around the corner. Here are 5 local gift shops to get the goods for Ma:

1) Adorn

661 4th Ave., Old Town Longmont | adornadornables.com

2) Bliss

1643 Pearl Street, Boulder | blissboulder.com

3) Lafayette Collectibles and Flea Market

130 E. Spaulding St., Lafayette | fleamarketlafayette.com

4) Snarkington’s

324 Main St., Longmont | snarkingtons.com

5) Charmed 33

515 Briggs St., Erie | charmed33boutique.com

The post French’s 5: Mother’s Day Shopping | April 2021 appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Holiday shopping can be daunting—but you know what they say: No pain, no gain. YS has compiled our favorite Colorado-made items into one big gift-wrapped package, perfect for everyone in your life.

For the Outdoorsy Subaru Set
For the Rustic Style
Mom’s not the only one to Get Practical
Gifts that Celebrate the Artist
Finding the Eclectic Elements
Gifts that Give Back
Gifts that Keep Giving

The post The Ultimate Locavore’s Gift and Giving Guide appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

We Got the Funk

Spruce jewelry is very obviously inspired by the landscape, especially with pieces named Maple and River. You can see it in the irregular, flowing pieces that seem so intricately effortless. We adore these earrings that are both feminine, delicate and funky.

Spruce Jewelry: sprucejewelry.com

Where to buy: Encore, 439 Main St., and Suburban Hill, 2015 Ionosphere St., in Longmont

Foodie Gift Boxes

Cheese: it’s the gift that keeps on giving. Cured, Boulder’s new cheese and unique food shop, is offering gift boxes that include cheese, meats, breads, olive oil, pickles, sweets and more. Baskets range from the “day trip” to the “vacation,” which includes cheese knives and custom-made cheese board. We love the “Colorado road trip” basket with local cheese and cured meats from Il Mondo Vecchio, local pickled beets and Ritual Chocolate, among other items. It’s the perfect gift for the foodie in your life. Prices range from $75 to $250.

Cured: curedboulder.com

Where to buy: Cured, 1825 B Pearl St., Boulder

Festive Gift Tags

A Fobbie sounds like it could be some newfangled toy or a new character on Sesame Street. Really, it’s a concept developed by a Colorado inventor: a gift tag with a patented “slot system” for weaving ribbon through and securing it to your gift. Fobbie simplifies the gift wrapping-process and makes the holidays just a little easier. $1.49 each

Fobbie: fobbie.com

Reusable Bags

It can be tough to find gifts for your favorite environmentalist…You never even thought about presents’ carbon footprints. Well, RuMe  could just be your saving grace. RuMe offers multi-functional, design-driven reusable bags and totes. Not only are they über green but the bags have a sleek style perfect for anyone with eco-tendencies.

RuMe: rumebags.com

Where to buy: McGuckin Hardware, 2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder

Pillows and Rugs

Nicole Linton is like many Boulderites: Her business values combine sustainability, cultural diversity  and global awareness. And alpacas. Linton’s é bella uses alpaca fur fibers from Peru to create bold, beautiful rugs and pillows. Abstract patterns and bright colors create a modern aesthetic that seems to bring comfort, warmth and a funky style into
any home.

é bella: ebelladesigns.com

Where to buy: é bella, 2304 Pine St., Boulder (call for studio hours: 303.442.6226); holiday  pop-up store at studio from Nov. 23–Dec. 23

Mod Modules

Everyone needs storage, but there is no need to sacrifice aesthetics for practicality. The bright, modern storage modules from Denver’s Housefish are contemporary beauties that can be stacked or used as a console for your entertainment system. All Housefish furniture is made with sustainably harvested wood in Denver.

Housefish: housefish.com

Where to buy: I Heart Denver, 500 16th St., Denver

Shoes for Kiddos

You often think your kids resemble monkeys, and now, you can make it legit. Created by a CU grad and single mom, Monkey Toes are adorable sneakers and Mary Janes for tots adorned with hand-painted monkeys and other animals.

Monkey Toes: monkey-toes.com

Where to buy: Fruehaufs, 1665 33rd St., Boulder

The post Finding the Eclectic Elements appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Bolder Boulder Style

Boulder isn’t a fashion hotspot by any means, but CarolAnn Wachter is a local with real design talent (that’s maybe why you can find her pieces in Manhattan boutiques, and not in local shops). Her aesthetic is wearable elegance with classic forms. Wachter focuses on beautiful fabrics and craftsmanship with vintage and feminine touches.

CarolAnn Wachter: carolannwachter.com

Where to buy: New York, Beverly Hills, Chicago…Soon, Colorado. For now, give her a call—646.244.6463—or visit the é bella pop-up store, 2304 Pine St., Boulder, Nov. 23–Dec. 23.

On the Cuff

The term “statement piece” can mean different things to different women, but these cuff bracelets balance trendiness with classic chicness to create an item that every woman—young or old or somewhere in the middle—would kill for. The bracelets are gold platted with semi precious stones and pair well with just about anything. $160

Frisk Jewelry: girlsforfrisk.com

Where to buy: Frisk, 1144 13th St., Boulder

Key Fobs

Even in the bleakness of winter, of mud and muck, of oatmeal-like sludge, you gotta love pretty fabric. Miss Magoo brings sunshine and daisies to a winter day with skirts and accessories for little girls and lovely ladies. Fun, funky and casual, Miss Magoo’s style is all about bold prints and interesting details. We love the covered button bookmarks and the wristlet key fobs (above). Perfect for the girl who wants to be a little different from the rest.

Miss Magoo: missmagoo.com

Where to buy: Purple Poppy, Arapahoe Road and 95th Street, Lafayette

YSL at DAM

Give haute couture for the holidays. Denver Art Museum announced in spring it’d be the only American venue to host Yves Saint Laurent: The Retrospective. The show includes 200 haute couture outfits that trace the full arc of Saint Laurent’s designs; it arrives in Denver in March. This gift package includes VIP tickets and the exhibition catalogue, chronicling Saint Laurent’s 40-year career. Available through Dec. 24. $130

DAM: denverartmuseum.org

Where to buy: Visit denverartmuseum.org/YSLgift, the Museum Shop or Welcome Desk

Nature-Inspired Bling

The jewelry from Blue Hour Designs has a delicate organic nature—but it still feels modern and styled. The long sterling silver earrings show a freefall of four leaves, oxidized to create the image of depth and dimension. They can be a simple addition to a casual or day-to-day look or an earthy, elegant piece for any occasion.

Blue Hour Designs: bluehourdesigns.com

Where to buy: Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art, 1750 13th St.; prAna, 1147 Pearl St.; and Hip Consignment, 1468 Pearl St.; all in Boulder

Crafts Gone Wild

This two-tier mobile is handcrafted using poly-stuffed fabric birds, which perch on two curly branches. These beautiful, delicate pieces are inspired by the concept of handmade, an ode to crafts and fabrics, and they will certainly bring a DIY feel to any room. $85

Elevated Scraps: elevatedscraps.com

Where to Buy: Sugar Plum Bazaar, Nov. 19–20, and Firefly Handmade Holiday Market, Dec. 9–11

The post Gifts that Celebrate the Artist appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Colorado Casual Hoody

Based in Louisville, Pearl Izumi makes clothes for the Colorado lifestyle. From cycling shorts to speed suits, the company caters to runners, cyclists and triathletes, but they also have a stellar line of fashionable lifestyle jackets and vests for both men and women. With wool on the outside and fleece on the inside, the Pearl Thermal Hoody is a luxury for those below-zero winter days.

Pearl Izumi: pearlizumi.com

Where to buy: Louisville Cyclery, 1032 S. Boulder Rd., Louisville; University Bicycles, 839 Pearl St., Boulder

Phone Cases With Muscle

When you give your hubby a new iPhone 4S for the holidays, make sure there’s an Otterbox case in his or her stocking. The Fort Collins-based company makes the toughest, most rugged cases—protecting phones against drops, scratches and your two-year-old’s grubby clutches. We like the stylishness of the Commuter Series Case, but those in need of heavy-duty protection should stick with the Defender Series. $34.95, $49.95

Otterbox: otterbox.com

Where to buy: Cell phone provider stores

Cell Phone Savior

It’s newfangled and shiny but not totally out of this world. The Steelie is a high-powered, magnetic system that reduces the chances of loosing your cell phone in your car. The basic Steelie—unveiled in mid November—attaches your cell phone to a shiny ball fastened securely to your dash. It’s handy and stylish, and perfect for the person who has every thing—but still can’t find their phone.

Steelie: steelie.com

Where to buy: McGuckin Hardware, 2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder

Handmade Gift Tags

Impress your family and friends with these adorable handmade gift tags, made by crafty lady and Louisville resident Nicole Stibrany. Using modern design, reused, upcycled materials and a delicate touch, Stibrany creates little pieces of art for all seasons. Tags come in all shapes and sizes, price vary.

Concepture Papery: concepturepapery.etsy.com

Travel Gadget

A Tugo is a funny, little item that you’d expect to see in a Sky Mall catalogue. In truth, it was the brain child of a Denver couple who had taken one too many trips juggling luggage, boarding passes and coffee cups. The tugo is a flexible cup holder that secures to the space in between the upright handles on your rolling suitcase. And it’s a brilliant present for the traveler in your life.

Tugo: tugo.com

Where to buy: Airport Baggage Center and First Class Baggage at DIA; Send’em Packing, 283 Columbine St., Denver

Smart Socks

Broomfield Based Save Our Soles specializes in protecting feet from the damaging effects of the Colorado lifestyle. The company’s sock technology is unsurpassed: fabrics with moisture management and control near the foot, and three-ply nylon on the outside to boost durability and strength. Plus, SOS socks come in nifty designs that make your Nike socks look like grandma’s.

Save Our Soles: sossocks.com

Where to buy: Trek Bicycle Store, 1817 Colorado 42, Louisville; Full Cycle, 1795 Pearl St. and 1211 13th St., Boulder.

The post Get Practical appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Toys Without Batteries

While video games, cell phones and electronics have become major distractions for kids these days, Sprig Toys sets out to make battery-free, paint-free, eco-friendly toys that are “kid powered.” For kids 3 to 6, we’d opt for the Soarin’ Sea Plan for good old fashioned imaginative play.

Sprig Toys: sprigtoys.com

Where to buy: Playfair Toys, 6395 Gunpark Dr., Unit H, Boulder

Mountain Woman Luxury

A rustic piece of jewelry doesn’t need to be doughty, countrified or anything less than fabulous. The Woods proves it. Started by two sisters, The Woods pieces suggest a Queen of the Mountain luxury, using both natural elements like wood, leather, ivory and even antler with old mine cut/Victorian diamonds. And this Colorado product is hitting it big: From Taylor Swift to Kate Beckinsale, The Woods is decking the lobes, wrists and necks of celebutantes and mountain girls with ridiculous, creative gorgeousness.

The Woods: thewoodsfinejewelry.com

Where to buy: Bloom, 2353 E. 3rd Ave., Denver

Gifts That Rock

Items such as candle holders, coasters and frames are always good gifts for your not-close-enough-to-personalize list: your neighbor, your clients, your husband’s cousin who’s visiting from Toledo. Charles Mason’s Boulder-based Stonegifts are handcrafted locally and have a very nice Colorado look (can you get more Colorado-ish than rocks?). We love the candle wall sconces and the natura coasters. $19.95 and $6.96

Stonegifts: stonegifts.com

Wino Birdhouses

Oddly, two of our favorite activities are birding and drinking wine. So, we were pleased to come across these clever wine-cork birdhouses as well as their holiday-themed wine cork reindeer. Each birdhouse, made by an Erie couple, uses 40 to 90 corks and is handcrafted. From a bistro to a bungalow (or a church of sauvignon blanc), these corked creations are worthy of limb and branch.

Bear’s Birdhouses: shop.creationsincork.com

Where to buy: Colorado Consignment, 502 Briggs St., Erie

Whiskey With Mountain Water

For whiskey drinkers, opening a new bottle of that liquid gold is always a special moment. And surely, Santa just can’t deny the happiness that a good bottle can bring. Stranahan’s is not just a good bottle, it’s a Colorado-made, small-batch, distinctive-tasting whiskey made with pure mountain water and mountain barley.

Stranahan’s: stranahans.com

Where to buy: Your local liquor store

The post For the Rustic Style appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Light Bright

There are a lot of parades of lights this time of year, but few offer the chance for everyone and their mother to participate. Louisville’s parade does just that, and the only rules are that your “float” entry must have lights and not include a Santa (he’s apparently very brand-aware, and doesn’t like people messing with his carefully cultivated image). So, here’s your chance to wrap your ’89 Pontiac Sunbird in LEDs and convince yourself it’s a “classic.” The festivities get going at 6 pm Dec. 3 at the Louisville Chamber of Commerce, 901 Main St., Louisville, 303.666.5747

Swing, Swing

Last year’s 1940s WWII Christmas Ball was one of the biggest parties of the year in Boulder County. Apparently, Americans’ nostalgia for the Greatest Generation and the ’40s knows no bounds (and we’ll go ahead and steer clear of discussion of the invention of the nuclear bomb, America’s racial polarization and the rise of the Red Scare). The outfits were keen and the music was swingin’, and that’s what this shindig’s all about. At the Elks Lodge, Dec. 10, 3975 28th St., Boulder, 303.946.9227

From the Streets

If Shepard Fairey’s fame says anything (he’s the artist behind the iconic Obama “Hope” posters), it’s that the graffiti subculture is a legitimate art movement (no, we’re not talking about crappy gang tags) that warrants discussion. The Longmont Museum and Cultural Center
is hosting an exhibit called Street Cred: Graffiti Art from Concrete to Canvas that explores the amazing art of southern California’s finest street artists. Check it out; you’ll be amazed at what you see. 400 Quail Rd., Longmont, 303.651.8374

Meet Black Joe

If the late James Brown had a more nicotine-encrusted voice and his band had a scathing Fender Telecaster cranking front and center at full volume (with photos of big booty women taped on it), you’d have a decent approximation of Austin-based Black Joe Lewis and the Honeybears. The funky rhythms, Lycra-tight horns and raspy vocals of Lewis add up to an overwhelming groove and melt-your-face energy that will put your feet into overdrive. Nov. 22, Fox Theater, Boulder, all ages, $15.

French’s Five

Tired of giving out mugs and candles for the holidays? It’s time to spice things up. Here, this year’s mostly awesome gift list:

1) To infinity and beyond It’s a hard drive! No, it’s a time machine! No, it’s a hard drive… $250 bit.ly/timemachinedrive

2) Carbon freeze Han Solo is frozen in carbonite ice! $9.99 bit.ly/hansoloicecubetray

3) Just like me I’m a bobblehead. Covet me. $139 bit.ly/bobbleheadme

4) Ready for take off An RC helicopter with a video camera you control with your iPhone. $289.99 bitly.com/iphonechopper

5) Tea time The best driver ever made. $89.99 bit.ly/golfclubdrinks

The post Editor’s Picks: Nov. ’11 appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Peace on Earth and good presents to all.

For Her
For Him
For Kids
For Home
For Fun

{FOR HER}

Flora Fauna Series, Flying Anvil Designs (flyinganvildesigns.com)
Feminine and delicate, Flying Anvil’s Flora Fauna Series is made of 100 percent recycled sterling, hand hammered and forged in Julie Jerman-Melka’s studio in Fort Collins. The necklaces hang like lazy branches studded with polished stones and white topaz, and her earrings perch like tiny aspen leaves. The pieces are a beautiful mix of earthy and urban, and we think that they are perfect accessories for the modern Colorado woman. $160–$440.
Buy at: The Berry Patch, Niwot

Stone Ranch Fleece, GoLite (golite.com)
Let’s not forget to be practical this time of year: a gift that keeps your loved one all warm and snuggly during the winter months is the gift that keeps on giving. GoLite is always good for this kind of present, and this year, we suggest you check out the high-performance Stone Ranch Fleece, which is great for a nice day of snowshoeing as well as an afternoon of shopping. It’s made of 100 percent recycled materials and it’s also available for men (so don’t be all jealous). $105
Buy at: Boulder Running Company, Boulder

Lariat, Cowboy’s Sweetheart Studio (cowboys-sweetheart.com)
In the good ol’ days (ie. the days before fashion was invented), the lariat was used to wrangle woolly cattle or rope a stray filly. Today, it’s a super adorable accessory created by Boulder’s Cowboy’s Sweetheart Studio. With a small, reinforced loop at one end—it’s called a hondo—a chain or leather rope passes to form a loop, creating a lovely, sexy necklace. A balance of Western style and Boulder casual, Cowboy Sweetheart’s hand-made lariat-style necklaces are made with sterling silver, leather, freshwater pearls and/or semiprecious stones. $85–$115
Buy at: Ohm Salon + Gallery, Lyons and Christine Marguerite Designs, Boulder

Botanical Rejuvenating Oil, Tilvee Eco Ethical Skincare (tilvee.com)
Who says holiday gifts can’t be functional? This spot treatment heals scars, burns, wrinkles (don’t mention that in the card) and sun damage. It’s 92 percent organic with 18 nutritive plant oils and extracts. Plus, this Golden-based company supports sustainable, organic and fair-trade agriculture. $29
Buy at: Vitamin Cottage, Lafayette and Longmont

Fiona, Wallaroo Hats (wallaroohats.com)
There are hat people, and non-hat people. For the former, check out the hats created by Boulder’s Wallaroo—especially this feisty little vixen of a chapeau that they call Fiona. Made from angora (80 percent) and nylon, the brim creates a fedora-style that can be dressed up or down. Each new Wallaroo hat delivers UPF 50-plus sun shield. $40
Buy at: Adorn, Longmont and Timbalier, Lafayette

Orange Coconut Polish, La Ishá (la-isha.com)
There’s only one way to wash away the stress, dehydration and fatigue that come with the holidays: scrub very, very hard. This sugar-based polish exfoliates and softens dry skin. It’s a perfectly relaxing way to make your skin hydrated and glowing, and no sandpaper needed. $5
Buy at: Changing Seasons Acupuncture Clinic, Boulder

Swimsuit Bags, Q Teaze (etsy.com/shop/churesky)
Chicks usually don’t care what they look like at the gym (the normal ones anyway). Still, nothing beats an accessory that helps gym-going gals to get from here to there in style. Enter the swimsuit bag by Crested Butte entrepreneur Carolyn Huresky. With a laminated lining, this little bag lets you transport your sopping wet suit without getting everything else damp. $29
Buy at: Online only

Margarita Clutch and Belt, Annie O. (annieoboutique.com)
Annie O. is all about social responsibility: working with female artisan cooperatives around the world to empower craftspeople and supporting fair trade practices. And we respect the local company for that attention to sustainability and responsibility. But the reason we totally adore them (and their Peruvian weavers): Their products are super fierce. Funky and a bit retro, these purses, belts, scarves and more are inspired by Peru’s traditional embroidery techniques, colors and aesthetic. The Margarita is a solid, good-size purse made of sheep’s wool embroidered with flowers and a gorgeous horn handle. Clutch, $130. Belt, $89. Buy at: Common Threads, Two Sole Sisters and Blue Skies, all in Boulder

{FOR HIM}
Custom Skis, Folsom Custom Skis (folsomcustomskis.com)
Whether he’s a pro or just an enthusiastic amateur hitting the slopes every weekend he can, Folsom will build a ski to fit him specifically and make sure the look reflects his (or her) personal style. Folsom makes only around 200 pairs each year, ensuring that their craftspeople dedicate serious time and concentration to each ski they build. Their skis are designed to last, come with a full two-year warranty and are made right here in Colorado using environmentally sustainable methods and materials. Custom skis, custom prices.
Buy at: Go online, fill out a profile and you will be contacted.

Pull-On Down Bootie, Sierra Designs (sierradesigns.com)
Cold toes are no laughing matter, and a solid pair of slippers is pretty much a prerequisite for living in Colorado. But hand a man a pair of fluffy bunny slippers and he might never forgive you. Enter the down booties from Sierra Designs. These folks make sleeping bags good for up to -30 degrees, so they understand how to keep things warm. And their heavy-duty non-skid sole means that your guy can get outside to warm up the car or get the mail without incident on icy days. $50
Buy at: Backcountry Escapes, Longmont and American Wilderness Gear, Niwot

Access Waist Pack, Ultimate Direction (ultimatedirection.com)
OK, we’ll admit it: it’s a fanny pack. But it’s a super cool fanny pack that’s sure to impress the trail-loving guy in your life. It holds a 20oz BPA-free water bottle, has 25 cubic inches of storage space inside its zippered pouch, and has a portal for your ear bud wires to come out. Add to that the fact that it’s made of lightweight mesh and an ultra-wicking antimicrobial fabric and you’ve got maybe the coolest fanny pack ever. Just call it a waist pack and you’ll be fine. $28
Buy at: REI locations

Cargo Cache Bike Trunk, Otivia (otivia.com)
Why didn’t we think of this? Just like the cargo carrier on top of your car, this is a hard-sided trunk for your bike. The solid, heavy-duty plastic protects your gear from wind, sun and rain damage while keeping everything out of view of prying eyes. It’s big enough to hold a laptop or a bike helmet, and its innovative locking design makes it impossible to remove from your bike without the key. Perfect for road warriors and daily commuters alike. $89
Buy at: McGuckin Hardware, Boulder

Double Diamond Whiskey, Downslope Distilling (downslopedistilling.com)
There’s little more manly than sipping a nice whiskey, straight up or on the rocks, and we’ve got the perfect bottle. Double Diamond by Downslope Distilling in Centennial is made in the Irish tradition with malted barley and rye. It’s aged in medium toast casks before being blended into an astonishingly smooth whiskey with notes of vanilla, honey, spice and wood—the perfect warm-up for a cold night. $35
Buy at: Daveco Liquors, Thornton or Superior Liquors, Superior

Write Anywhere Pen, Inka (writeanywhere.com)
For the man on the go, this is the Swiss Army Knife of pens, the one to keep with you at all times. This stainless steel or titanium pen is engineered to write in all kinds of conditions—under water, at any altitude, in extreme temperatures and at any angle. It stores snugly in its own case with a convenient O-ring for attaching to your keychain, backpack or briefcase. The whole thing was designed by an optical engineer in Boulder to be the only pen you’ll ever need. $17.99 (stainless steel) to $49.99 (titanium).
Buy at: McGuckin Hardware, Boulder

{FOR KIDS}
Dino Adventure Toys, Sprig (sprigtoys.com)
Sprig Toys has gone from a little Fort Collins company to a global phenom. The company, which makes toys from recycled wood and reclaimed plastic, focuses on eco-friendly products that boost imagination. As a part of the Adventure Series, this dino-themed set includes an adventure truck, two dinosaurs, an adventure guide and a backpack accessory. Totally prehistoric. $24.99
Buy at: Playfair Toys, Boulder and Crawdaddy’s Toys, Lafayette

Fridge Fractiles, Fractiles (fractiles.com)
Fractiles are kind of like a puzzle. Then again, they are kinda not. They are kinda like a toy but then again, they are also like an educational tool. Whatever they are, they’re pretty cool. These magnetic tiles can be turned into various patterns and designs, encouraging creativity. They are perfect for keeping kids entertained and their minds revving on all cylinders. $11.95
Buy at: Crawdaddy’s Toys, Lafayette

Dancin’ in the Kitchen, My Munch Bug (mymunchbug.com)
Melanie Potock has spent more than a decade helping munchkins deal with eating problems; with her company, My Munch Bug, she offers tips and products to help the little ones eat right. The CD, with music from local children’s singer songwriter Joan Huntsberry Langford, puts the music where their mouths are: Dancin’ in the Kitchen encourages kids to be adventurous eaters and parents to get their kids out of the mac-n-cheese rut. Includes songs like “The Operetta: I Love Peas!” and “Gimme Something to Chew.” $13.95
Buy at: Online only

IlluStory, Creations by You (creationsbyyou.com)
So, your kid wants to be a writer…IlluStroy allows budding Jonathan Franzens to write their own story and add illustrations. This cool creative kit includes a “story web” to help young writers plan the elements of their novella and carry out the entire story. When they are finished, you stick it in the mail, and the book is mailed back, professionally typeset and hardbound. Plus, it includes an “About the Author” page. Online options also available. $21.95
Buy at: Grandrabbits Toy Shoppe, Boulder

Finger Puppets, Thumbuddy to Love (thumbuddytolove.com)
This is something a little different: a friend to both you and your thumb-sucking kid. The Thumbuddy includes a thumb puppet and a book—which tells a story to encourage kids to stop sucking their thumbs. With characters like Ballerina Sue and Fireman Fred teaching your children to keep their thumb out of their mouths, it’s a positive teaching tool and it’s just darn cute. $19.95
Buy at: Ginger and Pickles Toy Store and Grandrabbits Toy Shoppe, Boulder

Girls Clothing, LamanBlu (lamanblu.com)
For little girly girls, the frills and fabulousness coming out of Golden-based LamanBlu are as pretty as you can find. With a hint of hippie-cool, their pieces range from bustle jackets to ruffled pants to a faux fur cape all in pastels, cream shades and muted blues. Designer Holli Gibson uses eco-friendly fabrics to create easy-to-wear pieces for the princesses in your world. Prices vary.
Buy at: The Giggling Green Bean, Denver, or make an appointment with their atelier in Golden

{FOR HOME}
Reusable Bag Case with Bags, iTySE (ityse.com)
The perfect gift for the greenie in your life. It’s durable, portable and sooooo Boulder chic (a perfect accessory for a Prius and a pair of Tom’s Shoes). These carrying cases allow you to haul around a ton of reusable bags—without actually dealing with a ton of reusable bags. Feminine floral or sleek black designs make them nice for both men and women. $35
Buy at: Blue Skies Boulder

Rice Bowl with Chopsticks, Deb Babcock (etsy.com/shop/dbabcock)
Simplicity is the No. 1 rule of gift-giving—because you can never go wrong with a present that is uncomplicated and elegant. That’s why we fell in love with these hand-made rice bowls that have a resting divot to hold a pair of chopsticks. They are so practical yet so simply charming, bathed in a glossy robin’s egg blue. $75 for two.
Buy at: Online only

Hanging Air Plant Pods, Mudpuppy (michaelmcdowell.com)
Michael McDowell is a master of contemporary design. His vases and sculptures are minimalist with a touch of quirkiness (visit his Etsy page to see the baby-head vase). We love his plant pods because you can use them outside or in, and they look great alone or in a group. Made with stoneware clay and covered in a silky matte glaze, these are great gifts for friends, family and connoisseurs of the modern aesthetic. $32.
Buy at: YesPleaseMore in the Denver Pavilions and Fancy Tiger’s Holiday Craft Fair on Dec. 3 and 4

Cast Glass Camera, Hershman Glass (hershmanglass.com)
Josh Hershman does amazing things with glass. The young man, a Boulder native, has exhibited all over the world, and if he’s good enough for world-class art exhibitions, he’s good enough for a spot in your den. The glass cameras are modeled after classic cameras like Kodak, Westar, Keystone and Sekonic. These are stately, opulent gifts for photo-lovers, camera-lovers or those who appreciate a beautiful piece of art. Starting at $1,200
Buy at: Pismo Contemporary Glass in Cherry Creek

Leaf Mobile, Moon-Lily Silk Mobiles (moonlilymobiles.com)
Moon Lily makes beautiful installations that now daintily decorate government and corporate buildings all over Colorado. Bring the serenity and beauty of these lovely leaf mobiles into the home of your favorite gift-getter. Made with silk and fine gauge stainless wire by hand, the mobiles range in color and style, including Aspen, Japanese Maple and Ginkgo. Start at $180
Buy at: Boulder Arts & Crafts, Boulder and Timbalier, Lafayette.

{FOR FUN}
Leashes and Collars, Walk-e-Woo (walkewoo.com)
Started by a stay-at-home mom who couldn’t find cute, affordable collars for her dogs, Walk-e-Woo collars and leashes come in dozens of bright colors and patterns to match any pooch’s style, from preppy plaid to rockin’ tattoo-style art. They feature high-quality hardware and stitching and will make your best friend the best looking dog on the block. $22 for a collar.
Buy at: Struttin’ Pup, Lafayette

Winter Shoes, Crocs (crocs.com)
OK, the days of using Crocs solely for the purpose of gardening or boating are over. Today’s Crocs keep their unique, comfortable style while looking, actually, cool. This year, we love the Berryessa, a solid, super warm boot perfect for the morning and evening commute…and even in the office and the weekend at home and out on the town. Basically, you can live in ’em. For the fellas, we like the Croccasin (as well as the boot Crocassin), a super chill, super comfy loafer or boot. They are the perfect pair of house shoes that give you the freedom to walk outside and shovel the driveway and then run to Lefthand for a couple rounds of Sawtooth. Berryessa, $90; Crocassin, $75
Buy at: The Crocs Store, Boulder; Sports Authority, Superior and Longmont; and Nordstrom, Broomfield

Bookcliff Ensemble 2008, Bookcliff Vineyard (bookcliffvineyards.com)
A great gift for your boss, co-worker, friend or fellow wino: a great bottle of wine. With 100 percent Colorado-grown grapes, Bookcliff Vineyards is one of the reasons the state’s wine reputation is soaring. Duck into their tasting room in north Boulder to find your favorite, or just go with the Ensemble: a luscious, fruity blend of Merlot (82 percent), Cab Franc, (15 percent), Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Buy at: Boulder Wine Merchant and Liquor Mart, Boulder and Liquor Land, Longmont

Moaning Chips, Ziva Chocolates (trufflicioustruffles.com)
When you sample these homemade russet potato chips drizzled with gooey caramel and smooth dark chocolate, then dipped in more creamy thick chocolate, you might want to be alone. That’s because they’re known to cause people to moan with pleasure—hence the name. Perfect for the sweet and salty snacker, these are only one of the amazing creations Julie Whitcomb has created with her line of Ziva Chocolates. $40 per pound. Buy at: Online only

Beads, BeadforLife (beadforlife.org)
A perfect gift for your socially conscious, fashion-forward BFF: BeadforLife, based in Boulder, is a collaboration between women in Uganda and the women of the world in an effort to fight poverty. Ugandan craftswomen make unique jewelry out of recycled paper, and they are sold across the globe, working to spread awareness about poverty. Each piece is unique, with choices of different colors and styles, and comes with a story of women working their way out of poverty. From $5–$30.
Buy at: BeadforLife, Boulder

Beer Sampler
For the brew lover on your list, why not create your own local beer sampler. Total Beverage will let you mix-and-match six packs to create your very own menu of local tastes. You might go for all specialty brews available during the winter, or GABF winners—or maybe go with all ales or stouts. The options are as endless as your imagination. Price varies with selections.
Buy at: Total Beverage, Westminster and Hover Crossing Wine and Spirits, Longmont

The post Locavore’s Guide to Holiday Shopping appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Before you flip to the Gift Guide in a few pages to start drooling over all the cool gadgets, hip clothes and other luxurious items that will make the best presents this year, think about the giving part of the holidays.

And not the type of giving that will enamor your loved ones. Stop for a moment to consider the countless others in need in the North Metro area and beyond. There are myriad organizations geared toward helping the homeless, relieving hungry, giving shelter to the battered, saving the environment and rehabilitating wild life. Regardless if you are a regular in the charity circuit or not, read up on a few programs you many not be familiar with in our annual Giving Guide.

So when you’re circling that pearl necklace that will wind up in your honey’s stocking or the flat screen TV for his wall, think first about which of the 45 North Metro non profits we feature you should give to this holiday season. Someone you don’t know will greatly appreciate it.

Conscious Harmony

Green Giving

Giving Guide

The post It’s Good to Give appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.