Be inspired in your gift giving this year

I know its been a tough year, so make your gifts go further this holiday by giving something unique and meaningful and at the same time supporting local business and artisans.

Many of you have asked where you can get NUADA products this year.  Well, we haven’t gone away altogether.  Great gifts from Wild Goose Studio, Ethel Kelly Oghams and Solvar jewelry are available at www.nuada.com.

If you don’t like shopping online, NUADA is still at the Andersonville Galleria, 5247 N Clark St, with all your favorites, including new Avoca scarves.  But we will only be there through the end of January, so hurry!

NUADA is showcasing John Rocha jewelry at Art de Triumph, 2936 N Clark St, home to the stunning work of Nancie King Mertz, a prolific and award-winning Chicago artist.  Check out her gallery where you can find arty Chicago calendars, coasters and ornaments starting at $15.  But while there, take time to gaze at her original oil paintings.  You’re in for a treat!

Those of you who have visited us at the Andersonville Galleria will know that over seventy local artisans are featured, making it the perfect place for all you harried last-minute shoppers.  With prices ranging from $5 to $500, you will be inspired!

My favorites:

1. A Thing of Beauty
   Some of you may remember Deana Rose jewelry from my Southport store. Deana is a Chicago artist creating jewelry that is at once eye-catching and elegant and together with Nuada jewelry, is the only jewelry I wear.  She has an amazing ability to combine the rich, vibrant colors of semi-precious stones to create wondrous effects.  Prices range from $15 to $200.  Her jewelry is available at the Andersonville Galleria and online at www.deanarose.com.
   
2. Quirky and Functional
   If there’s one thing I love to give, its functional art.  What could be better than giving something you can both use and enjoy?  Denise Riesen prints her own unique and quirky collage photography on tumbled marble coasters.  With themes ranging from local Chicago scenes to wine and sports, and at only $38 a set, this is a must buy.  Her coasters and her wonderful photography can be viewed at www.riesenphotography.com and at the Andersonville Galleria.
   
3. Boys! Boys! Boys!
   What can you get for that teenager in your life, or for your much-cooler-than-you brother-in-law?  Novem studios, available at the Andersonville Galleria, was recently featured in the New York Times Travel section for their whimsical and clever T-shirts.  With most at only $15 to $30 dollars you can’t go wrong.

Wishing you a warm and wonderful holiday season.  Be inspired and stay connected!

Nollaig shona agus faoi mhaise daoibh!