Gift Guide: Numero 3

Cool Catz Pottery Studio

Take it from me; this place rocks! I’ve made both my parents a masterpiece, if you will, throughout my time in college. It’s the perfect gift idea because of the creative and personal touch that you can give to the pottery. If you’re unsure of the process, I’ll explain. First, make your way to Storm Lake and look for Santa’s Castle (Cool Catz is right by there). Once you walk in, you may be overwhelmed with all the pieces to choose from. I’d recommend choosing one with a flat surface if it’s your first time. Next is picking out the paint colors/design. I probably sat there for a good 15 minutes trying to figure out what I wanted do put on there; it’s tough! Veronica is awesome at giving ideas and making sure you’re aware of all the things that can be used to aid you in your design.  Here’s some things to check out while you’re there: clay handbuilding, fused glass, technique classes & events, canvas painting, kids classes & summer camps and, lastly, private parties. Click here for more info. Below is the platter I made my dad for Father’s Day.

Little Swan Lake Winery

For all you wine connoisseurs out there, stop by this little winery if you’re ever traveling through Estherville. The testing room (which is a remodeled 1920′s barn) is the home to 25 different wines, all produced on site. Along with a variety of wines offered is a selection of gourmet cheeses and buffalo meat from their own herd. The vineyard stretches across two acres of land, providing yummy grapes for the production process.  If that wasn’t enough to convince you, they added a bed and breakfast just over two years ago, which is a great place to relax and enjoy Little Swan Lake. Check out more here.

Tammy Hamlin

This Okoboji musician can be seen playing 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s tunes all over the region. She has 25+ years of experience in singing, songwriting and playing the guitar. Tammy states, “exploring acoustic rock versions of the great songs of previous decades and sharing musical energy” is something she enjoys with each performance. Interested and want more info? Click here.

Garden Babies

Specialty item alert! These unique handmade items for babies and their busy moms are super-duper cute. A few items include: blankets, bibs, loveys, soft blocks, car seat tents, crocheted hats and many more. Now, I don’t have kids nor am I a “busy mom,” but their stuff is so adorable. If you know someone who recently had a baby or is expecting, I’d definitely check this place out. You can visit their Facebook page here or email them at gardenbabies@hotmail.com.

Clouse Studios

Artwork fanatic? Clouse is a good place for you. Danielle Clouse features her works of art and mixed media at various craft shows and fairs. She also posts photos on Facebook displaying her masterpieces & upcoming events she’ll be attending. This Spirit Lake native is available by appointment at 712.260.3098 or at clousestudios@hotmail.com. Check these unique gems out and report back with all the details! 

Happy shopping! 

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- Alexa Guessford