
When it comes to gift-giving, our real estate agents truly believe it's the thought that counts. This year, bypass the cookie-cutter products in the national chains for one-of-a-kind gifts from these wonderful small businesses around Baltimore homes for sale.
- KSM Candle Co. - 3600 Clipper Mill Road #123, Baltimore, MD 21211
Candles inspired by zombies? Well, in a roundabout way, that's the story behind KSM Candle Co. Letta is a one-time marketing director who happened to be watching The Walking Dead one evening. It occurred to Letta that she should develop a skill set that would survive an apocalyptic event. The actual skill turned out to be creating enterprise, and for her first venture Letta chose a product that's an outlet for creativity. In addition to selling candles in a wide assortment of forms and scents, Letta offers candle-making classes so you can create your own. Hours are noon - 5 p.m. Sunday, Wednesday, and Thursday, and noon - 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
- Baltimore Clayworks - 5707 Smith Ave., Baltimore, MD 21209
Baltimore Clayworks is more than just a studio and gallery. It's a vital cog in the community of Baltimore's Mt. Washington neighborhood. In 1980, nine local artists joined together to found Baltimore Clayworks. Four years later, the organization was granted non-profit status to pursue the mission of nurturing and promoting an artist-centered community. Ceramic works for sale include tableware and drinkware, jewelry, sculptures, and wall hangings created by dozens of talented artisans. The studio also hosts classes, exhibits, and special events. Gallery and shop hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
- Words with Boards - 1750 Union Ave.., Suite G, Baltimore, MD 21211
No, Words with Boards isn't the latest interactive digital game. This unique family-owned company, located in Baltimore's historic Hampden neighborhood, makes personalized wooden home decor accessories that are perfect gifts for any occasion. Cutting boards are their signature item, but they can add your choice of words to products ranging from serving trays and wine racks to tic-tac-toe boards and dog leash holders. Words with Boards keeps it green by planting one tree for each item sold. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
- Annie Howe Papercuts - 3000 Rosekemp Ave., Baltimore, MD 21214
Fortunately, Annie Howe Papercuts aren't like the painful ones you get from envelope flaps. Annie uses papercutting to create intricate, breathtaking designs incorporated into all kinds of gift items. Prints and greeting cards are the obvious vehicles for this delicate art, but other products in Annie's collection include tea towels, calendars, and holiday ornaments. If you're interested in creating your own papercuts, Annie conducts in-person and online instructional workshops. Visit Annie's website and follow her on Facebook for more information.
- Drama MaMa Bookshop - School 33 Art Center, 1427 Light St., Studio #202, Baltimore, MD 21230
In this digital age, there's still something comforting about holding pen and paper in hand. Alisa Brock of Drama MaMa Bookshop adds an element of fun with her colorful and whimsical journals. Choose from Alisa's unique designs or create your own for hard-cover or wood. Surprise the writer on your gift list with a subscription to the Journal of the Month club. Drama MaMa Bookshop is open Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. -7 p.m.
Don't let buying or selling a home in Baltimore distract from your gift-shopping excursions. Contact us at BHHS Homesale Realty and let us handle the job.