Downtown gallery Sumner & Dene deals in more than high-end art—they also specialize in gifts outside of the mass-produced norm. Serena Mann’s whimsical flying figures have been a favorite there for years. Each of Mann’s papier mâché and mixed media sculptures is handmade and one-of-a-kind, and at $36 to $50 for the smaller pieces, they’re perfect for the mom or sister who could use a little magic in her life. (Lisa Barrow)
Glow-In-The-Dark Mini Greeter, $65
All of us have that friend—the one who’s into anything strange or unusual. She’s kind of like Lydia Deetz from Beetlejuice. Maybe your creepy comrade isn’t quite that extreme, but you get the idea. When shopping for your Lydia, head to Stranger Factory. On top of a plethora of out-of-this-world knick-knacks, they have these adorable Mini Greeters; the creepy lookout sculptures are kitschy, fun and some even glow in the dark. Factory owners and artists Kathie Olivas and Brandt Peters have created multiple designs that start at $65. (Mark Lopez)
Wooden Animal Masks, $50 And Up
If you suffer a recurring fantasy involving mounted animal head gifts, remember: They’re expensive. D.L. Gruben of American Wildlife Taxidermy says the pieces in their showroom range from $400 on the low end to $3,000 or more. While your mother’s joyous reaction would be priceless in theory, price plays a logistical role in the execution. As a suitable compromise, Masks y Mas carries an assortment of unique, wooden wall-mountable masks—animal and otherwise—for around $50. Also, no innocent deer were harmed in their construction. (Carl Petersen)
Ollas, $12 To $24
For the eco-warriors and green thumbs on your list, select a suitably sustainable prezzie. Bike over to Growing Awareness Urban Farm to purchase handmade terracotta irrigation vessels, or ollas. Ranging in size/shape and price from “gooseneck” ($12) to “grande” ($24), ollas are the perfect choice for a gorgeous presentation—add some remnant bows and it’s good to go—and a gift that keeps on giving in the recipient’s in-ground or container gardening. (Samantha Anne Carrillo)
Vintage Books, $3 And Up
Remember when we used to hold actual books in our hands? The way they smelled. The way pages stuck together after reading in the bath. Arguably, the best part of an actual book is its inability to connect you to the internet. There’s no A/S/L in printed publications, and that’s reason enough to give your cousin a book. Not into reading? Use the charming binding and covers to make something special for your sweetheart. Be creative. Throw away your computer; just kidding, you probably need that. (Amelia Olson)
Peanut-Filled, Jay-Attracting Wreath, $18.99
Blue Jays are susceptible to the West Nile Virus, and their population has dwindled alarmingly over the past few years. The good news is they’re making a comeback; you may even have noticed a few screeching around your house lately. Help someone bring these cranky blue birds around with a peanut-filled wreath from Wild Birds Unlimited. Word travels quickly in the bird world, so you may want to throw in some extra peanuts for a refill. No one wants to suffer the rage of disappointed Blue Jays. (Carl Petersen)
