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Payton’s Favorite Things

10 local Christmas gifts that aren’t a mug

Payton's Favorite Things 10 Christmas gifts that aren't a mug (WAFF 48)

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (TENNESSEE VALLEY LIVING) - I’ve always had a passion for gift-giving, for finding the perfect thing that says “I see you, I know you, I value you.” It’s part of the reason I love birthdays, life celebrations, and you guessed it -- Christmas.

So in honor of this most magical time of the year, I thought I’d share my love for gift-giving with 10 things that would make for a perfectly thoughtful, fun and unexpected gift!

1) Mojana Soaps Body Lotion

These adorable pumps come in multiple scents and colors. I keep one by my sink, one at my desk and one in my car! Perfect for when I need a little dew dollop to soften my skin (which occurs literally every time I wash my hands...). My favorite scent is Miss Americana!

Mojana Soaps Body Lotion (Mojana Soaps)

2) Preserves from The Mason Jar

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I love a good spread at the holidays. I mean, what biscuit isn’t made more perfect with a little Apple Butter or Blackberry Jam? Something about a jam makes me think I’m Laura Ingalls Wilder celebrating Christmas in 1880, and I love a good historical sense of nostalgia.

The Mason Jar Canning and Home (The Mason Jar Canning and Home)

3) Rebeca McKenzie Designs

I took one look at this Alabama gal’s work and became obsessed. The most BEAUTIFULLY vibrant collections -- I love the manger work for Christmas, and the hearts are perfect year-round! Such a uniquely personal and talented artist.

Rebecca McKenzie Designs (Rebecca McKenzie Designs)

4) On Clouds from Running Lane

Okay, I’ve never really hopped aboard a sneaker bandwagon before, but call me “Conductor of the On Cloud Train.” I tried on these babies after experts at Running Lane completed a few tests, and I immediately made one of the best purchases of my life. I love that I can shop them locally, and you better believe I then convinced two of my best friends to buy them too!

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On Clouds from Running Lane (Running Lane)

5) Maddie’s Cookie Company

I like to claim having been Maddie’s first biggest fan, but I’m sure she’s forever had people in her corner. I WAS, however, the first person to interview her for local television, so I suppose that gives me some extra brownie (cookie?) points, right? Anyway, this girl is a legend. She started her company at 18-years-old and has since perfected a perfectly baked cookie in a number of flavors, with my favorite being the classic chocolate chip. Also, did I mention she ships nationwide? Plan to order 5 dozen, and you can thank me later.

Maddie's Cooking Company (Maddie's Cooking Company)

6) Shop Moss Custom Necklace

The amount of compliments I’ve received on my handmade necklace from this beautiful Italian-themed shop tucked in the Village of Providence... there’s no telling. Owner Vania is a collector of all things charmed and lovely, and I am truly tickled pink every time I coordinate an outfit with this stunning little charmer (pun intended).

Shop Moss Custom Necklace (Shop Moss)

7) Piper and Leaf Mulling Spice Mix

This time of year, I craveeee a good cup of hot cider. In my family, my grandmother would make wassail for us all on Christmas Eve, and while that requires lots and lots of work, this little mix I found will make you a pot that tastes just as good. Still love yours though, Nani!!!!!!!

Piper and Leaf Spiced Mulled Cider (Piper and Leaf)

8) Della’s Kitchen Mason Cash Bowls

I love a good serving dish. I mean, after working hard to create a meal that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, you’re going to serve it up on a solid white ceramic plate? No ma’am. These pastel-colored mixing / serving bowls date back to the 1800s, have been featured in Downton Abbey and can be purchased locally through Della’s Kitchen. Perfect for serving up holiday salads, creamed potatoes, even your favorite Christmas trial mix!

Della's Kitchen Mason Cash Bowls (Della's Kitchen)

9) Red Land Cotton Bed Sheets

Buy these, and you are guaranteed the best sleep of your life. Seriously. I’d say I lay in bed at night wondering how I ever slept without my Red Land Cotton Sheets, but I don’t. Cause I’m immediately asleep.

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Red Land Cotton Bed Sheets (Red Land Cotton)

10) Big Spoon Creamery Christmas Cookie Dough

I love this ice cream so much, I once emailed Big Spoon Creamery’s owner asking him to carry it year-round. He replied “Glad you like it!” and if he thinks I’m done asking for it to be a permanent addition, he is incorrect. For now, you can get it by the pint during the month of December, but as we say in the TV industry, stay tuned for more!!!

Big Spoon Creamery Christmas Cookie Dough (Big Spoon Creamery)

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