In the city or out of town, you can give a gift from Lynchburg
By Kari Smith
Shopping season is upon us! This year, many small business owners have felt the push to strengthen their online presence in addition to storefront sales, which meets the ever-increasing trend of shopping online from home. Whether you are looking to pick up in-store or have your gifts delivered to your (or their) mailbox, Lynchburg offers a variety options to suit every gift-giving need.
The Foodie
Searching for a unique gift for a wanna-be chef or adventurous food aficionado? Scratch Pasta Co. is not only available at farmer’s markets such as Lynchburg Community Market, Nelson County Market, and more, but also has a mouth-watering website for online purchases. Their unique pastas, such as squid ink campanelle, spinach fusilli, and lemon basil gemelli, are the brainchild of Chef Stephanie Fees, whose time studying pasta making in Italy inspired her to start a pasta shop in Lynchburg. The website also features recipes for ideas in how to cook these gorgeous pastas, which are hand-made from fresh ingredients and molded with solid brass dies, which improves the texture. Who knew? Bonus: Quarantine Gift boxes – need I say more?
The Fitness Fanatic
Finding the perfect shoe is paramount for athletes of any type, from racerunner to neighborhood power walker. Riverside Runners (2480 Rivermont Avenue) is a specialty running and walking store that specializes in footwear, exercise clothing and accessories for any level of runner or walker. Visit their location near Randolph College, or purchase products – or a gift card – online. Be sure to check out their event page for a list of local 5k events, races, and trail walks and runs. In addition to bike repair and skateboard sales, Scene 3 Boardshop (1107 Main Street) also sells upcycled gifts (such as pencil holders, laptop stands, and tea light holders) handmade from recycled skateboard parts by owner Jeff Gray.
Finds from “The Farm”
Regardless of whether you’re shopping for a guy or gal of any age, there is a unique gift for them at Meanwhile Back on the Farm (3813 Old Forest Road). The family business specializes in leather and waxed canvas bags and totes of all shapes and sizes, as well as hats, t-shirts, aprons, and more. They also carry gift cards, which “fit” anyone! Check their event page for a list of pop-up locations and details.
The Fashionista
For the Bohemian Warrior in your life, check out the fashion-forward designs at woman-owned, permanent popup boutique Live Trendy or Die (1101 Church Street). In addition to foundation pieces, they also offer an array of jewelry and accessories. They stock new styles several times a week, so there is always something new. “We are proud to support local makers by selling their clothing designs and jewelry,” owner Stephanie tells me. Store manager and resident stylist Aimee is always happy to help you find the perfect gift, tailored to the recipient’s body type and style preference. Insider tip: follow their colorful Instagram feed for style ideas!
Finally, the Hard-To-Shop-For Friend
Let’s face it, we all know that person who “has everything”. Head next door to Live Trendy or Die’s sister store, Gilded (1103 Church Street), where you will find an array of gifts – from body care and stationery to homewares and garden supplies. Or, just grab a bottle of wine, including vintages from Chateau Morrisette and the Biltmore, or choose from their craft beer selection. Gilded is the quintessential gift shop – complete with an array of greeting cards with sassy sayings, wrapping paper, and party supplies. BONUS: If you are shopping in-store, recharge with a latte from in-store coffee partner Nomad Coffee Company.
For many, it is a win/win to be able to support small businesses while still shopping from the comfort of home. For more local Lynchburg retailers with online shopping, click here.
In Lynchburg, #ShopLYH Local here.
Kari Smith is a Virginia native whose love of writing began as a child, writing poems and songs. In 2006, her dream became reality when she moved to Nashville, Tennessee to sing and record her own original compositions. She continued on to pursue writing magazine articles and blogs to chronicle and share her personal adventures and interests. Besides teaching music and performing in the Richmond, VA area, she also enjoys riding horses, raising goats and chickens, and gardening.
Find out more about Kari HERE