by Sarah Peterson
Gifts For Her
1. Warmth and Light
Warm her home and her heart with Calyan Wax Co. candles made with essential oils and 100% U.S.-grown soy wax. Various scents available and 5% of revenue supports efforts to end human trafficking. $29.99
Avenue Art
2304 W. Nordale Drive, Appleton
avenueartonline.com
2. Seasonal Sprays
Eco-friendly room and linen sprays make easy gifts for homemakers looking to freshen their home for the holidays. Fragrances are phthalate-free or essential oil blends. Festive winter scents include sleigh ride, snowflakes, eggnog, and winter wonderland. $11
Eco Candle Company
123 E. College Ave., Appleton
ecocandleco.com
3. A Girl’s Best Friend
The next best thing to diamonds? Chocolate. And not just any chocolate—Vande Walle’s Chocolate Truffles with silky-smooth centers. Give these to any girl in your life and watch her melt. 4-piece box $7.50, 15-piece box $18.00
Vande Walle’s Candies
400 N. Mall Drive, Appleton
vandewallescandies.com
4. Trendy Add-Ons
Accessories make an impression, and this lovely purse, cozy fair isle socks, and stylish scarf add comfort with a touch of luxury, to any outfit. Wrap one up for the fashionista in your life. Scarf $42, purse $48, socks $22.50
Bill Paul Limited
112 W. Wisconsin Ave., Neenah
billpaulltd.com
5. Custom Throw Pillows
For a personalized gift, these community definition throw pillows feature local cities and landmarks. The perfect accent for any home, these pillows blend style and sentiment by showcasing beloved places. $38
Red Door Mercantile
130 W. Wisconsin Ave., Neenah
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6. Time for Tea
Any tea lover would be enchanted by this glass tea-making mug. It features a removable infuser and a double-wall design that keeps drinks at the ideal temperature. Pair it with one of many book-themed varieties of organic, loose-leaf LiteraTea. Mug $28, tea $16
Evermore & Co
107 S. Church St., Neenah
evermoreandco.com
7. Charming Designs
Make this holiday memorable by adding a Christmas or winter charm to her bracelet. World-renowned for excellent craftsmanship, these charms are available in sterling silver or gold plating. Snowflake $42.50 , snowman $42.50, peace $37.50, bell $44.50 , candy cane $49.50
Tennies Jewelry
208 E. College Ave., Appleton
tenniesjewelry.com
8. Perfect Hostess Gift
This ready-to-gift set features a bar soap, petite hand cream, and a travel-sized candle tin, all in the elegant Frasier fir fragrance from Thymes. It’s a just-right gift for a hostess or a delightful stocking stuffer. $37
Olive and Rose Boutique
121 E. College Ave., Appleton
shopoliveandrose.com
9. Thrifty Gifty
Secondhand doesn’t mean second-rate, especially when it comes to wine glasses and barware. An avid thrifter would be delighted to receive a set like this one, which still shines with character and style at a fraction of the price. Set of 14, $7.00
Fair Market Thrift Store
2130 S. Memorial Drive, Appleton
fairmarkethriftstore.com
10. Give a Hug
Give her your heart, literally, with this 1.85-pound weighted pillow that replicates the warmth and comfort of a real hug. For the sentimental woman, this unique pillow is a thoughtful way to show love and support. Various colors available. $45.99
St. Patrick’s Gifts and Books, Northland Mall
972 W. Northland Ave., Appleton
stpatricksgifts.com
Gifts For Him
1. Hats for the Local Guy
Show off hometown or regional roots with these classic low-profile trucker hats. A mesh back provides breathability, and a snapback closure allows an adjustable fit. Various styles and locations available. $3
Blue Moon Emporium
227 E. College Ave., Appleton
bluemoonemporium.com
2. Smokey Bear Body Care
For the man who needs to relax, recharge, and smell like the outdoors. Lather up with this Smokey Bear-themed line of bath and body products. Made with pure essential oils and skin-loving ingredients. Soap $12, trail soak $18
Red Door Mercantile
130 W. Wisconsin Ave., Neenah
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3. Custom Spice and Sauce Gift Boxes
Any home chef will savor these locally made seasonings, rubs, sauces, dressings, and marinades. Choose from a variety of flavors to fit your giftee’s culinary style. No need to order ahead — just stop in, fill a box, and go. Box of five seasonings or rubs $22.99, box of six sauces $29.99
Jacob’s Meat Market
544 N. Lawe St., Appleton
jacobsmeatmarket.com
4. Knock His Socks Off
Stylish, high-quality socks for men make excellent gifts, combining comfort, durability, and a touch of personality. Available in a variety of brands and styles. $22- $27
Bill Paul Limited
112 W Wisconsin Ave., Neenah
billpaulltd.com
5. Hand-burned Muddlers
For cocktail lovers and home bartenders, these rustic wooden muddlers make one-of-a-kind gifts. Created by local artist Peter Linden, these Wisconsin-themed, hand-burned designs feature the iconic old fashioned. To order, email lindenstudios1@gmail.com. $40
Linden Studios
Appleton
lindenstudios1.my.canva.site
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6. Kettle Grill Bird Feeder
A grill-shaped bird feeder makes a whimsical and slightly humorous gift for bird and backyard enthusiasts. More than just a decorative piece, its durability and easy-to-fill opening make it ideal for attracting various bird species in any season. $45
Wildbird and Backyard
680 N Westhill Blvd., Appleton
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7. Wallet with a Purpose
Stylish and sturdy, this high-quality, full-grain leather wallet collection inspires with faith-based designs. Each wallet features RFID-blocking technology to keep valuables secure. $35.99
St. Patrick’s Gifts and Books, Northland Mall
972 W. Northland Ave., Appleton
stpatricksgifts.com
8. The Way to a Man’s Heart
Give a culinary experience to any man who loves hearty, flavorful food and cold drinks in a laid-back atmosphere. Enjoy slow-smoked brisket, tender ribs, pulled pork, smoked wings, crispy stone-fired pizzas, sides, and desserts. Gift cards are available in any amount.
Parker John’s BBQ & Pizza
124 Main St., Menasha
2331 E. Evergreen Drive, Appleton
parkerjohns.com
9. Cheers to Wisconsin
These drinking glass sets featuring original Wisconsin-themed illustrations make unique gifts for anyone proud of the Badger State. Each glass holds 15 ounces of your favorite beverage and is made from high-quality, dishwasher-safe, frosted glass. Set of two, $42.
The Frame Workshop
430 E. Northland Ave., Appleton
theframeworkshop.com
10. Aged to Perfection
Elevate any guy’s morning ritual with bourbon barrel-aged coffee and maple syrup made locally. The coffee boasts a rich, smooth flavor with a gentle hint of bourbon. The maple syrup will add a smoky sweetness to pancakes, waffles, or even cocktails. Coffee $19.99, maple syrup $16.50.
Grainworks Old + New: Local Bourbon Market
200 Main St., Neenah
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Gifts For Kids
1. Beloved Jellycats
Jellycats get even cuter when dressed up for the holidays, and The Lullabye Shop has them all. Perfect for stockings or under the tree, kids will find joy with a new, irresistibly soft snuggle companion. $25 to $50
The Lullabye Shop
2144 W. Wisconsin Ave., Appleton
lullabyeshop.com
2. Watercolor Activity Books
Young artists will learn painting skills with these delightful watercolor workbooks, which include 12 beginner-friendly designs, simple instructions, and pre-drawn sketches. Various themes available. $24
Blue Moon Emporium
227 E. College Ave., Appleton
bluemoonemporium.com
3. Pocket Palettes
Keep kids’ creativity flowing with these pocket-sized watercolor paint sets. Each tin contains 12 vibrant colors, a water brush pen, and watercolor papers. Non-toxic paints make them safe for young artists. $16.99
Avenue Art
2304 W. Nordale Drive, Appleton
avenueartonline.com
4. Tub Time Fun
Make bath time more fun with these rubber ducks, which come in whimsical designs like unicorns, dragons, butterflies, crocodiles, peacocks, zebras, and zombies. Specially designed to stay mold-free. $9.50
Eco Candle Company
123 E. College Ave., Appleton
ecocandleco.com
5. 3-D Creatures
Kids will love putting their STEM skills to the test with these fun 3-D animal puzzles. Each puzzle takes just 10-20 minutes to create, and they are made from eco-friendly materials. Ages 6 and up. $14.99
Wildbird and Backyard
680 N. Westhill Blvd., Appleton
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6. Get Sticky
This award-winning sticker kit, featuring artwork by midcentury modernist Charlie Harper, includes more than 190 reusable stickers. The kit also comes with a double-sided play-area board, and the stickers adhere to glass for hours of creative play. $19.95
The Frame Workshop
430 E. Northland Ave., Appleton
theframeworkshop.com
7. The Gift of Experience
Experience gifts are popular this year. A gift card to Catch Fire Creations allows recipients to choose from more than 150 3-D printed designs to paint and customize in a fully equipped art studio. Gift cards are available in any amount at catchfirecreationsllc.com.
Catch Fire Creations
230 Main St., Menasha
8. Flip, Twist, and Pop
For kids who love to build, The Plip Kit is a construction set with 46 silicone pieces that connect via ball-and-socket and come apart with a fun “POP!” Kids can create endless shapes and structures. Dishwasher safe. $34.95
The Lullabye Shop
2144 W. Wisconsin Ave., Appleton
lullabyeshop.com
9. Classic Stocking Stuffers
Nostalgic toys make a comeback with classic favorites like jump ropes, ball-and-cup games, pick-up sticks, and jacks. $3 to $10
The Hearthstone Museum
625 W. Prospect Ave., Appleton
hearthstonemuseum.org
10. Whimsical Collectibles
These hand-painted figures by American folk artist Lori Mitchell make charming holiday collectibles for kids. Inspired by children’s illustrations, the figures stand 6 to 10 inches tall and are made of resin. Various styles available. $40
Cedar Harbor
611 N. Morrison St., Appleton
cedarharborwi.com
Gifts For Everyone
1. For Foodies
Customize a gift box of the finest ultra-premium olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars from around the world. Boxes include four 4-ounce bottles of extra virgin olive oils, balsamic vinegars, or a combination of both. Choose from a variety of exquisite flavors, then watch as they are bottled fresh for you. $31
The Olive Cellar
277 W. Northland Ave., Appleton
theolivecellar.com
2. A Gift That Really Pops
Popcorn is a healthy and tasty snack that can add a little “pop” to any occasion. From holiday parties to at-home movie nights, Lamer’s Dairy Country Store carries a large selection of Amish Country Popcorn goods. You’ll find a variety of popcorn kernels, seasonings, poppers, and gift sets. All items in the photo are under $50.
Lamer’s Dairy
N410 Speel School Road, Appleton
lamersdairyinc.com
3. Puzzles Galore
Puzzles are the perfect cozy winter activity and make a creative gift for all ages. Choose from a wide variety of bird and nature themes at Wildbird and Backyard or many holiday themes at The Frame Workshop. All puzzles under $50.
Wildbird and Backyard
680 N Westhill Blvd., Appleton
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The Frame Workshop
430 E. Northland Ave., Appleton
theframeworkshop.com
4. Brew Up Some Holiday Cheer
You can’t go wrong with the gift of coffee (or at least a mug)! Acoca Coffee, Appleton’s longest-running coffee roaster, offers freshly roasted, fair-trade organic beans. Pair with one of their sturdy ceramic mugs for the perfect pick-me-up package. Bags of roasted coffee $12 to $25, ceramic mug $25
Acoca Coffee
500 W. College Ave, Appleton
acocacoffee.com
5. Ornaments for All
Create cherished memories by gifting ornaments for every passion, hobby, favorite food, beloved pet, and more. Shop an impressive selection of hand-painted, blown glass ornaments made by the skilled artisans of Old World Christmas. $17.99 to $24.99
Kristmas Kringle Shop
1330 S. Main St., Fond du Lac
shop.kristmaskringle.com
Gifts For Pets
1. “Paw”fect Pet Photos
Bring your pets in for charming holiday-themed photos on Thursday, Nov. 13, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., or Friday, Nov. 14, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. All pets (and their people) are welcome! Holiday and traditional background options. Call 920-739-3249 for full details and to make an appointment. Limited spots available.
Special event print & image pricing: 8×10 or a single digital image file download, just $25. Session fee is a direct donation to your favorite local animal shelter. Single pets $15, multiple pets and/or with people $25.
Debbie Daanen Photography
310 W. Northland Ave., Appleton
debbiedaanen.com
2. Calm your Canine
Let your dog lick their way through this engaging silicone puzzle feeder with a built-in bowl. Paired with the LickMix for Calming spread, it becomes a soothing treat that helps keep your pup content. Puzzle feeder $9.99, LickMix $19.99
The Dog House
2230 W. Nordale Drive, Appleton
doghousepetcenter.net
3. Extra Loveable Plush Toys
These interactive plush toys are suitable for dogs who love to cuddle but also play rough. Made with tough mesh fabric, interior rope structures, squeakers, and crinkle paper, they’ll keep your pet entertained through the holidays. $9.99 to $32.99
The DePawsitory
103 E. College Ave., Appleton
Depawsitory.pet
4. Fashion Fleece for Pets
Keep your dogs (or cats) warm and comfortable year-round with these soft, stretchy pullover fleece coats. Available in a wide range of sizes and colorful designs, they are produced with environmentally friendly textiles and made in the USA. Single fleeces $22 to $40; double reversible fleeces $38 to $48
Lucy’s Closet
129 W. Wisconsin Ave., Neenah
lucysclosetpetboutique.com
5. Cat & Dog Playing Cards
This beautifully packaged and illustrated set includes two decks of playing cards—a purr-fect gift for any cat or dog lover. $16.95
Red Door Mercantile
130 W. Wisconsin Ave., Neenah
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Gift (Cards) That Keep on Giving
Take the guesswork out of gift giving and show your thoughtfulness with a gift card or gift certificate. Gift cards make holiday shopping easy and let the recipient choose exactly what they want or need. Here are some great local businesses that offer gift cards:
1. For the Downtown Enthusiast
Downtown Appleton Inc. offers gift certificates that are accepted at more than 150 businesses, including hotels, restaurants, bars, retail stores, and salons. Purchase one in person at 333 W. College Ave., Suite 100, or at appletondowntown.org/shop.
2. Timeless Charm and Fine Cuisine
Gift the timeless charm of Mark’s East Side supper club, known for its German cuisine, fish fry dinners, steaks, bar, and desserts. Dine in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Gift cards are available in person or at markseastside.com/giftcards.
Mark’s East Side
1405 E. Wisconsin Ave., Appleton
markseastside.com
3. Award Winning Prime Rib
A gift certificate from this award-winning dining destination makes an exceptional present. George’s Steakhouse serves prime rib, seafood, chicken, veal, lamb, pork, fish, cocktails, wine, and desserts. Purchase a gift certificate in person or at 920-733-4939.
George’s Steakhouse
2208 S. Memorial Drive, Appleton
georgessteakhouseappleton.com
4. Memorable Live Performances
Treat someone to an unforgettable experience at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, featuring Broadway shows, concerts, comedy, educational opportunities, and more. Gift cards can be used for tickets, valet parking, and concessions, and are available at foxcitiespac.com/events-tickets/gift-cards.
Fox Cities Performing Arts Center
400 W. College Ave., Appleton
foxcitiespac.com
5. Famous All-Day Breakfast
Angel’s Restaurant, a home-style family restaurant famous for its incredible all-day breakfast, plus steak, chops, fish, pasta, homemade soups, sandwiches, and desserts. Stop by during business hours to purchase a gift card.
Angel’s Restaurant
1401 E. John St., Appleton
angelsappleton.com
6. Classic Supper Club Fare
Michiels Bar & Grill, a family-owned supper club, offers steak, seafood, burgers, Friday fish fry, and a famous salad bar. Dine in a casual, inviting atmosphere. Gift certificates are available for purchase at the restaurant.
Michiels Bar & Grill
1100 Appleton Road, Menasha
michielsbarandgrill.com
7. Fresh Margaritas Daily
El Azteca Mexican Restaurant offers festive appetizers, tasty tacos, sizzling fajitas, and fresh margaritas in a fun, colorful atmosphere. Purchase gift certificates at the counter.
El Azteca Mexican Restaurant
201 W. Northland Ave, Appleton
elaztecawi.com
8. Christmas All Year Round
Cleo’s Brown Beam Tavern, an iconic Christmas-themed cocktail lounge, is known for Dirty Snowballs and a festive atmosphere with year-round twinkling lights. Purchase virtual gift cards at giftly.com.
Cleo’s Brown Beam Tavern
203 W College Ave., Appleton
facebook.com/cleos.appleton
9. Taste the Holidays
Sweeten someone’s season with a Dairy Queen gift card. Enjoy frosty soft serve treats or order a custom DQ cake for holiday parties. DQ Gift cards also make great stocking stuffers. Available at the counter.
Dairy Queen
2000 S. Oneida St. and 1813 N. Richmond St., Appleton
dairyqueen.com
10. Mexican Culinary Tradition with a Twist
Chicken Grill offers a vibrant dining experience blending authentic Mexican cuisine with ice cream in classic and Mexican-inspired flavors, served in freshly made waffle cones. Stop by to pick up a gift card.
Chicken Grill
1550 Appleton Road, Menasha
chickengrillmenashareviews.com
This article was originally published in the November 2025 issue of Appleton Monthly Magazine.
