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Add some personality to the classic board game with these mix-and-match chess pieces, which come in eye-popping hues such as fuchsia, turquoise and indigo.
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"Dinosaur" book • Dan Kainen’s Photicular technology makes dinosaurs come to life in this stunning book filled with facts and moving images. $25.95 at Amazon.
Fortnite phone case • Yes, parents everywhere loathe Fortnite, the video game du jour. But kids love it, and they'll love these cool phone cases. $8.95 at Battle Royale Shop.
Pop Socket • These little buttons stick to the back of your phone and pop out to make it easier to hold. Buy one of their "Pop for Purpose" designs, and some of your money will also go to charity. $15.00 at Pop Socket.
Streetrod vintage convertible golf cart • You've never seen a golf cart like this before. The Streetrod Vintage Convertible Electric Golf Cart has a cooler under the hood and will surely be the coolest ride around. $17,999.99 at Costco.
Rollplay 6V Porsche 918 • What child wouldn't want to zoom around in a battery-powered Porsche 918? It goes 2½ mph, has an MP3 connector, working headlights, realistic engine sound and a horn. For kids up to 77 pounds. $199.99 at Amazon.com.
Selma's Dolls • This dolll company focuses on inclusion and acceptance.. Each doll also comes with a book, “First Day of School” which is a story about how Selma’s new friends she meets in her dream help her overcome her first day of school fears. The book also includes “conversation starters” so parents can talk to their kids about culture, religion and physical and mental disabilities without having to be experts. There are three dolls available. This is Annie, who has Down Syndrome. $39.99 at Selma's Dolls.
Neon chess pieces • Add some personality to the classic board game with these mix-and-match chess pieces, which come in eye-popping hues such as fuchsia, turquoise and indigo. $5.00 at Q Boutique, 4652 Maryland Avenue.
Pingy the penguin • Who can resist this round-bellied penguin who wibbles and wabbles but never loses his sweetly surprised expression? Pingy perks up any space but is especially wonderful in a child’s room, where he never turns down a hug. $435.00 at Centro, 4727 McPherson Avenue.
Rocky rocking horse • Give young cowboys and cowgirls an early start in the modern design aesthetic with this rich brown polyethylene rocking horse. Rocky wears a hemp rope around his neck and also comes in white or black. $1,316.00 at Centro, 4727 McPherson Avenue.
Flow rings • This modern take on the Slinky toy is a great stocking stuffer for kids, tweens or teens. Play with it at your desk to relieve stress or grab the hand of a partner and let it roll and flow up and down your arms. $7.99 at Amazon.
Sunflower kit • Teach kids to love gardening with this sunflower kit . Specially packaged in a canvas backpack, the kit contains sunflower seeds, organic soil, cotton gloves, a trowel and a recycled tea bag planter. $44.95 at Williams-Sonoma.
Button name tag • Label your gifts with a custom button you can design yourself. All types of sizes are available and prices vary depending on how many you buy and how many images you upload. The Cherokee Street location offers a special $5 price for walk-in customers. $5.00 at Buttonmakers.net, 2608 Cherokee Street, St. Louis.
Rock and Roll It Piano • The perfect gift for a young aspiring musician, this piano can roll up and travel anywhere. $60.00 at City Sprouts, 8807 Ladue Road.
Felt Pig Ballerina • Brighten up a kid's (or adult's) desk with this felt pig figurine. $15.00 at The Spotted Pig, 9218 Clayton Road.
Children’s storybook coasters • Whether you are a kid or just a kid at heart, these storybook coasters will take you back to your favorite childhood tales. Curl up with a beverage and a good book — maybe one that’s depicted on these locally made coasters. $4.00 at Afterwords Books, 441 East Vandalia Street, Edwardsville.
Edwardsville author’s books for children • Shop local, read local: It’s easy to do with nature-themed books for children by former teacher and Edwardsville resident Jennifer Ward. Her titles include “Feathers and Hair: What Animals Wear,” and her latest, “Mama Dug a Little Den,” but she has many others available. $17.99 at Afterwords Books, 441 East Vandalia Street, Edwardsville.
Big Bunny musical storyteller • This Big Bunny “edutainment” toy is a sweet multitasker for children up to 1 year old. It comes with a remote control and is preloaded with songs and rhymes, plus soothing white noises to lull your little one to sleep. Prefer your own music? It’s also a speaker that you can use to share a playlist. You can even record stories, so your baby can hear the voices of a mom, dad or grandma and grandpa. And did we mention it’s a nightlight, too? $74.99 at Happy Up, 6654-A Edwardsville Crossing Drive, Edwardsville.
Storybook onesies • Don’t just read to your children, let them wear your childhood favorites, too. These adorable onesies have colorful designs from storybook classics including “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” “Curious George” and “The Poky Little Puppy.” $20.00 at Circa, 128 East Main Street, Belleville.
Kingdomino game • In this family game for ages 8 and up, players build a kingdom out of dominoes that feature fields, lakes and caves full of treasure. Built a kingdom with the most strategically placed crowns to win. $19.99 at Wizard's Wagon, 6388 Delmar Boulevard, University City.
"Stories for Boys Who Dare to be Different" • This book by Ben Brooks is full of colorful illustrations and short biographies of boys who grew up to be men who changed the world for the better: Harvey Milk, Bill Gates and environmental activist Swampy, just to name a few of the 76. $16.99 at Subterranean Books, 6275 Delmar Boulevard, University City.
Enamel deer pin • This adorable, enamel deer pin, by Austin-based LuxCups, gives a nod to vintage Disney and the Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer television classic. $10.00 at OSO: A Style Lab, 6321 Delmar Boulevard, University City.
Personalized wooden train • Perfect to decorate a child's room or as a toy, this wooden train set can be personalized with cars for each letter of the child's name. Five-piece set is shown, but additional letters are available for $3.95. $29.75 at Meant to Be, 111 Market Street, Kimmswick.
Personal LED string lights • Add a playful touch to any space by sliding these letter tiles to create a personal, lighted message. They are battery-operated, so no need for an outlet or extension cord. $12.99 at Saks Off 5th, 18521 Outlet Boulevard, No. 306, Chesterfield.
Graphic adventure book featuring the Magic House • "Neener, Neener, Neene"r by Paul Manchester is a new graphic adventure book featuring the Magic House and exclusively sold at the Magic House. $10.00 at The Magic House, 516 South Kirkwood Road.
Lolli and Pops Classic Ribbon Candy • A festive and favorite assortment of time-honored confections are packaged in a retro-looking box. $10.00 at Lolli & Pops, 29 West County Center, Des Peres.
Stink bombz • Indulge the lowbrow humorist in your life with a Stink Bomz, which each contain a "collectible fart friend" that make three unique fart noises and come with their own "silly smell." $9.99 at Tomy.
Maven Jax artisan-made cold process soap • No two batches of soap at Maven look alike, and an array of fun scents — such as Jax, the shop's classic fragrance for guys — means there's a soap for every body. They're handcrafted and made with plant "fats" (shea butter, coconut oil, rice bran oil and olive oil) instead of animal lard, and minimal packaging means little waste. (6.5 ounces) $9.00 at Maven Bath & Candle Co., 7290 Manchester Road, Maplewood.
Tiny Arcade Game • It's a mini version (about 4 1/2 inches tall) of the classic arcade game Galaga complete with a mini joystick. $24.99 at Amazon.
"Absolutely Everything!" • Subtitled "A History of Earth, Dinosaurs, Rulers, Robots and Other Things Too Numerous to Mention," this 352-page hardback volume by Christopher Lloyd will keep little ones (or curious grown-ups) busy for a while. It's filled with fun full-color illustrations, photographs and annotated graphics. $21.99 at The Book House.
Lörby USB charger • Now that so many of our electronics are jockeying for space at the electrical outlet, Ikea's Lörby USB charger can really come in handy. Just attach it with its magnet, self-adhesive tape or clamp, and plug in up to three devices. Its electrical cord is 6.2 feet long. Available in red, black, yellow or white. $12.99 at Ikea, 1 Ikea Way.
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Q&A A Day five-year journal • If the idea of keeping a journal has always seemed out of reach, try this five-year diary. Each day prompts a different question so as to avoid “blank page syndrome” while simultaneously building five years' worth of memories and thoughts. $16.99 at Barnes & Noble.
Gold wire photo clip wall panel • This photo wall is an ideal way to display photos without using push pins. The zig-zagging gold wire makes an attractive wall decoration while the photo clips avoid putting holes in the pictures. Choose a few photos to go with it for a personalized gift. $19.99 at World Market.
St. Louis neighborhood print • This modern St. Louis-themed sign highlights some of the great things the city has to offer. From Hi-Pointe to Holly Hills, this print is ideal for natives and newcomers alike. You can even swap out a neighborhood when you order, so your hood is on there. $35.00 at MrCityPrinting.
Escape Room Subscription Box • For the puzzler in your life, give the gift of mystery with a subscription to this box service. Each month, the service sends a different case — designed by the inventors of escape rooms — for subscribers to solve. $25.00 at Cratejoy.com.
Shiatsu Pillow Massager • This versatile massager is built to release tension in your back, neck and shoulders. Help a friend rejuvenate their sore muscles with this thoughtful gift. It’s even portable and straps onto seat backs. $40.00 at Amazon.
"Random Illustrated Facts: A Collection of Curious, Weird, and Totally Not Boring Things to Know" • This collection of delightfully random facts is guaranteed to make anyone’s day a little more interesting. From Civil War-era coffee secrets to the Mars Rover, this book will make the perfect gift for budding academics and fact-lovers alike. $14.95 at Amazon.
Personalized vintage illustration • Turn a photo of a loved one into a digital work of art featuring their face on a war general's body. $36.00 at Zack Kennedy's Portrait Workshop.
Sushiquik Super Easy Sushi Making Kit • For the budding chef in your life, this kit will teach the basics of sushi making. $25.00 at Amazon.
Enso rings • Silicone rings bring style, safety and comfort to the way you express commitment, or to the way you express yourself. We like the timeles style of the rose gold Elements version. $39.99 at Enso Rings.
Makeup bag • Not just another makeup bag to toss your mascara, lipstick, blush and other life essentials in, these makeup clutches are made with messages meant to inspire $24.00 at Breakups to Makeup.
Fortnite phone case • Yes, parents everywhere loathe Fortnite, the video game du jour. But kids love it, and they'll love these cool phone cases. $8.95 at Battle Royale Shop.
Pouch Couch • Once the weather warms back up, bring the comfort of the living room to the great outdoors with this clever piece of design, which fills with air to become a comfortable couch you can take anywhere. $39.99 at Pouch Couch.
Pop Socket • These little buttons stick to the back of your phone and pop out to make it easier to hold. Buy one of their "Pop for Purpose" designs, and some of your money will also go to charity. $15.00 at Pop Socket.
Google Cardboard VR • These simple headsets let the tech nut in your life experience virtual reality just by sliding a smart phone into the viewer. $14.99 at Google.
"Tasting Paris" • One of the best cookbooks of the year brims with 100 recipes that re-create the way true Parisians cook. It turns out that they cook very well, indeed. $30.00 at Left Bank Books, 399 North Euclid Avenue, St. Louis.
SOGfari Survival Kit • A gift only for the hardcore outdoorsy types, this toolkit contains all the essentials to survive out in the wilderness — or if the zombie apocalypse happens. $49.97 at Cabela's, 5555 St. Louis Mills Circle, Hazelwood.
Harry Potter Superstorage Lapdesk • These lapdesks provide the perfect mobile working surface, complete with storage space and just the right magic touch of Harry Potter-themed decoration. $99.00 at Pottery Barn Teen, Plaza Frontenac, 1745 South Lindbergh Boulevard.
Sydney round crown hat • Perfect for the traveler on your list, this packable Sydney hat designed by Scala is made of wool felt and is both sytlish and comfortable. $48.00 at Tenth Street Hats.
Neon chess pieces • Add some personality to the classic board game with these mix-and-match chess pieces, which come in eye-popping hues such as fuchsia, turquoise and indigo. $5.00 at Q Boutique, 4652 Maryland Avenue.
Mr. Rogers mug • Need a gift for your favorite neighbor? Give them all the good feelings with this “sweater-changing” mug. When you pour a hot drink, Mr. Rogers loses his blazer and slips on his signature cardigan. $12.95 at Left Bank Books, 399 North Euclid Avenue.
Shop cat T-shirt • Left Bank’s adorable cat, Spike, has become quite the bookstore icon. He first graced stickers, then a tote, and now the literary feline has his own T-shirt. $22.00 at Left Bank Books, 399 North Euclid Avenue.
Dark chocolate mints • Yakima mint? Rich dark chocolate? Yes, yes! Bissinger’s puts its delicious stamp on the classic flavor combination with hand-decorated, velvety smooth holiday mingles. Each box contains 21 pieces. $35.00 at Handcrafted by Bissinger's, 32 Maryland Plaza.
Frasier fir candle • No need for a real Christmas tree when you have this crisp, aromatic candle to fill your home with holiday fragrance. $30.00 at Cassie's, 316 North Euclid Avenue.
Bronze earrings • These 1½-inch dangly bronze earrings will complete any holiday ensemble. Also available in sterling silver. $58.00 at Jenny Walker Jewelry, 449 North Euclid Avenue.
Linnea poster calendar • The calendar is actually 12 separate frame-worthy prints featuring Johanna Riley's whimsical designs. Each colorful page measures 11 by 14 inches. We're partial to February's old-fashioned typewriter. $35.00 at Moonbeams, 124 West Jefferson Avenue, Kirkwood.
Holiday soap sampler • These nostalgic scents – bay rum, Douglas fir, snickerdoodle and peppermint – smell delicious and are made of all-natural ingredients that are gentle even on sensitive skin. KIND also gives a portion of its sales to Autism Speaks. $24.00 at KIND Soap, 20 Allen Avenue, Webster Groves.
Charcoal facial soaps • These “lumps of coal” are practical but fun – perfect for a teen who wants to be pampered. The activated charcoal cleans pores while the lavender keeps skin feeling soft and fresh. $8.00 at KIND Soap, 20 Allen Avenue, Webster Groves.
Flow rings • This modern take on the Slinky toy is a great stocking stuffer for kids, tweens or teens. Play with it at your desk to relieve stress or grab the hand of a partner and let it roll and flow up and down your arms. $7.99 at Amazon.
Bacon lip balm • Let the bacon lovers in your life taste bacon on their lips any time they want with this tube of bacon-flavored lip balm. Bacon lip balm does not contain actual bacon, so it's great for vegetarians who may miss bacon. $2.95 at Archie McPhee.
Beatles socks • Send the man in your life on a trip on the Yellow Submarine with this Beatles gift box with three pair of socks in a box made to look like a record. $42.00 at Happy Socks.
Sunflower kit • Teach kids to love gardening with this sunflower kit . Specially packaged in a canvas backpack, the kit contains sunflower seeds, organic soil, cotton gloves, a trowel and a recycled tea bag planter. $44.95 at Williams-Sonoma.
Atari Home Arcade • Get your Asteroids on. This Atari arcade cabinet delivers a classic arcade experience at home. With the controls and looks of the '80s and the flat-screen LCD display of today, it evokes nostalgia with a better gaming experience. Choose the Asteroids cabinet (Asteroids, Tempest, Major Havoc and Lunar Lander games) or the Centipede cabinet (Centipede, Crystal Castles, Millipede and Missile Command games). $399.95 at Hammacher Schlemmer.
Dog stocking • Hearth Hounds makes holiday stockings to look (fairly realistically) like your favorite dog breed. $40.99 at All About Animals, 407 South Main Street, St. Charles.
"Don't Moose With Me" tee • This men's long-sleeve crusher T-shirt from Life is Good is super soft. $30.00 at Jake's on Main, 136 South Main Street, St. Charles.
Love Your Melon jellyfish cuffed beanie • Beanies make great gifts, and this one is extra great because Love Your Melon donates 50 percent of its profits to help fight childhood cancer. The knit hats come in a wide variety of colors and styles, so you can find one for just about anyone. $30.00 at Love Your Melon.
Bergamot and ginger scented candle • Invite your friend, sister, or child's teacher to relax with this lidded jar candle from Mesa Home. The bergamot and ginger scent is clean and spicy. $12.00 at Mesa Home, 2619 Cherokee Street, St. Louis.
Button name tag • Label your gifts with a custom button you can design yourself. All types of sizes are available and prices vary depending on how many you buy and how many images you upload. The Cherokee Street location offers a special $5 price for walk-in customers. $5.00 at Buttonmakers.net, 2608 Cherokee Street, St. Louis.
Maileg Stuffed Mouse • Made by the Danish company Maileg, these tiny mice come in tiny tin suitcases, making them the perfect travel companions. $28.00 at City Sprouts, 8807 Ladue Road.
Children’s storybook coasters • Whether you are a kid or just a kid at heart, these storybook coasters will take you back to your favorite childhood tales. Curl up with a beverage and a good book — maybe one that’s depicted on these locally made coasters. $4.00 at Afterwords Books, 441 East Vandalia Street, Edwardsville.
Creative journal kit • Showcase your creativity — or warn prying eyes to buzz off — with this creative journal kit, available in multiple colors. Spell out words or create designs on the soft, pliable grid on the outside of the journal while you use the pages inside to share your private thoughts or keep track of what’s going on in your life. $30.00 at A Wildflower Shop, 2131 South State Route 157, Edwardsville.
Loog electric guitar • For those about to rock, the Loog electric guitar will be music to your ears. Yes, it’s a real guitar: Tune it, form chords and play songs. If you’re just learning or want to learn, download the free app to play songs by artists including Taylor Swift, the Rolling Stones and Bruno Mars. Guitar straps are an extra option. $199.99 at Happy Up, 6654-A Edwardsville Crossing Drive, Edwardsville.
Morse code necklaces • Telegraph your feelings in a more subtle way with these Morse code message necklaces. A series of 14-karat-gold-plated dots and dashes replace the letters to some sweet and inspiring words, including “loved” and “happy.” $15.00 at Revival Boutique & Gifts, 101 East Vandalia Street, Edwardsville.
Touchscreen cellphone crossbody • Ditch the big bag in favor of a smaller organizer that has room for your phone and a few other necessities. Slide your phone into the clear touchscreen compartment and you won’t have to worry about losing your phone or any functionality. $35.00 at Basket Case, 1680 Lebanon Avenue, Belleville.
Personalized glass cutting board • Give a gift that’s functional and personal: This glass cutting board comes in multiple designs and two sizes and can be personalized in all sorts of ways. Oh, and it’s practical, too: it’s dishwasher-safe. $39.95 at Rising Stars, 202 West Main Street, Belleville.
Kiss creature “The Demon” • If you’re a Kiss fan, pucker up, because you are in for a treat. This 12-inch limited-edition stage figure is dubbed “The Demon.” Lots of impressive details just may make you want to rock ’n’ roll all night and party every day. $45.00 at Cosmic Comics, 132 West Main Street, Belleville.
Iron Man collectible • Unleash your inner superhero with this Iron Man figure from the “Avengers Infinity War” movie. The figure comes with a combat pack and 20 sounds and phrases to jump-start the fun. $37.99 at Cosmic Comics, 132 West Main Street, Belleville.
Batman collectible • Are you batty for Batman? This Batman figure was released as part of the “Justice League” gallery and shows the superhero leaping into action. $35.00 at Cosmic Comics, 132 West Main Street, Belleville.
Dinosaur taco holders • Dinner time is sure to be fun time with these Tricerataco & Tacosaurus Rex Taco Holders from Prehistoric Appetites. $35.94 at Walmart.
Golden Girls Monopoly • Play your favorite game with Blanche, Dorothy, Rose and Sophia. $39.95 at Amazon.
Corgi Undercover Squishable • A corgi wearing a bee costume ... because why not? The bee costume can be removed and exchanged for other costumes that fit on mini Squishables. $29.99 at Wizard's Wagon, 6388 Delmar Boulevard, University City.
Kingdomino game • In this family game for ages 8 and up, players build a kingdom out of dominoes that feature fields, lakes and caves full of treasure. Built a kingdom with the most strategically placed crowns to win. $19.99 at Wizard's Wagon, 6388 Delmar Boulevard, University City.
"X-Men: Grand Design Volume One" • This oversized book by Ed Piskor's contains the first two issues of his retelling of the history of Marvel's Mutants and X-Men. This is a must-have item for young and old X-Men fans. $29.99 at Wizard's Wagon, 6388 Delmar Boulevard, University City.
Gold wristlet • This wristlet has enough pockets and room for your phone, credit cards, cash, lipsticks and powder. $15.00 at Cocktailz A Beauty Bar, 6150 Delmar Boulevard, University City.
Literary art print • Frederick Douglass once said, "Once you learn to read you will be forever free." This art poster with this inspiring graphic and quote will please the book lover in your life. $24.95 at Subterranean Books, 6275 Delmar Boulevard, University City.
"Stories for Boys Who Dare to be Different" • This book by Ben Brooks is full of colorful illustrations and short biographies of boys who grew up to be men who changed the world for the better: Harvey Milk, Bill Gates and environmental activist Swampy, just to name a few of the 76. $16.99 at Subterranean Books, 6275 Delmar Boulevard, University City.
"The Hidden Life of Trees" • This new and beautifully-illustrated version of Peter Wohlleben's international bestseller takes you for more than a walk of the woods as he tells you about fungal communication, lessons learned in tree school, recycling dying trees and more. $35.00 at Subterranean Books, 6275 Delmar Boulevard, University City.
Blackwing Pencil • Some claim the Blackwing pencil is the best writing utensil in the world, but we'll let you be the judge. It was first developed in 1930 and has been used by some legendary Grammy, Emmy, Pulitzer and Academy Award winners. Comes in a box of 12. $24.95 at OSO: A Style Lab, 6321 Delmar Boulevard, University City.
Enamel deer pin • This adorable, enamel deer pin, by Austin-based LuxCups, gives a nod to vintage Disney and the Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer television classic. $10.00 at OSO: A Style Lab, 6321 Delmar Boulevard, University City.
Supreme twill cap • OSO carries a collection of sold-out and hard-to-find new gear from hype brand Supreme, loved by skaters, artists and other creative types. This cap also comes in black and red. $85.00 at OSO: A Style Lab, 6321 Delmar Boulevard, University City.
Dog is Good T-shirt • This T-shirt features the good dog on the front and one of several designs on the back including "Never boat alone," "Never fish alone," "never drink alone" and more. $29.99 at Sparrow + Mason, 6050 Second Street, Kimmswick.
Simply Zuri elephant necklace • Every Simply Zuri jewelry purchase gives back 5 percent of its profits to Kenya's Mara Lion Project.This simpl Ndovu African elephant design is sure to be a conversation piece. $48.99 at Sparrow + Mason, 6050 Second Street, Kimmswick.
Kantha necklace • This fair trade necklace by World Finds is made in India of repurposed textiles. $34.95 at Mississippi Mud Gallery & Gifts, 118 Market Street, Kimmswick.
STL hat • Aviate makes these Destination St. Louis STL baseball caps in gray, red or navy. $35.00 at Savannah Rose, 209 Market Street, Kimmswick.
St. Louis necklace • A vintage dictionary entry for St. Louis is tucked inside this pendant and paired with a fleur-de-lis by the Compton Co. $25.00 at Cozy Cottage, 212 Market Street, Kimmswick.
Ceramic travel mug • An elegant gold-splatter design sets this travel mug apart from the typical stainless steel or plastic versions. $14.99 at Saks Off 5th, 18521 Outlet Boulevard, No. 306, Chesterfield.
Personal LED string lights • Add a playful touch to any space by sliding these letter tiles to create a personal, lighted message. They are battery-operated, so no need for an outlet or extension cord. $12.99 at Saks Off 5th, 18521 Outlet Boulevard, No. 306, Chesterfield.
Mizzou women's tiger T-shirt • Let your inner tiger roar with this black and gold T-shirt emblazoned with the Mizzou tiger. $34.99 at The Mizzou Store, 10 THF Boulevard, Chesterfield.
Blues girls sweatshirt • This lightweight Blues sweatshirt features a small zipper on the shoulder that gives it a hip, trendy look. $45.00 at Rally House, 82 THF Bouevard, Chesterfield.
Candle gift pack • Your favorite holiday scents in a festive gift set. The gift pack from Candle Fusion Studio includes four candles: Christmas Tree, Mistletoe, Candy Cane and Gingerbread fragrances. Each 2-ounce hand-poured candle will burn 15 hours. Or you can come in the studio and make your own fragrance. $25.00 at The Candle Fusion Studio, 201 South Main Street, St. Charles.
St. Louis Cardinals putting green • Even in the offseason you can show your Cardinals pride by practicing your putt on this indoor green. Great for the home or office. $33.93 at Home Depot.
St. Louis-style pizza shirt • Tell everyone you only like your pizza thin, topped with provel, and cut into squares. And see who will argue with you. Various colors and a baseball-style shirt also available. $20.00 at Benton Park Prints.
Ides of March pen and pencil holder • Pretend you're Brutus and stab Julius Caesar in the back with some pens and pencils. All from the comfort of your desk. $19.99 at Amazon.
Nalgene water bottle • Resistant to odors and stains, this durable, wide-mouth water bottle is perfect for outdoor sports or just for kicking the plastic habit. $11.84 at Amazon.
Kat Von D Metal Crush Extreme Highlighter palette • Inspired by Kat Von D’s best-selling Metal Crush eyeshadow shade, Thunderstruck, Metal Crush Extreme Highlighter Palette is loaded with hyper-reflective micro-crystals that sparkle and shift with every movement. $21.50 at Sephora stores and some counters.
Maven Bonfire Wood-Wick Soy Candle • There's a wonderfully fragrant, cleverly named — e.g. Bonfire, Pot Brownies, Don Draper, Library Book — handmade candle (16 ounces) for everyone on your list at Maven. Just light at the base of the wick, and enjoy the crackling ambience. $25.00 at Maven Bath & Candle Co., 7290 Manchester Road, Maplewood.
Maven License to Chill artisan-made cold process soap • A piece of natural sea sponge is nestled inside this bar of moisturizing soap, so in addition to being functional, it's also a work of art. Maven's handcrafted soaps are made with plant "fats" — shea butter, coconut oil, rice bran oil and olive oil — instead of animal lard, and minimal packaging means little waste. (6.5 ounces) $10.00 at Maven Bath & Candle Co., 7290 Manchester Road, Maplewood.
Maven Jax artisan-made cold process soap • No two batches of soap at Maven look alike, and an array of fun scents — such as Jax, the shop's classic fragrance for guys — means there's a soap for every body. They're handcrafted and made with plant "fats" (shea butter, coconut oil, rice bran oil and olive oil) instead of animal lard, and minimal packaging means little waste. (6.5 ounces) $9.00 at Maven Bath & Candle Co., 7290 Manchester Road, Maplewood.
Reclaimed copper pendant by Trash to Treasure • This reclaimed copper pendant, created by a local artist, is based on a design by famed architect Louis Sullivan. $35.00 at City Museum gift shop, 750 North16th Street.
Masai fringed scarf • Keep warm with a colorful, plaid scarf manufactured by members of the Masai tribe in Kenya. Proceeds from sales at Get the Word Out help pay for school fees, clean water and medical expenses for Kenyan orphans. $30.00 at Get the Word Out, 7405 Manchester Road.
Beaded sandals • These handmade, intricately beaded sandals, brought to the U.S. from a Nairobi market, will add a splash of color to your wardrobe. Proceeds from sales at Get the Word Out help pay for school fees, clean water and medical expenses for Kenyan orphans. $40.00 at Get the Word Out, 7405 Manchester Road.
Tiny Arcade Game • It's a mini version (about 4 1/2 inches tall) of the classic arcade game Galaga complete with a mini joystick. $24.99 at Amazon.
NES Classic Edition • For a bit of nostalgia this holiday season, pick up this throwback gaming console, which comes loaded with classics like the original "Super Mario Bros.," "Donkey Kong" and more. $59.99 at Target stores.
Postcards from Penguin • The bibliophile in your life will enjoy sending (or saving) these postcards, which feature more than 70 years of iconic book-jacket designs from the publisher's inexpensive paperbacks. $25.00 at The Book House, 7352 Manchester Road, Maplewood.
"Absolutely Everything!" • Subtitled "A History of Earth, Dinosaurs, Rulers, Robots and Other Things Too Numerous to Mention," this 352-page hardback volume by Christopher Lloyd will keep little ones (or curious grown-ups) busy for a while. It's filled with fun full-color illustrations, photographs and annotated graphics. $21.99 at The Book House.
"No worries" pillow • This is one wise throw pillow. The other side reads: "99% of the things you worry about never happen," something we all need to be reminded of from time to time. $36.00 at Intaglia Home & Garden, 7195 Manchester Road, Maplewood.
Xiaomi Mi Electric Scooter • Dockless rental scooters have taken over the streets. Instead of paying $1 a ride and 15 cents per minute, why not invest in a scooter of your own? The Xiaomi Mi scooter, used by scooter rental company Bird, reaches a max speed of 15.5 mph and travels up to 18 miles on a single charge. And it's foldable, to make commuting easier. (Don't forget a helmet.) $599.00 at Amazon.
Lörby USB charger • Now that so many of our electronics are jockeying for space at the electrical outlet, Ikea's Lörby USB charger can really come in handy. Just attach it with its magnet, self-adhesive tape or clamp, and plug in up to three devices. Its electrical cord is 6.2 feet long. Available in red, black, yellow or white. $12.99 at Ikea, 1 Ikea Way.
Dwight Shrute socks • "The Office" has seen a resurgence, especially among teens and tweens discovering it for the first time on Netflix. So your teen or tween may love these socks, with Dwight Shrute's head and "fact" on them. $11.95 at LegionWearUSA on Etsy.
Harry Potter Bath Bombs • Drop one of these in your tub and a color hidden inside will disolve and reveal what house the Sorting Hat chose for you. $4.99 at Zen Bath Candies .
UGG fuzzy socks • Chilly feet will love these chunky cable-knit crew socks with fuzzy pompom ties and plush fleece lining. Stay warm and cozy and banish cold feet! $49.50 at Nordstrom .
SHHHSilk sleep mask • This oversized black silk eye mask is filled with silk, providing the softest, most comfortable sleep. This mask blocks the brightest of light making it a great gift for frequent travelers and light sleepers. $45.00 at ShhhSilk.com.
Related items
Q&A A Day five-year journal • If the idea of keeping a journal has always seemed out of reach, try this five-year diary. Each day prompts a different question so as to avoid “blank page syndrome” while simultaneously building five years' worth of memories and thoughts. $16.99 at Barnes & Noble.
Fortnite phone case • Yes, parents everywhere loathe Fortnite, the video game du jour. But kids love it, and they'll love these cool phone cases. $8.95 at Battle Royale Shop.
Neon chess pieces • Add some personality to the classic board game with these mix-and-match chess pieces, which come in eye-popping hues such as fuchsia, turquoise and indigo. $5.00 at Q Boutique, 4652 Maryland Avenue.
Mr. Rogers mug • Need a gift for your favorite neighbor? Give them all the good feelings with this “sweater-changing” mug. When you pour a hot drink, Mr. Rogers loses his blazer and slips on his signature cardigan. $12.95 at Left Bank Books, 399 North Euclid Avenue.
Smudge kit • Open the doors to 2019 with a fresher space thanks to this smudge kit. Palo Santo wood is believed to have healing powers, while sage is thought to have purifying qualities. An iridescent abalone shell serves as a bowl. Items can also be purchased separately. $18.00 at Divine Inspirations, 205 North Kirkwood Road, Kirkwood.
Holiday kitchen towels • The clean winter prints on these basket-weave cotton towels are festive for teachers, neighbors or as a hostess gifts. $5.95 at Cornucopia, 107 North Kirkwood Road, Kirkwood.
Charcoal facial soaps • These “lumps of coal” are practical but fun – perfect for a teen who wants to be pampered. The activated charcoal cleans pores while the lavender keeps skin feeling soft and fresh. $8.00 at KIND Soap, 20 Allen Avenue, Webster Groves.
Flow rings • This modern take on the Slinky toy is a great stocking stuffer for kids, tweens or teens. Play with it at your desk to relieve stress or grab the hand of a partner and let it roll and flow up and down your arms. $7.99 at Amazon.
Bacon lip balm • Let the bacon lovers in your life taste bacon on their lips any time they want with this tube of bacon-flavored lip balm. Bacon lip balm does not contain actual bacon, so it's great for vegetarians who may miss bacon. $2.95 at Archie McPhee.
Hug-grrr coffee cup • The coffee drinker on your list will love this cute bear mug from Life is Good. $12.00 at Jake's on Main, 136 South Main Street, St. Charles.
Bergamot and ginger scented candle • Invite your friend, sister, or child's teacher to relax with this lidded jar candle from Mesa Home. The bergamot and ginger scent is clean and spicy. $12.00 at Mesa Home, 2619 Cherokee Street, St. Louis.
Beer bomber jacket • This beer bomber jacket from the St. Louis Hop Shop will keep your hand warm and your 22-ounce bottle of beer cool and cozy. $10.00 at St. Louis Hop Shop, 2600 Cherokee Street, St. Louis.
Handblown glass mug • Sip a cup of tea or coffee from this 10 ounce handblown glass mug from CHEMEX, which is shaped to echo the CHEMEX coffee maker. Teatopia also offers more than 80 loose leaf teas. $20.00 at Teatopia, 2606 Cherokee Street, St. Louis.
Dinosaur creamer • Add a bit of roar to your tea time with this adorable brontosaurus creamer. The shop also sells tiny pitchers in the shape of penguins, cats, elephants and cows, as well as loose leaf teas for customers to brew at home. $6.00 at Tea Rex, 2710 Cherokee Street, St. Louis.
Button name tag • Label your gifts with a custom button you can design yourself. All types of sizes are available and prices vary depending on how many you buy and how many images you upload. The Cherokee Street location offers a special $5 price for walk-in customers. $5.00 at Buttonmakers.net, 2608 Cherokee Street, St. Louis.
Children’s storybook coasters • Whether you are a kid or just a kid at heart, these storybook coasters will take you back to your favorite childhood tales. Curl up with a beverage and a good book — maybe one that’s depicted on these locally made coasters. $4.00 at Afterwords Books, 441 East Vandalia Street, Edwardsville.
Spinster Sisters soy lotion candles • Is it a candle or a lotion? Well, it’s both. Light these soy lotion candles, and as the oil melts, you can pour it onto your skin and massage it in for added moisture. An added bonus: They smell wonderful and are available in some favorite holiday scents, including cedar saffron, pumpkin pie and apple pie. $14.00 at Revival Boutique & Gifts, 101 East Vandalia Street, Edwardsville.
Whimsical lavatory mists • There’s nothing funny about nasty bathroom smells, right? Wrong. Put untimely odors in their place with Vladimir Pootin (red tea and jasmine) or Total Eclipse of the Fart (bright lilac and amber), just two of the silly scents you can buy in these lavatory mists. $12.00 at Revival Boutique & Gifts, 101 East Vandalia Street, Edwardsville.
Morse code necklaces • Telegraph your feelings in a more subtle way with these Morse code message necklaces. A series of 14-karat-gold-plated dots and dashes replace the letters to some sweet and inspiring words, including “loved” and “happy.” $15.00 at Revival Boutique & Gifts, 101 East Vandalia Street, Edwardsville.
Animal print sunglasses • Animal print? Glitter? Slight cat-eye shape? These funky sunglasses have it all. $10.00 at Cocktailz A Beauty Bar, 6150 Delmar Boulevard, University City.
Gold wristlet • This wristlet has enough pockets and room for your phone, credit cards, cash, lipsticks and powder. $15.00 at Cocktailz A Beauty Bar, 6150 Delmar Boulevard, University City.
Metallic infinity scarf • This infinity scarf accented with metallic threads is light enough to wear as a fashion piece and thick enough to wear for actual warmth. $17.00 at Cocktailz A Beauty Bar, 6150 Delmar Boulevard, University City.
Compassion is Badass mug • Pump yourself up and show your family or office mates you don't mess around when it comes to being a decent, compassionate person. This mug supports Bravely, a St. Louis nonprofit run by women recovering from sexual exploitation and addiction. $10.00 at OSO: A Style Lab, 6321 Delmar Boulevard, University City.
Blackwing Pencil • Some claim the Blackwing pencil is the best writing utensil in the world, but we'll let you be the judge. It was first developed in 1930 and has been used by some legendary Grammy, Emmy, Pulitzer and Academy Award winners. Comes in a box of 12. $24.95 at OSO: A Style Lab, 6321 Delmar Boulevard, University City.
Enamel deer pin • This adorable, enamel deer pin, by Austin-based LuxCups, gives a nod to vintage Disney and the Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer television classic. $10.00 at OSO: A Style Lab, 6321 Delmar Boulevard, University City.
Lolli and Pops Classic Ribbon Candy • A festive and favorite assortment of time-honored confections are packaged in a retro-looking box. $10.00 at Lolli & Pops, 29 West County Center, Des Peres.
Stink bombz • Indulge the lowbrow humorist in your life with a Stink Bomz, which each contain a "collectible fart friend" that make three unique fart noises and come with their own "silly smell." $9.99 at Tomy.
St. Louis flag socks • Wave your feet in the air and show your local pride with these St. Louis flag-inspired socks. They're made of 80 percent cotton, 17 percent Nylon and 3 percent Spandex, and they reach up to the middle of your calf. $12.95 at Stl-Style, 3159 Cherokee Street, St. Louis.
Ides of March pen and pencil holder • Pretend you're Brutus and stab Julius Caesar in the back with some pens and pencils. All from the comfort of your desk. $19.99 at Amazon.
Sriracha keychain • Do you know someone who likes to put Sriracha on everything? Then we have found the perfect gift with this keychain (just fill the bottle separately). $8.00 at Urban Outfitters, 1491 St. Louis Galleria Street, Richmond Heights.
Nalgene water bottle • Resistant to odors and stains, this durable, wide-mouth water bottle is perfect for outdoor sports or just for kicking the plastic habit. $11.84 at Amazon.
Pawscout pet tag • The waterproof Pawscout device attaches to a collar and allows your furry friend to be tracked with a free app that displays photos, contact info, vaccinations and medical issues. If your pet goes missing, nearby users will be alerted. Even better: There's no monthly fee. $19.99 at Airedale Antics, 7316 Manchester Road.
Larder & Cupboard Strawberry Lemon Verbena Perserves • Larder & Cupboard's Strawberry Lemon Verbena Preserves, housemade by store owner Cindy Higgerson, are delicious with toast, desserts, cocktails, cheese and more. But you don't have to take our word for it: The Good Food Foundation honored the preserves with one of its 2018 awards. $11.00 at Larder & Cupboard, 7310 Manchester Road, Maplewood.
Expedition Chocolate Co. chocolate bar • An indulgent chocolate bar (2.8 ounces) by St. Louis chocolatier Rick Jordan is made from cacao nibs aged in Rally Point Rye whiskey barrels from St. Louis-based StilL 630. A delicious local collaboration for the chocolate lover in your life. $10.00 at Larder & Cupboard, 7310 Manchester Road, Maplewood.
Roughneck Beard Batter • Help the whiskered guy on your list avoid resting itch face. The shea butter and hemp seed oil in Roughneck's natural, organic Beard Batter is formulated to replace lost moisture and prevent itching and dryness. A dime-size blob is all it takes. (2.6 ounces) $15.00 at Roughneck Beard Co., 7282 Manchester Road, Maplewood.
Maven License to Chill artisan-made cold process soap • A piece of natural sea sponge is nestled inside this bar of moisturizing soap, so in addition to being functional, it's also a work of art. Maven's handcrafted soaps are made with plant "fats" — shea butter, coconut oil, rice bran oil and olive oil — instead of animal lard, and minimal packaging means little waste. (6.5 ounces) $10.00 at Maven Bath & Candle Co., 7290 Manchester Road, Maplewood.
Maven Jax artisan-made cold process soap • No two batches of soap at Maven look alike, and an array of fun scents — such as Jax, the shop's classic fragrance for guys — means there's a soap for every body. They're handcrafted and made with plant "fats" (shea butter, coconut oil, rice bran oil and olive oil) instead of animal lard, and minimal packaging means little waste. (6.5 ounces) $9.00 at Maven Bath & Candle Co., 7290 Manchester Road, Maplewood.
Klean Kanteen Steel Straws • People all over the country are trying to cut down on plastic straw use. Join them with this four-pack of reusable steel straws, a good gift that will also let you feel good about yourself. $9.95 at Alpine Shop, 440 North Kirkwood Road, Kirkwood.
St. Louis-themed coasters • Enjoy a little local nostalgia while also protecting that tabletop from unsightly water rings. These printed coasters feature a variety of St. Louis-area locations, signs and memories. $12.50 at Intaglia Home & Garden, 7195 Manchester Road, Maplewood.
"The Golden Girls" Mad Libs • Gather your gal pals and fill the blanks in these short "Golden Girls"-themed stories with adjectives, nouns and other parts of speech. Best enjoyed with cheesecake. $4.99 at Amazon.
Jansjö USB lamp • It never hurts to have one of these bendy-armed LED lamps on hand. They're great for illuminating a hard-to-see computer keyboard or desktop, or even to light up a piece of art or home décor. $5.99 at Ikea, 1 Ikea Way.
Lörby USB charger • Now that so many of our electronics are jockeying for space at the electrical outlet, Ikea's Lörby USB charger can really come in handy. Just attach it with its magnet, self-adhesive tape or clamp, and plug in up to three devices. Its electrical cord is 6.2 feet long. Available in red, black, yellow or white. $12.99 at Ikea, 1 Ikea Way.
Kiehl's Ultimate Strength Hand Salve • Winter can be so harsh on your hands. This Eucalyptus-scented lotion works absolute wonders to restore, revive and moisten hands that are painfully dried and cracked. It's not the sexiest gift, but it will be tremendously appreciated. $23.00 at Saks Fifth Avenue, 1 Frontenac Plaza Drive, Frontenac.
Related items
The Existential Coloring Book • Latch onto the coloring book trend for the existentialist in your life with this gift. Perfect for those post-holiday blues, this book combines impending worries of the future with the whimsy of adult coloring. $8.00 at Amazon.
Fortnite phone case • Yes, parents everywhere loathe Fortnite, the video game du jour. But kids love it, and they'll love these cool phone cases. $8.95 at Battle Royale Shop.
Joie Microwave Popcorn Popper • This microwave popcorn maker doesn't use any oil and serves up to four cups of popcorn, enough to get you through at least part of a Netflix binge. It's easier, healthier and cheaper than using microwave popcorn bags, and is small enough to store easily. $5.99 at The Container Store, 1769 South Brentwood Boulevard, Brentwood.
Neon chess pieces • Add some personality to the classic board game with these mix-and-match chess pieces, which come in eye-popping hues such as fuchsia, turquoise and indigo. $5.00 at Q Boutique, 4652 Maryland Avenue.
Holiday kitchen towels • The clean winter prints on these basket-weave cotton towels are festive for teachers, neighbors or as a hostess gifts. $5.95 at Cornucopia, 107 North Kirkwood Road, Kirkwood.
Charcoal facial soaps • These “lumps of coal” are practical but fun – perfect for a teen who wants to be pampered. The activated charcoal cleans pores while the lavender keeps skin feeling soft and fresh. $8.00 at KIND Soap, 20 Allen Avenue, Webster Groves.
Flow rings • This modern take on the Slinky toy is a great stocking stuffer for kids, tweens or teens. Play with it at your desk to relieve stress or grab the hand of a partner and let it roll and flow up and down your arms. $7.99 at Amazon.
Bacon lip balm • Let the bacon lovers in your life taste bacon on their lips any time they want with this tube of bacon-flavored lip balm. Bacon lip balm does not contain actual bacon, so it's great for vegetarians who may miss bacon. $2.95 at Archie McPhee.
Twinkling Treasures ornament • This ornament features six blinking colored lights that last about 80 hours. $8.50 at All About Animals, 407 South Main Street, St. Charles.
Dog ceramic tile • "It's not drinking alone if the dog is home" 6-inch-by-6-inch ceramic tile. $7.95 at Canine Cookies N Cream Dog Bakery, 822 South Main Street, St. Charles.
Vintage polyester shirt • Get your groove on with this vintage polyester shirt or another vintage find from this resale shop. Sales benefit the social services and childcare provided by the Guardian Angel Settlement Association. $5.00 at Angel Boutique Resale Shop, 2700 Cherokee Street, St. Louis.
Dinosaur creamer • Add a bit of roar to your tea time with this adorable brontosaurus creamer. The shop also sells tiny pitchers in the shape of penguins, cats, elephants and cows, as well as loose leaf teas for customers to brew at home. $6.00 at Tea Rex, 2710 Cherokee Street, St. Louis.
Button name tag • Label your gifts with a custom button you can design yourself. All types of sizes are available and prices vary depending on how many you buy and how many images you upload. The Cherokee Street location offers a special $5 price for walk-in customers. $5.00 at Buttonmakers.net, 2608 Cherokee Street, St. Louis.
Children’s storybook coasters • Whether you are a kid or just a kid at heart, these storybook coasters will take you back to your favorite childhood tales. Curl up with a beverage and a good book — maybe one that’s depicted on these locally made coasters. $4.00 at Afterwords Books, 441 East Vandalia Street, Edwardsville.
Multipet cat toy • Your kitty will be mesmerized by the colorful feathers on this hand-held toy. Or the kitty will ignore it altogether. Cats, go figure. $6.99 at Petropolis, 16830 Chesterfield Airport Road, Chesterfield.
Stink bombz • Indulge the lowbrow humorist in your life with a Stink Bomz, which each contain a "collectible fart friend" that make three unique fart noises and come with their own "silly smell." $9.99 at Tomy.
Sriracha keychain • Do you know someone who likes to put Sriracha on everything? Then we have found the perfect gift with this keychain (just fill the bottle separately). $8.00 at Urban Outfitters, 1491 St. Louis Galleria Street, Richmond Heights.
Beer Paws Beer for Dogs • Man's best friend can also be man's best drinking buddy. Beer Paws Beer for Dogs is a tasty blend of beef base, malt extract and vegetarian K9 glucosamine that can be added to your dog's food, freezed and enjoyed on a hot day or just lapped up from a bowl. (There's no alcohol in this "beer.") Single bottles contain 8 ounces. $6.99 at Airedale Antics, 7316 Manchester Road.
Maven Jax artisan-made cold process soap • No two batches of soap at Maven look alike, and an array of fun scents — such as Jax, the shop's classic fragrance for guys — means there's a soap for every body. They're handcrafted and made with plant "fats" (shea butter, coconut oil, rice bran oil and olive oil) instead of animal lard, and minimal packaging means little waste. (6.5 ounces) $9.00 at Maven Bath & Candle Co., 7290 Manchester Road, Maplewood.
Old World Christmas Toy Drum Ornament • The toy drum is a classic symbol of the holidays. Add some color and childhood nostalgia to your tree. $8.99 at Campbell House Museum gift shop, 1508 Locust Street.
Klean Kanteen Steel Straws • People all over the country are trying to cut down on plastic straw use. Join them with this four-pack of reusable steel straws, a good gift that will also let you feel good about yourself. $9.95 at Alpine Shop, 440 North Kirkwood Road, Kirkwood.
Printed wine hand towel • Rough day? Wine about it with these clever printed hand towels by Mud Pie. Assorted designs are available, and the woven cotton towels measure 26 inches by 16½ inches. $8.99 at Intaglia Home & Garden, 7195 Manchester Road, Maplewood.
"The Golden Girls" Mad Libs • Gather your gal pals and fill the blanks in these short "Golden Girls"-themed stories with adjectives, nouns and other parts of speech. Best enjoyed with cheesecake. $4.99 at Amazon.
Jansjö USB lamp • It never hurts to have one of these bendy-armed LED lamps on hand. They're great for illuminating a hard-to-see computer keyboard or desktop, or even to light up a piece of art or home décor. $5.99 at Ikea, 1 Ikea Way.