The holiday season is upon us, bringing with it the joy of giving, the warmth of friendship and family and the excitement of finding that perfect something for the special people in our lives. To make your holiday shopping brighter and more enjoyable, members of the Qnotes team have come together to curate a collection of gift ideas, from thoughtful treasures and unique discoveries to delightful surprises and practical favorites. We’ve gathered a little inspiration for everyone on your list. Happy holidays, and happy gifting!
LM Dudzik, contributing writer, columnist
Kin & Cottage
An online retailer based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Kin & Cottage focuses on home fragrances, gift cards and candles (like the one shown here). Their Candle Club subscription is a gift that keeps on giving, with new seasonal scents to discover throughout the year, alongside creatively named favorites like Christmas Tree Farm, Antique Store and Retro Radio. Founder Megan Thompson Aston proudly identifies as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. Check out their online store here.
Replacements, Ltd.
Based in McLeansville, North Carolina (near Greensboro) Replacements, Ltd. is the world’s largest retailer of active and discontinued tableware, stocking over 11 million pieces across 475,000 patterns. Beyond fine china, crystal glassware, and silver or stainless flatware, their showroom and website also sells collectibles, figurines, estate jewelry, watches, antiques, and home decor. For the dog lover who appreciates a little holiday humor, a perfect gift pick is the Cone of Shame Dog ornament (seen here), which will make an adorably ridiculous addition to any Christmas tree.
Founded by openly gay businessman Bob Page, Replacements, Ltd. is known for its enormous collection of dinnerware, crystal, silver and holiday treasures. Page has also been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ equality, publicly opposing North Carolina’s discriminatory HB2 law in 2016. Visit their website here.
David R. Gillespie, contributing writer
Ink Meets Paper is an LGBTQ+-owned business in Greenville, SC, that focuses on innovative art prints (shown here), cards and stationery design. While it is an online-only store, customers can pick up items at its production facility at 724A Lowndes Hill Rd. in Greenville.
Out of Bounds has been the Upstate’s go-to store for all things LGBTQ+ (like this lovely Pride shirt) since 1995. In addition to an online store, the physical location of Out of Bounds is 1608 Easley Bridge Road in Greenville.
L’Monique King, contributing writer, columnist
When you think of Ali Steele, music may be the first thing that comes to mind. But this local neo-soul artist offers much more than ear candy. As the founder of Osain Sun, Steele has cultivated a collection of products designed to help you look, feel and smell your best.
This holiday season, treat yourself or someone special to the nourishing benefits of shea oil for a radiant holiday glow.
Complete the experience with a signature scented body oil and beautifully handcrafted jewelry featuring copper, African brass and gemstones. Steele’s collection is as diverse as his creativity, offering something for nearly every taste and style. See more by visiting their social media site.
For those in the Raleigh-Durham area, a little relaxation may be the perfect holiday gift. Located nearby in Garner, North Carolina, Dream City Bodyworks offers a soothing escape from the hustle and bustle of the season, where aromatherapy, therapeutic massage and self-care take center stage. With handmade scented candles available for purchase or simply to enjoy during a visit, this wellness retreat creates an inviting atmosphere designed to help melt away the stress of holiday preparations.
Dream City Bodyworks specializes in therapeutic, sports, prenatal and couples massages, each thoughtfully designed to relieve tension, support physical recovery, improve mobility or provide a much-needed opportunity to unwind.
Recognizing that no two bodies—or days—are alike, each session is personalized to meet individual needs. Whether treating yourself or gifting someone special a moment of tranquility, Dream City Bodywork offers something we could all use a little more of this holiday season: relaxation, rejuvenation and peace of mind. Learn more here.
David Aaron Moore, Senior Editor, contributing writer
MikWright
There’s no specific storefront for this company, but their comical collection of retro-influenced items can be found at a number of local retailers in and around the Charlotte metro area and include humorous, sarcastic greeting cards and novelty gifts featuring authentic vintage photos of family and friends (this writer received the card shown here recently) paired with hand-lettered designs.
Their online store and boutique retailers carry hundreds of birthday and all-occasion cards, alongside cotton coasters and coffee mugs, poking fun at aging, relationships, cocktails, and everyday frustrations. Visit their website for cards and gifts that are guaranteed to leave you laughing.
Sleepy Poet Antique Market
Located at 6424 South Boulevard in Charlotte, Sleepy Poet Antique Market boasts over 250 vendors (many dealers are also part of the LGBTQ+ community) and carries a massive collection of vintage items spanning decades of American culture. There’s something for everybody on your holiday gift list here, from turn-of-the-20th-century Victorian collectibles and Mid-20th century modern, to funky ’70s and more. Check out their website and pay them a visit.
White Rabbit Books
Located on the edge of the Queen City’s gayest hood, Plaza-Midwood, White Rabbit’s storefront address is 920 Central Avenue.
If you’re looking for a unique gift item for friends and family in the LGBTQ+ community, White Rabbit carries a vast selection of cards, books, movies, stickers, jewelry, magazines, gift Items, adult novelties, fashion accessories, designer underwear, swimsuits, Pride clothing gear and more. Look for them on social media and visit their retail space.
Liz Schob, Director of Strategic Initiatives, contributing writer
Art’s Really Cool
For the art lover on your holiday shopping list, consider giving something truly one of a kind. Charlotte-area LGBTQ-owned business Art’s Really Cool specializes in colorful, original abstract artwork created using fluid painting techniques. Its 10-by-20-inch Midnight Rainbow painting combines vibrant colors and flowing patterns, making it a striking addition to a home or office. Unlike mass-produced décor, each piece offers something unique, making it a thoughtful gift for someone who appreciates creativity and individuality. For more details visit their website.
Flowers Plus
Flowers make a beautiful gift any time of year, but this festive arrangement from Charlotte’s Flowers Plus brings a little extra holiday cheer. Baubles, Beads & Blooms features white lilies, roses and miniature carnations alongside green button mums and seasonal evergreens. Sparkling green ornaments and decorative beads add a playful holiday touch without overwhelming the flowers. Presented in a rectangular vase, the arrangement makes a lovely gift for someone who enjoys decorating or hosting during the season. Find out more on their website.
Two Ships Pottery
For someone who enjoys getting creative, consider giving an experience instead of another item to unwrap.
Charlotte-based LGBTQ-owned Two Ships Pottery, founded by ceramic artist Arias DeRienzo, offers hands-on pottery lessons and experiences. Its $100 lesson gift card can be applied toward a pottery session, giving recipients the opportunity to work with clay, learn new skills and explore their creativity. Whether they’re interested in trying pottery for the first time or developing an existing hobby, it’s a thoughtful gift that offers something beyond the usual holiday presents. More details available here.
This story is brought to you by Rosedale Health and Wellness and Dudley’s Place.
