Alexandra Cohn
You’ve landed a decent job and are finally paying your own rent; the days of giving mom a macaroni necklace or dad a handprint T-shirt should be long behind you. Let this be the year you step up your under-the-tree game and give your parents — those folks who gave you everything — gifts that are really something:
Personalized jewelry
Instead of pasta “pearls,” why not honor Mom with a personalized pendant from Three Orange Doors, the Madison gift shop that specializes in custom-designed, affordable jewelry. Staff help you create one-of-a-kind pieces like a silver teardrop adorned with cherished family photos, an inspirational quotation or shards of Grandma’s prized china.
Cost: $25 and up.
Where: Three Orange Doors, 2789 Fitchrona Rd.
A better sweater
While Dad may never be the GQ type, the tacky Santa sweater has to go. To take its place, give him a cozy shawl sweater-coat from Dehen 1920. This cardigan will appeal to your dad’s retro sensibilities while gently nudging him into the 21st century. Knitted on the same vintage machines that were used in the ’40s, this 1930s-fit, six button 100% worsted wool classic says hip dad, without being too hipster.
Cost: $395
Where: Context Clothing, 113 King St.
Fashion meets function
If your mom, like most moms, is practical to a fault, you can get in her good graces with a utilitarian gift like a pair of gloves. But just because what’s inside the box screams “sensible” doesn’t mean it can’t be luxurious. These 100% imported cashmere “Catherine” gloves from New York-based designer Rag & Bone are as warm as they are lovely.
Cost: $125
Where: Twigs, 570 N. Midvale Blvd., at Hilldale
Custom-illustrated portrait
Madison-based graphic designer Emily Balsley’s work puts a contemporary twist on a holiday season hallmark — the formal family photo. The artist uses snapshots you provide of parents, siblings and/or pets to create a whimsical illustrated version of your clan. It’s a great way to avoid ending up as an entry in Awkward Family Photos, although a copy of that novelty book might make a fun accompanying gift.
Cost: $100 and up (price depends on the number of subjects)
Where: emilybalsley.com
Ukulele songs
Now that your parents have a little more time on their hands, help them put their fingers, as well as their ears, to good use with a gift of matching Ohana ukuleles.
There’s no reason your folks shouldn’t be able to master “Mele Kalikimaka” (the Hawaiian Christmas Song, popularized by Bing Crosby and the Andrews Sisters), or at least “Tiny Bubbles” by the time Christmas dinner is served.
Cost: $159 and up
Where: Spruce Tree Music & Repair, 851 E. Johnson St.
Handcrafted marionettes
If Mom and Dad are feeling a bit nostalgic for their toy-giving days, they should enjoy receiving this sophisticated spin on a childhood favorite. Madison artist Ken Vogel fashions his meticulously crafted marionettes out of papier-mâché. What red-blooded Dairy State parent could resist owning a miniature stringed replica of Gaylord Nelson, Vince Lombardi or Belle Case La Follette, wife of Fighting Bob?
Cost: $45.00
Where: Wisconsin Historical Museum Gift Shop, 30 N. Carroll St.
Laugh lessons
The Atlas Improv Company regularly offers introductory classes, grounded in their character-based storytelling philosophy. Mom and Dad can draw on their years of teamwork and decision-making skills and gain new perspectives and a few laughs while they’re at it.
Cost: Classes run $185 for a 10-week session.
Where: 609 E. Washington Ave.
We have noted throughout the gift guide where our shoppers located various items; however, they may be available at other area stores as well.
