The holidays are nearly upon us and boy could we use some fa-la-la-la-las. There is already plenty of stress in the world, so don’t let your holiday gift list add to it. Some people are easy to buy for, but others are annual head-scratchers. Below is a helpful list of ideas for affordable and tasty presents for all the more challenging recipients you give to.
Men
Most men above the age of twelve are really hard to buy gifts for, especially older dudes. You know your dad liked the shoe horn you gave him last year but did it really say, ‘I love you,’? Give the men in your life something that will blow their socks off: Bourbon Barrel-Aged Maple Syrup. We can tell you from experience at hundreds of trade shows and craft fairs that men really love this stuff. (Not that women don’t adore it too.) If you know of a preference between spirits, we offer Bourbon, whiskey (Rye), rum, and Apple Brandy Barrel-Aged, to appeal to a broad range of tastes. This one will win you the title of ‘favorite child’.
Co-workers
Co-workers are tricky. How well do you know them? What is appropriate? You want something that is sophisticated, but not pretentious. Definitely not too expensive but also doesn’t scream ‘cheapskate’. Most of our products are $16.95 – $19.95 – an affordable price range for a nice, but not over-the-top gift. If you know of a particular taste, like a love of ginger or chili pepper, we have a huge selection of specialty infused and barrel-aged syrups. If you are not sure what their likes are, we recommend the Sugarmaker’s Cut pure maple syrup, the Cinnamon+Vanilla Infused or the Rum Barrel-Aged, since those are the crowd pleasers. If nothing else, this gift will show off your good taste.
Teachers, mail carriers and anyone who makes your life easier
None of us live in a bubble and if you want to show appreciation for those who are not family or friends but nonetheless impact your life in a positive way, maple syrup is a great way to do it. Teachers and mail carriers, for example, have been carrying a heavy load this year, both figuratively and literally. If your children are still taking the bus to school, even for a few days, that bus driver is a hero for carrying on at a risk. Is there a health care provider who has been important to you this past year? How about someone who cleans your office, your home, or your yard. Maple syrup is the affordable luxury that will be more than just a gesture. To celebrate the season, we recommend the Holiday Spice/Festivus syrup infused with cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg, ginger and cloves. Showing gratitude this year is perhaps more important than ever.
Aunts and Uncles
We adore them. They are a part of our lives. But what the heck do you get for them? The 4-pack pairing kits are here to save the day. The 4-packs consist of small (60ml) bottles that were curated for a specific purpose. For example, we tried all of our syrups with a huge variety of ice creams to determine which ones worked best for everything from butter pecan to rum raisin. If you know of an ice cream lover, this is an easy solution. The same applies to the Cheese Pairing (the Pecan Wood Smoked Maple is SO GOOD with sharp cheddar), the Cocktail Pairing (our fave; The Wardrobe Malfunction with Ginger Infused), and the Tea Pairing (Cardamom Infused for instant chai, anyone?). Pantry Favorites is a collection of our best sellers if you’d like a basic sampler and the Smoke n’ Barrels pairing is three of the barrel-aged, plus the smoked maple. You likely know your aunts and uncles well enough to choose one for them that suit their tastes and as a bonus they come with a recipe card for ideas. You’re welcome.
Mother/Father In Law
Despite the header, this one is actually for you. We have just released a new line of maple-based cocktail mixers and bitters. Creating classics like an Old Fashioned has never been easier, you just add some mixer to your favorite spirit and you have a beautifully balanced drink. The Maple Mule is lively with fresh ginger and lime and the Maple Tonic will take a Gin and Tonic to a new level. The three different types of bitters add serious game to your mixology repertoire so try all three. The in-laws are coming for the holidays. Be prepared.
Nieces and nephews
Two words: Sparkle Syrup.
Hostess or Family Gifts
If you would like something more formal, our gift boxes fit the bill. They have a beautiful new design and are filled with three regular sized bottles in the large or four smaller bottles in the small. There are several possible combinations of syrups ready to ship that range in price from $24.95 – $64.95. It is always nice to give a gift to a family you are close to and this one will please everyone in it. The gift boxes are also a wonderful item to bring to your host or hostess as thanks for a party or event. And the box is so elegant, you don’t even have to wrap it. But definitely add a card because you are going to want to get credit for these.
If you need further guidance or have any questions, feel free to email [email protected] and we can help you find the perfect gift in your price range, for any recipient. Happy holidays.