Holiday Gift Guide: Spreading Joy While Supporting Indian River County Producers

If you’re having difficulty deciding what to gift your friends and family this holiday season, we have you covered. We’ve curated a gift guide that not only offers great gifting ideas but also provides you with an opportunity to support local producers from Indian River County.

Oranges sit in a white porcelain bowl.
Image provided by Unsplash.com

Gifting locally made products during the holidays has many benefits. First and foremost, it supports the local economy and the producers who work hard to create these unique products. By buying locally, you are helping to create jobs and boost the economy of your local community. Additionally, locally made products are often of higher quality, as they are made with care and attention to detail. They also tend to be more environmentally friendly, as they require less transportation and packaging materials. Finally, gifting locally made products is a great way to share the local culture and traditions with your loved ones and showcase your community’s unique flavors and craftsmanship. So, not only is it a thoughtful gift, but it also benefits the local community and the environment.

Fresh fruits and juices

When it comes to gift ideas from Indian River, locally produced citrus and juices are highly recommended. Several producers in Vero Beach offer gift options that your loved ones will surely appreciate. 

Honey products

If you’re looking for a unique and natural gift, consider giving honey products. They are not only delicious but also have a variety of health benefits and can be used in various ways – from cooking to skincare. So, whether you’re looking for a gift for a foodie, a health enthusiast, or someone who loves natural beauty products, honey-based gifts are sure to be appreciated.

Locally produced coffee

Specialties chocolates sit in a teal box.
Image provided by Unsplash.com

If you’re looking for a thoughtful and unique gift to give during the holiday season, consider supporting your local coffee producers. Locally produced coffee beans are carefully sourced and roasted to perfection, resulting in a delicious brew that any coffee lover would appreciate. Plus, unlike other holiday treats that may go stale or get forgotten after the festivities, a bag of locally produced coffee can be enjoyed for weeks to come, providing a daily reminder of your thoughtful gift.

Gourmet popcorn or chocolates

During the festive season, nothing feels as delightful as indulging in gourmet treats that tantalize the taste buds. Whether it is the buttery goodness of freshly popped popcorn or the rich and decadent flavor of exquisite chocolate, these gourmet delights make for an excellent choice of gifts that are sure to please even the most discerning of palates.

Breads and baked goods (homemade or locally made)

There’s something undeniably special about breads and baked goods, especially during the holiday season. Whether you’re baking from scratch in the comfort of your own kitchen or picking up a delicious treat from a nearby local vendor, these goodies make perfect gifts that can warm the hearts and homes of everyone who indulges in them. From the rich aroma of freshly baked bread to the sweet and savory flavors of cookies, cakes, and pastries, there’s nothing quite like the joy that comes from sharing homemade or locally sourced baked goods with loved ones.

Jams, jellies, butters, and sauces (BBQ or Italian)

If you’re looking for a unique and thoughtful gift idea, why not consider locally-produced jams, jellies, butters, or sauces? These artisanal products are made with care and attention to detail, using only the freshest and highest quality ingredients. Whether you choose a fruity jam, a savory butter, or a tangy BBQ or Italian sauce, you can be sure that your gift will be appreciated and enjoyed by the lucky recipient. So why not support your local community and give the gift of deliciousness?

Flower bouquets 

Handmade soaps sit on a wooden plate.
Image provided by Unsplash.com

If you’re looking for a thoughtful gift to bring to a gathering of friends or family, consider a beautiful bouquet of flowers. Not only do they add a touch of elegance to any room, but they also show that you care about the occasion and the people you’re celebrating with. Plus, flowers can be enjoyed for days after the event, serving as a lovely reminder of the time spent together.

Candles and soaps

The holiday season is the perfect time to express your love and appreciation for your loved ones. And when it comes to choosing the perfect gift, nothing beats locally-made candles and soaps. These artisanal products not only smell heavenly but also showcase the unique flavors and scents of the region. So this year, surprise your loved ones with the warmth and comfort of these handmade treasures and make their holiday season even more special.

Handmade wooden or linen goods

If you’re looking for a gift that’s both unique and thoughtful, handmade wooden or linen goods are a great choice. These items are often made with extra care and attention to detail, resulting in a one-of-a-kind present that your loved ones will cherish for years to come. Plus, when you buy from a local business, you’re not only supporting the economy, but you’re also helping to keep traditional crafting skills alive. So why not make your next gift a handmade one?

Ornaments

Giving festive gifts like beautifully crafted ornaments can be a great way to show your appreciation to your loved ones. These thoughtful gifts can be cherished for years to come and can serve as a reminder of the warmth and joy of the holiday season. Whether it’s a unique handmade ornament or a stunning glass bauble, a festive gift can bring a smile to anyone’s face and make their holiday season even more special.

Finding local vendors

For information on where to find local vendors and producers, check out the below resources. 

Vero Beach Chamber of Commerce

Sebastian Chamber of Commerce

Vero Beach Farmers Market

Vero Vine: Top 9 Producers in Indian River County

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Olivia Zugay, virtual assistant and editor at UF/IFAS Extension Indian River County
Posted: December 8, 2023


Category: Agribusiness, Agriculture, Relationships & Family, , Work & Life
Tags: Gifts, Gifts For The Holidays, Handmade, Honey, Indian River County Producers, Local Businesses, Local Producers, Locally Made Gifts


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