A gift is a physical embodiment of appreciation for a friend or loved one. It can come in many forms. It can be fun. It can be useful. It can open the doors to a new experience. It can be and do many things, but most importantly it should be purchased with the recipient’s individuality in mind. This year, we’ve compiled some great items you can buy right here in Berks at retailers big and small. Grab a piece of paper and start your shopping list now!
1. A Cock-A-Doodle Do.
Know a rooster or farm décor lover? Then this charming and colorful fan might be the perfect gift and is surely a conversation piece! It’s fun and functional! Pick it up for $105 at Velvet Ears Pet Shoppe in Douglassville. Velvet Ears Pet Shoppe, 105 Griffith Drive, Douglassville, 610.385.0686. douglassvillepets.com
2. Get your Grill on.
For the grill pro or the weekend grill enthusiast, this Weber Q 1200 Gas Tabletop Grill is a winner. It’s small but mighty, offering big features like two fold-out side tables for more prep space, a built-in thermometer, and a push-button electronic ignition. Available in a variety of colors. $199. Weaver’s Hardware, Fleetwood: 610.944.7681; Douglassville: 610.385.4800. weavershardware.com
3. Turn it up.
Know someone who loves to play music on his or her iPod and quirky, classic finds, too? Get this! The sculpture, melds a sousaphone, French horn and car horn to create a sound rivaling any electronic speaker. Place your iPhone or iPad in the appropriate holder, stream music, and be amazed. $1,500. Curious on the Avenue, 605 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.685.3996. Facebook.com/curiousontheavenue
4. Video on the go.
GoPro, that is. With the GoPro HERO4 Silver Action Camera, it’s easy to capture 4K video action with the help of the device’s wearable, mountable design and touchscreen controls. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities make it easy to capture footage with family and friends, making it perfect for that social media-savvy friend or family member. $349.99. Best Buy, 1701 Crossing Drive, Wyomissing, 610.375.3340. bestbuy.com
5. Go Long.
Get kids back outside again! The lightweight, battery-operated Ball Cannon™ can be used by one or more players to launch a NERF football up to 100 feet with a perfect spiral. Invented right here in Berks by Fred Hafer, it features a system capable of changing the ball angle and more. $499. Frevon, Inc., 1017B MacArthur Rd., Reading, 610.370.7060. ballcannon.com
6. Stay cool - or hot.
These Hydro Flask bottles in various shapes and sizes can keep beverages cold for 24 hours or hot for up to six, making them perfect for the person on the go. Even better, they come in an array of colors and offer a lifetime warranty. $24.95-$59.95. East Ridge Outfitters, 635 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 844.376.4327. eastridgeoutfitters.com
1. A World of Fun.
Small in size but carrying a big WOW factor, these handcrafted globes simulate perpetual motion using ambient light and the earth’s magnetic field. That’s right; they move on their own. How cool is that?! It’s great for a world-traveler friend or a child just learning geography. $142.75-294. It’s a Gift!, 720 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.373.0960. itsagift.org
2. Chocolate with Sprinkles.
Who doesn’t love delicious nonpareils poured from the finest chocolate? For sweets lovers, these burgundy dark and ultra milk chocolate varieties freshly made at Billy’s Candies are a sure hit. $16.50/pound. Billy’s Candies, 4949 Kutztown Rd., Temple, 610.929.1673. billyscandies.com
3. Beware of the Tickle Monster.
The Tickle Monster Laugh Kit includes magical monster mitts, the Tickle Monster book and a gift box with magnetic closure. The story is written by best-selling and award-winning author and actress Josie Bissett. Tickle Monster’s mission will be to bring joy and laughter. $34.95. Sunshine Blue Skies, 86 Commerce Drive, Wyomissing, 610.375.0445. sunshineblueskies.com
4. Snuggle Up.
Know a youngster who loves to dress up and cuddle up, too? Then Blankie Tails may be perfect! The mermaid tail and shark body blankets are crafted from incredibly soft, double-sided plush material that’s lined inside. They’re machine washable and fit most children ages 3-12. $34.99. Learning Express of Wyomissing, 746 Woodland Rd., Wyomissing, 610.372.8697. learningexpress.com/store/Wyomissing
5. One-of-a-kind Find.
Want to score something unique for the stuffed animal lover you know that seemingly has everything? Grab a Yeti from Kooky Bird, based in Wyomissing. This lovable softie is handmade with shaggy fur and a felted face, and each has a unique personality to suit kids of all ages. $35. Kooky Bird, Wyomissing. Etsy.com/shop/KookyBird, facebook.com/kookybirdtextiles
6. Brain game.
Know a math wiz, or more specifically a geometry or board game lover? Then get this. Geometry Strategy is an award-winning game developed in Sweden that’s been considered for MENSA competitions, being highly acclaimed by players who enjoy mental challenges and interacting with like-minded individuals. $32. Evelyn & Harriette’s Gifts, 1232 Oysterdale Rd., Oley, 610.987.6055.
1. Berks’ Best Recipes.
The second edition of Savoring the Seasons at Weaver’s Orchard is filled with more than 150 recipes for using and preserving local produce. Each includes a seasonal produce item customers can find at Weaver’s Orchard sometime during the year — from asparagus in April to pumpkins in October. They’re a great gift for food lovers and cooking enthusiasts alike! $19.99. Weaver’s Orchard, 40 Fruit Lane, Morgantown, 610.856.7300. weaversorchard.com
2. For the After Party.
Or after the party, that is. Give the host or hostess the gift of some indulgent relaxation with this Rose Vanilla Milk Bath Soak. Made with Epsom and Himalayan sea salts, it’s soothing, hydrating and refreshing. $5 for a 4-ounce customized jar. A Touch of Grace, 215 E. First St., Birdsboro, 610.582.0040. atouchofgracebody.com
3. A Place for Pretzels.
Great for the party-thrower and for throwing pretzels in, this original Robesonia Redware Pretzel Bowl is available at the Reading Public Museum for just $58. If the bowl isn’t what you’re looking for, be sure to check out the other finds in the gift shop. Reading Public Museum, 500 Museum Rd., Reading, 610.371.5850. readingpublicmuseum.org
4. Deck the Halls.
Know a beer enthusiast but want to get him or her more than the standard gift card or case of his or her favorite brew? Pick up a hop ornament handcrafted from recycled beer cans by Lizz Gehrer of Berks County at The Barley Mow. $20. The Barley Mow, 719 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 484.926.2094. barleymowbeer.com
5. Good Smells Galore.
For the host or hostess who loves to cook, run to Paisley & Company and pick up a kitchen sink set in a wonderful scent. A Frothie foaming hand soap and hand and body lotion pair is cutely wrapped, ribboned and presented in a gift bag for easy giving. We love the Lemon-Mint. $15. Paisley & Company, 275 W. Main St., Kutztown, 484.646.9515. paisleyandcompany.com
6. A Unique Snack.
Unique Pretzels, that is. Gift something sweet to your host or hostess with assorted chocolate- covered Splits from the Laureldale location. The 13-count box features six milk chocolate, six dark chocolate and 1 extra-unique pretzel in the center. $11.95. Unique Pretzels, 215 E. Bellevue Avenue, Reading, 610.929.3172. uniquepretzels.com
1. Birds of a Feather.
For a bird or nature lover, even an avid hunter, this might be the perfect out-of-the-box gift. The hand-blown borosilicate glass bird houses an ethically-obtained feather perched upon a forest-found wooden stand. $61.50. Dancing Tree Creations, 220 S. Reading Avenue, Boyertown, 484.415.0014. dancingtreecreations.com
2. They’re Soaps, Surely.
Unusual fragrances like tobacco, English tea, sandalwood and eucalyptus make this set of four decadent soaps a standout, but perhaps even cooler is that they pay homage to famous detective Sherlock Holmes and his contemporaries. Get the 221B Bather Street Handcrafted Soap Collection for the Holmes enthusiast on your list. $22. Sheila Sacks Designs, Mertztown, 484.243.0243. sheilasacksdesigns.com
3. Local Art.
For the Berks resident who’s proud of his or her hometown, this pagoda hand-drawn on a page from a Berks history book is sure to please. In a red distressed frame, its 3x3 size makes it perfect to send to friends who’ve moved away to give them a taste of home. $35. The Repurposed Page, Spring Township. therepurposedpage@gmail.com, facebook.com/therepurposedpage
4. Purposefully Repurposed.
If you’re looking for something unique and useful, check out this vintage drill coat rack created by Shari Hafer and found at Five & Divine in Wernersville. It’s the perfect accompaniment to country or cottage décor, and each piece is a little different. $95. Five & Divine, 27 E. Penn Avenue, Wernersville, 610.670.9700. fiveanddivine.com
5. Charm her.
Wow her with a two-sided bronze pendant with charm, crystal and 24-inch chain, complete with an inspirational passage and dragonfly artwork. Each piece is custom-designed and handcrafted at the artist’s Kenhorst home to inspire and motivate you or a loved one. $25. Urban Charm Beads, Kenhorst, 610.790.3244. urbancharmbeads.com
6. Gorgeous Glasswork.
If you know someone who loves to deck the halls for the holidays, get to the GoggleWorks STORE in Reading for these hand-blown glass trees in varying sizes and colors made in the GoggleWorks Hot Shop for something they can’t get anywhere else! $45-75. GoggleWorks STORE, 201 Washington St., Reading, 610.374.4600, ext. 104. goggleworks.org
.jpg.jpe)
1. Classic TimePiece.
Think timeless. Think built to last. Think Shinola’s Runwell watch when you’re looking to gift the guy you love a classic fashion accessory. The reinvigorated Shinola brand’s business owners believe that products should be made by hand in America, so a grandfather can finally pass down an American-made watch. $550. Murphy Jewelers, 16 Jetson Drive, Hamburg, 610.562.2528. murphyjewelers.com
2. Just add Sparkle.
This Sorrelli earring set from Kutztown is perfect for pairing with a dressy holiday outfit or kicking a pair of jeans up a notch. And this set of two comes cutely packaged in a gold gift box. At $60, it’s budget-friendly and fashionable for any age, all at the same time. Sorrelli, 220 W. Main St., Kutztown, 610.894.9857. sorrelli.com
3. Beautifully Monogrammed.
Nothing makes something personal like a monogramming. Visit Gipprich Jewelers, Inc., Shillington, and order the lady or girl you love the gift of a customized pendant with her initials in sterling silver, white gold, yellow gold or rose gold. Starting at $175. Allow two weeks for customization. Gipprich Jewelers, Inc., 103 W. Lancaster Avenue, Shillington, 610.777.7034. gipprich.com
4. His & Hers.
After a relaxing soak in the tub or a hot shower, a plush towel and spa wrap really tops off the experience. Grab a set for him or her, or one for each, at Initials Only in West Reading. For her, $38; For him, $35; Towels, $32 (monogramming included in pricing). Initials Only, 396 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.670.0105. initialsonlyawards.com
5. So Smooth.
Get your guy this shave set from Muddy Creek Soap Company. He’ll thank you, and you’ll thank yourself when he comes in close for a kiss. The set features a shaving soap in Bay Rum, Mint Eucalyptus, Orange Clove or Sandalwood, priced at $10 for an 8-ounce jar. They’re best applied with the Natural Badger Hair Shaving Brush, $25. Muddy Creek Soap Company, 608 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.816.7474. muddycreeksoapcompany.com
6. Perfectly Portable.
Smell great on the go with these purse-sized sprays by Vera Bradley in scents meant to evoke an emotional connection and response. The metalized glass spray containers are packaged in a colorful gift box and can be found at Coventry Corners in the Berkshire Mall, Wyomissing. $48. Coventry Corners, 1665 State Hill Rd., Wyomissing (Berkshire Mall), 610.376.0445. coventrycorners.com
1. A Family Pic with your Pet, Too!
When you’re looking to commemorate your love for family and furry friends, look no further than Willow Street Pictures. The creative team captures stunning portraits that will surely be treasured by recipients for years to come. Their creative packages start at $279. Willow Street Pictures, 2213 Penn Avenue, West Lawn, 610.375.3424. willowstreetpictures.com
2. Have Gift. Will Travel.
By giving a AAA Reading-Berks travel voucher you can allow your loved one to see the world near or far. With amusement park tickets, plane tickets, Disney trips and more, the travel agents at AAA have you covered. AAA Reading-Berks, 920 Van Reed Rd. #2, Reading, 610.374.4531. aaa.com
3. Make Learning Fun.
For the kiddo you know who has been bitten by the acting or art bug, gifting a class at the Yocum Institute for Arts Education in Wyomissing is the perfect solution. You can even sign up online! Want to check out what’s coming up? Yocum Institue for Arts Education, 1100 Belmont Avenue, Wyomissing, 610.376.1576. institute-of-arts.org
4. Share the Floral Love.
With a floral share from The Rustic Bunch in Leesport, you can gift fresh, gorgeous, locally grown and seasonal bouquets to the recipient of your choice weekly, monthly, or even for the entire season (April-October)! Choose the plan and they’ll do the rest – including delivering bouquets in the Berks County area. $80 and up. The Rustic Bunch, Leesport, 610.413.2737. squareup.com/market/the-rustic-bunch-llc
5. The Gift of a Spa...ahhh...
At Bell Tower Salon & Spa, experience is everything. Treat those special to you to a gift they will enjoy and remember. Choose a seasonal specialty Gift Package, select a service from the distinguished menu, or create a unique spa experience by combining several services. Bell Tower Salon & Spa, 18 State Hill Rd., Wyomissing, 610.372.6379. belltowersalonspa.com
6. A Clean Car.
Visit Auto Spa of Wyomissing to purchase an unlimited monthly car wash experience for that special someone who takes pride in a pristine vehicle. Packages start as low as $30/month. Better yet, you’ll be supporting small business and a lifelong family of Berks residents – the Bresslers – who have been giving back to the community for more than 20 years. What’s not to love? Auto Spa of Wyomissing, 2232 State Hill Rd., Wyomissing, 610.678.3300. autospaofwyo.com
A gift is a physical embodiment of appreciation for a friend or loved one. It can come in many forms. It can be fun. It can be useful. It can open the doors to a new experience. It can be and do many things, but most importantly it should be purchased with the recipient’s individuality in mind. This year, we’ve compiled some great items you can buy right here in Berks at retailers big and small. Grab a piece of paper and start your shopping list now!
1. A Cock-A-Doodle Do.
Know a rooster or farm décor lover? Then this charming and colorful fan might be the perfect gift and is surely a conversation piece! It’s fun and functional! Pick it up for $105 at Velvet Ears Pet Shoppe in Douglassville. Velvet Ears Pet Shoppe, 105 Griffith Drive, Douglassville, 610.385.0686. douglassvillepets.com
2. Get your Grill on.
For the grill pro or the weekend grill enthusiast, this Weber Q 1200 Gas Tabletop Grill is a winner. It’s small but mighty, offering big features like two fold-out side tables for more prep space, a built-in thermometer, and a push-button electronic ignition. Available in a variety of colors. $199. Weaver’s Hardware, Fleetwood: 610.944.7681; Douglassville: 610.385.4800. weavershardware.com
3. Turn it up.
Know someone who loves to play music on his or her iPod and quirky, classic finds, too? Get this! The sculpture, melds a sousaphone, French horn and car horn to create a sound rivaling any electronic speaker. Place your iPhone or iPad in the appropriate holder, stream music, and be amazed. $1,500. Curious on the Avenue, 605 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.685.3996. Facebook.com/curiousontheavenue
4. Video on the go.
GoPro, that is. With the GoPro HERO4 Silver Action Camera, it’s easy to capture 4K video action with the help of the device’s wearable, mountable design and touchscreen controls. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities make it easy to capture footage with family and friends, making it perfect for that social media-savvy friend or family member. $349.99. Best Buy, 1701 Crossing Drive, Wyomissing, 610.375.3340. bestbuy.com
5. Go Long.
Get kids back outside again! The lightweight, battery-operated Ball Cannon™ can be used by one or more players to launch a NERF football up to 100 feet with a perfect spiral. Invented right here in Berks by Fred Hafer, it features a system capable of changing the ball angle and more. $499. Frevon, Inc., 1017B MacArthur Rd., Reading, 610.370.7060. ballcannon.com
6. Stay cool - or hot.
These Hydro Flask bottles in various shapes and sizes can keep beverages cold for 24 hours or hot for up to six, making them perfect for the person on the go. Even better, they come in an array of colors and offer a lifetime warranty. $24.95-$59.95. East Ridge Outfitters, 635 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 844.376.4327. eastridgeoutfitters.com
1. A World of Fun.
Small in size but carrying a big WOW factor, these handcrafted globes simulate perpetual motion using ambient light and the earth’s magnetic field. That’s right; they move on their own. How cool is that?! It’s great for a world-traveler friend or a child just learning geography. $142.75-294. It’s a Gift!, 720 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.373.0960. itsagift.org
2. Chocolate with Sprinkles.
Who doesn’t love delicious nonpareils poured from the finest chocolate? For sweets lovers, these burgundy dark and ultra milk chocolate varieties freshly made at Billy’s Candies are a sure hit. $16.50/pound. Billy’s Candies, 4949 Kutztown Rd., Temple, 610.929.1673. billyscandies.com
3. Beware of the Tickle Monster.
The Tickle Monster Laugh Kit includes magical monster mitts, the Tickle Monster book and a gift box with magnetic closure. The story is written by best-selling and award-winning author and actress Josie Bissett. Tickle Monster’s mission will be to bring joy and laughter. $34.95. Sunshine Blue Skies, 86 Commerce Drive, Wyomissing, 610.375.0445. sunshineblueskies.com
4. Snuggle Up.
Know a youngster who loves to dress up and cuddle up, too? Then Blankie Tails may be perfect! The mermaid tail and shark body blankets are crafted from incredibly soft, double-sided plush material that’s lined inside. They’re machine washable and fit most children ages 3-12. $34.99. Learning Express of Wyomissing, 746 Woodland Rd., Wyomissing, 610.372.8697. learningexpress.com/store/Wyomissing
5. One-of-a-kind Find.
Want to score something unique for the stuffed animal lover you know that seemingly has everything? Grab a Yeti from Kooky Bird, based in Wyomissing. This lovable softie is handmade with shaggy fur and a felted face, and each has a unique personality to suit kids of all ages. $35. Kooky Bird, Wyomissing. Etsy.com/shop/KookyBird, facebook.com/kookybirdtextiles
6. Brain game.
Know a math wiz, or more specifically a geometry or board game lover? Then get this. Geometry Strategy is an award-winning game developed in Sweden that’s been considered for MENSA competitions, being highly acclaimed by players who enjoy mental challenges and interacting with like-minded individuals. $32. Evelyn & Harriette’s Gifts, 1232 Oysterdale Rd., Oley, 610.987.6055.
1. Berks’ Best Recipes.
The second edition of Savoring the Seasons at Weaver’s Orchard is filled with more than 150 recipes for using and preserving local produce. Each includes a seasonal produce item customers can find at Weaver’s Orchard sometime during the year — from asparagus in April to pumpkins in October. They’re a great gift for food lovers and cooking enthusiasts alike! $19.99. Weaver’s Orchard, 40 Fruit Lane, Morgantown, 610.856.7300. weaversorchard.com
2. For the After Party.
Or after the party, that is. Give the host or hostess the gift of some indulgent relaxation with this Rose Vanilla Milk Bath Soak. Made with Epsom and Himalayan sea salts, it’s soothing, hydrating and refreshing. $5 for a 4-ounce customized jar. A Touch of Grace, 215 E. First St., Birdsboro, 610.582.0040. atouchofgracebody.com
3. A Place for Pretzels.
Great for the party-thrower and for throwing pretzels in, this original Robesonia Redware Pretzel Bowl is available at the Reading Public Museum for just $58. If the bowl isn’t what you’re looking for, be sure to check out the other finds in the gift shop. Reading Public Museum, 500 Museum Rd., Reading, 610.371.5850. readingpublicmuseum.org
4. Deck the Halls.
Know a beer enthusiast but want to get him or her more than the standard gift card or case of his or her favorite brew? Pick up a hop ornament handcrafted from recycled beer cans by Lizz Gehrer of Berks County at The Barley Mow. $20. The Barley Mow, 719 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 484.926.2094. barleymowbeer.com
5. Good Smells Galore.
For the host or hostess who loves to cook, run to Paisley & Company and pick up a kitchen sink set in a wonderful scent. A Frothie foaming hand soap and hand and body lotion pair is cutely wrapped, ribboned and presented in a gift bag for easy giving. We love the Lemon-Mint. $15. Paisley & Company, 275 W. Main St., Kutztown, 484.646.9515. paisleyandcompany.com
6. A Unique Snack.
Unique Pretzels, that is. Gift something sweet to your host or hostess with assorted chocolate- covered Splits from the Laureldale location. The 13-count box features six milk chocolate, six dark chocolate and 1 extra-unique pretzel in the center. $11.95. Unique Pretzels, 215 E. Bellevue Avenue, Reading, 610.929.3172. uniquepretzels.com
1. Birds of a Feather.
For a bird or nature lover, even an avid hunter, this might be the perfect out-of-the-box gift. The hand-blown borosilicate glass bird houses an ethically-obtained feather perched upon a forest-found wooden stand. $61.50. Dancing Tree Creations, 220 S. Reading Avenue, Boyertown, 484.415.0014. dancingtreecreations.com
2. They’re Soaps, Surely.
Unusual fragrances like tobacco, English tea, sandalwood and eucalyptus make this set of four decadent soaps a standout, but perhaps even cooler is that they pay homage to famous detective Sherlock Holmes and his contemporaries. Get the 221B Bather Street Handcrafted Soap Collection for the Holmes enthusiast on your list. $22. Sheila Sacks Designs, Mertztown, 484.243.0243. sheilasacksdesigns.com
3. Local Art.
For the Berks resident who’s proud of his or her hometown, this pagoda hand-drawn on a page from a Berks history book is sure to please. In a red distressed frame, its 3x3 size makes it perfect to send to friends who’ve moved away to give them a taste of home. $35. The Repurposed Page, Spring Township. therepurposedpage@gmail.com, facebook.com/therepurposedpage
4. Purposefully Repurposed.
If you’re looking for something unique and useful, check out this vintage drill coat rack created by Shari Hafer and found at Five & Divine in Wernersville. It’s the perfect accompaniment to country or cottage décor, and each piece is a little different. $95. Five & Divine, 27 E. Penn Avenue, Wernersville, 610.670.9700. fiveanddivine.com
5. Charm her.
Wow her with a two-sided bronze pendant with charm, crystal and 24-inch chain, complete with an inspirational passage and dragonfly artwork. Each piece is custom-designed and handcrafted at the artist’s Kenhorst home to inspire and motivate you or a loved one. $25. Urban Charm Beads, Kenhorst, 610.790.3244. urbancharmbeads.com
6. Gorgeous Glasswork.
If you know someone who loves to deck the halls for the holidays, get to the GoggleWorks STORE in Reading for these hand-blown glass trees in varying sizes and colors made in the GoggleWorks Hot Shop for something they can’t get anywhere else! $45-75. GoggleWorks STORE, 201 Washington St., Reading, 610.374.4600, ext. 104. goggleworks.org
.jpg.jpe)
1. Classic TimePiece.
Think timeless. Think built to last. Think Shinola’s Runwell watch when you’re looking to gift the guy you love a classic fashion accessory. The reinvigorated Shinola brand’s business owners believe that products should be made by hand in America, so a grandfather can finally pass down an American-made watch. $550. Murphy Jewelers, 16 Jetson Drive, Hamburg, 610.562.2528. murphyjewelers.com
2. Just add Sparkle.
This Sorrelli earring set from Kutztown is perfect for pairing with a dressy holiday outfit or kicking a pair of jeans up a notch. And this set of two comes cutely packaged in a gold gift box. At $60, it’s budget-friendly and fashionable for any age, all at the same time. Sorrelli, 220 W. Main St., Kutztown, 610.894.9857. sorrelli.com
3. Beautifully Monogrammed.
Nothing makes something personal like a monogramming. Visit Gipprich Jewelers, Inc., Shillington, and order the lady or girl you love the gift of a customized pendant with her initials in sterling silver, white gold, yellow gold or rose gold. Starting at $175. Allow two weeks for customization. Gipprich Jewelers, Inc., 103 W. Lancaster Avenue, Shillington, 610.777.7034. gipprich.com
4. His & Hers.
After a relaxing soak in the tub or a hot shower, a plush towel and spa wrap really tops off the experience. Grab a set for him or her, or one for each, at Initials Only in West Reading. For her, $38; For him, $35; Towels, $32 (monogramming included in pricing). Initials Only, 396 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.670.0105. initialsonlyawards.com
5. So Smooth.
Get your guy this shave set from Muddy Creek Soap Company. He’ll thank you, and you’ll thank yourself when he comes in close for a kiss. The set features a shaving soap in Bay Rum, Mint Eucalyptus, Orange Clove or Sandalwood, priced at $10 for an 8-ounce jar. They’re best applied with the Natural Badger Hair Shaving Brush, $25. Muddy Creek Soap Company, 608 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.816.7474. muddycreeksoapcompany.com
6. Perfectly Portable.
Smell great on the go with these purse-sized sprays by Vera Bradley in scents meant to evoke an emotional connection and response. The metalized glass spray containers are packaged in a colorful gift box and can be found at Coventry Corners in the Berkshire Mall, Wyomissing. $48. Coventry Corners, 1665 State Hill Rd., Wyomissing (Berkshire Mall), 610.376.0445. coventrycorners.com
1. A Family Pic with your Pet, Too!
When you’re looking to commemorate your love for family and furry friends, look no further than Willow Street Pictures. The creative team captures stunning portraits that will surely be treasured by recipients for years to come. Their creative packages start at $279. Willow Street Pictures, 2213 Penn Avenue, West Lawn, 610.375.3424. willowstreetpictures.com
2. Have Gift. Will Travel.
By giving a AAA Reading-Berks travel voucher you can allow your loved one to see the world near or far. With amusement park tickets, plane tickets, Disney trips and more, the travel agents at AAA have you covered. AAA Reading-Berks, 920 Van Reed Rd. #2, Reading, 610.374.4531. aaa.com
3. Make Learning Fun.
For the kiddo you know who has been bitten by the acting or art bug, gifting a class at the Yocum Institute for Arts Education in Wyomissing is the perfect solution. You can even sign up online! Want to check out what’s coming up? Yocum Institue for Arts Education, 1100 Belmont Avenue, Wyomissing, 610.376.1576. institute-of-arts.org
4. Share the Floral Love.
With a floral share from The Rustic Bunch in Leesport, you can gift fresh, gorgeous, locally grown and seasonal bouquets to the recipient of your choice weekly, monthly, or even for the entire season (April-October)! Choose the plan and they’ll do the rest – including delivering bouquets in the Berks County area. $80 and up. The Rustic Bunch, Leesport, 610.413.2737. squareup.com/market/the-rustic-bunch-llc
5. The Gift of a Spa...ahhh...
At Bell Tower Salon & Spa, experience is everything. Treat those special to you to a gift they will enjoy and remember. Choose a seasonal specialty Gift Package, select a service from the distinguished menu, or create a unique spa experience by combining several services. Bell Tower Salon & Spa, 18 State Hill Rd., Wyomissing, 610.372.6379. belltowersalonspa.com
6. A Clean Car.
Visit Auto Spa of Wyomissing to purchase an unlimited monthly car wash experience for that special someone who takes pride in a pristine vehicle. Packages start as low as $30/month. Better yet, you’ll be supporting small business and a lifelong family of Berks residents – the Bresslers – who have been giving back to the community for more than 20 years. What’s not to love? Auto Spa of Wyomissing, 2232 State Hill Rd., Wyomissing, 610.678.3300. autospaofwyo.com
By Nikki M. Murry & Robyn L. Jones | Photos by Tania Colamarino, Ama Photography
