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Guide To Buying Last-Minute Local Gifts

By Erin Marton

You're making your list and checking it twice, and sure enough, there are those last few people you still need to find the elusive perfect gift for. Why not go local? Pittsburgh has some of the finest and most unique locally owned shops around! You may just be able to wrap up your list before the clock strikes midnight on Christmas Eve (and grab a few bonus gifts for yourself while you're at it). Here are some of our recommendations for buying local this Christmas.

For the Connoisseur

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Hours: Mon to Fri 9am-5pm; Sat 9am-5pm
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Did you know that the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board has some competition? Dreadnought Wines, located in the Strip District, should definitely be a stop for you this holiday if you have a wine connoisseur on your list. Established in 1980, Dreadnought opened their current location in 1992 and they have slowly grown into a source for local wine experts and novices alike. They not only offer limited production wines, but also a variety of gift baskets through their off-shoot company, Palate Partners. In addition, they have a thriving monthly wine club. You are unlikely to leave them empty-handed, since in addition to products, the company also offers tastings and educational events that just might make you forget that it's time to buy gifts for other people. Besides, a glass of wine makes all of that present-wrapping go so much faster!

For the Fashionista

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You can't miss Jupe Boutique's vibrant blue storefront on Carson Street! Every local fashionista knows that Jupe is the location to find spot-on trends at affordable prices. Racks full of billowing dresses and tops, maxi-skirts, skinny pants and loads of accessories might make a final decision hard to make, but if you're anything like us, you will leave with a bag full of goodies, lots of people crossed off of your list, and enough left over in your wallet for a (fashionable) night out on the South Side. Even better, if you don't feel like fighting the holiday crowds, you can visit their website!

For the Class Clown

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(Photo credit: Joe Wos, ToonSeum)


Hours: Sun, Wed and Thurs 10am-3pm; Fri and Sat 10am-5pm
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It's not just a ridiculously cool museum full of untouchable comic book and cartoon art. Pittsburgh's ToonSeum also features shelves fully stocked with (touchable) gift ideas that would make any super-fan drool. Located in the Cultural District Downtown, this local attraction is where you can find collectibles, graphic novels, prints and other unique items that would be difficult to find elsewhere. Plus, a super-knowledgeable staff makes it easy to make the right choice if you are outside of your comfort zone.

For the Uber-Fan

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Hours: Mon to Fri 10am-6pm; Sat 10am-3pm; Sun season

Three cheers for Pittsburgh! You already know that Visit Pittsburgh works hard all year long to bring us good news about the city, but did you know their gift shop is a great shopping destination for the local fan? Here, you will find locally themed items such as Forbes Field memorabilia and items from the Pittsburgh Glass Center and the Frick Art and Historical Museum. Nostalgic? You will find Mr. Rogers-themed items that are sure to pull on the heart-strings of anyone who grew up in the 'Burgh. Of course, don't walk out without our favorite Pittsburgh stocking stuffers, Heinz ketchup, mustard and pickle pins!

For the Person Who Has Everything

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Hours: Mon to Wed, Fri, Sat 11am-7pm; Thurs 11am-9pm; Sun 12pm-6pm

We all have one of those people on our list. You know, the ones who have it all, the impossible to buy for. The "oh, you don't need to get me anything" people. If you have one (or two, or three) of these folks to buy for, head thee to Wildcard! Located in the heart of Lawrenceville, Wildcard is the arguably the most "local" on our list. Not only is the shop locally owned and operated, but it features the work of local artists and crafters. In addition to cards, stationary, jewelry, t-shirts and more, the shop also has a gallery space that highlights the work of Pittsburgh artists. Wildcard has been the recipient of many awards from regional publications, and its eclectic collection of merchandise grows every day as new vendors are added to the mix.

Erin Marton is a REALTOR® and the Social Media and Marketing Director for PPM Realty in Pittsburgh, PA. She is also the author of the 'Burgh Living Blog, and you can follow her on Facebook and Twitter.

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