I hope you enjoy this little gift guide, everything mentioned is truly my fav, and fyi, no one has paid me to list their goods and/or service, I’m just a true believer in it, promise.

shelagh favs
True North Cabin Cookbook cover,

True North cabin cookbook, Vol II.

by Stephanie Hansen

This is truly a northern cookbook. The recipes and stories are from her time at her Northern Minnesota cabin (on an island!). It’s a fun read, as well as great recipes.

Makers of Minnesota

Minnesota Makers gift guide

Be sure to check this guide out. Tons of local businesses, from cooking classes (that’s right, I’m in there!) to art, jewelry. You’ll for sure find something for that hard to find person with this list. Thanks Michelle!

DotPlaid

Hand-dyed and hand-lettered paper goods, stationery and linens. Chris’ work is beautiful, I ordered some beautiful Christmas cards. She also holds art classes in Stillwater, those are really fun!

moloney's irish imports signage

Moloney's Irish Imports

Hand’s down, the best place in town for imported goods from Ireland. From cookbooks, Irish meats (they are from Chicago, but as close as we’ll get!), goodies, pottery, jewelry and of course, gorgeous Irish sweaters. The owners Emma and James are darling too, head on over to Grand Ave and say hi.

Burnt sugar

Melinda is a pastry chef by trade and started Burnt Sugar to reintroduce some old favorites to us all. She also creates new ones, like her Coal (as she says, ‘A little something for the mischief makers.’ ) Now, who will get this Coal in their stocking this year? đŸ™‚

Tasty Tin

Show up with a gift that feels thoughtful and delicious.  Thembi’s herbs and spice combinations are the bomb. She’s known for her Garlic Dust, and it’s fantastic! Great hostess gifts too.

A-Jar opener

This is my friend Angie’s business (formery Gustola Granola Queen), her grandpa invented this years ago, and Angie brought it back to life. Opens jars easily and  mounts under a cabinet to it’s always available. Your aging hands will thank you, mine already do!

Forage to Fromage

Artisan Cheese Pairing and Education. The exciting world of artisan cheese can be intimidating but Kerry here to help guide you. From cheese selection for your cheese board or pairing with your favorite libation! Private classes available.

Salad Girl

Why wouldn’t you give this delicious dressing as a gift. This gorgeous elixir is locally made and all organic. Use it for so much more than just salads.

edible minnesota magazine

Edible Minnesota

This publications hits all the is free, but you can also be a subscriber and get it in your mailbox (and who doens’t like getting ‘real’ mail, not junk!). 

This magazine supports a vibrant, regional food system here in the Midwest. They will be publishing a few of my recipes in the Winter 2026 issue, woot!

3 bottles of Homemade Irish Cream

Homemade Irish Cream

This is one hostess gift your friends will use (I mean drink!). This stuff is so good, but sure to make soem for yourself.

the buttered tin

The Buttered Tin

My new friend Alicia has been feeding Saint Paul sweets and breakfast since 2013. Catering, bakery, breakfast and brunch. Bring a friend, or order up some yum.

Good Things Cookbook

Good things cookbook

by Samin Nosrat

The author or Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat. She’s brilliant and funny too. She really makes sense of flavor combinations and good food.

clay coyote bread pot

Clay Coyote

Clay Coyote makes art you can cook with, and they make it right here in Minnie. ‘Nough said. This bad-boy is on my Christmas list, please Santa!

Emerald lounge

This is one of my favorite spots to go for a drink and some nibbles. Great atmostphere, friendly service. I love it here.

sunrise flour milll illustration

sunrise flour mill

I’m not joking (iykyk), this is the only flour I use, and I bake a lot of sourdough. It’s consistent, locally milled and heritage wheat. Plus they are darn nice peeps.

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Join our Irish Adventure!

GrĂ¡Bia

Food Tour of Ireland

A small-group culinary journey through Ireland’s most delicious regions — from artisan bread and cheesemakers to cozy village pubs.