metroland staff 2024 holiday gift guide
The holiday season is designed to be an exciting, vibrant time full of eclectic festivities and an overabundance of cookies and rugelach. But it also can be stressful for a number of reasons including, but not limited to, gift buying. We here at Metroland want to put some of the jolly back in your step by alleviating some of that stress with some easy, staff-curated selections for even the most difficult of gift recipients in your life. So before you stuff any stockings, do yourself a favor and check out our Holiday Gift Guide below, and remember to shop local this season.
High Quality Photo Prints
[Elissa Ebersold]
As a photographer, one of my favorite things to share at the holidays are meaningful ones that don’t cost much. That’s why I’m so fond of high quality photo prints. Whether it’s photos of a beloved pet, the family group photo that’s as common as a total solar eclipse, or a stunning vista you captured on your latest trip, or (often in my case) a dynamic photo of a musician, photos like these are sure to make a loved one very happy! I will never go anywhere that isn’t McGreevy Pro Lab to get my photos printed, whose prices and quality simply cannot be beat. Whether you get it framed at a place like Arlene’s Artist Materials or simply choose a frame off the shelf at a big box store, a photo print is always a sure bet.
McGreevy Pro Lab is located on 376 Broadway, Albany, and Arlene’s Artist Materials is located at 57 Fuller Rd., Albany
Horror Movie Memorabilia
[Andy Scullin]
I am an unabashed nerd. It even says so in my instagram bio. I especially love horror movies and horror movie memorabilia. When I was a kid, horror collectibles were very rare. You typically would have to order them from the back of a comic book or Fangoria magazine and then wait months for it to show up. Oftentimes when it did show up, the lack of quality was painfully evident. Now, in 2024 and beyond, you can simply walk into Nerdy by Nature in downtown Troy. There are oddities, human skulls, necronomicons, and more. But, one line of items that really has my attention is the horror movie memorabilia. From a piece of the water works building featured in the original Friday the 13th, to a piece of brick from a building that overlooks the M Street stairs from The Exorcist and much more. I personally could not leave the store with a piece of gravel taken from the exact spot in Texas where ole Leatherface did his frustrated “chainsaw dance” at the end of 1974’s Texas Chain Saw Massacre. There are so many fun items in the store for the person in your life with slightly askew tastes.
Nerdy by Nature is located at 99 Ferry St in Troy
For Boba Fans… no, not Fett
[TJ Foster]
Bubble tea has become all the rage in recent years, and honestly, it’s a welcome development. It might seem like an acquired taste at first glance, but honestly there’s something for everyone here. I for one am currently hooked on having those little popping boba pearls in a fruity iced tea. And don’t even get me started on creme brulee milk teas. Needless to say, a great, easy idea is picking up a gift card to a local bubble tea shop – might I suggest Taichi in Latham, or Eggcelent in Guilderland?
Taichi is located at 800 Loudon Rd. in Latham, and Eggcelent is located at 1660 Western Ave. in Guilderland
For the Indie Bookworms
[Dana Brady]
If there’s an avid reader on your list, a good book is always a safe bet for gift giving. I love the idea of secondhand, pre-loved items for the holidays, which makes Beldame Books in Glens Falls, NY a great option for those looking for something original, off-beat, and special. They offer an eclectic selection of used comics and genre fiction (sci-fi, horror, romance, etc.) so you’ll have no trouble finding something unique and different.
Another great independent bookstore option for those a little further south is Paper Moon in Troy, NY. They carry a wide array of art magazines, graphic novels, zines, manga, local art, and counterculture literature. You’ll have as much fun browsing the shelves as your loved one will unwrapping what you pick out.
Beldame Books is located in The Shirt Factory in Glens Falls NY, suite 118E. Paper Moon is located at 42 4th St, Troy, NY 12180
The Gift of Glow
[Sarah Michelle Sherman]
Who doesn’t love a little indulgence? From lash and brow enhancements and precision waxing to rejuvenating facials, a service at Skin & Beauty by Melissa makes the perfect gift for anyone in need of a little self-care or a well-deserved glow-up. With treatments tailored to individual needs, Melissa ensures every client leaves feeling pampered and radiant. A luxurious way to show your appreciation, this is more than a present–it's relaxation and confidence wrapped in one.
Skin & Beauty by Melissa is located at 296 Morris Rd. in Colonie
A Craft Beer Gift Basket
[Tom Miller]
I’ve always enjoyed making and giving gift baskets during the holidays. It simultaneously scratches my creative itch while also producing a personal gift. A gift basket filled with an assortment of delicious craft beer would make a great holiday gift for the craft beer connoisseur in your life. There are plenty of local craft beer breweries to choose from and one of my favorites is Wolf Hollow. They sell an assortment of 4-packs to go including a design-your-own variety pack. After selecting your beer of choice, add a Wolf Hollow pint glass, some snacks, and you’re good to go!
Wolf Hollow Brewing Company can be found at 6882 Amsterdam Rd., Schenectady
Craft Liquor
[Elissa Ebersold]
Even if you’re like me and don’t consume alcohol very much, you probably know someone who does. What better than to buy quality liquor from your own backyard? Albany Distilling Company makes canned cocktails, whiskey, vodka, and rum, all bottled in beautifully-designed packaging, perfect for drinking neat, on the rocks, or mixed into any other infinite number of cocktails. Any drinker with a refined palate (or what better time to refine them?) will appreciate the local flavors brought to you by ADCo. Albany Distilling Company can be found at 75 Livingston Avenue in Albany
For the Art Lover
[Sarah Michelle Sherman]
When you gift art, you’re giving the recipient something timeless—a piece that becomes a part of their life, and offers them a reminder of you every time they see it. At Krilo Art Studio, you’ll find more than just paintings; you’ll find forever gifts. From personalized bridal bouquet preservation pieces and custom ornaments to original works that celebrate life’s milestones—be it recovery, celebration, or mourning—Krilo creates lasting treasures that are sure to bring great depth to any space. For the art lover in your life, give a gift that holds meaning and lasts a lifetime.
Shop the Krilo Art Studio collections at https://www.kriloart.com/
RAD Soap
[TJ Foster]
If you’re in the market for a stocking stuffer for literally anyone in your life, RAD Soap has you covered. Not sure if it’s the elder millennial or the Tyler Durden in me but as I’ve gotten older, I’m not ashamed to admit I enjoy opening a nice new brick of soap. RAD is a local, family-owned company started by a mother and her two sons in their kitchen sink in Schenectady. Now they have a wonderful flagship store in Stuyvesant Plaza in Albany. All-natural products, never tested on animals – what more could you want? Whether you’re looking for a unique gift, or just a not-so-subtle way of telling your loved one they could use a shower, look no further than RAD Soap. Honestly, they should put that in a commercial.
RAD Soap is located at 1475 Western Ave. in Albany
For The Folky Decorating Folk
[Rory Graham]
Is there someone in your life that can’t get enough of that primitive, folk art style in their home decor, no matter the season? Head on over to The Speckled Hen in Scotia or Fo’Castle Farm Country Store in Burnt Hills to find that perfect addition for their home. The Speckled Hen features a wide variety of treasures from candles and linens to pottery and more. The quality is top-notch and who doesn’t love a one-of-a-kind, handmade piece? Over at Fo’Castle Farm Country Store, dishes, jewelry, pillows, and decorations galore are at your fingertips from the very minute you walk in the doors. Not to mention, you can grab a delicious pie or some cider donuts to bring to the party (or to your house…I’m not judging).
The Speckled Hen is located at 14 Saratoga Rd, Scotia. Fo’Castle Farm Country Store is located at 166 Kingsley Rd, Burnt Hills.
Poison Noises x Local Artist Effects Pedal
[Andy Scullin]
Poison Noises are not only competitive in the national market of guitar pedals, but founder Jordan Withers has made a concerted effort to help out bands and musicians right here in the 518 by offering custom guitar pedals that are designed in collaboration with local bands. The Sugar Hold, The Hauntings, Lucas Garrett, and E.R.I.E. are just a few of the dozens of local bands with custom guitar pedals. If you are interested in creating your own custom guitar pedal, Poison Noises has a link right on their website to begin the process. Or, you could visit the link below, find out which local bands have a custom pedal and reach out to them to add a 518 band’s pedal to your pedalboard.
https://www.poisonnoises.com/collaborate
For the One with the Green Thumb (or who Tries to Have One)
[Elissa Ebersold]
There’s always someone who makes loving plants part of their personality, and what a great facet of a personality to have. This person knows how to liven and brighten up their space with a little greenery, and the perfect place to add a piece to their indoor jungle is Faddegon’s Nursery. Faddegon’s has perennials, annuals, tropical plants, succulents, and more. The helpful staff will have all the tips, tricks, and tools you need to expand someone’s gradient of green. And if they want to dine amongst the greenery, a gift card to enjoy some food and drink at Emry’s Garden, or some coffee at Little Peck’s will add a little hygge to your holiday gift-giving.
Faddegon’s Nursery is at 1140 Troy-Schenectady Rd, Latham, Emry’s Garden is at 2 King Street, Troy, and Little Peck’s is at 211 Broadway, Troy
In Lieu of Material Gifts…
[Erin Harkes]
I prefer to give the gift of experiences rather than a physical gift. I find that my husband buys everything that he wants for himself. Most people tend to have everything they need these days! So I usually like to buy concert tickets! I get my mom a membership to The Egg each year. And I usually ask for gift certificates to a spa because it’s something I don’t always treat myself to but definitely something I need!
The Gift of “Me Time”
[Sarah Michelle Sherman]
Looking for a holiday gift that feels as good as it looks? A gift card to Premier Hair Lounge in Albany is the perfect way to spoil a loved one. From bold color transformations to beautiful blowouts and revitalizing treatments, this salon delivers more than just great hair. A visit to Premier Hair Lounge is a thoughtful way to show you care, offering someone special the gift of a little “me time.” Expert stylists, personalized service, and a peaceful atmosphere make this gift one they won’t forget.
Premier Hair Lounge is located at 2573 Western Avenue in Altamont
Massage by Vinnie
[Sarah Michelle Sherman]
Give the gift of relaxation this holiday season with a gift certificate to Massage by Vinnie. Whether it’s for the friend who works too hard, the partner who deserves a little pampering, or even that impossible-to-shop-for relative who “doesn’t need anything,” a massage is a thoughtful way to show you care. With personalized sessions from the comfort of your home, office, or hotel, this is the kind of gift that’ll leave any recipient feeling refreshed and renewed.
You can reach Vinnie at 518-327-8557.