Local Treasures From Harrisonburg - Wrapped & Shipped

Have you ever volunteered for a potluck and only later realized you may have wildly underestimated the assignment? Last year, my college-aged son proudly announced that he signed up to bring gravy to his work holiday potluck because “that has to be easy.” He wanted to make the gravy himself, and I had to laugh because the process of cooking gravy (and then transporting gravy) quickly became more complicated than he expected.

I found a simple chicken gravy recipe, but we were still stuck on the question of How does he get it there and keep it warm until lunch?

While brainstorming, we stumbled across tiny crock pots. Yes, they exist! And they turned out to be the perfect solution. Not only did they keep his gravy warm all afternoon, but they also became my new favorite way to serve gravy during the holidays and keep dips warm during football games. I hope this is a helpful tip if you’re someone who didn’t know about these little gems.

~Adina

I know I'm biased, but I love our little town of Harrisonburg, Virginia and our local shops that make it special. The owners are wonderful people, and it's meaningful to our family to support them whenever we can.

If you are still looking for some thoughtful gift ideas that will encourage and comfort, and that can be shipped, below are a few of our favorites from right here in the Valley.

A few ideas for pampering, relaxing, and treating someone you love (yourself included!).

With Simplicity

A clean, botanical skincare and makeup brand founded in Harrisonburg. Their products make lovely "thinking of you" gifts.

The Living Room

A woman-owned home decor shop with beautiful, unique pieces. I received this little mouse last Christmas as a gift and when I opened the box, he was holding a sweet little note just for me.

My husband's favorite place outside of home is our local bookstore, Parentheses Books. The owner's husband, Evan Friss, recently released a book about the history of bookshops-which made the New York Times bestseller list. Did you know you can order from many independent bookstores directly through Bookshop.org?

Our store production manager, Rachel, welcomed her first baby in February, and I asked her about their favorite book to read as a family. Here's her answer:

If you're looking for comforting, easy recipes, one of our most-made snacks, protein balls, is in this lovely cookbook:

Fun, meaningful, and great for groups.

Named after her grandmother, Asdelia Mae Boutique offers one-of-a-kind children's clothing and accessories. Their items make especially memorable baby gifts.

A thoughtful, simple thank-you.

For the person who loves gifts that are personal and unique.

Wooden Waves Automata

Charming, hand-crank wooden art pieces that delight both kids and adults.

The Color Box Studio

Custom, hand-drawn collages capturing a loved one's favorite places, activities, or memories.

1. These little gingerbread house treat bags might be the easiest DIY ever. They turn out so adorable every time. Fill them with treats for neighbors, teachers, friends, or tuck one into the next meal you take to someone. Such a simple way to spread a little Holiday cheer!

2. This Dinner and Dishes on Us label is a fun way to gift a restaurant gift card! Not having to make dinner or clean up dishes is like two gifts in one, and we’ve even created a free printable for you to use! 

Don’t have Instagram? Click here for the printable link!

3. Taking a meal doesn’t have to be difficult or stressful; give yourself grace and opt for a store-bought meal if that’s easier. Nadia put together this meal from Costco, and it was a great option for her friend who just had a baby!

4. This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is made all in one pot and is ready in only 30 minutes. This casserole can also be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking! It’s cheesy, comforting, loaded with broccoli, and super simple to make and take!

Don’t have Instagram? Click here for the recipe! 

5. Don't forget that sweet ending to your delicious meal. Here are some wonderful ideas for you to make and take.

Take Them A Meal is an easy (and free!) online tool for coordinating the delivery of meals to loved ones. If a friend is ill, elderly, or welcoming a child, you can rally their community to take them meals. We also offer delicious, fully-prepared meals that can be shipped directly to their door!

Surprise your loved ones with a delicious, chef-made meal delivered straight to their door. Explore Shipped Meals

Our culinary team has tested each of these recipes to make sure we can heartily recommend them. Explore Our Recipes

Check out these thoughtful and practical gifts including engraved spoons, meal carriers and more!

We’ve included a few affiliate links in this post. If you buy something, we might earn a small commission. We only recommend things we genuinely love!