Holiday Gifts for Every Personality

Need to pick out the perfect gift in a hurry? We’ve put together fantastic finds from Greater Des Moines (DSM) businesses based on personas. Odds are you recognize your recipient as a foodie, creative, musician, sports fan, bookworm or philanthropist and can pick up something special in any corner of DSM.

The Foodie

Selections from local purveyors will delight the taste buds of home cooks and hosts. 

• Find the right fit with charcuterie boards and boxes. Graze Craze in Urbandale has something for everyone’s taste and dietary needs, with classic cured meats and cheeses supplemented with colorful fruits, baked goods and more.
• Send a special delivery from Ulrich Meat Market in Pella. Their ‘Ulrich Trifecta’ gift box brings together Ulrich Original Pella Bologna, Ulrich Beef Summer Sausage and Ulrich Beef Sticks packed into a re-useable Insulated cooler bag.
• Browse for a bottle at Summerset Winery just outside of Indianola with a selection of wine from central Iowa grapes. 
• Shop like the pros at Bolton & Hay. Located on Des Moines’ south side, Bolton & Hay is a family-owned foodservice equipment supplier that outfits chefs and also serves the public.

Don't miss: Middlebrook Mercantile in Cumming boasts shelves of tasty takeaways. Explore small batch jams, jellies, sauces and more at this recently opened hosting hub. 

The Creative

No matter their medium, makers love to experience and celebrate their work. 

• Register them for a class at your local art center. Ankeny Art Center, Des Moines Art Center and Winterset Art Center host hands-on programming for all age groups. 

• Andy's Frame Shop on Ingersoll in DSM and The Great Frame Up in West Des Moines both deliver customized framing services.
• Stock up on 3D printing supplies at HartSmart Products in Urbandale where you can find machines and accessories for hobbyists who love to bring their ideas to life. 

The Musician

Support the soundwaves for someone who is always in the spirit to go caroling. 

• Becker Fine Stringed Instruments in Windsor Heights has hundreds of fine hand-carved instruments and bows, suitable for all talent levels, from student to professional.
• In Historic Valley Junction, Skylabs sells and restores vintage stereo equipment from the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Find turntables, speakers, and receivers as well as new and used vinyl records.
• For regular listeners of the Iowa Public Radio, a branded sweatshirt or t-shirt is sure to bring a grin. 

The Sports Fan

Whether they prefer the sidelines or stepping up to the plate, score big with these gifts. 

• Catch some arena action by gifting tickets to the Iowa Wild at the Iowa Event Center. There's also still time to sign kids up for Alpha's Pup Club, if you know of some Iowa Wolves basketball fans. 
• Why watch the game at home when Gameday Sports Bar and Arcade is around? A gift card to this bar is the right call.
• Prep for the summer at Dutchman Disc Golf in Pella. This sporting goods store is dedicated to providing the highest quality of disc golf products and accessories. 

Don't miss: Prairie Trail Sports Complex in Ankeny offers memberships to their batting cages and open gym time. Pair it with a new bat at Play it Again Sports in Clive for the perfect match. 

The Bookworm

Bookmark Iowa's independent bookstores this holiday season. 

• Seek out a discussion pick at Pageturners Bookstore in Indianola. "Somewhere Beyond the Sea" by TJ Klune is shelved as their January Book Club selection. 

• Support local authors by shopping at Wandering Racoon Books. This bookstore in Grimes keeps shelf space for Iowa authors publishing both fiction and nonfiction. 
• The Little Book in Des Moines' Historic Highland Park neighborhood is a cozy place to pick up picture books and graphic novels that encourage young readers. 

The Philanthropist

The thing they want most? To make an impact!

• Memberships to the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden support the mission-centered organization and promise warmth, year-round. Check out specific class offerings, tickets to special events, and their well-stocked gift shop, too.
• Adopt an animal from Blank Park Zoo. Adoption packages range from $50-500 and include everything from a certificate and photo to plushies and exhibit recognition. 
• Give, LLC is a West Des Moines lifestyle gift store with unique products and a commitment to giving back through monthly partnerships. Find a warm and welcoming space and enjoy complimentary gift packaging. 

Don’t miss: GIVEdsm, an online platform hosted by the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines platform collects nonprofit needs and serves as a one-stop-shop.

Need more ideas? Check out your local holiday guide or check off your holiday list using this guide.