Museum passport
The Christmas shopping season is in full swing. Take advantage of the New Orleans Museum Store passport while supporting local artists, crafters, maker and more. From now through December 23, present the passport at participating stores and get 20 percent off, plus you’ll be entered into a chance to win a $25 gift card or a free 1-year membership to each store’s museums. Participating locations offer something for everyone, including the Louisiana Children’s Museum, the Historic New Orleans Collection, the Sazerac House, NOMA, the Ogden Museum of Southern Art and many more. Stop by the shop at the Historic New Orleans Collection to pick up your passport, or order online here.
Pen to Paper
Now’s the time to get your holiday correspondence in order. A sincere note wishing each recipient a personal wish for the season and the new year is a great way (and a lost art) to keep in touch, especially for those that are far away. Luckily, we have plenty of local places to get cards, paper, ink and more that will set your notes apart from the crowd.
Papier Plume recently debuted their Christmas fountain pen ink collection, NOLA wreath wax seals, notecards, envelopes and more. Their website’s blog also has detailed videos on how to properly wax seal envelopes, fountain pen usage and other crafty tips.
Home Malone has plenty of funny, pretty, cheeky Christmas and Hannukah cards for everyone on your list. While there, check out their selection of New Orleans-inspired holiday décor, including the “Ho Ho Hubig’s” wreath door hanger, just in time for the return of those tasty pies.
Lionheart Prints is one of my favorite, go-to places for stationary, fine pens and pencils (there aren’t many things better than a fresh pack of pencils or pens), holiday cards, wrapping paper, gifts, you name it. Plus, their selection of fun and fresh holiday ornaments is out of the world. If you are looking for a literal “dumpster fire” “poboy sandwich” or my favorite, the “hipster sasquatch” ornament, they probably have it and more.
Local designer and illustrator Anna Wilson Schnitzler sells her unique cards and stationery as Sassy Banana Design Co. Her bright and fun cards are great to send during the holidays or anytime, or to give as gifts to your long-lost pen pal or best friend. Plus, check out her sassy “Overheard in NOLA” pencil sets.
Bonus: teach yourself basic penmanship with this calligraphy lesson for beginners.
Toys and More
Finally, it’s giving season. Add a little something extra to your gift giving list, if you can, and be sure to follow Toys for Tots New Orleans to stay posted on donation locations, how to get involved, events and more.