It's the most marvelous time of the year!
For me, tis the season to spread love, gratitude, and lots of good cheer. If you're at a loss for gift ideas, or have the perfect gift picked out in your mind's eye, but not where to find it, here's a few of my favorite East Bay artisans, jewelers, and purveyors of wonderful things to inspire your gift giving this holiday season.
Happy Holidays to one and all - and, keep it local! --ANDREA GORDON, Realtor®
JEWELRY
The 14 Karats
If this is the year you plan on "Puttin' a ring on it," hop on over to The 14 Karats. One of the East Bay's best known jewelers, when my beloved and I decided to tie the knot, we chose the long-time College Avenue jewelers to create our custom wedding bands. Since then, we've developed an enduring friendship with Lilly and Jon Moriarity, two wonderful people with amazing talent.
The Moriaritys have been creating exquisite custom jewelry in the East Bay for over 30 years, specializing in custom wedding and engagement sets using conflict-free diamonds and precious gems. I think it's the perfect place to embark on the journey of marriage
The 14 Karats
2910 College Ave
Berkeley, CA
510-644-1640
14Karats
From simple to sublime, The 14 Karats uses conflict-free gems and precious metals to create their fine custom jewelry.
Join us Saturday, December 7, 2019 for a Holiday
Trunk Show • click here for details!
M. Lowe & Company
1519 Shattuck Avenue (next to Chez Panisse)
Berkeley, California
510-486-0613
MLoweJewelry
GIFTS
Tail of the Yak Trading Company
To call Tail of the Yak a paper goods store is akin to calling Oliveto a pizza parlor.
When it comes time to deck the halls, there's no better place than Tail of the Yak. Step into a space festooned with paper flags and garlands, and delightfully whimsical chandeliers, and everything you'll need to create an eclectic and intriguing holiday mood. Delight your loved ones with gift wrapping too pretty to tear, or everything you'll need to create a celebratory altar – complete with religious effigies.
Tail of the Yak
2632 Ashby Avenue
Berkeley, CA
510-486-0613
Tail of the Yak Trading Company
From unique gift wrap and paper goods, to delicate ornaments and religious effigies, Tail of the Yak never fails to surprise and delight.
HEALTH, WELLNES & BEAUTY
Blue Mercury
​​​​​​​
I'll admit, I can't get out of this delightful store without a little something for myself. For the ultimate in self-care (and its promotion) Blue Mercury offers a dizzying assortment of whole body, hair, and skin products meant to keep you looking and feeling your best during the holidays.
Blue Mercury
2965 College Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94705
510-400-6776
Moonshadow Salon
"Beauty is a state of mind. Be beautiful."
When I want to tame the wild beast that is my bountiful head of hair, I head to Moonshadow Salon for a mini makeover. You'll look your best, and sparkle as brightly as the lights after a visit to one of my favorite salons in Berkeley.
Moonshadow Salon
2634 Ashby Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94705
510-841-4696
Hair, makeup, and spa services. You deserve it. Santa told me so. Ho ho ho!