Holiday Gift Guide Part III - The Finale

Here it is - the grand finale of my Holiday Gift Guide series. I'm warning you - it's a little anticlimactic. We're finishing up with the men and if I'm being honest here - this last post was a bit of an afterthought. But you know, after I started looking around the store, I realized that while gifts for men aren't necessarily top of mind when you decide to shop at Hatchlings & Hens, we do have some pretty darn good finds that even the most masculine of men would appreciate. Most of them come from our collection of vintage finds, however, there are a few handmade goodies in the list too.

As mentioned in previous posts, please think about shopping small and shopping local this holiday season. I've recently seen an advertisement circulating that's the honest truth. When you decide to shop small and shop local, you're not just supporting a small business, you're also paying for a little girl's dance lessons, a young boys soccer equipment or a once-in-a-blue-moon vacation for a deserving couple. Now doesn't that feel better than stuffing the pockets of corporate America?!

If you missed my previous posts, you can find the Holiday Gift Guide for Children here and the Holiday Gift Guide for Women here. This last hurrah is short but sweet. So without further ado, the 2015 Holiday Gift Guide...for Men...

MEN

Metal File Box

What man doesn't love shiny metal?! This rustic cobalt blue file box will hold important documents or just about any other  small trinkets. This beauty is one of a matching pair.
| $10 | 

Vintage Gas Can

The patina on this oldie but goodie is amazing. Great shelf decor in a man cave or tricked out garage space!
| $15 |

Vintage License Plates

We have a large selection of vintage Iowa license plates that are perfect for the man who likes to repurpose, or great decor for your car enthusiast. Nail them to a wall as-is or use them to line a table top. Some date back to the 1960s.
| $5 - $10 |

Rustic Bait Box

Have a man in your life who loves to fish? This vintage bait box will get a conversation started in his man cave - or he can actually use it to hold worms and other live bait while fishing for The Big Catch.
| $8 |

Wood & Metal Storage Box

The corners and edges of this wooden box are lined with heavy duty metal giving it a great industrial feel. It's one-of-a-kind and perfect for storing all those trinkets men love to collect!
| $10 |

Hard Plastic Signs

These plastic signs are another fun addition for your favorite guy's man cave.  Available in a variety of phrases.
| $4 | 

Vintage Metal Texaco Truck

This little guy may be missing a wheel, but he's still got a lot of life ahead of him! Collectible and one-of-a-kind.
| $20 |

Metal Crate

Fill this metal crate with all of his favorite things and you'll have one spectacular present. Plus - he'll have a fun tote for storage after he unloads all of those fabulous gifts. Made of heavy metal bars. Approximately 18"w x 12"d x 12"h.
| $25 |

Gettysburg Address & Declaration of Independence Reproductions

Do you have a history buff in your life? Then he's sure to appreciate these unique prints of history's most important documents. The ridiculously affordable price leaves plenty of room for framing costs.
| $2 each |

Vintage Maps

Choose a map from his favorite vacation spot or maybe the location of your family cabin. Take it one step further and frame it in a vintage window. Each of these vintage maps has unique graphics. Available in a variety of states.
| $4 each |

 Original Pencil Artwork

These beauties were first introduced in the Women's Gift Guide. But, if you know a man who loves to hunt or the outdoors, he's sure to appreciate these beautiful pencil drawings. Created right here in Cedar Falls, the modern and streamline look will add a touch of nature to any room. The perfect balance of masculinity and sophistication. Available in sizes 8"x10" and 5"x7" sizes.
| $8 - $12 |

Vintage Banker's Chair

This gorgeous one-of-a-kind chair is the perfect addition to his home office space. The metal details beautifully complement the rustic wood construction. Amazingly sturdy, all four casters still roll, and more comfortable than any modern office chair!
| $65 |

Vintage Bowling Pins

STRIKE! These whimsical bowling pins make a fun shelf decor - especially if he's an avid bowler! Sold separately.
| $5 |

Metal Rolling Acres Toy Barn

Is he a farmer? Or does he just appreciate the beauty of the country? Then he's sure to love this vintage toy barn. It includes sliding barn doors, an open concept on the back side and a coordinating silo. Sold with a huge selection of barn animals and fencing.
| $45 |

Man Cave Pillows

There's nothing that says "MAN" more than buffalo check print fabric and a prowling bear. Throw it on his couch or recliner and it's a decorating accessory both of you can live with. Made from flannel and fleece. Size is 12" x 12".
| $24 |

Another great pillow for the man cave or "study" (does anybody really still have a 'study'?!). This deer head pillow is 20" x 20" and made of flannel and corduroy.
| $28 |

Vintage Arrows

Arrows are one of the hottest decorating trends right now and these vintage arrows are the real deal. Gather several in a vase or bundle them on a coffee table. Perfect for a hunting enthusiast.
| $4 each |

Metal Pan Light

Light up his life with this rustic lamp made from an old metal pan. It's rough and tough enough to complement just about any room in the home or at the office. No need to hard wire - the light kit can plug into any standard wall outlet.
| $38 |

So there you have it folks - the finale to our 2015 Holiday Gift Guide. Y'all have yourselves a very Happy Thanksgiving. I have so much to be thankful for this year and I hope you do too. I'm feeling truly blessed to be raising my babies while doing what I love! Hope to see you on Black Friday and Small Business Saturday - open both days 10 am - 5 pm!

{In all things...give thanks.}

2015 Holiday Gift Guide Part II

As promised, the second installment of my holiday gift guide.  Just a small nudge to help you shop local this holiday season. Yesterday it was all about the kiddos (if you missed yesterday's post you can find it here), and today I'm honoring the women! I'll save the long-winded intro and just get down and dirty. Without further ado...the 2015 Holiday Gift Guide...for Women...

WOMEN

Wax Melts

Fill her home with the pleasing scents of Cozy Cottage, Hazelnut. Citrus Spice and more. These 3 oz. bags of wax melts are perfect stocking stuffers and will create a warm atmosphere in any home!
| $7 | 

Hand-Poured Lotion Bars

Hand-made in Des Moines, Iowa, and available in a variety of scents. The perfect size for a handbag and sure to keep hands soft and smooth through the harsh winter months. Made from all natural ingredients.
| $5 |

All Natural Lip Balm

Pucker up! Another little lovely hand-made in Des Moines, these lip balms are available in a variety of flavors and made with all natural ingredients. Perfect as an add-on to other gifts or throw in some lotion and other hand-made soaps we offer for an awesome gift that will pamper!
| $3 |

Mason Jar Salt & Pepper Shakers

These adorable salt & pepper shakers are too cute for words! Perfect for any woman who has a love affair with vintage canning jars. Each sold separately.
| $4.95 |

Vintage Canning Lid Soap Pump

Made from vintage zinc canning lids. Pair these soap pumps with a vintage blue canning jar and you have the perfect accessory for any kitchen or bathroom. Pumps and jars sold separately.
| $7.95 |

Pantry Canisters

Give her pantry or kitchen counter some love with the beauty of vintage Ball Pantry Canisters. The lids are made of new aluminum and flip up to reveal a perfect pouring spout. Because they are so pleasing to the eye, store grains and other dry goods in plain sight and free up space in the pantry. Available in  pint, quart and half gallon sizes.
| $8 - $15 |

Night Light

Give any room a soft glow and a touch of humor with this rustic outhouse night light. Another perfect stocking stuffer. Made of aged metal and includes a light bulb.
| $9.99 |

Nursing / Teething Necklace

Need a gift for a new mother?! This Nursing/Teething Necklace is the perfect fit. Babies will love grasping this colorful accessory that's tied around mom's neck. And it's safer for baby's mouth than traditional jewelry! The tie ribbon closure allows mom to adjust the length to her own liking. Filled with wooden beads and wrapped in a cotton, that's double-stitched for extra security. Available in a variety of patterns and colors.
| $15 |

Ironing Board Art

The perfect accessory for a mudroom. Made from a wooden vintage ironing board and hand-painted.
| $45 | 

Salvaged Wood Arrow

Arrows are one of the hottest decorating accessories! This unique creation is made from 20-year-old salvaged wood. It can hang on a wall or be propped on a shelf. A great conversation starter!
| $20 |

Original Artwork Greeting Cards

Made right here in Cedar Falls by Kate Brennan Hall Illustrations, these greeting cards feature original artwork that will warm the heart or tickle the funny bone. Available with a variety of illustrations. Sold in singles or as a set of 4 or 8.
| $3.50 - $12 | 

Original Artwork Tea Towel

Another fun find from Kate Brennan Hall Illustrations, these whimsical tea towels will add cheer to any kitchen. Available in a variety of color schemes and with a huge selection of artwork.
| $12 |

Leather Cuffs

Each cuff is unique and made from recycled leather belts. Hand-made in the Cedar Valley and the perfect accessory for any outfit. Size is adjustable with two snap closures. Available in a variety of colors and patterns.
| $12 |

Pillow Wraps

Add a personal touch to a pillow in the shop, or one she already has in her home. The velcro closure on these hand-sewn and hand-painted Pillow Wraps make them easy to switch out any time you please. Made to fit an 18-20" pillow. Available with a variety of phrases.
| $15 |

Pillow Covers

Pillow covers are an affordable way to add a punch of color to any room. Made from durable canvas and outfitted with a French seam, these covers can easily be removed and washed if soiled. Made to fit an 18-20" pillow. Available in a variety of colors and patterns.

| $15 |

 Zipper Pouches

Available in a variety of sizes, zipper pouches can keep handbags organized and add a punch of color to travel bags. Available in a variety of sizes perfect for cosmetics, or with a wristlet that's perfect for an on-the-go wallet.
| $12 - $22 |

Hand-made Cross-body Bag

Repurposed from a work apron, this one-of-a-kind bag is both functional and stylish. The pockets in the apron offer plenty of storage for a cell phone or other personal items. The buckle closure and adjustable cross body strap are made from two recycled belts.
| $65 |

 Pencil Artwork

These original works of art are hand-drawn right here in Cedar Falls. A modern, streamlined look ready for framing. Available in a variety of animals and in 8"x10" and 5"x7" sizes.
| $8 - $12 |

 Milk Glass

White accessories are a perfect way to add a bit of farmhouse charm to any home. We have a large selection of milk glass in a variety of sizes and prices.
| $4 - $22 |

Reclaimed Wool Throw

Made from vintage tweed wool and backed with new cozy fleece, this blanket will keep toes toasty warm on cold winter nights. Additional vintage and new blankets are also available.
| $15 - $35 |

Reading Pillow

You first saw these featured in the Children's Gift Guide, but they're perfect for women too! Includes a handle and pocket for a book, magazine or tablet. Perfect for travel or for use at home.
| $35 |

Hand-Painted Growth Charts

Perfect for Mom or Grandma! A fun way to track how much children are growing. More practical than ticks on a wall because you can take it with you if you ever move! Made from stained lumber and hand-painted with ruler details. Available in a small selection of styles.
| $35 - $45 |

Iowa Ornament

The perfect gift for the out-of-towner. Send a little piece of Iowa with this fun ornament.
| $6 | 

Stay tuned...
We may be all about the women and children, but tomorrow we show you we can take care of the MEN in your life too!

2015 Holiday Gift Guide Part I

What better occasion to re-launch my blog?!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas and the shopping days are dwindling (at the time of posting - only 31 days left to be exact).  This coming Saturday is Small Business Saturday and the shop is OPEN. We'll also be open on Black Friday, so let us help you find a special gift this year that will be loved instead of returned.

When you shop at Hatchlings & Hens you're not only supporting my small business, you're supporting several other small businesses in the Cedar Vally and across the state of Iowa. The shop features handmade items original to Hatchlings & Hens AND from several other local women. We also have tons of other fabulous small shops in the Cedar Valley that offer just about anything on your Christmas shopping list.  Think outside the mall, people! I encourage you to shop small, shop local and support grassroots entrepreneurs this Christmas season!

This is the first in a series of posts you'll see over the next few days that will hopefully lighten your shopping load. The gift ideas are all available in our store and vary in price! And guess what - they're all under $100. Wowza! If you see something you like - you better get your cute 'lil bootie on down to the shop THIS weekend, because many are available in limited supply OR they are one-of-a-kind.

So...without further ado, I proudly present, the 2015 Hatchlings & Hens Holiday Gift Guide...for Children...

CHILDREN 

Hand Crocheted Stuffies

Hand crocheted stuffies are the perfect companion for your little tyke.
Available in a huge selection of sizes and type.
| $15-$22 |

Vintage Rocking Chair

Give your little one their own seat in their home! This timeless beauty is one-of-a-kind and includes a caned seat.
| $35 |

Night Lights

Keep those bad dreams away with a soft glow from one of our night lights. Sweet silhouettes are cut from aged metal and they include a light bulb. A perfect stocking stuffer.
| $9.99 |

Handmade Soaps

Squirt toy soaps are another perfect stocking stuffer. Encourage your little one to scrub, scrub, scrub, until they get to the toy in the middle. A variety of cute animals are available.
| $8 |

A smaller version of the squirt toy soaps, these are the perfect size for little ones' hands. Each toy is surrounded by soap to encourage your kiddo to keep washing at each bath time until the toy is set free!
| $5 |

Infant/Toddler Headband

These adorable hair accessories are made of stretchy, soft, knit fabric. The perfect addition to any outfit! Available in a variety of colors and prints.
| $5 |

Farm Animal Hand Puppets

Let your child's imagination run wild with these "cute-as-a-button" farm animal hand puppets. Made of cozy fleece and embellished with hand sewn details.
| $7 |

Vintage Toys

These toys have stood the test of time! We have a small assortment of vintage toys, based on availability.
Toys seen here vary in price.
| $8 - $18 |

 Handmade Bibs

A variety of bibs are available for your little mess makers! Pictured here are the Bibdana (perfect for droolers), Recycled T-shirt Bib and a traditional bib made of cotton and minky fabrics.
| $6 - $8 |

Superhero / Princess Capes

What child wouldn't feel special wearing one of these "super" capes?! All capes are made of satin and lined with a coordinating cotton fabric. They include a velcro neck closure and hand sewn details like the lightning bolt and crown.
| $30 |

Blankies

These pint-sized blankets are the perfect size for baby's little hands. Babies love to gaze, fiddle and suck on the ribbon of taggie blankets. The satin trim on the security blankets are perfect for rubbing and sure to soothe.
| $12 - $15 |

Vintage Rocking Horse

This vintage one-of-a-kind rocking horse would be a timeless addition to any nursery! A sturdy wood construction, with yarn details on the main and tail - this classic will stand up to the test of time.
| $45 |

Tooth Fairy Pillows

"All I Want For Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth..." A small pocket on the lower right keeps teeth in one spot so the Tooth Fairy isn't searching in the dark for tiny canines. Kids will be tickled pink to find their teeth have been swapped for cash in the morning!
| $15 |

Teething Bunnies

Speaking of teeth - those little ones who are just getting their first set of chompers will love these soothing Teething Bunnies. The wooden handle is the perfect size for baby's tiny hands and is safe for baby's mouth. The removable flannel and terry cloth teether is washable, or wet it down and throw it in the freezer for an even better relief for sore gums.
| $7 each or 3 for $15 |

Reading Pillow

Available in a variety of patterns, and all with a different saying, these Reading Pillows include a handle and pocket for your favorite book, magazine or tablet. Perfect for travel or in your favorite reading spot at home.
| $32 |

Hooded Towels

Make getting out of the bath a little warmer with a hooded towel. When warmer weather hits - these are also perfect for the pool. Made of cozy terry cloth, each includes a band of colorful trim on the hood.
Available in a variety of colors and patterns.
| $18 |

Vintage View-Finder

Another vintage toy - this one deserves a post all its own! View Finder gets kids back to the basics and away from electronic toys. It comes with a variety of scenes to gaze at that include The Flintstones, Casper The Friendly Ghost and more. A one-of-a-kind gift, in pristine condition and a bargain price!
| $10 |

Hand Painted Sign

We have a large assortment of hand-painted signs and this one would be the perfect addition to any nursery or child's room. Made of salvaged wood that has been stained a dark walnut.
| $22 |

Iowa Onesies

Know a little one living out of state? Send them a little slice of heaven an Iowa Onesie. The cotton appliqué is reinforced with stitching on the Carter's brand onesie. Available in short and long sleeve and in sizes 3-12 mos.
| $14.95 |

 Hand Crocheted Hats

Make winter days a little more cheery with these whimsical winter hats. Vary in price and sizes.
| $15-$20 |

Stay tuned...
Tomorrow --->> gifts for those special WOMEN in your life!