Holiday Gift Guide 2022

Welcome to our 12th annual Holiday Gift Guide!

Each year, our team puts together our top, hand-picked gifts to help you explore new ideas for everyone on your holiday list. Our gift ideas include everything from experiences to tangible, practical, affordable, and sentimental gifts. We hope you enjoy browsing our 2022 Holiday Gift Guide!

Happy holiday season to you and yours.

- The VIA Team

Bethany Patton's Picks:

Woman-Owned Wallet | Stickers

Contrary to popular belief the Happiest Place on Earth™ isn't Disney World, it's actually Woman-Owned Wallets in NuLu. This little shop which I lovingly refer to as "Woman & Woman First" (Portlandia anyone?) is sure to put a smile on any Millennials' face and make them forget about all those student loans during the holiday season. All of their products are made by women, hence the name. Their selection of stickers makes perfect gift toppers because sometimes it's what's on the outside that counts.

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Pet Parent Tee

For your many many friends that became pet parents during 2020, you'll find just the right gift at The Dog Shop. From treats for you to your Scooby-Doo this shop will leave them begging for more. My personal fav is the Dogs Are The New Kids Tee. Did I buy one? No, I bought two.

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Rochester Brainery

Take a class together! For the person that has everything, the one thing they are missing is more quality time with you! Memories made together are timeless, priceless, and gift wrap free. For those of you who happen to find yourself in my neck of the woods, check out the Rochester Brainery or New York Kitchen for a wide range of classes from cooking to candles and everything in between.

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Jason Clark's Picks: ​ ​ ​

Project Hail Mary

From Andy Weir, author of "The Martian". Recently out on paperback, this is the best science fiction book of the last five years. Super fun read, and also one of the best audiobooks I've heard. Yes, I'm a nerd. I've both read and listened to the book. It's that good.

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TRANSMIT Medallion Necklace

Some friends and I booted up a dance music event company two years ago. Since then we've hosted over 30 live-stream and in-person events. It's been really fun to bring people back together. With the branding, I've been asked if I'm part of a cult now, so I'll take that as a compliment. Get your space necklace here!

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The Gift of Framing

I remain an avid art collector and having seen great art and memories fade by the sun, I am an advocate for putting that art in a nice frame with UV glass. I've been using Deck the Walls in St. Matthews for years, and they have never let me down. The owner, Chasson Higdon, is honest and friendly and has great taste in art. Tell him we sent you!

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Anker 100W USB C Charger

...and throw in some reliable cords with that. This is how boring my life is now. Our house is littered with ancient USB chargers, and now that my last micro-USB device (buh-bye old Kindle) has been retired, USB-C is ubiquitous. Still, for some reason, I'm always searching for a charger. This charger has great ratings and is supposed to be a super-fast charging solution for phones, laptops, and all your other USB-C gadgets.

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Nick Stewart's Picks:

Ninja | CREAMi Ice Cream Maker

The Ninja CREAMi is an absolute game changer! It allows you to make ice cream, sorbet, and gelato at home, but without the mess of normal ice cream makers. Everything is confined to pint containers, which are dishwasher safe, and making frozen treats are a breeze. For example, a mango sorbet can be made with just a can of diced mangos (that's all) and comes out perfectly.

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Dusk on the Western Range

A good friend of mine wrote and published his first book this past year, Dusk on the Western Range. It's a mix of Star Wars meets the Wild West with the pandemic on top of it all — it’s a very enjoyable read.

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PoolRX+

Strange item for a holiday guide, but I'm telling you this made pool upkeep so much easier this past summer. I was able to drop this in the filter and really only messed with Chlorine the rest of the time, nothing else. Our pool never turned green and we never had any issues.

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Ben Wilson's Picks:

The Zwift Indoor Cycle Trainer

Before Peloton, there was Zwift, the virtual indoor cycling app that allowed you to ride, race, and train on virtual roads using your own bike. Now, after Peloton has imploded, Zwift has launched their own trainer contraption for a fraction of the cost of a Peloton bike, or for other indoor trainers like the Wahoo Kickr. If you've got a road or mountain bike, you can hook it up here and start "Zwifting" from the comfort of your basement.

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Duluth Trading Company | Gardening Overalls

I resisted these for a long time. What is this, the mid-90s? The mid 1890s? Naw... it's 2022 and these well-made, multi-functional, super-comfy overalls are the perfect gardening/camping/DIYing 'fit. The material is lightweight, the stitching is supreme, and do NOT get me started on the pocket situation. Also available in a superior women's version that has a gnome pattern and buttoning roll-up cuffs (c'mon Duluth! Dudes want to roll their gnome bibs, too!).

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Hori Hori Gardening Knife

What if I told you you could mix gardening and stabbing? Well, you CAN and it's just as effective as it is therapeutic. You can dig a tiny grave for your un-ergonomic spade and trowels with this useful, easy-to-clean, multipurpose gardening weapon... er tool.

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Chelsea Neal's Picks:

Louisville Tea Company

This Lyndon tea shop feels like it could be straight out of Stars Hollow. They have a huge selection of 150 different loose-leaf teas that you can sample at their tea bar, as well as cute giftables like teapots, mugs, and infusers. My personal favorite tea blends (so far!) have been Ambrosia and Fairy Garden.

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Better Every Day Journal

I'll admit I bought this journal on a whim after seeing it on TikTok but was surprised at the quality of both the materials and the questions! There are 365 prompts that will guide you on a year-long journey through topics like self-awareness, personal growth, and creating happiness, making it the perfect gift to kick off 2023.

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One Hour Flight Lesson

For the folks who always have to have the window seat on the plane, how about trying the views from the cockpit? Your flight instructor at Louisville Aviation will ask you what you want to get out of the experience, whether that's learning how to fly the plane and doing some touch-and-go landings, or just enjoying the ride and sightseeing in Louisville from a whole new altitude. Either way, it's unforgettable!

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Keena McCarthy's Picks:

WTF Notebooks

These are more than just journals with funny covers. Each inappropriate, awkward and awfully honest book title aims to poke fun at life in ways we can all relate to. They playfully highlight the flaws we’re all too proud to admit and remind ourselves that, after all, we’re just human.

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Pura

In search of smell-good items for the home that are non-toxic? Pura Diffuser and oils are perfect to replace Candles. There are no additives, chemicals, or toxins in anything that is Pura branded. It has been their goal as a company from the very beginning to offer scents that are safe to diffuse around our families and pets.

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3 in 1 Wireless Charger

This is great for travel, home, or work. It’s compact and can be set up in any location. It has three charging stations so you can use it to charge your iPhone, Apple Watch, and Airpods.

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Morgan Plappert's Picks:

Headspace Annual Subscription

Always looking for cheat codes to improve my mental and physical health. Headspace is 1 of those. I love their sleep casts to help me drift off, their guided running meditations, and just the quick "headspace" opportunities they provide for any and all situations. If I'm sitting in traffic, sometimes I'll pop on a five minute guided meditation. Having that as a resource in your pocket at all times is amazing. It's a yearly investment worth making.

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Our Place | Always Pan

Non-stick, non-toxic. Equally important attributes. We have waaaaaay more pots and pans than we need. They're awkward to store and I really only use one or two. But this is one that does it all, so I could donate the old and only have one, do-everything pan. Plus, it's nice looking enough to leave out as decor. Amazing!

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Louisville Zoo + Kentucky Science Center Dual Membership

Having an almost 3-year-old and a newborn on the way, we’re always looking for family activities that don't cost a lot and will keep everyone entertained. Sometimes it's walking around Cosco aimlessly for an hour and sometimes it's a bit more rewarding and educational. Being able to walk to the Zoo from our house AND get in for free year-round? Sign. Me. Up ... Please?

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Shayne Brill's Picks:

World Wildlife Fund

When I was a young girl (many moons ago), I remember a beloved aunt who adopted a panda from WWF for me as a Christmas gift. I don't know what I adored more, the cuddly little stuffed animal or looking at the certificate knowing I was helping an endangered animal. Now as an adult, I love receiving the WWF Gifts catalog every year and making a donation to help support WWF's global efforts to protect wild animals and their habitats. Do you know someone who loves sea turtles? blue-footed booby? narwhal? two-toed sloth? There’s an animal for everyone! Plus, when you donate not only are you supporting such a worthy cause but you can now pick a stuffed animal, fun socks, or even a bobblehead to commemorate your donation!

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The Light We Carry by Michelle Obama

I quickly breezed through our former first lady's book, Becoming, when it was first released and I am super excited to read her latest book, The Light We Carry. Mrs. Obama is an inspiration to many of us. I appreciate her honesty, her candor, and her natural ability to make others feel at ease and included. I truly can't wait to learn more valuable lessons from this amazing role model who teaches lessons like “starting kind,” “going high,” and assembling a “kitchen table” of trusted friends and mentors. Order below or from your local bookstore!

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Peepers

A little over ten years ago I had LASIK eye surgery. The surgeon told me that I was a great candidate but joked that in time "my arms would get shorter." I gave him a puzzled look and he said due to my age, I would need readers in the future (ouch!). Well, that inevitable day has come and after seeing numerous friends and colleagues wearing these cute peepers, I finally broke down and bought myself two pairs. They are super cute and affordable so you can buy multiple pairs!

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Ajla Bedzetovic's Picks:

Malin + Goetz | Perfume Oil

Shopping for a perfume enthusiast can be tough, but they’re sure to love one of these perfume oils by Malin + Goetz. My personal favorite is the Dark Rum — which possesses hints of leather, bergamot, and rum. I wear this perfume oil whenever I want, regardless of season, because it's that versatile. Thank me later.

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We’re Not Really Strangers | Card Game

I don’t even know where to start with this game, but please, keep reading! If you’re looking to reconnect with an old friend, have deep conversations with a family member, or practice more gratitude in your love life — this game is for you. The thing is, this game is for everyone. This specific deck has three levels: Perception, Connection, and Reflection. As you go on, the game requires you to dig deeper, but the beauty is that in between those tough questions, there are funny, light-hearted questions and reminders. How does the game end? Whenever you want. The only requirement is that you write a note to the other player that they’ll open once you part ways. Check out their expansion decks, too!

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Smartwool | Socks

I’m a quality over quantity person who appreciates all things comfort. Naturally, that makes me a lover of the Smartwool brand. I love their socks because they're made of merino wool, are long-lasting, and comfortable. This is a practical gift that the receiver will get good use of. Shopping for an athletic person this holiday season? Check out their socks made for various sports like hiking, running, skiing, and more.

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Morgan Reining's Picks:

Letterfolk | Tile Mat

This tile mat is an all-purpose mat that’s functional, beautiful, and my favorite part — customizable. Each mat is a timeless, vintage-inspired hexagon tile design and features removable caps that can be used to create endless patterns, designs, and words.

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Beis Travel | Weekender Bag

We designed this bag to take the hassle out of packing for the weekend or whichever days you’re away. Seriously, this tote’s easy-access opening makes getting everything in and out a breeze (no flashlight required). Plus, the bottom compartment is designed to keep your shoes, toiletries and travel essentials separate — you can even stash a hair dryer in there. Bonus points: there’s a zipper-pocket on the back that becomes a trolley sleeve so it fits over your luggage handle.

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Sephora Favorites | Perfume Sampler

This perfume set comes with 13 sample-size fragrances ranging from fruity florals to warm and sweet gourmands. With this sampler, you are able to try your favorites and then take the included scent certificate to any Sephora to redeem for a full size of your favorite featured fragrance at no extra cost.

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Nick Wunderlin's Picks:

Backbone One Mobile PS5 Controller

I purchased a PS5 in the fall and while I love it, it lacks the mobility offered by my Nintendo Switch. The Backbone One Mobile Controller solves that problem! It comes in Apple or Android versions. Once paired with the PS Remote Play App the Backbone controller allows you to play PS5 games anywhere on your mobile device!

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Herschel Little America Backpack

The Herschel Little America Backpack is the perfect bag for weekend trips. It offers lots of cargo volume and looks good while doing it. This is my ideal checked luggage bag for short weekend trips. The straps are comfortable, it offers a laptop sleeve and comes in a variety of colors. This is the one bag you need for a short trip.

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Gap | Vintage Soft Hoodie

I bought one of these hoodies this fall and loved it so much that I immediately ordered two more! It is soft, comfortable, and comes in a variety of colors. It can be worn on a lazy day around the house or out and about on a cold afternoon. Trust me, if you try this hoodie you will want more of them!

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Alec Robertson's Picks:

Bombas | Slippers

My wife swears by these slippers, which she can’t live without once the temperature starts trending downward this time of year. “It’s like wearing hugs on your feet,” she says, but for much less than the cost of energy-efficient windows!

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Orboot Globe

For the aspiring explorer in your life, consider this augmented-reality globe. Perfect for anyone who has access to a smart device and is too young to read and Google “Kyrgyzstan” without assistance.

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Ruffage: A Practical Guide to Vegetables by Abra Berens

Like all great cookbooks, Ruffage teaches both how to make particular dishes and how to approach cooking in an entirely new way. Organized by vegetable rather than meal-type, this book is for when you pick whatever looks good at the farmer’s market and then think, “Okay, now what?” Find the chapter for whatever vegetable you came home with and get the inspiration you need to make something delicious.

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Maya Van Irvin's Picks:

Inner Warrior | Sound Bath

For the more holistic and mindful person in your life, a sound bath would be a phenomenal experience. This experience is exactly as it sounds, bathing the body in sounds that are healing for the mind and soul. This is a true experience that any yogi or more mindful person would love as a gift!

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Actors Theatre

When was the last time you explored the offerings of Actors Theatre? Did you know that some of their work is now offered as a VR experience for only $5.99? Take your time to peruse their site as they truly have something for everyone. You can also consider purchasing a membership ranging from $5 to $50 a month which comes with a long list of benefits!

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Van's Coffee | CBD-Infused Coffee

This new-on-the-scene coffee is perfect for the person in your life that drinks coffee and takes CBD daily. Now, you can bundle the two costs for a more affordable and jitter-free coffee experience. Plus the coffee tastes amazing!

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Past VIA Studio Gift Guides

2021 VIA Gift Guide

2020 VIA Gift Guide

2019 VIA Gift Guide

2018 VIA Gift Guide

2017 VIA Gift Guide

2011 VIA Gift Guide