Shopping Local: Gifts Ideas for the Last-Minute Shopper

If you're among those that still need help finding a gift, here are a few businesses in the Irmo area that offer items that could be what you've been looking for.

Our Hands Together

Address: 101-A Ballentine Park Road, Irmo

Specialty: Distinctive arts and crafts

Store hours: (Holiday hours) 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Christmas Eve; (regular hours) 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday

Contact: Call 803-749-0011 or visit Our Hands Together's Facebook page.

If you're looking for a place to find local works of art and the perfect gift for your crafty loved one, then Our Hands Together is the place to go. Be warned, you could spend hours looking at the hundreds of handmade pieces available so make sure you set aside some time to look around. You won't be disappointed when you enter this shop.

“We have everything from woodcarvings to pottery to jewelry,” said Sheri Carder Hood, owner of Our Hands Together. “I’ve always enjoyed things that were thoughtfully put together and different. I think meaningful, thoughtful gifts are the way to go these days.”

Seventy-one artisans including Olga Yukhno Dickey, who specializes in ceramics, stained glass and jewelry, have created unique pieces that would be the perfect fit for anyone on your list.

Ultra Supply Company

Address: 6801 St. Andrews Road, Suite 13A, Columbia (in the Quail Valley Plaza)

Specialty: Skateboards, skater apparel and accessories

Store hours: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday

Contact: Call 803-781-0805 or visit Ultra Supply Company's Facebook page. 

For the skater in your life, head over to Ultra Supply Company for all things dealing with the skateboarding culture. At Ultra Supply, you'll find high-end skateboards,  brand name T-shirts such as Crooks & Castles, hats and accessories.

Shayne Bennett, the store's owner, said the store is place to be for those interested in skateboarding or those looking for ideas on what's hot in the skating world.

Address: 6801 St. Andrews Road, Suite 12, Columbia (in the Quail Valley Plaza)

Specialty: Women's apparel and accessories

Store hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday

Contact: Call 803-407-4004 or visit Vidalia's Boutique's website.

If you're looking for women's clothing and accessories without having to visit one of the local malls, Vidalias Boutique may be the place for you. Babette Holloway, the store's manager, said the shop carries everything from jewelry and handbags to shoes and scarves.

If you own a local business and want to share your gift ideas, email the local editor at shireese.bell@patch.com.

Is shopping at local businesses a part of your Christmas shopping routine? Tell us in the comments section.