Shopping With Ken: A Holiday Tradition Gone Rogue

Suggestions welcome!

“One can never have enough socks," said Dumbledore. "Another Christmas has come and gone and I didn't get a single pair. People will insist on giving me books.”- J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

It is indeed in full bloom and I don’t mean the Christmas cactus residing in the upper reaches of N3 World Headquarters and Endless Emporium of Decorative  Christmas Spirit sometimes referred to as ‘Bronner’s West’.

We’re talking gift seeking season. When you’ve Black-Fridayed, and Cyber-Mondayed all those deals on the array of electronics, gadgetry, and big items from big places it becomes time to truly shop. I mean set out on the hunt for those whose gifts might take a tad bit of thought and exploration while providing a smidge more meaning than, say, a gift card or other artful dodge.
Never fear.

Shopping With Ken (aka SWK) began several years back to shine a light on finding unique places for present buying pursuits. Having long been in possession of a personal prowess for procrastination, particularly when it comes to seasonal gift buying, starting SWK led to forging forward much earlier than the traditional day or two before Christmas, once an annual endeavor. Of course waiting until the clock starts ticking down is still the norm but the early exploration helps narrow the field of gifts when the “What do you mean Christmas is this Monday?” panic begins to settle in.

I truly empathize with those who are mystified when it comes to  finding just the right gift. I mean we all want our present to be valued if not downright treasured, right? It’s just that time seems to always be at a premium these days so this is our effort to bring a little perspective, perhaps provide a pointer or two for those in need of ideas.

Thus the journey ahead. Starting this week  we will explore some area options, in search of unusual, eclectic, adventurous or frighteningly useful items for gifting and follow through with checking out any reader recommendations that might sound compelling.

So send suggestions via email ([email protected]) or through our comment section under this story and the crack SWK team will investigate and report on the grand array of gifting opportunities that thrive here in our beloved Near North. Remember, off-beat, non traditional, distinctive, quirky, novel and eccentric ideas are especially welcome. 
Here’s one of our stories from last year
https://www.nearnorthnow.com/features-and-fun/shopping-with-ken-the-quest-for-creativity-brings-us-to-bitely

Now send us those ideas, folks.And of course always remember….
Buy Local,
Be Local,
Rock the Mitten.