It’s a blessing to be at the stage of life where one must search for gifts for people who seem to already have everything. Lucky for us, there are small businesses and artists in the DC area who have earned national reputations for their excellent work. Let’s circulate some dollars among us and upgrade our soul flavor in the meantime.
#1 – State of the Art *Box Set* from Labtekwon
Step somebody’s music game all the way up. Labtekwon, the Soul/Hip Hop/Club/Funk maven, is offering a box set that includes: all THREE (3) albums in his “State of the Art” series on CD, along with TWO (2) DVDs, THREE (3) t-shirts, a book, and a special bonus gift. Order at Ankhba.com.
#2 – SHEAMA Shea Butter Products
With scents like “Sexy Chocolate” and “Sensual Sandalwood”, somebody’s skin is gettin’ kissed! Whipped butters and salt scrubs for your oohs and ahhs. Customers also rave about the miraculous results seen from their Eczema Care Formulas. “Put some butter on it!” Order at Sheama-Butters.com
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#3 – Total Recon Automotive Detailing and Conditioning
That commercial in which the car is symbolized as a gigantic baby is just entirely too true-to-life for some people we know. Total Recon offers cosmetic reconditioning of domestic, foreign and exotic automobiles and motorcycles. Detailing, interior repair, headlight restoration, paint-less dent and bumper repair. Schedule your gift at TotalReconMaryland.com
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#4 – Christopher Page Apparel
For the gospel lover, the line dancer, the sorority lady, or the natural hair beauty, these mega cute t-shirts sparkle! Gospel artist Christopher Page’s affordable rhinestone and silk screen printed apparel has been a big hit on the circuit with pre-made and custom designs. Order at christopherpageapparel.com
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#5 – The G Shop by Giovanna
Fabulous comes in all sizes at this hot boutique in Bowie known for providing the “ultimate shopping experience” as customers are treated to professionalism, personal attention, and an atmosphere made for the red carpet. Glamorous dresses and showstopping ensembles for almost any occasion, in sizes S, M, L, Curvy 1x, 2x, and 3x. Shop now at the G Shop Online
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#6 – DC Funk-Flavored Literature and Self-Help for Women
Tahira Chloe Mahdi’s books God Laughs, Too: Incidents in the Life of a Black Chick (fiction, 2003) and How to Be Queen of the Universe (self-help, 2005) remain two of DC area’s coolest readable art pieces. God Laughs, Too is about a 21-year-old rapper who works for a go-go radio station, and How to Be Queen of the Universe includes 99 song lyrics and movie lines to pepper its boost of positivity. Bridging the gap between spirituality and your everyday drama. Order on Amazon from the Tuff Crowd storefront
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#7 – SimplyRaye Makeup and Beauty
This creative makeup artist has a dance, modeling, and media background, so she is very much in tune with your needs for any occasion. Peep her general rates, but also check out the option for a 2-hour personal consultation and makeup lesson. Oooh, the gift of knowing how to beautify oneself! Schedule a makeup session with SimplyRaye.
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#8 – Zumba Lessons from No Obesity Family Fitness
As more of us get back into our health groove, it’s a treat to know that we have fitness gurus who can accommodate adults, children, families, and groups. Yolanda Coppedge is a licensed Zumba and Zumbatomic instructor, spokesmodel for Decalo Weight Loss, and owner of No Obesity Family Fitness, LLC. Give the gift of a fun health adventure… to a funky beat! See what Yolanda can do for you at NoObesityFamFitLLC or call 202-549-1939.
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#9 – A Photo Shoot by ReggPhoto
Release someone special from those bathroom selfies and get them the gift of their own rock star photo shoot, courtesy of an experienced photographer who has years of experience working with celebrities and behind the scenes in television. Editorial, headshots, events, and family photos. Schedule a shoot with ReggPhoto, email reggphoto@gmail.com or call 240-460-6891.
