Shop Local: Great Stocking Stuffers

The reason I started this website was to shine a light on what makes Dallas such a fabulous city. We have many creative and talented designers and manufacturers right in our own North Texas backyard. Their contributions not only bolster our local economy, but impact our image around the world.  Throughout the holiday season, I will be bringing you a series of posts called Shop Local bringing you great gift ideas for under $250 from North Texas designers and retailers. Support local companies this season by considering their wares.

Great Stocking Stuffers...

The Big O Key Ring was created by busy Dallas Moms Janie Cooke, Caroline Nix and Jennifer Neuhoff. Made like a bracelet, each ring is 4 inches in diameter and can fit over your wrist or be pushed above your elbow for maximum flexibility and a truly hands free experience.

Each Big O Key Ring is made with scratch resistant water repellant leather ensuring it stays as O-mazing as the woman carrying it.

And when you don't need your keys anymore, toss them over the door handle for easy access next time you are on your way out… Genius.

Cost: $55

Available online at http://bit.ly/1gWoilZ or find them at Cabana, Write Selection, Five and Ten and Swoozie's.

Looking for a fun and unique stocking stuffer for your Mom, daughter, niece or co-worker? Then I suggest BlingSting Pepper Spray from Bling is the New Black.  This is personal safety at its swagtasic best.

Did you know that:
~  One in every four women will be sexually assaulted on a college campus
~  Every 2 minutes, someone in the US is sexually assaulted
~  80% of victims are under the age of 30 years old
~  Most assaults are perpetrated by someone the victim knows
~  Assaults on women over iPhones are on the rise

BlingSting provides safety in four colors: Pink, Clear, Black and Red.  The rhinestone case comes with a standard 1/2 ounce OC pepper spray included (10% concentration - 2 MM SHU) on a gold key chain clip.

Cost:  $25.00 but you can SAVE $5 if you use the code OHSOCYNTHIA at checkout!

Check out these great bracelets - for men or women - made from natural exotic skins. The Shagreen cuff on the left is $90.  The black crocodile wrap bracelet on the right is $125.  Available at Home on Bishop, 502 N. Bishop Ave., Dallas, TX 75208. http://bit.ly/199YZuZ.

I featured this item last week in my post about Great Gifts for Men, but I loved it so much I am sharing it again because it really is perfect for men, women, teens, etc.

The Abas European Belting Leather iPhone 5/5s Case is beautifully crafted, super slim and keeps your iPhone® 5/5s safe and at the same time accessible. Contrast topstitching adds subtle definition. Handcrafted of natural organic tanned Italian "belting" leather.

Available in black, brown and cognac Easy access with side thumb notches and a convenient front card pocket. Personalization is up to three initials in style shown. 5"W x 0.5"D x 8"T. Available at Neiman Marcus retail locations or http://bit.ly/1kq2EGH. Cost: $45 plain or $55 with 3-letter personalization.