Never fear, last minute gift ideas are here

With the end of 2021 approaching, many Sammamish residents are preparing for the holidays and getting their shopping done for this season of giving. 

For those procrastinators who are looking for last-minute gift ideas, here is a guide to help find unique gifts that also support local businesses here in Sammamish.  

Peruse the smorgasbord of goods at Met Market

Metropolitan Market offers more than just fresh groceries. There is a broad variety of housewares and kitchen necessities such as mugs, plates, ceramics, and even the full set of utensils for building a cheese board. Pick up some seasonal crackers to enjoy by the fireplace or fancy holiday-themed candle holders for the candle lovers within your family or friends circle. 

For a little fun, check out their gingerbread house kits, puzzles, board games, Sammamish-themed candles, ornaments and even bath bombs. 

For those who love to cook, Met Market also stocks culture-themed collections of spatulas and mixing spoons perfect for specific cuisines, such as “Mumbai Collection” and “Marrakesh Collection.” Holiday recipe books and holiday-themed cookie cutters are also in stock. 

There is a lot of good stuff hidden at the back of this market. 

Metropolitan Market is located at 301 228th Ave SE in Sammamish. Phone: (425) 295-0456.

Gift baskets that people actually want

A holiday staple, gift baskets can nonetheless serve as a thoughtful and elaborate way to impress your recipient. Whether gifting to friends and family, or co-workers and clients, Accents et Cetera probably has the perfect customized basket of delights. 

Accents et Cetera is a family-owned business that has been making gift baskets and assortments for the last 30 years, mostly for independent and corporate customers. They create custom baskets, build flower arrangements, and sell unique artisan goods. Located near Rachel Carson Elementary School, Accents et Cetera has a charming brick and mortar store for customers to browse. 

One way to customize is to build a toy basket with books, candy, and stuffed animals. They also make a “Just Add Ice Cream” basket that features hand-picked toppings for ice cream lovers. For friends from out of town, there are baskets that include flavors and artisan goods from the Pacific Northwest, which can include locally-produced glass ornaments, self-care products, breakfast items and wine.

A new basket that has been popular is the “Northwest Breakfast Shipper,” which features organic breakfast staples and fresh jams and compotes, perfect for at-home breakfasts. 

Many of their arrangements and products can be ordered online or in-person at their store. Accents et Cetera would love it if you could call ahead so they can plan for your visit. 

Accents et Cetera is located at 1225 244th Ave NE in Sammamish. Phone: (425) 836-0810.

A stocking stuffer for your pet

If you are looking to spoil your furry friends, Mud Bay can be the answer. Located in Saffron Center in northern Sammamish, Mud Bay has premium quality cat and dog food, treats, toys and other essentials. 

Regardless of pet size, breed, temperament and energy level, Mud Bay probably has a unique product for your pet. The store is well stocked right now with holiday-themed toys and treats, cozy pet beds and petcare products. 

A gratifying aspect of shopping at Mud Bay is that a portion of the proceeds go towards supporting animal shelters. During the holidays, Mud Bay partners with several regional animal welfare organizations for its Tons of Love giving program, providing animals in need with donations of food, toys and cash. During the last holiday season, Mud Bay raised $167,289.

Mud Bay is located at 22830 NE 8th St in Sammamish. Phone: (425) 961-6490.

Celebrate the new year with a personal refresh

The COVID-19 pandemic has proven that self-care is essential for wellbeing. With the new year coming around, some people may be in the market for a total hair makeover. 

Salon 074 is a one-stop-shop for haircuts, coloring, professional makeup applications, facials, salon styling and self-care products. The salon is located in Saffron Center. 

They carry the entire Bumble and Bumble and R+Co hair product lines and many other haircare staples such as Olaplex and Kerasilk. 

Treat a loved one by gifting their services so they can go into the new year looking and feeling their best. To acquire a gift certificate for their services, visit the salon and inquire at the front desk. 

Salon 074 is located at 22830 NE 8th St, Suite 105, in Sammamish. Phone: (425) 868-6220.