Whether mom and dad help keep you in college or simply send their love via monthly care packages, they deserve to be rewarded.
Christmas is approaching, as quickly as exams, so why not take the hassle out of last minute shopping and pick up something thoughtful and original for your olds this year?
Blacksburg has plenty to offer in the way of Christmas goodies, and the best part is that most Tech students won't have to travel more then five minutes to reach the store. The lack of Christmas crowds in Blacksburg is an added bonus.
Although department stores may seem like an easy way out, shopping at local, independent stores will help strengthen the economic state of Blacksburg and result in unique gifts for even the toughest names on your list.
So ditch the Barnes and Noble and Home Depot gift cards and get mom and dad something to remember this year.
FOOD
Cooking for each other day in and day out can get boring for your parents. Why not add some excitement to your family kitchen by picking up something a little different than milk and bread.
Gourmet Pantry, on 401 S. Main Street offers food with a twist.
Specialty teas and coffees will have your parents starting their days off with something out of the ordinary.
For those who can survive without coffee, Gourmet Pantry offers gift baskets. The "best wishes basket" contains scrumptious imported products such as Belgian chocolate-covered cinnamon biscuits, ginger snaps, table water crackers, English breakfast marmalade, and gourmet nut chocolate mix for $39.99.
Looking to step it up a notch? Pick up a "gourmet basket" containing a variety of exotic flavours, from Greek olive mix to cranberry horseradish, olive oil and spices for dipping for $79.99.
Nothing pleases a sweet tooth more than fancy, handmade treats. For those of you with parents who enjoy the occasional sugar hit, The Chocolate Spike, located at 119 N. Main St. Suite 103 is an ideal place to find an interesting and undeniably sweet gift.
Truffles start at $1.25 each, and fudge, toffee and solid chocolate are $16/lb.
The Chocolate Spike also offers sugar-free treats as well as specialty orders. Customized flavors, packaging and labels can really make your parents feel extra special.
HOMEMADE CRAFTS
Show your creative side this Christmas and design something original. Nothing says "I care about you, but spent all my money partying," as a homemade card. Mish Mish, located on 125 N. Main Street has all the arts and crafts supplies to get you started.
With a range of papers and craft supplies, a homemade Christmas card with a personal touch isn't far from reach, and you can bet it will stay on the fridge until next year. If you're up for taking it one step further, a drawing or painting is another possibility to consider.
JEWELRY
Originality is the key when it comes to giving gifts that mean something, and Capone's Fine Jewelry at 101 N. Main Street specializes in custom designed jewelry.
All jewelry is handcrafted, which creates a range of possibilities to design the perfect piece for a special parent.
ART
If you're looking for something truly unique, AJ's Antiques and Art is the place to visit. AJ's is a family owned antique and art gallery located at 3635 S. Main Street.
Maybe dad would like a vinyl record or some sports memorabilia. AJ's also stocks vintage jewellery for mom. Prices start at $4.99.
The Matrix Gallery, located at 115 N. Main Street, also has arts and crafts to suit a range of tastes.
The gallery offers pottery, candles, jewelry, wood and more.
The Matrix Gallery prides itself on offering superb creativity and workmanship with each piece, which can help you ensure that your parents will get something made with care and commitment.
TECH MERCHANDISE
Remind your parents what they're spending thousands of dollars on every semester, with a high-quality Tech gift. Coffee mugs and car decals are easy gifts for those on a budget. And for those looking to splurge, consider some serious tailgating supplies, such as a canopy or Tech folding chairs.
Don't forget to check downtown campus emporiums if the bookstores run out of Hokie items during the holiday season.
WINE
With the price of college these days, your parents are probably drinking wine that costs the same price per gallon as milk.
Rescue them from college student-quality wine; splurge and get them a bottle of the finest Pinot Noir your budget will allow.
The friendly staff at the Vintage Cellar, 1340 S. Main Street, can even help you choose a delicious, high-quality wine.
You might be interested in...- Gift Guide: Best gifts under $20
- Gift Guide: Top 10 gifts for siblings
- Gift Guide: Ideas for that special someone
