How many times have you received a cellophane-wrapped gift basket full of stale crackers, imported sausages, and useless tchotchkes? While a common excuse for these last-minute baskets is “it’s the thought that counts,” Glow Gifts founder Courtney Kennedy isn’t buying it.  “Actually, it’s the gift that counts — when your gift supports over 80 local artisans and businesses —like Glow Gifts does,” Kennedy says. 

A Portland native, Kennedy grew up cooking, gardening, designing, and creating gifts for her family and friends. “I’ve always been inspired by the Portland artisan movement,” she explains. “When I started Glow Gifts eight years ago, I set out to reinvent the gift basket. My goal was to curate selections of modern, local products and package them to look like your brilliant artist friend put it together.” One glance at the Glow Gifts website and you’ll get the idea: baskets are filled with Woodblock chocolate, Water Avenue coffee, Olympia Provisions salami, Pendleton socks, and even copies of Portland Monthly. 

Glow Gifts provides thoughtful presents for any occasion, from boutique birthday and wedding gifts to branded corporate sets. Customers have the choice of building their own package with the help of an online gift guru, or choosing from an enticing selection of pre-made options. The SPA-ah, Snack Time, and Peace & Quiet gifts are sure-fire fall favorites, and there’s plenty more to choose from.

“We do a lot of business with local realtors,” Kennedy says. “Our Welcome Home gift set is the perfect way to introduce new Portland homeowners to the treasures of the Northwest.” The Wine Down  is yet another standout, featuring Oregon Pinot Noir, smoked salmon, artisan cheese crackers, and even a roasted-tomato dip that Kennedy concocted herself. “I searched high and low for a locally made dip and couldn’t find anything,” she explains. “So, I dusted off my own recipe and found a local woman to make it for us.” 

Kennedy is quick to admit that Portland artisans are her inspiration. “I go to their shops, meet their families, and watch them cook, roast, and build,” she says. “I love getting to know the people behind these one-of-a-kind products that no one else is offering.”

Regardless which gift set—or sets—you choose, the Glow Gifts service includes gorgeous, one-of-a-kind wrapping  and either Portland hand-delivery or quick shipping. An artful, thoughtful gift that you can feel good about giving, all at the click of a button? It’s shaping up to be the most stress-free holiday season ever.