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Last-Minute Holiday Gift Ideas: Unique Finds & Local Experiences to Shop in Maryland

Still scrambling for last-minute gifts? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a mix of thoughtful, unique presents and local experiences that will make anyone smile this holiday season! From Maryland-based date night gift certificates to out-of-the-box tech gadgets, these gifts are perfect for showing how much you care. Shop local, support small businesses, and give the gift of experience with these unforgettable presents!


Gift certificate to Carsons Creekside restaurant in Maryland for a romantic date night with waterfront views.
a perfect date night gift - a cozy dinner with stunning waterfront views. Give the gift of delicious food and lasting memories.

1. Date Night Gift Certificates: Local Experiences


Gift a romantic dinner at Carsons Creekside, a stunning waterfront restaurant. Perfect for a cozy date night with delicious seafood and great views.


For the adventurous couple, a paddleboard or kayak rental at Eastern Watersports is the ultimate way to enjoy the Chesapeake Bay together.


A gift certificate to Back River Barbershop is a thoughtful treat for anyone who loves looking their best with a relaxing grooming experience.


Give the gift of Italian cuisine with a gift certificate to Buon Appetito Essex, the perfect spot for a delicious and cozy meal out.


Who doesn't love a classic burger and fries? A gift certificate to Bennies Drive In makes for a nostalgic and delicious treat this holiday season.


Pizza & a Movie

Stay home and cuddle up with a slice (or 2) of local pie -


Don't Forget Dessert

Miss Twist Ice Cream: https://misstwisticecream.com


Adventure date gift: kayaking and paddleboarding at Eastern Watersports in Maryland on Chesapeake Bay.
Give the gift of adventure this season. Kayaking and paddle boarding on the Chesapeake bay makes for a fun and memorable date experience.

2. Out-of-the-Box Last-Minute Gift Ideas Under $20


Virtual Cooking Class Voucher

For the food lover in your life, give the gift of a virtual cooking class—a fun, interactive experience that teaches how to prepare a new dish.


Mini Terrarium Kit

A creative mini terrarium kit is a unique gift that lets them build their own little plant world. A perfect addition to their home or office!


Scratch-Off World Map

For the adventurer, a scratch-off map allows them to track their travels by scratching off the places they’ve been. A fun way to document their journey!


Relaxing grooming experience at Back River Barbershop in Maryland—perfect for a thoughtful holiday gift.
A gift certificate to a local barbershop offers a relaxing grooming experience, perfect for anyone who wants to look their best.

Personalized Puzzle

Turn a cherished photo into a personalized puzzle for a sentimental and fun gift. They’ll love piecing together memories!


Craft Cocktail Kit

For those who enjoy a good drink, a craft cocktail kit is a fun and thoughtful gift that lets them mix up some signature cocktails at home.


Handmade Soap Set

Pamper someone special with a luxurious handmade soap set, featuring calming scents like lavender or eucalyptus—perfect for self-care.


Plantable Seed Paper

Give the gift of nature with plantable seed paper, a creative and eco-friendly present that grows into beautiful wildflowers or herbs.


Adventure Challenge Book

Encourage new experiences with an adventure challenge book, full of fun and unique activities for couples, friends, or families.


Monthly Subscription Box (1st Month)

Treat them to a one-month subscription box—whether it's snacks, books, or self-care items, it’s a gift that keeps on giving all month long.


Eco-Friendly Beeswax Wraps

For the eco-conscious, beeswax wraps offer a sustainable way to store food—an environmentally friendly and practical gift.


Polaroid Camera Film

If they already have a Polaroid camera, surprise them with a pack of instant film so they can capture even more memories this season.


Mini Candle-Making Kit

A mini candle-making kit lets them create their own custom-scented candles—perfect for a creative and hands-on gift.


Gift a fun craft cocktail kit for holiday gifting—perfect for home bartenders and cocktail lovers.
A creative craft cocktail kit makes the perfect last minute gift for those who live experimenting.

Custom Spotify Playlist

Curate a personalized Spotify playlist based on their favorite tunes or memories you’ve shared, adding a thoughtful and unique touch.


Reusable Silicone Food Storage Bags

These reusable silicone food storage bags are eco-friendly and practical for anyone who wants to reduce waste while organizing food.


Personalized Name Stamp

For the organizer or crafter in your life, a personalized name stamp is a fun, practical gift that helps mark their items in style.


Shop Local, Support Small, and Give Unique Gifts


This holiday season, think outside the box and give a gift that’s both thoughtful and practical. Whether it's a local experience or one of these fun, creative gifts, you’ll be sure to make someone’s holiday extra special. And don’t forget—if you’re looking for something truly unforgettable, a gift certificate to Island View Waterfront makes for a unique and lasting gift for couples celebrating their love or planning a wedding.


Bonus: Makers of Maryland in White Marsh

Looking to shop local? Don’t miss the Makers of Maryland pop-up market in White Marsh, where you can find handcrafted goods from local artisans, perfect for last-minute gifts with a personal touch!


Shop local at Makers of Maryland pop-up market in White Marsh for unique holiday gifts from Maryland artisans.
Looking for unique, handmade gifts? Visit the Makers of Maryland pop up market at The Avenue in White Marsh for one of kind gifts from local artisans

Make Your Dream Wedding a Reality at Island View Waterfront

Island View Waterfront offers a flexible approach to wedding planning, allowing you to customize your package to suit your needs and budget.

Island View Waterfront is committed to making your dream celebration a reality. 

Contact us today to schedule a tour and start planning your unforgettable wedding or event.


About us:  Island View Waterfront is an independent, locally-owned wedding venue near Baltimore Maryland. We have been family owned and operated since 1968. What started as a small bar and marina (read the history here), we are proud to be the current stewards of this waterfront property on the Chesapeake Bay.


When you choose an independent, locally owned venue like ours, you work directly with the owner, and third generation operator Jessica, throughout your entire wedding planning process!


We are committed to supporting other locally owned wedding venues around the country. A shout-out to the following venues who are offering their continued support and encouragement:



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