Holiday Wrap-Up – December 2023

Last-minute holiday parties and gifts can be a whirlwind, but they can also bring unexpected joy. Last-minute doesn’t have to mean less meaningful; sometimes, it’s the spontaneity and genuine connection that make these moments truly special. Whether you are searching for a great present with Christmas right around the corner, trying to get a holiday party in before the new year or waiting until after the new year to throw your holiday party, you can trust the professionals of Lincoln to help you make last-minute gifts and parties appear as though you have been working for months.

Be Prepared for Christmas with Gifts and More

As the festive bells start ringing, make sure you’re ready for Christmas with gifts and more. Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering, shopping for presents or decking the halls with festive decorations, it’s time to embrace the holiday spirit. In the whirlwind of the holiday season, if you find yourself on the last-minute train, don’t worry! There’s still time to sleigh the Christmas game. Quick, thoughtful gifts and simple, festive touches can turn your space into a holiday haven. Hit the local shops for those charming last-minute gifts that carry a personal touch – there are plenty around!

The Refuge at Landmark Nursery and Landscaping (therefugeatlandmark.com) in Lincoln offers a unique and diverse shopping experience for all of your gift needs. This destination is a haven for carefully curated gifts, pottery, home decor and more. Whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect gift, stylish home accents or seasonal decorations, The Refuge takes great pride in featuring the freshest and most desired one-of-a-kind items.

Their experienced staff is dedicated to helping you find that something special, whether it’s a treat for yourself or a loved one. The store offers an extensive range of offerings, including home decor, patio furniture, pottery, fair trade artisan wares, gardening tools, candles, wind chimes, birdbaths, planters, seasonal gifts and showcases artists across the U.S. and abroad. With an ever-evolving inventory of on-trend and must-have items for your home or outdoor living space, The Refuge at Landmark truly stands out as a one-of-a-kind shopping destination.

For holiday gift giving, The Refuge at Landmark presents a fantastic opportunity to select a thoughtful and unique present. Their carefully curated selection of one-of-a-kind items allows you to discover a gift that not only embodies the holiday spirit but also resonates with the recipient’s love for nature, creativity and class. Whether it’s a beautiful piece of home decor, a creative and artistic gift or an elegant and timeless item, The Refuge at Landmark offers a wide range of options to ensure your holiday gift is special and memorable. It’s a destination that can assist you in finding the perfect gift to bring joy and holiday cheer to your loved ones during the holiday season.

If you are looking for a sweeter gift to bring to the table, Nothing Bundt Cakes (nothingbundtcakes.com) not only promises delicious cakes, but also offers the perfect opportunity to express gratitude and spread holiday cheer. Their beautifully decorated cakes can double as thank you gifts and exceptional Christmas presents, and the larger ones can become a stunning centerpiece for any holiday table. Additionally, their retail Bundtique adds to the festive experience by providing a variety of unique and reasonably priced items, making it easy for shoppers to find great stocking stuffers or thoughtful gifts for those who love to entertain, such as serving platters, cake plates, hand towels and more.

“We will be very well-stocked, and are prepared to handle last-minute requests. Our bakery is well-suited for those that want to pick up quick grab-and-go items, or, with a short wait, we can have something beautifully decorated for your celebration. We are also happy to deliver,” shared Nothing Bundt Cakes Co-Owner Sharon Hansen.

Last-minute gifts and party desserts are a breeze with Nothing Bundt Cakes. Whether you’re celebrating with loved ones or looking for a quick and festive gift, their cakes and accompanying accessories provide a delicious and thoughtful solution for your holiday needs.

As the holiday season quickly approaches, delving into local jewelry stores can also be a boon for securing a last-minute, yet meaningful Christmas gift. Local jewels such as Sartor Hamann Jewelers (sartorhamann.com) offer convenience and personalized assistance in addition to a unique and curated selection of jewelry pieces suitable for various tastes and budgets.

Whether you are searching for a personalized birthstone necklace, a stylish bracelet or a subtle yet classy set of earrings, these selections can express your thoughtfulness and care in a beautifully adorned package. Because you can tailor your selection to the recipient’s tastes, they’ll have no idea you put off Christmas shopping and love the attention you paid to their style and preferences.

“Diamond studs are the perfect last minute gift for Christmas. Classic studs are a versatile and timeless addition to any wardrobe. Plus, they come in a variety of sizes to fit any budget, making them a thoughtful and customizable gift for your loved ones during the holiday season!” shared Kelsey Miller, Inventory Coordinator.

This holiday, give a special gift from Sartor Hamann Jewelers that’ll make your loved one really happy. Imagine their excitement opening a beautiful piece of jewelry that shines as bright as the Christmas tree lights. Whether it’s starting a new chapter in your relationship or making their holiday super bright, this gift will be a sparkling memory they’ll always treasure and think back upon when they wear the jewelry you gave them.

Another sparkling gift that also doubles as an activity is the Nebraska Christmas Lights Show (nebraskachristmaslightsshow.com). This holiday fun will brighten up your celebration, so long as you make it while it’s open. The vibrant show will be running through January 3, and your small group can have a lot of fun for a little price. Whether you are celebrating with family, friends or both, this is one holiday event you won’t want to miss.

The show is a dazzling spectacle of holiday magic, showcasing numerous high-quality lights in vibrant colors, festive props and beloved seasonal characters. What makes it truly special is the synchronization of all lights and effects to music, creating a mesmerizing audio-visual experience that you can enjoy from the warmth and coziness of your own car. Lasting for about 20 minutes, the show spans approximately a mile, immersing you in a winter wonderland filled with the spirit of the season. It’s a perfect way to embrace the holiday cheer with family and friends.

One last gift to consider this holiday season is cold weather gear. The cold weather has hit, and Lincoln Running Co. (lincrunningcompany.com) has everything you need for the runner or walker on your list!

Not sure how to dress for this winter weather? Lincoln Running has it down to a science and loves sharing how to enjoy winter weather with the right apparel. From base layers on temperate days to highly insulated layers and jackets on the “slap in the face” cold days – they have it all. And yes, your mother was right – keep your head and hands covered to stay warm! The Lincoln Running Co. has a wall dedicated to head and hand coverings as well as December Balega and Feeture socks (buy three get one free) to keep your feet dry and warm. There is something for everyone at Lincoln Running Co!

“Our goal is to transform your shopping into an exceptional experience – one that is memorable and enjoyable. With the holiday season already upon us, you can count on Lincoln Running Co. to have everything you need, including the answers to your questions,” shared Manager Ann Ringlein.

Extending Your Celebration

Hosting your holiday party in January provides a unique and festive opportunity to extend the celebrations beyond December. Whether it’s a belated New Year’s Eve bash to welcome the year with style or a Winter Wonderland-themed gathering, January offers a chance to reconnect with loved ones after the busy holiday season, enjoy seasonal decor and treats and kick off the new year with renewed joy and enthusiasm, all without the December rush and stress. January is also a great time to throw your company party to keep it from interfering with employee and client family plans – something everyone can appreciate during the busy holiday season.

“So many are realizing what a stressful time the holidays can be. Don’t worry if you can’t fit something in. It’s almost become the norm to host holiday parties outside of December,” said Jen Miseno, Group Event Coordinator at Sun Valley Lanes & Games (sunvalleylanes.com).

Hosting a holiday party at Sun Valley Lanes & Games in January can be a fantastic way to kick off the New Year. You can enjoy the post-holiday season by offering your guests a chance to relax and indulge in the thrill of games and bowling, keeping it friendly or making it competitive. With a variety of food and drink options available, you can create a vibrant and enjoyable atmosphere for your guests, making it a perfect choice for a unique and memorable post-holiday January party.

If you are looking for a delicious, easy dessert to bring to the party, look no further than Sweet things by Marcy (sweetthingsbymarcy.com). They have something for everyone, offering a wide variety of flavors and dessert choices. You can stick with the classics or try something new – Marcy’s got it all. Whether you’re into traditional treats or want to shake things up, Marcy’s desserts bring joy to your table. It’s like having a sweet adventure, where every bite is a tasty surprise.

“My bakery specializes in authentic southern-style desserts, but I’m always trying new things to expand my menu,” said Owner Marcy Haas. “I like to blend tradition with innovation, catering to both those who crave the classic charm of southern treats and those who are up for a tasty twist.”

At Sweet Things by Marcy, the magic begins with the hands-on approach of crafting desserts from scratch. From measuring out the flour to the final touch of frosting, every step is a testament to Marcy’s commitment to delivering not just desserts, but handmade perfection. So, when you indulge in Sweet Things by Marcy, you’re not just savoring a treat; you’re tasting the genuine care and craftsmanship that goes into each amazing bite.

Another way to make your holiday party unique is to host it at the Talon Room (talonroom.com). This venue combines timeless elegance with modern enchantment for a rustic-urban charm unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. Plus, it is equipped to accommodate up to 250 people, making it perfect for celebrating employees and thanking clients – you won’t have to worry about a selective guest list!

Owner Matthew Rogge enthusiastically shared, “We’ve got your back for the holiday season! We provide catering, bar service, decoration packages and take care of setting up and tearing down the venue. Why? So you can enjoy the party! We’re all about exceptional customer service and creating unforgettable events. Let’s make this holiday season your absolute best one yet!”

After Christmas, when the festive spirit lingers and the joy of the season continues, the Talon Room is your go-to venue for extending the celebration. Whether you’re raising a toast to the achievements of the past year with your team or expressing post-holiday gratitude to valued clients, the Talon Room transforms into the perfect setting for a memorable gathering. Their team will go above and beyond to take care of everything you don’t want to think about after holiday vacations and family dinners. Wouldn’t it be nice to have a stress-free experience where you can simply enjoy the company of your guests, leaving the logistics and behind-the-scenes work in capable hands?

When planning an after-the-holiday party for a small group of family and friends, you should strive for the same stress-free, unique experience. Going out to eat to celebrate is a great way to achieve this, and by waiting until after the holidays to make plans, you’ll be able to avoid long waits and crowded restaurants – but it doesn’t hurt to still make a reservation.

The holidays are a busy time for everyone, so keeping it simple can sometimes be the best way to make it happen. Instead of going out to eat and then trying to find entertainment so everyone can spend more time together, consider combining your meal and entertainment into one stop.

At Screamers Family Restaurant (screamersdining.com), you’re in for a unique experience where dinner and entertainment seamlessly come together. Owner Kevin Witcher aptly describes it as “a built-in party with every reservation.” This one-stop destination not only offers delicious food, but also adds an extra layer of enjoyment with singing servers.

The diverse menu caters to various tastes, featuring world-class options that will make your mouth water. Using only quality, fresh ingredients in all of their dishes, Screamers will serve a meal that will light your taste buds up with more flavor than a Christmas tree has lights. What really sets Screamers apart, though, is the musical accompaniment, spanning all styles, genres and eras, ensuring a lively and engaging atmosphere.

“Who doesn’t like entertainment while dining? Especially during the holidays, festive music adds a nice touch to any celebration,” shared Kevin.

For an unforgettable holiday party after the New Year, another unique party idea is to rent a party bus. Renting a party bus is always a lot of fun because it’s like having a moving party with your friends, family, coworkers or clients. The bus has cool lights, music and comfy seats, making it a lively and festive atmosphere. You can travel around, check out holiday lights and enjoy the ride together.

“We can take your group around town or from one spot to the next in one of our six decked-out limousine-style party buses,” shared DeeDee Loomis, Owner of Tailored Dreams Party Buses (tailoreddreamslimousines.com). “Turn up the holiday tunes on our Bluetooth sound system and rock out under the LED lights!”

Tailored Dreams stands out in the party bus industry by offering a unique service – they are the sole company in the area with handicap accessible buses in their fleet. They’ve considered every detail to craft a personalized driving experience without breaking the bank. The team at Tailored Dreams is dedicated to ensuring everyone can enjoy a fantastic time. With a focus on customization and affordability, they collaborate with clients to guarantee a memorable and inclusive experience for all their guests. With a dependable and luxurious fleet of party buses that can accommodate 26 to 45 passengers, you can choose the perfect bus to suit your group’s unique style and size.

One last place to check out for your holiday party is Mi Tierra Family Mexican Restaurant (mitierralincoln.com). They are known as a spot for people to gather together and enjoy amazing food and tasty drinks with friends and family. When dining at Mi Tierra, you will be treated like family with warm greetings, friendly smiles and quick service.

MiTierra Family Mexican Restaurant boasts an expansive menu that caters to a wide range of preferences, ensuring there’s something appetizing for every guest. From traditional Mexican dishes bursting with flavors to contemporary favorites, their diverse offerings promise a culinary adventure. Moreover, their selection of refreshing margaritas and cocktails adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the dining experience, providing the perfect accompaniment to savor alongside their delicious cuisine. Whether you’re craving classic Mexican fare or seeking something new and exciting, Mi Tierra has it all.

Hosting your holiday party at Mi Tierra Family Mexican Restaurant ensures an unforgettable celebration filled with warmth, flavor and festive cheer. The inviting atmosphere coupled with their diverse menu offerings creates the ideal setting for your gathering. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a larger festive event, MiTierra’s welcoming ambiance, delicious food choices and refreshing drinks set the stage for a joyful and memorable holiday celebration.

Travel in Peace

Traveling for the holidays can be challenging when you have a pet – either you have to leave them at home (attended or unattended) or pack them with you. It can be emotionally difficult to leave them behind, as you worry about their well-being and the well-being of your home and furniture. On the other hand, finding reliable and affordable pet care options, such as boarding facilities or pet sitters, can be a logistical challenge during the busy holiday season. When working with Kenl Inn (kenl-inn.com), however, the extra obstacle becomes both a pet and owner vacation.

“We will treat your pets as if they were our own,” explained Manager Dian Quist. “Our staff understands that each pet has unique needs and preferences, and they make it a priority to cater to those needs, whether it’s providing extra playtime, offering special treats or simply giving them the love and care they deserve. At Kenl Inn, we strive to create a home away from home for your pets, making their stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.”

Kenl Inn ensures that pets missing out on the holidays with their owners still have a great Christmas. They offer a delicious holiday meal for an extra cost along with a diverse selection of brand-new toys. These items not only keep pets entertained, but also serve as excellent stocking stuffers. At Kenl Inn, they understand the importance of including pets in the holiday celebrations, ensuring that they enjoy a festive treat and a touch of excitement to brighten their day.

Whether you’re wrapping up your holiday festivities in December or extending them into January, we extend our warmest wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! As the holiday season draws to a close, we encourage you to engage with local professionals who can help you put the perfect finishing touches on your celebrations. Let’s end this holiday season in a perfectly tied bow!