2025 Queen of Free’s Favorite Finds

Cherie Lowe, the Queen of Free, picked the best of the best and must-have gifts from this year’s show!

It’s hard to believe the holiday season is well at hand. Whether you’re a long-term planner or a last-minute shopper, the Christmas Gift + Hobby Show always puts me in the mood to deck the halls and bless the people I love. This year, I’ve chosen a few of my favorite things for budgets of all sizes to spread cheer and make the seasons merry and bright.

Restored Creations Soy Blend Candles

Lovingly made by the women of Wheeler Mission, give a handcrafted gift that makes a difference this year. With price points varying from $8-24, you can choose from a number of fragrances of hand poured soy-blend candles or car oil diffusers knowing that the gift you give goes well beyond the amazing aroma. Women from Wheeler Mission are given the opportunity to learn essential job skills and gain confidence through making each of these products. Then the proceeds go back into helping others overcome addiction, homelessness, and other life challenges. Your special recipient gets a gift that gives them joy and your purchase spreads joy and change.

Artist Pages Snowman Book Ornament

I love upcycled gifts. There’s something beautiful and full circle about something old being made new again. And I’m a certified bibliophile. That’s why Artistic Pages, LLC Snowman Book Ornament is high on my gift giving list this year. At only $17, your one-of-a-kind snowman ornament is made from the pages of old books and comes accented with a red scarf and a classic top hat (as any good snowman would). He’s ready to hang on your tree or be given to someone you love.

SuperSoup

Edible gifts are not only practical, but they’re also yummy too. Don’t miss your chance to pick up a SuperSoup from ForeverGreen Family Farm. Purchasing soup mixes in the grocery aisle can be a challenge if you have food allergies and need to watch your sodium intake. The offerings from ForeverGreen Family Farm feature no preservatives and are both gluten and dairy free, too! Find your favorite flavors anywhere from $10-13 and brew up some delicious soup during the cold winter.

Mimi’s Toy Box Mystery Box

I am an absolute sucker for a mystery box. I love the surprise and thrill of receiving items I didn’t even know I’d love. With a limited availability just for the Christmas Gift + Hobby Show, Mim’s Toy Box is offering both a $30 Small Mystery Box and a $50 Large Mystery Box filled with fabulous goodies. You may discover wooden or educational toys, unique kitchen accessories, festive home decor, games, candles, or other seasonal delights. Pick up your box and have your own Christmas morning experience or buy one for someone you love. Five boxes also include an extra gift! I hope you score one of those.

First Sgt. Woods Aggravation Game Board

Nothing is better than playing a game with the people you love during the holiday season. And when a classic board game doubles as a work of art, it’s even better. You could easily display these beautiful handmade wooden one-of-a-kind pieces on your walls after you finish the family fun. Constructed individually out of walnut, poplar, maple, oak, purple heart, and other woods, you really must check out these exquisite gameboards priced at $115.

No matter how long your gift list (or your wish list) is this year, the Christmas Gift + Hobby Show has what you need and maybe even a few things you want. I’m certain you’ll find a few of your favorite things just like I did

For more information on the selected exhibitors, click on the listings below.