Wonders never cease (Photo by Amanda Heironimus)
On our way to pick up groceries this afternoon, we’re taking what we believe (or hope) to be a shortcut through The Forum shopping center parking lot, minding our own business, when we spot four letters that pique our curiosity. Four letters that may eternally change the way we shop for gifts (which is to say, hopelessly and belatedly).
Lotions and Tea Cups and Bags, Oh My! (Photo by Amanda Heironimus)
A whimsical emporium of wonders and delicacies, NOFO appears to answer all my gift-giving anxieties. Named for its original location on North Fourth, its new home is not what you’d call enormous. However, its many shelves are so brimful that we circle the place at least three times and on every lap discover something new. The best part? EVERYTHING is the perfect gift.
Temptation To-Go (Photo by Amanda Heironimus)
Baby shower coming up? Give her what is possibly the hippest (and waterproofest!) diaper bag in town.
Mom’s birthday around the corner? Try a sampling of NOFO’s elegant bath and body products along with a handmade bathrobe.
Significant other been down lately? What better way to perk them up than a box of gourmet cupcakes, iced within an inch of their lives?
Got the dad who’s got everything? We can safely say he does not yet own The ZING!, a colorful spring-loaded spoon guaranteed to cause trouble at the dinner table (and we mean that in the best of ways).
Pick Your Poison (Photo by Amanda Heironimus)
Seriously. This place has a something for everyone. But, lest we be responsible for sending you into a paralyzing and life-scarring fit of sticker shock, be forewarned that NOFO’s merchandise leans toward the steep end of things. That said, keep in mind that most of the store’s gift items are made either locally or regionally, many of them handcrafted, and long-lasting in nature. We’re talking staying power AND supporting local and handmade crafts. For that, we’re typically willing to put down some extra bucks.
Among the local wares are a line of chocolates by Bliss Chocolatier, a company out of little Brevard, North Carolina, as well as Raleigh-based KarmaVida. KarmaVida specializes in artisan jewelry and donates ten percent of all profits to social or environmental charities. (All of this is explained to us by the guy behind the counter who has enviable earrings, fierce emo hair and expert knowledge of all of NOFO’s products).
And should you work up an appetite whilst gift-stalking, NOFO’s sister cafe provides a fascinating setting in which to dine. An underwater wonderland where local artists’ renderings of a silvery school of fish and other colossal sea creatures loom overhead, the cafe serves lunch and dinner menus featuring fresh local ingredients. No time to spare? Try the to-go counter instead, and snag a slice of one of the monstrous cakes they’ve displayed (specifically to test your will power or lack thereof, we think).
Leaving NOFO, it seems a weight has been lifted from our shoulders. We walk a little taller, we carry our chins a bit higher, we breathe a little easier. Because this year, damn it, our gifts are going to be awesome.
And somehow we still remember to go to the Food Lion.
Maritime Mealtime (Photo by Amanda Heironimus)
Drink Like a Fish? (Photo by Amanda Heironimus)
Swell 