If you’re trying to say “I know you, I thought about this, I follow niche Instagram pages for you,” here are some bouquet ideas that don’t feel like an afterthought, and, in some cases, don’t wilt by morning.

A bouquet you can eat, because love languages include carbs

Lahore-based florist Petal House’s blooms-and-croissants box is exactly what it sounds like, and exactly what we want. Fresh flowers paired with actual pastries feels indulgent without being try-hard — the kind of gift that invites the recipient to sit down, make tea, and slowly unwrap it. It’s romantic, yes, but also deeply practical, which might be the most underrated form of affection.

Fresh flowers, but make them feel intentional

Why do people just stick to red roses on Valentine’s Day when there’s a world of flowers and colours to choose from? Think out of the box and take inspiration from Gul Florist’s clean wraps, thoughtful colour palettes and seasonal blooms that look like someone actually made decisions. These are bouquets for people who notice texture, tone and shape — and who will absolutely photograph them before putting them in water.

The bouquet you can wear (and then dramatically remove)

This one is hard to explain until you see it, but Crochettierr’s crocheted scarf-turned-bouquet deserves the effort. Worn one way, it’s a scarf. Cinched and held another, it becomes a bouquet of crocheted flowers. It’s clever, tactile, and completely non-perishable.

A bouquet made up of many small moments

Whimsical Bloom’s tiny bouquets wrapped in different paper, gathered into one larger wrap feels playful and thoughtful in the best way. It’s like receiving several little gifts at once, each with its own personality. If maximalism had a soft, romantic cousin, this would be it.

Gajras, but make them wrist-worthy

Wonder Wool’s crocheted wrist gajras are impossibly cute and quietly nostalgic. They carry the romance of fresh flowers without the anxiety of bruising petals or fading fragrance. Plus, they last — which makes them ideal for people who want to keep a piece of the gesture long after the day is over.

A gift box that commits harder than you do

Hookonloop’s “forever gift box for your forever girlie” is unabashedly earnest, and honestly? We respect that. With a customisable bouquet, rose gajra, mini daisy keychain, chocolates, and a complimentary Flower Power scent by Faha Fragrance, it’s doing the most — and doing it well. This is for when you want the gift to feel like an event.

Calla lilies, but accessorised

This pearl-handled clutch of calla lilies is less bouquet, more fashion statement. You can carry it like a purse, hang it like an accessory, or simply admire it for existing. It blurs the line between floral arrangement and object design — perfect for someone who treats aesthetics as a lifestyle, not a phase.

If you must give roses, at least do it like this

Sometimes, roses are non-negotiable. In that case, Gulbaan’s Purple Rush burlap bouquet offers a calmer, more considered alternative. Purple roses wrapped in textured burlap feel grounded, modern and quietly romantic — proof that even the most traditional choice can be redeemed with the right execution.

At the end of the day, a bouquet doesn’t have to be extravagant — it just has to feel chosen. And that, more than roses or ribbons, is what people remember.

The popularity of tote bags, however, has led to a very saturated market. Everywhere you turn, a brand is doing their version of the tote, usually with their logo stamped across the front. Ultimately, that leaves no space for uniqueness — you, your mom, your best friend and your phuppo’s daughter’s cousin will all have similar bags (looking at you Khaadi).

Enter Block Prints by Afifa. This brand is not only changing the tote game but also the block printing realm. “Proudly made in Pakistan,” as per their Instagram, Afifa’s has a wide range, including stitched and unstitched clothes, scarfs, and of course tote bags. And here’s the thing, their products are genuinely block printed, and not screen printed like most mass-produced items.

Block Prints by Afifa sent us the most gorgeous red tote and black scarf and as soon as I saw them, I knew I had to have them — which is why I agreed to the review for them, anything for another tote bag. However, their tote bag is unlike any other I own.

The bag is made of sturdy canvas material in a beautiful shade of maroon. It is completed with stunning white block printing. Lucky for me, and you if you choose to shop from them, the brand was not at all stingy with their printing — three thick borders surround the bag and a large paisley painted light in the centre. Think ethnically chic and trendy.

It’s perfect for an outing with friends, or trips to your local market. The bag held my 13-inch laptop comfortably, along with my wallet, a book and some other knickknacks. They used thick, woven straps that seem very durable and did not budge despite all the added weight.

The best part? The endless compliments! All my friends and colleagues wanted to know where the bag was from and how much it cost. FYI, it costs Rs999, which I think is quite reasonable given its quality.

I kept the bag folded in my closet — it takes up very little space, which is super convenient — and the block print did not budge at all. There were no creases or cracks in the paint which is a testament to the excellent products they’re using. Moreover, the printing itself was seamless with virtually no smudging in sight. A bag that keeps on giving, if you ask me

Afifa’s also sent us a beautiful black scarf, complete with red painted borders and striking white block printing — a great addition to any outfit. The scarves on their website range from Rs1,300 to Rs1,600.

I would give the tote bag from Block Prints by Afifa a 4/5 stars, with one star docked because I would like it even more if it was in a bigger size and could be used in place of a work bag.

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

This article is part of an ongoing series on supporting local products. All the products are independently evaluated and reviewed by a member of the Images team and reflect their personal opinions. If you’re a local business and would like to be featured, reach out to us at imagesdawndotcom@gmail.com.

Wait! You’re a loner and you only have your parents to worry about on Sundays? It’s June 16… Your dad’s probably home. Why is an alarm bell ringing in your head?

You switch on your phone and Google “June 16” and lo and behold, you realise you’ve done it again! Another year of forgetting it’s Father’s Day. At least your dad can praise you this year for being so consistent with forgetting occasions dedicated to him. Or perhaps he too has forgotten about his big day, especially given the attention it gets compared to Mother’s Day.

Believe it or not, Father’s Day isn’t as hyped up as Mother’s Day and while we acknowledge that mothers need to be pampered for everything they’re made to endure, fathers needn’t be sidelined — especially the good ones, the funny ones (who don’t crack jokes about their wives), the giving ones, the hardworking ones, the ones who live up to society’s absurd standards for men without sharing their struggles.

So before it completely slips your mind, mark your calendars for June 16 and give your main man a gift he deserves. You can choose to spend on experiences but because fathers are so moody — and tired on Sundays — keep a present on hand to make his day extra special!

We’ve compiled a list of gifts so you don’t have to go searching for what to get him:

Grooming kit by Dari Mooch

Check out these cute Father’s Day special bundles on Dari Mooch. You can get a Father’s Day Premium All-in-One Bundle or the Ultimate Gentleman’s Care Bundle. Whatever floats your boat or fits your budget.

Gift card by N-Gents

You can never go wrong with a gift card and N-Gents has announced its Father’s Day gift cards for Rs5,000 and Rs10,000. Every dad deserves a glow-up and what better place than N-Gents to spoil a man?

Bucket of Joy by The Gifts and Giggles

“Filled to the brim with love and appreciation,” The Gifts and Giggles’ curated selection of gifts for your dad might just be the key to his joy. The Rs7,500 bucket includes a pun engraved basket, Cool Dads club tee, Dad printed sports cap, a furoshiki wrapped box of brownies, a lucite printed mug, diary bag, a stationery holder, tea leaves and mixed cookies.

Belco’s Father’s Day bundles

Speaking of bundles, Belco Chocolates has also released a list of bundles that you can choose from. These range from Rs2,592 to Rs5,500 with items like a Bliss Box of 12, Best Dad Ever chocolate bar, Chocolate Bark pouch, Belco Signature Chocolate Brownie pouch, Best Dad mug and more.

HUB wallets and keychains

If your dad’s the traditional kind (read: believes in functional presents only), you can simply buy him one of these HUB gift boxes. These range from Rs3,470 to Rs14,930 and include items like wallets, keychains, card holders, travel wallets and notepads.

Plants by Eagle’s Nest

And in case your dad’s a plant lover, you can always give him something that “grows with your love,” such as these Eagle’s Next plants bearing messages of love for fathers everywhere. You’d also be doing the environment a favour with these cuties!

1. I have big feet and I cannot lie
2. I want comfort (and am willing to pay for it)
3. I believe kolapuris beat all other types (sneakers are a close second)

Doodle Inc doesn’t only tick all three but also, true to its name, has very cool doodles on its shoes. This review will exclusively talk about their kolapuris (because point 3).

I got my first pair as a gift from a friend who dared to get me shoes. While I fell for the quirky “fairytale” design in hues of purple, blue and red at first sight, it was the fact that my feet didn’t tire in the kolapuris after a long day that made me buy three more pairs in one go.

Instead of judging my bulk-buying tendencies, let’s applaud the brand for giving their customers so many options that even choosing three was a tough task.

From Pakola to Harry Potter and elephants to graffiti, the themes are fun and give the kolapuris enough oomph to make them an effortless summertime statement accessory — and we can all agree that everything should be effortless in this heat! Add to that, the kolas are reasonably priced and the sizes are friendly for all types (big and broad included).

Do solid colour, simple kolapuris rule all shoes? Yes. But everyone should have a few non-basic options in their wardrobe, like the cheerful ones from Doodle Inc. So cheerful actually that I started humming “Hey I put some new shoes on and suddenly everything’s alright” the first day I put them on — no lie.

I’d give them five out of five stars.

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

This article is part of an ongoing series on supporting local products. All the products are independently evaluated and reviewed by a member of the Images team and reflect their personal opinions. If you’re a local business and would like to be featured, reach out to us at imagesdawndotcom@gmail.com.

But what really makes some videos stand out is the vibe or aesthetic of the reel or post. Obviously, no one’s going to be able to taste your dish through a screen, so it’s all about that visual appeal.

In this arena, Dugdugii shines and is the number one contender for being the MVP for all your food reels with their super cute pottery and ceramic creations. Think traditional meet modern with an ooze of colour — we’re talking plates, mugs, platters, coasters and bowls that scream 2024 food video goals.

The artist behind these pieces? A total genius. They’ve got the whole colour game and aesthetics nailed. Their designs? Whimsically magical, giving off major vintage and nostalgic feels while still both totally modern and practical. All these food-related products are made for practical purposes but you can stick them on your walls — especially the plates — for some extra artistic flair if that’s your vibe!

I recently bought a charming coaster — that can be used as a trinket tray too — from their website and fell in love with this small piece of art. The use of the right colours and patterns, arranged in a way that feels both systematic yet delightfully disorganised is what truly encapsulates its appeal. It’s reminiscent of how drops of paint fall on the floor while painting — each drop seems random but creates an overall beautiful look.

Funnily enough — and this is not a major factor by which to judge the product — since my olfactory receptors are always on alert, I noticed that it smells good too. There’s no odour of paint or gloss of any sort.

In terms of pricing, Dugdugii might seem expensive. The coaster I got was for Rs1,300 and with delivery charges, it went up to Rs1,600. One could argue that similar items can be found at your local Sunday Bazaar or other weekly markets for a far lower price.

The major reason for their higher prices is the use of natural gloss, which ensures that their products are completely food safe. Dugdugii also offers personalised designs tailored to your tastes and preferences, saving you the effort of searching for the perfect item. It’s hard to walk away from their stall at a fancy crafts bazaar or even their online store without buying something because their products are just so darn cute.

Besides their food-related items, Dudugii is also creating artsy candle holders, trinkets holders, trays and wind chimes. These pieces are just as cool and adorable as their food-related products and I’m sure will attract many eyes. In the case of the wind chimes, it may even pique the curiosity of birds if hung outside on a balcony or window.

For being a little pricey but being perfect in every other way, I rate them four out of five stars. Dugdugii is on Instagram @dugdugiiii and sends a manual on taking care of the items purchased from them, which also sets them apart.

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

This article is part of an ongoing series on supporting local products. All the products are independently evaluated and reviewed by a member of the Images team and reflect their personal opinions. If you’re a local business and would like to be featured, reach out to us at imagesdawndotcom@gmail.com.

We asked some Dawn employees their favourite scented candles and here are our top picks.

Ink and Poetry by Honey I’m Home

Zahrah Mazhar, Dawn.com

According to their website, it has top notes of Thai lime, heart notes of Turkish lavender and Roman chamomile and base notes of ink on parchment and Italian bergamot.

The candle can be purchased here. It’s available in three sizes and the prices range from Rs1800 to Rs5,600.

Caramel and Cacao by The Karachi Candle Company

Aniqa Atiq Khan, Prism

The candle is created with hand-churned and dry-roasted cacao, the essence of dark coffee beans, mixed with caramel in a base of dense, dried vanilla pods.

It can be purchased here and it retails for Rs3,500.

Anguri Baagh by The Karachi Candle Company

Siham Basir, Images

Anguri Baagh has a floral scent with notes of fresh grass, magnolia blossoms, tube rose and raat ki raani.

The candle can be purchased here and retails for Rs3,500.

Beach Walk Resort by Honey I’m Home

Faheem Hashmi, City FM89

The candle has top notes of salted ocean water and pink water lily, heart notes of glittery sand and plan leaf and base notes of Maldivian coconut and iris.

It can be purchased here. The candle is available in three sizes and the prices range from Rs1800 to Rs5,600.

Lavender by Hunza Candle

Muzhira Amin, Prism

According to their website, the candle is a “refreshing symphony of bergamot, lemon, and citrus, cradling the soothing essence of lavender, with a base of cedar, eucalyptus, and camphor”.

It can be purchased here. The candle is available in four sizes, with prices ranging from Rs1,700 to Rs4,500.

Soothing Sleep by Hunza Candle

Mahira Sarfraz, Dawn.com

This aromatherapy candle is going to help lull you to sleep, with notes of mandarin, neroli, coffee, and mocha blended with tonka bean, labdanum, and vanilla.

It can be purchased here, and is available in three sizes ranging from Rs2,300 to Rs4,500.

Tobacco and Vanilla by Colish

Alizeh Saigol, City FM89

This candle is described as “a sweet and spicy blend of tobacco leaves and warm vanilla coupled together with some spices in this heady scented candle”. It’s perfect for someone looking for a more masculine scent.

It can be purchased here. The candle is available in three sizes with the price ranging from Rs1,800 to Rs5,600

Motia Noir by The Karachi Candle Company

Sophie Ali, Digital Sales

An ode to the iconic motia [Arabia Jasmine] flower, this scent is one you can find across all candle companies.

You can purchase The Karachi Candle Company’s version here, it is available in three sizes with the price ranging from Rs1,300 to Rs5,100.

Gajray by Scents on Fire

Alfiya Sohail, Aurora

Another motia inspired pick. This candle is part of their upcoming Heritage collection and is not available on their website yet.

Chief Saab by Jugnu Candles

Zohaib Ahmed, Dawn.com

A masculine scent with a profile that is woody and earthy. This candle has notes of tobacco leaves, brandy with amaretto, and honey and oak. Perfect for the chief saab in your life.

The candle can be purchased here, and is available in two sizes at Rs3,400 and Rs5,500.

Nothing

Abdul Sattar Abassi, Dawn.com

Our Managing Editor has “never purchased a candle in his life”. Yes, we’re just as shocked as you are. Here’s hoping this list gives him some inspiration.

To be quite honest, I’ve been hiding this one away at my house for months because I didn’t want to bring it to work and have it finish too soon. At a whopping Rs5,000 for the 480g size, I think it’s understandable that I wouldn’t want to use it up too much but then again, it is much larger than the other candles in our graveyard.

Chief Saab is described as having scents of tobacco and oak with notes of tobacco leaves and brandy with amaretto, honey and oak.

The immediate draw of the candles was, of course, the name. I love pop culture references in candles and ‘Chief Saab’ by Sajjad Ali was one of my favourite songs as a kid, although as a five-year-old, I did think it was about a man who was very cheap, so much so that he was being called cheap saab.

The candle itself smells very masculine, but that was to be expected from the notes. It smells so masculine, in fact, that one of my colleagues said it smells like a man walked into the Images office — I’m still unsure of whether this a good thing.

I’d say the candle doesn’t have too strong a smell of tobacco — have you ever been around someone smoking a cigar or a pipe? I’ve never enjoyed the smell because it’s so achingly saccharine but this scent is just right — not too sweet.

To be honest, this is not what I imagine the OG Chief Saab smells like. I don’t know if the creator of the candle has a secret in or they were just guessing but I’d imagine a slightly different scent — lighter on the oak and heavier on the jute with hints of betel nut.

A little bit goes a long way with Chief Saab — you can burn it for a short while instead of keeping it burning for hours as we usually do and the scent will definitely remain.

To test whether it was a universally appreciated candle, I took it around the Dawn.com office to ask some people what they thought. One editor who owns the candle herself said the scent took her by surprise, in a very good way. Another said it definitely smelt like a chief saab. Everyone really liked it.

The candle is available on the Jugnu Candle website and at some stores. I bought mine at Object in Karachi. Jugnu says it creates “retro-inspired, hand-poured scented candles that are uniquely Pakistani at heart” and if you take a look at their candle selection, you’ll agree with them. They’ve got nostalgic and quirky names and great scents.

Even though it’s on the expensive side, I’d rate this candle five out of five, mainly because of the name but also because the fragrance is long-lasting and quite nice.

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

This article is part of an ongoing series on supporting local products. All the products are independently evaluated and reviewed by a member of the Images team and reflect their personal opinions. If you’re a local business and would like to be featured, reach out to us at imagesdawndotcom@gmail.com.

Do not worry though! We’ve compiled a list of presents you can get for your loved ones so you don’t have to hand them money like everyone else does. Everything on this list is quite accessible so you can head out (or online) this weekend for some Eid gift shopping.

1. Books

Books are the gift that keep on giving and you can choose a book according to the receiver’s taste. You can get fiction, non-fiction, activity books and so much more.

Some bookstores you can go to are:

Liberty Books

Liberty Books houses a wide variety of books and has stores across Pakistan, making it super easy for you to go and grab some books. They also have an online store.

The Last Word

The Last Word, based in Lahore, carefully curate their book collection and have some excellent reads that are usually not available at other local stores. Head to their Lahore branch in person or order online and have it delivered anywhere in Pakistan!

Readings

If you want a wide variety of books at great prices, Readings is definitely the spot to hit. While they only have stores in Lahore, they deliver across Pakistan if you order on their website.

2. Bangles

Nothing says Eid like the jingling of glass bangles! Head to your local bazaars to get sets of bangles for all your best girls. The best part is they are super economical AND you are supporting small local businesses. You can also find out your friends’ Eid outfit colours beforehand and get them matching bangles.

3. Candles

Who doesn’t love a good scented candle? It can be the perfect Eid present that the receiver can also make use of. While you’re shopping, you can also get yourself a couple of nice candles — it is Eid after all.

Some of our favourite candle companies are:

The Kandle Co

These hand-poured candles are available online. We would highly recommend their Pink Blossoms scent for a floral, cherry blossom vibe.

The Karachi Candle Company

Motia scented candles are really popular these days and The Karachi Candle Company makes the best ones. They are located at Khayaban-e-Ittehad in Karachi but their candles can be purchased online for delivery across Pakistan.

Hunza Candle

Hunza Candle offers a wide variety of scents at prices lower than other candle companies. They have kiosks in Dolmen Mall, Karachi, Packages Mall, Lahore and Centaurus Mall, Islamabad. They also deliver nationwide if you order on their website.

4. Home decor

If someone is hard to shop for, you can get something for their home instead! From wall hangings to vases to tableware — the world is your oyster. You can also save money and make them a painting for their space.

A couple of stores with the cutest home decor are:

Tali

Tali has beautiful ornaments in a myriad of sizes and colours. All their items are very unique and usually have a traditional touch to them. This year, Tali is also doing an Eid gift basket. Their store is located on Khayaban-e-Seher in Karachi.

Polly and Other Stories

Polly and Other Stories features beautiful handmade products made by local artisans. All of their items promote small local business which is an added bonus since their stuff is so gorgeous. Personally, we love their mirrors with Mughal-era art borders.

Their store is located in Y Block, Lahore but you can also order from their website.

5. Dessert baskets

It IS called Meethi Eid (Sweet Eid), so why not make it super sweet with some delicious treats? Here are some options!

Lals

Lals is offering several Eid baskets full of chocolates and other sweet treats at varying prices. They also have different-sized boxes of chocolates in case you wanna skip the traditional sweetmeats and opt for something different.

The hampers are available on their website and they deliver across Pakistan. (P.S. If you wanna send one to our office, we would not mind!)

Leita Gelato

Okay, we love this idea! Leita Gelato is offering a make-your-own sundae box, with ice cream, cones, and the fix-ins. Make your Eid a super fun day and build sundaes with your friends and family.

You can message the gelateria on Instagram to prebook the package, and they have a discount for the last days of Ramazan. Leita Gelato delivers in Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore and Rawalpindi.

Happy Donuts

Everyone likes doughnuts! Why not take a box to your relatives? Happy Donuts is offering different doughnut boxes for Eid that you can pre-order on their Instagram. Happy Donuts are available in Karachi and Islamabad.

If all else fails, you can always grab some fresh flowers on the way to your loved ones’ homes.

If you’re someone who has to distribute your hard-earned money to your younger relatives, we’ve got some fun products lined up for you! We’ve picked out some super cute envelopes to make the money-giving ordeal more fun for you and extra special for the person receiving it. You will definitely have the most memorable eidi envelopes, instead of those boring plain ones — and who knows, maybe you can distract everyone with the cuteness of the envelopes and get away with putting only Rs100 in them.

1. Mesmerising mosques

These envelopes from Keepsakes Pakistan come in a pack of four jewel-toned colours and feature famous mosques on the front — a perfect transition from Ramazan to Eid. They also include golden Eid Mubarak stickers to seal the envelope with.

It retails for Rs400 and is available here.

2. Funny guy

Chingari and Co have launched a set of bright envelopes with funny quips splashed across them. You will definitely get some laughs with the “iss economy mein?” (in this economy?) envelope and the millennial in your life will love the “Such Eidi. Much Wow.” envelope.

These envelopes are available in packs of 10 for Rs1,300 and can be ordered via their Instagram.

3. Minimal and floral

If you want dainty, floral envelopes, Thought Box has got you covered. These are perfect if you don’t want over-the-top envelopes. A pack of six retails for Rs875 on their website, and they also have packs of 12 and 18 available.

4. Bright and bold

Mytype.store has bright neon Eidi envelopes with a massive eidi mubarak embossed on them in funky colours. The best part about these envelopes is that they have a design on the back AND on the inside of the envelope which peaks through when the recipient opens it. The envelopes also have space for you to write a personalised message.

They are available on their website in packs of 10 and cost Rs1,250.

5. Box it instead?

Everyone and their moms give eidi in an envelope, you can change it up and give it in a cute little wooden box from Tali. Little treats for loved ones can also be placed inside the box as additional eidi. What’s more, the recipient gets a keepsake from you and can easily reuse it.

These wooden boxes cost Rs1,000 each and can be purchased from Tali’s store on Khayaban-e-Shahbaz in Karachi.

6. Plantable cards

If you want to continue the good deeds on Eid, you can get Good Karma’s plantable Eid cards. Granted they aren’t envelopes, but you can easily put the money inside the card, and add a personalised message too! The receiver can then put the card in soil and it will eventually blossom. How cool is that?! Sure, you may be spending some money, but you will also be making the world greener.

The cards can be ordered from their Instagram, however, the brand has not specified the quantity or the price.

They have six fragrances to choose from and I opted to try Wild White. You get an 8ml bottle of the fragrance oil, currently retailing for Rs1,400. The packaging is unique and I hate to admit that I needed to read the directions to understand how to use it.

When you first purchase the car diffuser you need to open the bottle and remove the seal and then screw the lid back on. The lid is made of some pervious wood/cork material that allows the fragrance oil to seep through. You then tie the diffuser to the mirror of the car, with the rope provided, and hold it upside down for a couple of seconds till the lid is saturated.

Now, coming to the fragrance of Wild White — the first thing that came to mind when I smelled it was white roses, which I’m not sure why since it doesn’t actually smell of roses. It’s a floral scent with a hint of freshness, perhaps a citrus note (I’m not great at describing scents). On the website, Wild White is described to have notes of wild daisies.

I immediately fell in love with the fragrance at the kiosk and so did a friend accompanying me. I also showed the product to several colleagues and they all liked it. However, we all agreed that it isn’t a typical car fragrance, which is what I liked most about it. It feels like you’re in the comfort of your lounge, which, considering Karachi’s traffic, is welcomed!

The Colish website states that the car diffuser lasts five to seven days, after which you can refill the bottle. However, I’ve been using it for over a week now, and it’s nowhere near the end. I think one bottle would easily take you two to three weeks before you need a refill.

All in all, I loved the fragrance and found the product to be long lasting and, therefore, great value for money at Rs1,400. You can purchase the entire kit with the refill for Rs5,000, which doubles up as a reed diffuser! I’m going to give this product five stars.

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

This article is part of an ongoing series on supporting local products. All the products are independently evaluated and reviewed by a member of the Images team and reflect their personal opinions. If you’re a local business and would like to be featured, reach out to us at imagesdawndotcom@gmail.com.

The calendar is the cutest Pakistani souvenir you could get without being too in your face. All the dates are in Urdu and each month features an adorable painting of something iconically Pakistani — like mangoes, Rooh Afza and dhols.

It’s cute, minimalist and decently priced right now — it’s on sale for Rs1,500 on their website! It’s 5.5x7.5 inches and features 12 illustrations for each month.

One thing that’s very appealing about the calendar is the paper texture — printed on card paper, it gives the product a very home-made feel, even though it likely isn’t. There’s just something about cutely printed stationery that doesn’t look like it has been mass produced in a factory.

The brand describes the calendar as being “an amalgamation of all the things that I associate with the different months in the year- like the chai-paratha combo, fresh mangoes, that first bottle of rooh-afza that marks the beginning of summer, pineapple cakes from the bakery down your street, your dadi’s tub of tibet snow and the tiger printed kambals’ that come out in the winter”.

“It’s the little things that are unapologetically yours.”

The “one woman design studio” is on a mission to bring Urdu hand lettered stationery to the world and they’ve certainly done their job bringing it to our office!

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

This article is part of an ongoing series on supporting local products. All the products are independently evaluated and reviewed by a member of the Images team and reflect their personal opinions. If you’re a local business and would like to be featured, reach out to us at imagesdawndotcom@gmail.com.

Several months ago, my quest to find a new tote bag for work led me to visit countless shops without success. It was purely by chance that I stumbled upon Khaadi’s extensive collection of tote bags in Karachi’s LuckyOne Mall outlet.

When one thinks of Khaadi, vibrant designs and colourful outfits come to mind. The brand has undeniably become a household name, celebrated for its signature patterns and designs, especially in its two and three-piece suits. Yet, what remains surprisingly overlooked are the brand’s tote bags.

While maintaining its trademark unique designs and vibrant patterns, the brand offers a splendid array of colours to choose from.

I chose a pink design that spoke to me. After months of use, it’s safe to say that aesthetics and functionality can coexist. The bag has endured numerous workdays, parties, and travels to other cities, remaining dependable and stylish.

Having such a great experience with the first tote, I couldn’t resist getting another one — this time in black. Even though it’s black in colour, it features intricate patterns in line with the brand’s signature style. I believe these designs add flair to what could have been an otherwise basic tote bag.

Now I alternate between the pink and black totes, depending on my mood. But if you were to ask me which one is my favourite, I wouldn’t be able to pick one. Both are extremely durable — one has accompanied me to Islamabad and Faisalabad, while the other has been a trusted companion as I explored the streets of Kathmandu in Nepal.

You can get them from any of the brand’s outlets for less than Rs1,000. Given their price range, aesthetically pleasing appearance and outstanding functionality, Khaadi’s tote bags earn a five-star rating from me.

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

This article is part of an ongoing series on supporting local products. All the products are independently evaluated and reviewed by a member of the Images team and reflect their personal opinions. If you’re a local business and would like to be featured, reach out to us at imagesdawndotcom@gmail.com.

We’ve compiled a list of six brands that have released something fun for Independence Day!

Super Salty Paper

They’re making both totes and postcards featuring drawings of some of Pakistan’s most famous monuments. Cute and practical!

Earthy Murky

If you thought Super Salty Paper’s tote was minimalist, wait until you see Earthy Murky’s. Simple and playing on the colours of the flag, this bag is more of a iykyk kind of patriotic symbol.

Amaltas Studio

Mirror, Mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all — this cute painted mirror by Amaltas Studio of course. They have several designs, including one of the Pakistan map, but this one was our favourite.

Keepsakes Pakistan

Do you want something that just screams August 14? Look no further. This cute little standee can sit on your desk, helping you feel extra Pakistani. The brand also has cute pouches for August 14 as well!

Takhleek Handmade Jewellery

The chand tara really are very aesthetic and what better way to sport them than via jewellery? These cute wire earrings by Takhleek Handmade Jewellery are just the right accessory for August 14 — or any other day!

Orah

Orah’s Roshanara collection features cute Pakistan flag-themed rings and earrings that will certainly help you make a statement!

Happy almost Independence Day, everyone!

From quirky products to delicious treats, these gifts are sure to put a big smile on your dad’s face, even if you’re a bit behind schedule. We have curated a selection of unique and thoughtful gifts that are sure to delight and surprise your super-dad and make him feel truly appreciated.

All-in-one acrylic box by Gift and Giggles

What’s better than getting everything in a box? From a customised polo and grooming kit to delicious goodies and a cute frame, with this amazing gift, you’ll not only express your love and appreciation but also provide your cool pops with moments of joy and relaxation on his special day.

Customised candles by Candle Works by Naheed Mooraj

These customised candles are the ideal Father’s Day gift that combine personalisation and delightful scents. You also get to choose from various scents, from the enchanting aroma of motia to the calming scent of lavender. The personalisation adds a heartfelt touch, making these candles a meaningful and memorable gift.

Basket from Art Cart by H

Time to bring a smile to your dad’s face by giving him this basket featuring a range of delightful items that he will love. From a customised mug and coaster to a sweet treat, it will not only showcase your attention to detail but also provide your dad with a combination of comfort, sweetness, and a touch of nature.

Quirky coasters from She’s Crafty

Elevate your baba’s beverage experience to a whole new level of emotions with these quirky coasters. Each coaster is a delightful mini canvas, featuring heartfelt messages. It’s a perfect way to show him how much he means to you in a fun and playful way. Also, what makes it cuter is that it’ll remind him of your love and appreciation with every sip.

Spa Day at N Gents

Treat your dad with a well-deserved break from the daily hustle and bustle by booking a relaxation experience with a spa day that’s all about him or a memorable son-dad day of pampering.

Grooming products by Dari Mooch

All dads deserve to look and feel their best, therefore you can make your dad feel special by gifting him some self-care and style grooming products. Whether you’re adding to his collection or introducing him to this new brand, it’s a great way to transform his grooming game and make this Father’s Day one to remember.

Mini cakes by Therapeutic Secrets by Amna

Surprise your dad with a delicious treat that’s as sweet as he is — mini cakes. These bite-sized wonders with customised sayings will not only satisfy his sweet tooth but also serve as a thoughtful gesture, reflecting your appreciation for his love.

When we received a package from Charm Natural, I wasn’t sure what to expect. They sent us a candle and reed diffuser from their Soul of Lahore series and I wasn’t so sure I would like it, given that I’m a Karachi girl through and through. What would I or any of my Karachi-based colleagues know about the soul of Lahore? That’s why I was so surprised when everyone who entered the Images office asked about the great smell after we lit their Lahore Botanicals candle.

In fact, one of our colleagues who will not be named even tried to sneakily make away with the candle to use it in his own less than fragrant office. A small scuffle ensued but, as always, Images won and we were able to retrieve our stolen goods.

You may be wondering what is it about this candle that is worth petty theft. When I first took a whiff of it, I wasn’t sold. It smelt too much like roses — something I abhor the smell of. But once we lit it and let it settle in, the scent changed.

The candle has top notes of clementine, citron, green notes, rose, middle notes of orange blossom, jasmine, lotus and base notes of lilac, orris, vetiver, musk. The mix transports you to a flower shop where you’re standing rather near the jasmine and roses and further away from everything else. Lahore Botanicals might not be to everyone’s taste — it does remind me strongly of a wedding — but it eventually settles in and becomes more flower shop than wedding.

The scent is incredibly strong — our room smelt like flowers hours after we extinguished the candle and set it aside, which to my mind is a major plus point. The office was in agreement that this would be a great candle to light during a dinner or party — it’ll overpower the smell of food and keep the room smelling good throughout the night.

Another major plus is how cute the candle is. It features a map of Lahore and includes the Charm Natural office! I always love it when brands put thought into their products and the map elevates this from a merely nice product to a really thoughtful one.

The candle is currently on sale for Rs2,400 on the Charm Natural website, which I think is quite a good deal. Its original price is Rs3,300, which is at par with its competitors. It’s rated a solid four stars.

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

This article is part of an ongoing series on supporting local products. All the products are independently evaluated and reviewed by a member of the Images team and reflect their personal opinions. If you’re a local business and would like to be featured, reach out to us at imagesdawndotcom@gmail.com.

Actions speak louder than words, so this Mother’s Day, show your mom how much you love her by giving something creative, practical or delicious to pair with the well-chosen flowers and card you’re getting her. Of course, finding the so-called “perfect present” comes with a lot of pressure, therefore we’ve curated a lineup of products from independent local brands that can be great presents for the mothers in your life.

Bento cake by Saaais Cakes

The newest sensation — bento cakes can be added to your Mother’s Day gift too. What’s more perfect than a cute delicious mini cake, an aesthetic ammi-mother mug, a resin coaster and a voucher for salon service? So much in one box, we love it and your mom would too.

Mini canvas paintings

The best Mother’s Day gifts don’t have to be over-the-top indulgences that take up space in their homes or closets. Something as simple as an adorable mini canvas painting is an ideal gift.

Belco’s luxurious hamper filled with goodies

Add something sweet to your mum’s life and it doesn’t have to be just chocolate. Get a luxurious hamper filled with some amazing goodies, including chocolate bars, honey nuts and scented candles, beautifully curated in a box.

A plant and scented candles by Eagle’s Nest Emporium

There’s no better gift than giving her some time to relax and you can enhance that by gifting her a bath spa basket, which has a bundle of things, including a plant, scented candles, five bathing essentials and much more.

The MAMA necklace from Noho

A little piece of jewellery to keep forever can be perfect to show your love. The MAMA necklace can be a beautiful addition to your mother’s jewellery collection.

Matching suits from Farah Talib Aziz

Spend your day with your mum and grandmum doing a photo shoot you can cherish forever, and make it cuter by twinning with them in a gorgeous suit.

Scented candles by Kandle Kart

Light up their life with timeless flower candles which unique scents.

Chocolates from Girl Gone Cocoa

Delicious handcrafted artisanal heart-shaped chocolates are ideal to celebrate the day.

Earthenware Plates by Tableware

If you’re looking to surprise the mom in your life with something a little out of the ordinary, breathtaking earthenware plates to add to her collection are what you need.

Forever roses by Shizeyls

Undoubtedly, flowers never go out of style and what’s better than giving roses that she can keep forever?

Lighting one of their candles is like transporting yourself to some distant place where it’s peaceful and calm and you don’t have to deal with the stress of work, even though I did most of my candle burning at work.

I picked my candle up from Pith for Rs2,800 for a 270g candle and already plan on getting a new one. The scent I liked the most was French Beach, which smells nothing like the beach in question to me but is lovely nonetheless. It is described as having notes of sea salt, musky cashmere and earthy amber.

The burn time given on the jar is 40 hours.

The candles are expensive, but no more so than any of their competitors. And their packaging is cute and minimalistic. They’re available at a number of stores across Karachi and some online stores as well, like Polly and Other Stories and Kayal. You can also order directly from their Instagram page.

What I like about the brand, apart from its rather clever name, is that it has more than the usual scents. Like everyone else, it has a vanilla scented candle but the brand got creative and named it Make A Wish and made it a birthday cake scented candle with notes of buttercream, vanilla and sugar. I love seeing brands that are creative with the way they market their products! Less basic brands and more funny, creative work!

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

This article is part of an ongoing series on supporting local products. All the products are independently evaluated and reviewed by a member of the Images team and reflect their personal opinions. If you’re a local business and would like to be featured, reach out to us at imagesdawndotcom@gmail.com.

February 14 is the day you celebrate love but contrary to misconception, it doesn’t have to be romantic love. You can just as well celebrate platonic love or self love, especially when such cute packages and great deals are available.

There are two routes you can take with this — either you go basic with an explosion of red and pink — balloons, flowers, chocolates and all things sweet. Or you can try and do something out of the box.

Think out of the box

Throw pillow from polly and other stories

Tell them they make your dil garden garden with this throw pillow.

Couple’s massage at Peng’s Salon

The work week dragging you down? Use the couple’s massage at Peng’s Salon as opportunity to unwind together.

Valentine’s Day game package from Cymin Games

Game night with your boo? Make the game specific to your relationship.

If the game box can’t make it to you in time, you can also use it as template and curate your own card game. Your stationery drawer awaits you.

Valentine’s Day Pod in Red from The Green Ark

Are they big on making sustainable choices? Give them a gift that gives back to the environment.

If the delivery time is not meshing well with your plans, then head over to your closest nursery and get a potted pal for them. Wrap a ribbon around it or even paint it if you have time for a personal touch.

Galentine’s bundle from Gifts and Giggles

Surprise your bestie with the perfect Galentine’s package to let them know they’re super cute and deserve all the love.

You can also make your own gift bundle — get a basket from Paras Art Fever or any other stationery shop and fill with it goodies most loved by your Galentine. Some examples are a Dawat-e-Ishq candle from The Karachi Candle Company, a custom tote from Ethnic, a stuffed toy from Miniso, a lip care or body care package from Scoop o Scrub and some cute coasters or fridge magnets from Khaadi.

Cards from 14grams

Food themed cards are the best way to let someone know how important they are because what is biryani without aaloo?

The classics

Hamper from Lals Chocolates

A basket full of chocolates. That’s it. That’s the vibe. We definitely wish we were at the receiving end of this gift.

Heart piñata cake from Pie in the Sky

Give them a heart piñata cake to smash so they don’t smash yours.

But remember, whatever your choice of gift is, it’s the thought that counts.

There is a section on my bookshelf that is just a long line of candles, many of them Hunza. The joy-bringers have a small kiosk at Karachi’s Dolmen Mall in Clifton where I source my scents from. What’s cool about this is that rather than ordering a product online that is described well, I get to meet and confirm if this is the smell I want to be cocooned in.

Through a thorough inspection that gave my sinuses a workout, I have identified what kind of scents I want my candles to bear and it is scents that belong in a big ol’ mug of warmth. My first was Cocos Nucifera which contains notes of coconut, vanilla, lime and rum. The softness of this fragrance won me over until I tried French Vancoff. This scent is an ode to vanilla, you can sense toasted beans mixed in warm milk and sweet cream, garnished with almonds. Chef’s kiss.

Aside from my drinkable candles, I also loved their Amber candle which is perfumed comfort if perfume could comfort. Treading a similar thread, their Bakhoor is also pleasant, bringing a piece of Arabic culture to your home (in which it’s linked with hospitality).

Alongside their woody scents, they have a wide range including floral, citrus-y, spicy and fruity scents. If you have familiarised yourself with the world of scented candles, you will find their price range quite reasonable. Their smallest candle is Rs1,600 and their largest is Rs5,500. They also have pillar candles that are less expensive than the glass jars and aesthetic ceramic jars that are a tad more expensive.

I will give them a 4.5 star rating for their variety, price range, comfort and lovability. I take away half a star only because I see room for improvement in their packaging.

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

This article is part of an ongoing series on supporting local products. All the products are independently evaluated and reviewed by a member of the Images team and reflect their personal opinions. If you’re a local business and would like to be featured, reach out to us at imagesdawndotcom@gmail.com.

I’ll admit, I’m very easily swayed by pretty pictures and packaging. If something looks good, it’s likely I’ll end up buying it. When the ad for Walnut Homes Co popped up on my feed, I was intrigued — who doesn’t love some wooden serve-ware? I certainly do.

The process was relatively painless but kind of expensive — I’m not sure Rs3,750 for three small bowls and Rs250 for shipping could count as anything but expensive — but once I received my package, I forgot about the price entirely.

The bowls are fabulous. Their finish is great, they’re sturdy and they look like they cost way more than Rs3,000! In fact, when I got them, someone told me to double check that they were even made in Pakistan because they looked like something you could get abroad.

But they are indeed made in Pakistan and the wood is sourced from local markets. We love seeing truly local products.

The trick to using and maintaining these kind of bowls is to wipe them down immediately after washing to ensure they don’t crack or the wood doesn’t warp.

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

This article is part of an ongoing series on supporting local products. All the products are independently evaluated and reviewed by a member of the Images team and reflect their personal opinions. If you’re a local business and would like to be featured, reach out to us at imagesdawndotcom@gmail.com.

Ideally when you think of everything a laptop sleeve should have, you would want enough space to fit in accessories like a charger, a USB, a hard drive, headphones etc and this is where Ethnic’s laptop sleeve gets extra points because it can fit all of this.

The first thing that caught my attention was the finish. Made of high quality leather, the bag is in a huge envelope shape that is accessorised by two gold buttons on the flap and a zipper on the inside. When I asked a salesperson for the measurement, I was told that the bag is almost 17 inches in width. I knew then that I wouldn’t regret buying this pretty looking bag for my laptop that’s both cute and functional.

The laptop sleeve comes in several other shades like black, pastel yellow, pink, red and blue, however, tan was my top choice just because it complemented the gold details of the sleeve. The smooth leather sleeve got the stamp of approval from my family as well who are now convinced this is a great gift for anyone who loves technology and travels with their gear.

Space wise, I was able to fit my laptop, its charger, a laptop stand, hard-drive, multiple USBs, a small notebook, earpods and headphones. But despite adding all of this in, the bag didn’t get too heavy or bulky, unlike a conventional laptop bag.

The price of the sleeve starts from Rs3,800. There are options of customisation and if you do choose to customise your laptop sleeve, then the price increases. I chose to keep it simple and did not customise it because embroidered patches aren’t my thing. Perhaps something with permanent artwork on the sleeve or a metal element or even printing would’ve worked for me, but the embroidery option doesn’t attract me.

What I would’ve liked more was if the sleeve had not just one but two storage spaces. This way I can add more in the storage compartment of the bag instead of shoving it and making it look out of place and chunky. If the brand introduces more accessories, I would love to buy a small pouch or a bag organiser to keep things in place. Another suggestion is that the items in-store need to be made available online.

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

This article is part of an ongoing series on supporting local products. All the products are independently evaluated and reviewed by a member of the Images team and reflect their personal opinions. If you’re a local business and would like to be featured, reach out to us at imagesdawndotcom@gmail.com.

I may have been searching for something plain but upon examination, I felt like I was getting more than what I asked for — in a good way. Manto has handpicked some empowering couplets from poets such as Allama Iqbal, Mirza Ghalib, Faiz Ahmed Faiz and Jaun Elia, and inscribed those words on their rustic karas in both silver and gold.

Because I am very impatient when it comes to getting what I want once I’ve decided it’s what I want, I headed over to Emerald Tower, Karachi to Manto’s store instead of ordering it online. I purchased their Jahaan kara for around Rs1,500 as far as I remember. Currently, the karas are retailing for Rs1,750 but I definitely think they’re worth the buy, especially if the particular piece of poetry conveys a message that’s close to your heart or a reminder you would like to glance at every now and then.

The karas come in three sizes so it was convenient to try them on at the store and get the perfect fit for myself. Built in stainless steel, they’re hard and strong. The metal is textured and has a rustic look to it so if you’re not into the vintage vibe, you may not like it. I’m taking out one star because they’re kind of overpriced for a very simple kara — the engraved poetry is pretty cool but it’s still a little heavy on the pocket.

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

This article is part of an ongoing series on supporting local products. All the products are independently evaluated and reviewed by a member of the Images team and reflect their personal opinions. If you’re a local business and would like to be featured, reach out to us at imagesdawndotcom@gmail.com.

Minimalism was in at the time and though it doesn’t make sense, prices seemed to be inversely proportional to the quantity of ink on paper but Natasha Zubair’s designs seemed to be the opposite. Notebooks ranging from Rs200 to Rs350 only? That too, of seemingly high quality? Sign me up.

I placed my order for three notebooks, which could have been a risk but something about the presentation and design whispered: these are going to be as great as they look. And they were! I’ve gone through several and am, in fact, still using their A5 lined notebooks. Like most people, I struggle with consistent journalling but with these notebooks, first of all, the exterior lures you in — just looking at them makes you happy. They’re also not too thick, which means I can finish one in a matter of months — though that depends on the frequency of writing. I don’t know why, but there’s something super satisfying about finishing a journal and moving on to the next.

Additionally, their lined sheets are of such good quality, it’s kind of unbelievable. Bonus point, their products are made from renewable resources and promote the use of recycled materials. Pretty, high quality, affordable AND sustainable? They really have it all, don’t they?

Natasha Zubair Stationery also includes ring notebooks, sketchbooks, bullet journals, envelopes, sticky notes, bookmarks and more. You can check them out here.

P.S. Over two years down the line since my first buy, their A5 notebooks still fall in the range of Rs200 to Rs350. That’s pretty wild considering the sky rocketing prices of literally everything due to inflation.

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

This article is part of an ongoing series on supporting local products. All the products are independently evaluated and reviewed by a member of the Images team and reflect their personal opinions. If you’re a local business and would like to be featured, reach out to us at imagesdawndotcom@gmail.com.

I had been dreaming of a brown leather bag for a while now because they’re classic and perfect for everyday use as they go with everything. It was just my luck that Bear Necessities decided to send us one. I left the choice up to my editor because who doesn’t love surprises? (Yeah, that’s totally an excuse for my indecisiveness). She chose their cute-with-a-funky-streak Kamaiya crossbody bag which promised to serve as the right fit for working women.

The first thing we did when it arrived was, of course, feel the leather, which was super soft and friendly — trust me on this. It was much bigger in size than I thought it would be and had three pockets — the main pocket, the small front pocket and the inside zip pocket. If you know me, I love compartments since I like carrying my life on my back just in case, so a way to organise that is a plus for me.

Bear Necessities bags are “designed for a lifetime of regular use and age in its own unique way”. Made from top grain pull-up/crazy horse leather in buffalo/cow hide, the material will go through changes in appearance — the colour will shift in places, their will be marks or battle scars, as I prefer to call them, and I cannot tell you how excited I am to grow old with my bag.

The process has already started. I have used the bag for about two weeks and there are creases in some places, random slashes that I suspect might be my cat’s doing and this morning I noticed the first colour migration and it elated me. The brand said “no two pieces are exactly alike” and I feel like even if they were, the stories the bags will live through and the shifts they will experience will definitely set them apart from their counterparts and add that personal touch. How insanely unique!

Now, this is not a bag I take to work because, as I mentioned, I am a hoarder so a tote bag is what’ll cut it for me for that purpose — which they also sell, by the way. Everything else? It’s perfect. I have taken it to work events, the vet, the grocery store, the mall, for dinner — it is an accessory that jazzes up any outfit and keeps my essentials safe. I was a bit skeptical about the main pocket not having any zipper but the way it wraps around on top, I’ve come to realise that everything stays super secure.

The Kamaiya bag costs Rs9,250 and is currently on sale for Rs8,250 on their website, which I know is pretty pricey but to be honest, I think it’s worth the investment. I mean, it’s a bag for life — that’s insanely cool.

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

This article is part of an ongoing series on supporting local products. All the products are independently evaluated and reviewed by a member of the Images team and reflect their personal opinions. If you’re a local business and would like to be featured, reach out to us at imagesdawndotcom@gmail.com.

Now, as we are to embark on another year, I searched planners on their site about a week back only to find a separate category for the newly introduced kits. I immediately saw a lilac, dated planner and the same of that sort in indigo purple, turquoise, coral, cobalt blue, light pastel pink, light pastel blue and Tiffany blue but one caught my attention and I got it in a heartbeat — a black Wednesday Addams-like planner kit named coal.

In the kit came one dated yearly planner, a calendar, a weekly desk planner, a notepad, gel pen, sticky note, sticker sheet, mini notepad and a bookmark of the same matte black theme with silver and white font.

It may be pricey retailing at Rs4,850 as a kit, but what makes each penny worth it is the quality that speaks for itself. The outer aesthetic and material, and the paper quality are not like your average over-the-counter notebook’s. Most importantly, the quality of paper is not restricted to the dated planner but is maintained throughout the kit, which it makes it even more special. You can also purchase the same items in the kit separately. The dated calendar retails for Rs2,350.

Perhaps the price point could be worked on since it is a local product but either way, it’s a great initiative to come up with your own designs and planners. What I wish to see in the future is something of a neutral range, such as brown and earthy tones or even an ivory white planner-type agenda book to cater to my aesthetic needs. Also, I’d like to see the brand play with the outer appearance by introducing a range of leather or suede dated planner kits.

For now, a black planner will do and I will happily jot down everything I want to achieve in the coming year.

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

This article is part of an ongoing series on supporting local products. All the products are independently evaluated and reviewed by a member of the Images team and reflect their personal opinions. If you’re a local business and would like to be featured, reach out to us at imagesdawndotcom@gmail.com.