Once again Shop Localista has scoured the shops in Caldwell for gift ideas. This time the occasion is Mother's Day and the gifts are extra special for mom.

Shop local this Valentine’s Day and also show a little love to our merchants who have been having a hard time with all the snow and ice. Whether it's sweets, flowers or jewelry, don't forget to let that special someone know you care when you pick up a gift from our local shops. 

It's the days before Christmas, and all through the Caldwells ... restaurants and shops are gearing up for the holidays with some great last minute gift ideas, specials and cool stuff to make the season merrier! Thursday Dec. 23, Calandra's Italian Village is offering 20% off of gift cards, which can be purchased and used in any of the shops and restaurants within the village in Caldwell. The Italian market and deli sells a selection of beautiful pre-made gift baskets in all price ranges, as well as fresh cookie trays that the bakery is making daily. You can also visit the wine store, La …

Big and little kids will love the great items you can find locally in Caldwell. Stores like Saplings and Smith and Co. have a great selection for both toddler and teen. You can also find some hot items for tween and teen girls at Bari's Baubles. Everything Dance, LeeZar Sporting Goods and What a Racquet also offer sports related items and more. Don't forget to visit some of these local shops for the kids on your list!

Downtown Caldwell shops sell more than just goods. They provide services, particularly for those who are looking for unique gift ideas. The professionals at Art Devons can create a custom portrait from a photograph. The jewelers at J. Harris Jewelers have years of experience designing one-of-a-kind pieces. So before you grab the same-old, same-old at the mall, consider turning to talented Caldwell merchants.

The Caldwells have something for everyone when it comes to jewelry. Check out Flair in West Caldwell and Bari's Baubles in Caldwell for the latest trends. Looking for something special? Just Bead It in Caldwell sells beaded jewelry in all price points, they are able to restring your grandmother's pearls, and they have a huge selection of beads and jewelry parts. If you want to show someone just how special they are this holiday season, look in Caldwell Jewelers and J. Harris Jewelers for a gift that she will cherish for many holidays to come.

Let Caldwell be your destination for some of your sports-related gifts this holiday season. With specialty stores like What a Racquet, Bikeland, LeeZar Sporting Goods & Apparel and The Frame Shop, you can find something to score for any sports fan! View the pictures below for some of the gifts worth running into town for.

During the holidays, it has become common to give gifts to children's teachers, bring a hostess gift to a party or buy something for the office "grab bag." Finding just the right gift–at just the right price–can be challenging. Several local shops in downtown Caldwell are ready to come to the rescue with some thoughtful gifts. 

Every year on Christmas Eve, my husband breaks out the It's a Wonderful Life DVD and we sit in the living room and enjoy this classic movie. At first, I was resistant to spending a festive Christmas Eve watching a movie, but this tradition was requested by my husband and it was just a simple request, so how could I say "no?" After seven holiday seasons, I have to admit that the movie has become very meaningful for me as well. Living in Caldwell has really made me understand the true meaning of It's a Wonderful Life. It is my great pleasure to live in a town where people say "hi" when you pass…