MAKING A LIST: NORTH CAROLINA'S CRAFT VENDORS MAKE GIFT-GIVING EASY.

• Position: FIRST TAKE

Sure, you could get all of your holiday shopping done through a certain ubiquitous online retailer, but what's the fun in that? Whether shopping for employees or out-of-state clients or picking up a little something for yourself, here are a few curated selections of vendors and artisans showcasing made-in-North Carolina craftsmanship.

COLSENKEANE LEATHER

The Charlotte-based business was started in 2010 after Scott Hofert began making simple yet durable leather items for himself. Popular corporate gifts include portfolio cases, journals and travel cases. The leather bags, travel accessories and more are crafted at the eight-employee company's Charlotte studio and have a lifetime guarantee. Products range from $25 keychains to satchels costing upward of $1,500. For a one-time fee of $295, ColsenKeane can create a die with your company's logo to be used for current and future orders. Clients have included FedEx, Panasonic and Subaru.

colsenkeane.com

VIDERI CHOCOLATE FACTORY

Since 2011, Videri Chocolate Factory has made chocolate bars, bonbons, hot chocolate mix and more in Raleigh's downtown warehouse district. The company plans to open a second, larger production facility at Transfer Co. Food Hall in the historic Carolina Coach Garage and Shop warehouse by mid201 9. Owner Sam Ratto also launched Rottar, a chocolate-making equipment company--his machines have been sold in nine countries. The seasonal Jingle Bell Caramel Box, with eight assorted caramels, retails for $21 or can be combined with other delectables in a build-your-own gift box. Corporate gift orders will be accepted until Dec. 14.

viderichocolatefactory.com

THE COUNTRY BOOKSHOP

Autographed, personalized books are a thoughtful way to say thank you to clients and customers. Business North Carolinas bookseller partner in Southern Pines offers a few hand-picked titles by N.C.-based authors. The Range Bucket List by acclaimed golf writer James Dodson takes readers on a journey around the world and into the lives of characters large and small, from lunch with Donald Trump to rounds with novelist John Updike and intimate conversations with pro golfer Arnold Palmer. The Farm House Chef by North Carolina native Jamie DeMent offers 150 recipes for every occasion and stories of the author's life on a working farm: On 55...