We rustled up some killer local products.
At Mystic Rhoads, we know strong communities are built by supporting neighbors. We recently gathered up a bunch of local goods for a holiday party, and we can’t get enough of this stuff.
Whether you’re here because you discovered a new favorite in your gift basket, or you’re simply looking to shop small this holiday season, we wanted to shine a spotlight on these incredible Lincoln-area makers.
Here are the local businesses we are celebrating right now—and where you can find more of their work.
🍿 For the Snacker: Maize Gourmet Popcorn
If you tasted their popcorn, you already know: this isn’t your average movie theater snack. Maize specializes in gourmet, small-batch popcorn with over 50 flavors ranging from savory to sweet.
- The Scoop: A staple at the Lincoln Farmers’ Markets, Maize takes popcorn seriously. Whether you are craving their classic Cheesy Cheddar, the addictive Puppy Chow, or a savory White Cheddar, every bag is packed with flavor.
- Why we love them: It’s the perfect shareable snack (though we won’t judge if you keep the whole bag for yourself).
🍪 For the Sweet Tooth: Creative Confections
Based right here in Lincoln, Creative Confections turns sugar into art. Known for their stunning custom-decorated sugar cookies, they also craft incredible gourmet treats like chocolate-dipped Oreos, pretzels, and handcrafted marshmallows.
- The Scoop: This isn’t just baking; it’s craftsmanship. From “cakesicles” to intricate cookie designs, their treats are as beautiful as they are delicious.
- Why we love them: They bring a touch of elegance and whimsy to any holiday spread.
🛁 For the Self-Care Guru: James Brandy Creations
Holidays can be stressful, and James Brandy Creations offers the perfect antidote. They specialize in artisan bath and body products, including handcrafted soaps, lotions, and bubble bath scoops.
- The Scoop: You can find their products in local boutiques like The Lantern in Louisville and Decor and More in Springfield. Their soaps and scrubs are formulated to be luxurious and skin-loving, perfect for pampering yourself during the dry winter months.
- Why we love them: It’s affordable luxury that transforms a daily routine into a spa experience.
🌶️ From Our Kitchen: Dirt Nap Dip
Of course, we couldn’t let a gift basket go by without sharing a taste from our own kitchen. Dirt Nap Dip is our tribute to authentic Jamaican flavors, hand-crafted in Lincoln’s West A Neighborhood.
- The Scoop: Born from recipes created for the Trelawny Yam Festival in Jamaica, our sauces and rubs—like the Original Blend Hot Sauce and Jamaican Jerk Seasoning—pack a flavorful punch. We like heat, but we believe in flavor first; our goal is to wake up your food, not burn your tastebuds.
- The Mission: Best of all, proceeds from Dirt Nap Dip sales help fund our community programs, supporting education, healthy living and community service.
Happy Holidays from the Mystic Rhoads team!
Support Local, Support Community.
When you buy from these makers, you are directly supporting the local economy and families in our area. And when you grab a bottle of Dirt Nap Dip, you help Mystic Rhoads continue our non-profit mission to improve our world, one community project at a time.