Random Gift Ideas --- Independant and American Brands November 26 2012, 0 Comments

This is our first year open for the holidays and since launching our company, we've met and developed relationships with one great indie brand after another.  So we thought we'd highlight a few of the companies we think are making quality products into one blog entry.  By supporting these companies, you're not only buying American, but in most of them you're supporting firefighter run companies.  Best of all, these are original, well-thought out gifts that most firefighters would love.

Leatherhead Concepts is a great little outfit out of California.  They're making custom helmet shields, radio holsters, suspenders, straps, and other leather goods.  Ordering a gift from Leatherhead ensures that you'll be giving a truly original gift.  Most of the items they make can be customized with initials or engine company designations.  Customized orders take extra time.  So get on it quick if you want something from these guys for Christmas.

Declaration Clothing is not a firefighter run company, but they are all American--an indie t-shirt company that only makes shirts that celebrate our country's history.  If that's not enough.  They make some pretty dope designs that follow the H&I moniker, "put some meaning behind what you wear."  Check em' out. 

Another great idea for the chef in your life is Code 3 Spices.  Code 3 is co-owned by a St. Louis Area fireman and police officer.   Both are grill masters and after years of competing they decided to put out their own special blend of bar-b-que rubs.  These guys just launched their business.  You could be the first to say you discovered em' before they made it big.  Check em' out here.

They are not an indie brand, but I'm digging Leatherman's new OHT.  OHT stands for One Handed Tool.  This is Leatherman's first tool like this and perfect for the guy that wears gloves when he works.  The OHT is an industry-first tool featuring spring-loaded pliers and wire-cutters so you don't tire your hand adjusting and readjusting your grip.  Leatherman tools are made in America and backed by a meaty 25 year warranty.  You can pick it up here.

Finally, another firefighter that has come out with a truly original idea for the holiday season.  Gerald Little, a firefighter from Miami-Dade has written a children's book called The Key to a Magical Christmas.  This book is for families that don't have a chimney in their house or apartment and want to answer the question of how Santa gets in your house on Christmas eve.  The story book comes with a 'Christmas Key' that you can hang on your door for Santa.  Best of all, the key has a voice recorder so your children can record a message for St. Nick, and he can leave a message for them on Christmas morning.  You can learn more about the book and order one here.

These are just a few of the products you can buy this Christmas that support American made products and the independent spirit.  Happy Holidays from H&I.