Holiday Gift Guide, Courtesy of the Upper Peninsula

Here at Stormy Kromer, we’re proud to be made in the USA. Sometimes we’re even prouder to be made in Michigan’s beautiful Upper Peninsula, even though you might not know exactly where that is. Let’s just say that if pointing out the UP on a map was one of David Letterman’s geography stunts out on the streets of New York City, the failure rate would be pretty high.

We like to think that we’re a small part of changing that. A part of, well, putting the UP back on the map. As the holidays approach, we thought we’d share some other great UP companies who are not just surviving, but thriving in this wilderness we call home. Check them out; you might just find that perfect gift for the hard-to-buy-for on your list.

Iverson Snowshoes – For over 50 years the Iverson craftsmen have been handcrafting the finest traditional snowshoes, right here in the USA. All are based on designs that have been perfected through the eons. They strive to mix tradition with technology while staying true to their cause. No techie terms or slick marketing slogans, just the best snowshoes for the true enthusiasts. Shingleton, MI.

Rapid River Knifeworks – Established in the spring of 2002, Rapid River Knifeworks is a producer of high quality custom knives. With a lot of skill, a few pieces of machinery and some really big dreams, they developed a line of custom knives that combine beauty with strength and practical usability. Rapid River, MI.

Sayklly’s Confectionary & Gifts – Since 1906 and for three generations the Sayklly family has been delighting folks in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and beyond with homemade chocolates and candies, made from old-world recipes with only premium ingredients. They even feature a chocolate bar in the shape of our fair peninsula. Escanaba, MI.

Pasty Central – To be clear, it’s pronounced with a short ‘a’, and it’s a hearty meal of beef, potatoes and onions seasoned and wrapped in a flaky crust. Made popular in the UP during the mining heyday, it’s unofficially the official food of the peninsula. Pasty Central will ship them straight to your door, so you can enjoy them, no matter your zip code. Calumet, MI.

For even more UP products, including those made by individuals artists and craftsmen, check out Michigan Upper Hand.

What other made in the USA products do you plan to give this year?