Mississippi-made adds a special touch to gift-giving

Searching high and low for that perfect holiday gift may best start right at home. There is a multitude of special gifts that can be purchased here in Mississippi, boosting the state's economy while showing pride in the state's heritage.

One of the highlights of the made-in-Mississippi shopping

season is the Chimneyville Crafts Festival the first weekend in December at the Mississippi Trade Mart. The festival is the premier event of the Craftsmen's Guild of Mississippi, which represents more than 400 professional artisans.

"The Guild craftsmen have a tremendous impact on Mississippi's culture and are vital players in community planning and economic development," said Julia Daily, executive director, Mississippi Craftsmen's Guild. "If you think of the favorite gifts you've ever received, you'll have a handmade gift among them. The exhibiting members of the Craftsmen's Guild of Mississippi create some of the finest work in the country and it is available here in Mississippi for holiday shopping, as well as gift-giving throughout the rest of the year."