It’s the time of year when significant others and friends look to surprise those of us who keep aquariums with something special for our hobby. Hopefully you’ve educated those around you that buying you a fish or coral is not a good idea without your specific input. There are plenty of choices that can make great gifts.
The gift of information that lasts throughout the year.
Experienced hobbyists know that there is always more to learn about aquarium keeping. What better way to keep abreast of the latest discoveries while receiving advice from hobby experts? A subscription to CORAL Magazine is a gift that keeps on giving. Each issue is chocked full of insightful knowledge, gorgeous pictures and adventures in reef keeping. It also provides excellent reference material to add to your fishy library. If no one thought to buy you a subscription, it makes a great gift to yourself.
Wouldn’t it be nice to receive a gift card from your favorite retailer?
Gift certificates from your favorite LFS, on-line coral retailer or dry goods supplier are always welcome. Gift certificates make great last minute gifts for those that like to procrastinate. While many see these as impersonal, getting a gift certificate that you can use for your hobby shows that the giver recognizes the joy your hobby brings. Many are available electronically as well so they’ll never know that it was done in a hurry.
Does fishy attire ever go out of style?
Fly your hobby flag proudly by adding some reef attire to your wardrobe. Whether you are gearing up for an afternoon of tank maintenance, lining up your route to a few LFS or heading off to a local club meeting, sporting your favorite fishy T-Shirt is our secret code to other hobbyists that it’s safe to approach us and chat about the cool critter we just added to our QT. Head on over to the Reefbuilders store and grab something fun. Reefing attire is available through a number of on-line vendors, LFS as well as your favorite podcast.
Add some artwork to your fish room.
The appreciation of our hobby goes beyond the aquarium and gear itself. There are a number of artists that produce aquatic themed decorative items. Original artwork can make a statement, prints can add color to your room and there are even other tchotchkes available like keychains and coasters. Karen Talbot produces scientifically accurate illustrations and also has some fun glassware for your favorite beverages. Nori Vossen has a number of affordable prints, not only of your favorite fish, but also a variety of critters. Elaine at Lazy Coffee Designs produces whimsical critters with bold colors for your wall, floor and even some attire. Kimberly at Kilaarts has some amazing fluorescent choices that can add a splash of fun next to those blue reef lights. Choices abound that fit every style and budget.
Gift an aquatic experience – Trade-show or Public Aquarium Visit
Many of us are lucky enough to be near an annual aquatic event or may have a local aquarium to visit. If you are in the Rocky Mountain region, Reefstock tickets make a great holiday present. If traveling to Colorado is a bit far, there may be an event in your neck of the woods. Reefapalooza runs in several cities. The Coral Farmers Market travels around to smaller venues, bringing opportunities to smaller locales. You may even find club sanctioned events nearby that have a long history of success. The CT Frag Farmers Market comes to mind.
Memberships to Zoos and Public Aquariums also make great gifts for the hobbyist and family. There are some stunning public aquaria around the country. Why not start a new tradition and visit a different one each year? Many zoos and aquariums offer reciprocity to members from other entities. Even the most experienced reef keeper will enjoy a behind the scenes tour while observing giant versions of the gear we use at home.
Don’t forget the gift of time to enjoy your aquarium
Holiday parties are afoot, guests gather to look at the pretty fish and coral, while you hope no one notices the spot you missed. You’ve spent too many hours scraping glass, removing algae and making your aquarium sparkle. Take some time to sit in front of your aquarium to admire your success. Share your joy of aquarium keeping with the youngsters around you. They are the future of our hobby.
