Adopting a pet from the Maryland SPCA isn't just giving the whole family a new member to love and care for, but also a home to one of the many unwanted cats and dogs of Baltimore. 

(Image: mdspca.org)

Give the perfect accessory with a scarf that is inspired by vintage posters and typography—creatively telling a story through its design. Although it doesn't look like they have a Baltimore one (yet), the series illustrates the streets and neighborhoods of other neat places like New York and Tokyo. City storyteller scarf ($59.50) at Madewell.

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These stud earrings by Kate Spade are perfect because they can be worn with just about everything and come in fun colors like coral, green, and red. Gumdrop stud earrings ($38) at Handbags in the City.

(Image: katespade.com)

My good friend Mandie and her boyfriend Eric are visiting her parents in Baltimore for the holidays. It's been great spending QT with them and seeing an out-of-towner take in and appreciate this city as much as a local—it makes you remember the first time at your (now) favorite spots. Having Eric around, who has a thing for collecting mementos along his travels, has reminded me that most of these local businesses offer their own special assortment of keepsakes, like graphic tees. Inspired by Eric and his growing collection of Baltimore-based t-shirts (as well as other cities he has been to), here's a way to help your (visiting) loved ones represent your hometown. 

The Brewer's Art Festivus t-shirt ($20) designed by Kurt Ichikawa. Half of each purchase goes towards Hurricane...