Find the perfect handmade gift this holiday season by supporting a local artist. Caitlin Baumberger, an Apex-based graphic designer, creates whimsical illustrations of favorite local landmarks like a view from Salem Street in Apex and the fountain in Cary’s Downtown Park.

Cards and prints of local landmarks and area illustrations add an extra personal touch.

Selection of holiday cards

Custom cover illustration for Cary Magazine.

After working as a corporate graphic designer, Baumberger’s passion to make people smile drove her to start her own business, Happy Tines. She started out making custom wedding invitations, but her shop now includes greeting cards, art prints, notepads and coffee mugs.

“My goal is to make people feel happy and make them smile through my work,” said Baumberger.

Shop Happy Tines at Local Squirrel in the Village District in Raleigh and Stylish Living in downtown Apex. Cards start at $4.50 and art prints start at $12. Custom artwork options are available at happytines.com.