Especially For You …
Custom gifts for the most discerning recipient.
gift guide 2019
RONELLE GRIER CONTRIBUTING WRITER
N
othing says “I was thinking of you”
better than a personalized gift. Here
are some suggestions.
THE GIFT OF MUSIC
Are you still trying to find the perfect gift
for those impossible-to-buy-for people on
your list? Consider a custom playlist created
by longtime music aficiona-
do Julie Zorn. Through
her company Melody
Makers, Zorn uses
her vast knowledge of
music to compile indi-
vidualized collections of
songs geared to specific
listeners or situations.
For example, when a
friend was going through
chemotherapy, Zorn made a
playlist of inspirational songs to
provide hope and encour-
agement during that dif-
ficult experience. She has
also compiled playlists of
high-energy music for exer-
cise instructors or individuals
to use during classes or workouts.
“Each playlist has its own ener-
gy,
” Zorn says. “The songs may be
peaceful, energizing or uplifting — and
music can be very therapeutic.
”
Zorn has curated songs for new parents
to listen to during nighttime feedings and
created playlists to ease the boredom of long
automobile or airplane trips. Party playlists
are another popular category. To celebrate a
major birthday, one client requested a play-
list of the No. 1 hit songs from the last 55
years.
“Before there were playlists, I used to
make mix tapes for people,
” says Zorn, a
retired social worker. “I’
ve always loved
curating, putting the music together to bring
people joy and peace and good energy.
”
Zorn cultivated her knowledge of musical
artists and genres during the 10 years she
worked for the former Harmony House
chain. She gained additional experience as a
DJ for local parties and events.
Before creating a playlist, Zorn sets up
a phone interview with the client to learn
about their musical tastes, favorite artists and
how they plan to use the finished product.
“
As we talk, I get a sense of what songs
and musicians they might enjoy,
” she says.
After a thorough research and selection
process, Zorn shares a link to the finished
playlist via text, email or messenger.
Recipients can listen to the music on
a cell phone, computer or tablet.
The cost varies according to
the length and complexity of
the playlist.
Contact Zorn through the Melody Makers
Facebook page or Facebook Messenger.
36 | DECEMBER 12 • 2019