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