Our highly scientific criteria
Pretty nice, actually.
Editorial standards · updated July 26, 2026
What earns a spot
We look for products that are beautifully made, genuinely useful, deeply delicious, unusually giftable, or connected to Minnesota in a way worth explaining. A product can be made here, designed here, grown here, published here, or included as a well-loved Minnesota favorite—but we label the connection plainly.
How we research
We use official maker pages to confirm product names, prices, availability, materials, origin claims, and maker locations. Prices remain a guide because the official maker controls current details, shipping, and returns.
Independence and commissions
Products are selected editorially, not purchased placement. Some official maker links may earn Pretty Nice, Actually a commission at no extra cost to the shopper. A possible commission does not guarantee inclusion or determine what we say.
What we do not claim
Unless we say so explicitly, inclusion is not a hands-on product review, an inventory guarantee, or an endorsement by the maker. We avoid invented ratings, artificial scarcity, and unsupported “bestseller” claims.
Our promise
Useful curation, a clear Minnesota connection, exact official product destinations, and enough personality to make gift shopping feel like the nice kind of errand.