When an endless inventory of every product under the sun is literally an Amazon Prime “Buy With One-Click” away, shopping local seems exceedingly inconvenient. Parking is a pain. You have to interact with actual people. It’s all so exhausting. I know.
BUT! But, you can’t find an antique drawing set on Amazon for your creative nephew. You can’t feel the thrill of happening upon the Anti-Flag record that would be perfect for your rebellious niece or that homemade jar of peach hibiscus jam for your favorite Aunt. …ok, maybe you can, but finding those treasures in a local shop will feel so much better than ordering it from a nameless, faceless online megastore. Trust me.
Shopping local benefits your community, saves the environment, and seriously ups your cool factor. So, this holiday season, be the supremely awesome friend, sister, husband, or mom who gives a real gift instead of just a gift card. Check out these six local businesses this Small Business Saturday to find perfect, unexpected gifts for all of your favorite people.
Stop in this little shop of records and oddities for that Anti-Flag vinyl or pick from a wide selection of vintage toys. Graveface is a long-time staple small business in the Starland District, so they are a perfect place to start ticking things off your list.
Check out this newly opened vintage shop on 40th street for a selection of antique furniture, dining sets, and glassware along with a curated selection of local art. Owners Andrew and Laurel Gauthe have a distinct sense of style and what looks good with what.
Treat that super stylish lady in your life to a piece from this women’s clothing boutique. All items are sourced within the U.S., and they have a slightly vintage feel with a modern twist. A chic pair of earrings or a “going out top” would make a great gift for a fabulous fashionista.
Chef Darin, formerly of 700 Drayton’s famed cooking school, went out on his own and opened Chef Darin’s Kitchen Table, a cooking school and kitchen shop. Find little gadgets and gizmos every home chef would love or, better yet, give the gift of an experience with tickets to a cooking class.
Come thirsty to Sip Shop Make, they have a cold brew and kombucha bar courtesy of Fete Chalet. Grab a funky t-shirt or tank top, stylish accessories, bath products or handmade pottery and prints.
Find something sophisticated for the stylish guy in your life at The Rat on Bull. Ironic printed button downs, flashy smoking slippers, and high-end apothecary goods would make great stocking stuffers for a discerning dude.