It’s my favorite time of the year, a time for giving… and a time for shopping. One of my favorite things to do, and one of the only things that Doug hates. You’re probably reading this on Black Friday, an amazing holiday (It’s definitely considered it a holiday in my book) following the day after we stuff our facing with turkey and cranberry sauce. A day of shopping incredible prices at some of our favorite brand name stores, and trying to fit into your normal size even with your post-turkey-day bloat. But one of the best days following Thanksgiving is Small Business Saturday! And I’ll be honest with you, it wasn’t until we owned a business of our own that we truly appreciated the support for others in our community. But shopping local has some serious benefits, especially during this time of year.
Did you know that about 48% of your purchase at a local shop goes right back into the community? Compared to the 14% of your favorite chain stores. Your tax dollars stay right where you want them, in your own neighborhood. Shopping local also helps support jobs within your city and increases employment opportunities. Most small businesses give back to the community and support other small businesses as well, and offer some of the most unique pieces that you won’t find in any name brand store. So you can feel good about your purchases knowing you’re giving the best gifts while supporting small businesses as well as this city we call home.
So with that said, we want to share with you some of our finds for local Phoenix shops for your holiday gifting this year! So go out and support those small businesses and help make our community just a little bit better because of it! :)
Cheers friends!
I’m just gonna say here that if I were to open a gift with a customized door mat or wreath with our name hand-written in delicate modern calligraphy, I’d be stoked. So we’re confident this would win you some mad brownie points with your loved ones too. Receiving something so personal and custom made is a jaw-dropper, if thats the sort of thing you’re looking for. ;) And if it’s not, check out her witty door mats that will have you rolling. Like the one that says “come back with tacos”. I’m dead, so cute! Or maybe you have that crafty friend or loved one that would love a spot at one of Kenzie’s incredible calligraphy workshops so they can learn the art of modern calligraphy!
WHAT TO GET
Personalized or witty door mats
Personalized door wreath
WHERE TO FIND THEM
www.etsy.com/shop/UnikaCollections
Butter & Fig is a bath and body company local to the Gilbert area! (Actually, I just learned they have a location right down the street from Doug and I, so I will for sure be stopping by for my Christmas shopping!) Their soaps, lotions, body scrubs and skin care products are high quality, environmentally conscious, and all products are handmade, a trait that remains important to their company. Their scents sound devine (like Blackberry Champagne. Yum.), not to mention how adorable their packaging is, and they even have products for men too! These will make for perfect unique holiday gifts or simple and cute stocking stuffers!
WHAT TO GET
Soap Bars
Body Scrubs
Lotions
Lip Scrubs
Lip Balms
Facial Oils
Beard Oil
& Gift Packs
WHERE TO FIND THEM
As I’m writing this blog post, I’m learning quite a bit about the hidden gems in this city of ours. And The Lifestyle Company is one of them! They’re a full-service residential interiors and renovations design firm, with a beautiful little shop that focuses on rustic modern, farmhouse and bohemian styles (the home decor style of my heart). Just looking at their online shop, I’m dying to check out their place. But keep in mind their hours, because they are only open Fridays and Saturdays 9-7pm, and Sundays 10-4pm.
WHAT TO GET
Women’s clothing
Jewelry & Accessories
Home Decor
Kitchen
WHERE TO FIND THEM
217 N. Gilbert Rd, Ste. 202 Gilbert, AZ 85234
(Located in Downtown Gilbert, upstairs between So Cal Fish Taco Company + Funktional Fitness)
www.retroyourride.com
This local company specializes in retro bicycle streamers that are hand-made and in long, colorful assortments for any kid or “big kid” (AKA: Doug) in your life. Seriously debating getting these for his unicycle. ;) They carry more than 20 different color options to choose from, or it looks like you can customize your own!
WHAT TO GET
Unique hand-made bicycle streamers
WHERE TO FIND THEM
www.etsy.com/shop/RetroYourRide
When I asked on Instagram what local shops I should include into this blog post, I had quite a few people suggest the same shop… Frances. Never before had I heard of them but now I’m dying to go! Located in the heart of Midtown Phoenix, this quirky little shop looks to have everything you could ever want for your holiday gifting, and offers unique artisan gifts from local artists and creators for the Arizona lover on your list.
And lucky for you, they are hosting their annual Crafeteria, an award-winning independent craft fair, on December 7th, 2018 from 6-10pm! They bring together more than 30 local artisans for this event which makes it the perfect time to get most of that list checked off. You’ll probably find us there, so be sure to say hi!!
WHAT TO GET
Quirky clothing, jewelry and knick knacks
Arizona themed gifts
Gifts for him
Gifts for her
Homeware
Baby clothing and toys
WHERE TO FIND THEM
10 W Camelback Rd Phoenix, AZ 85013
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Love this! Shopping local is so important. <3