THE ULTIMATE SMALL BUSINESS GIFT GUIDE 2021:
I am once again here to remind you that you can do ALL of your shopping from small businesses this year. I made it so easy for you with this gift guide featuring OVER 100 small businesses! Just follow the recommendations below. I can’t think of any reason to shop anywhere BUT with small businesses, not just for the holidays but year round.
Shopping small and especially from women, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ businesses is central to my lifestyle. I know so many lovely small businesses so I wanted to share this knowledge with you all.
Explore these ideas, follow these businesses on social media or stop by in person or send these ideas to a friend even if you don’t end up purchasing. Because small business need all of the promotion and love they can get right now.
ACCESSORIES AND PRETTY THINGS
Warfel Studios Wooden Jewelry and Accessories
Shop laser cut, lightweight jewelry and other accessories from Warfel Studios. I love my oyster earrings, they are so fun and light.
Shop one-of-a-kind, colorful clay pieces like statement earring and necklaces from Stonefruit Jewelry. My fave are her “noodles” earring sets. DM her on Instagram to purchase her art.
Shop handcrafted statement pieces known for their unapologetic use of loud color and breadth of shape and scale, which can be viewed as wearable small sculptures meant for starting conversations.
Shop Sassy embroidery pieces and sustainable sewing from a queer artist. I like the “I talk to my therapist about you” series.
Shop lush cosmetics from this Indigenous and Black-owned business. Ah-shi Beauty is changing the beauty industry across sovereign nations.
Shop delicate and stunning jewelry from Kicheko. Meaning “laughter,” in Swahili, Kicheko Goods is a social impact jewelry brand founded in 2014 by Sarah Bayot. I love the sparkly quartz studs.
Shop the cutest scrunchies and other accessories from Designs by Rita Co. Rita is only a teenager! I love the rainbow scrunchie.
Shop this funny and cozy beanie from Plant Magic. Explore more moss and garden themed merch in their shop!
Shop organic hemp, bamboo and other sustainable clothing from Poplinen. I am obsessed with the lilac mockneck. Think Eilleen Fisher but the small business version :)
Shop feminist and body positive messages on sweatshirts, totes and beanies from this queer-owned business. I love the “don’t talk to me about your diet” series.
Shop the silkiest, most fun PJ’s (and more!) from Abroad Modern. I got these last year and I am obsessed. Treat yourself or someone special to a pair. '
Shop fun patterns of neck warmers from this VT brand. I got one of these last winter and lived in it. Perfect for anyone in New England or another very wintry climate.
Woodland Juniper Embroidered Hat
Shop stunning beaded and embroidered work from Woodland Juniper. I love the denim hat but all of her work is absolutely breathtaking.
Shop leather purses of all shapes and sizes- totes, backpacks, clutches- in fun colors from Honeymouth. I love their pieces that come with handpainted straps (check their instagram).
Shop hand-knit scarves, cowls and other accessories from Knit Is Legit. I love the seasonal color palettes.
Lemon Bubbly Macrame Phone Grip
Shop macrame accessories like this super cute phone grip from Lemon Bubbly. I love the beach accessories too!
Shop handmade loafers and sneakers from Tigris in tons of fun colors. I love my silk-screened sneakers!
SELF-CARE
Tarot Readings with Rach Does Yoga
Book a special tarot reading with Rach from Rach Does Yoga. Rach offers 3 card, career clarity and year-ahead readings and they’re all excellent!
Shop plant-based CBD products like dreamy facial oil and daily drops for sleep from Brown Girl Jane. I also love the rose quartz roller and body butters for sweet gifts.
Join the online Mend Yoga community via their affordable Patreon digital membership and start feeling more energized and calm right away. I am obsessed with their Sculpt and Chill Vinyasa classes, playlists and body positive vibe!
Shop sustainable herbal products like soaps and bath salts from Herbas.
Shop the ultimate stress relieving bath accessory- CBD bath bombs- from Kush Queen. I can’t imagine taking a bath without these at this point!
Shop this modern take on the traditional tarot deck, designed by Lisa Sterle. I absolutely love the illustrations on this deck and the guide book is super insightful for first time tarot readers.
You Good Sis? Rest and Ritual Kit
Shop this bundle curated by You Good Sis? specifically for the individual who knows they deserve simple moments of luxury and peace.
Shop CBD oils for all purposes ranging from anxiety management to chronic pain from Boston based, women-run Chill Body. I swear by their Deep Sleep and Relax oils, and you can try out a trial size which is awesome.
Fuck the Patriarchy Candle from Hive to Home
Shop this epic candle from Hive to Home. It smells amazing AND it sends the correct message.
Golde Papaya Brightening Face Mask
Shop one of my favorite face masks from Golde. It seriously makes your face SO soft.
Shop this ultimate organizational tool designed by Jocelyn Martinez. It’s a 90-day mini journal and planner in one!
Hauswitch Color Meditation Print
Shop these calming, colorful prints from one of my favorite local shops, Hauswitch!
Shop organic bath and body products like my favorite lavender scented hand sanitizer from Organic Bath Co.
Shop a variety of lovely options for gift sets from this Indigenous, family-owned business Bison Star. Their cedar and pine scents are so refreshing.
Shop soy based candles in amazing scents like Apple Cider and Eggnog and limited edition candles like the Tarot collection from Soy Much Brighter.
Salt Circles and Square Knots Weighted Lavender Eye Pillow
Shop calming and aromatic eye pillows from Salt Circles and Square Knots. I am obsessed with my eye pillow!
KIDS & THEIR PARENTS
Eddy’s Brand Sustainable Knit Outfits
Shop sustainable and up-cycled knit outfits from Eddy’s Brand in the cutest colors. I love how they come with a beanie.
Shop body creams, facial mists and oils specifically designed for expectant and new moms from Fat and the Moon. I love the Mama to Bebe kit as a gift for your expecting friend.
Root for Girls Bib from Overseasoned
Shop this cute and empowering bib from the Overseasoned shop.
Shop beautiful children’s books about the sweet, savory, colorful South Asian experience from Mango and Marigold Press. Founded by Sailaja Joshi, this independent publisher aims to expand representation by bringing Indian culture to the forefront of children’s literature.
Shop adorable (and practical!) silicone bibs and other baby accessories from Simka Rose. This modern baby brand also partners with New York City Harvest to bring one meal to a child in need for every bib sold!
Littleneck Onesie from Andrade’s Catch
Shop the cutest onesie for the seafood loving family from Andrade’s Catch.
CHO & Moi Sustainable Kids Clothing
Shop stylish knit, crocheted and sustainably sourced kids clothes from CHO & Moi.
Smashing My Food and the Patriarchy Onesie from Overseasoned
Shop this bold onesie that embraces the messy life from the Overseasoned shop.
Shop this pretty patterned, thermal wrap designed to soothe neck tension from Golden Hour. I love all of the different options for fabrics and it’s great to use after a nice yoga practice!
Shop these handmade sensory toys that are made to foster creativity from Reggio Baby. My nephew loves them!
Frosting T-shirt from Goldenrod Pastries
Shop this super cute tee for all of the little bakers out there from Goldenrod Pastries.
Future Foodie Kit from Yumi Baby
Shop this kit for early eaters complete with yummy foods, bibs and nutrition guides from Yumi Baby.
GIFTS FOR GUYS
Shuck the Patriarchy T-shirt from Overseasoned
Shop this super soft tee that celebrates oyster season while saying shuck you to the patriarchy from Overseasoned.
Shop this elegant and functional pourover coffee setup from Mud to Life. It’s so unique!
Shop the softest, rad tees and hats from nature and nostalgia inspired brand Canoeist.
Shop fun and functional fanny packs made from organic duck cotton from Pack Pack.
Shop this important message on a cool denim cap from Urban Native Era. This timeless statement is intended to ignite conversation amongst non-Indigenous communities. ‘YAONL’ comes from an Indigenous perspective and the phrase is intended for everyone including the wearer.
Shop the tastiest salami and other cured provisions from women-run business Coro Foods. I am obsessed with the pepperoni (and pretty much all their products!)
Shop rad hats and accessories from Legend Headwear. I love the tie-dye styles.
Shop special accessories crafted from wood such as tie clips, card cases and belt buckles from Treeline & Tide.
Declare your deepest dairy love with this Butter hat from Ploughgate Creamery.
Cheese Board from Woodworking by Jess
Shop this handmade cheese board with integrated cutter from Woodworking by Jess.
Shop these award winning bitters from Girl Meets Dirt orchard on Orcas Island, WA and level up your at-home cocktail game.
Shop backpacks that convert into totes and look super cool from SSCY. Perfect for the avid traveler.
FOOD & BEVERAGE
Enjoy delicious dumplings no matter where you are in the country with these packages from Mei Mei.
Order homemade pasta, fresh made ricotta and delicious sauces from Mostly Pasta.
Order creative, gluten free baked goods such as the cult-classic Miso Chocolate Chip Cookies or the Chocolate Maple Cardamom Pop Tarts from Brutus Bakeshop (yes they deliver anywhere!)
Shop all the salmon treats such as smoked salmon, salmon seasoning and the Salmon Sisters Cookbook in this gift box.
I swear by this salt! Shop the flakiest sea salt along with fun seasonings and salt blends from women-run Duxbury Saltworks.
Sweet Lydias Marshmallows and Hot Chocolate
Try a curated collection of homemade marshmallows and pair with hot cocoa from Sweet Lydias.
Shop wicked good coffee from Scary Good Coffee whose mission is to bring fresh and complex coffee to every kitchen while creating visibility for women of color in the coffee industry.
Shop your new pantry staple: the Asian flavored starter sauce kits from Omsom. I love their East Asian kit!
Order the custom charcuterie board of your dreams from Mary Charcuterie.
Get the tastiest Babka delivered to your door from RI Based BUNS Bakery.
Neapolitan Cake Mix from Joy the Baker
Make your very own Joy the Baker creations at home with these creative bake mixes.
Kelp Cubes from Atlantic Sea Farms
These versatile kelp cubes are a superfood and a perfect gift for the foodie in your life. Shop from Atlantic Sea Farms.
Beer Mustard from Maine Beer Co.
Order the iconic mustard served at the Maine Beer Co. tasting room. Perfect for those who love to make cheese boards.
Stock up on the tastiest broth before the cold sets in from RI business Lily’s Ladle.
HOME & KITCHEN GOODS
Oyster Plate from Kristine Kainer
Shop this gorgeous and functional oyster platter from Kristine Kainer.
Shop vibrant, nature inspired oil paintings on canvas as well as cheeky postcards and posters from Julia Emiliani. I have to restrain myself from buying all of her mini still life paintings.
Smash the Garlic and the Patriarchy Tea Towel
Shop the trademark towel from Overseasoned.
Shop bold, beautiful digital and physical prints as well as t-shirts from Melissa Koby.
Shop handmade ceramics in the prettiest turquoise and terra cotta color palettes from Beech St. Pottery.
Work Life Balance Candles from Shore Creative.
Shop calming and motivating candles from Shore Creative. I literally start every day by lighting the On Duty candle and it makes my office smell so good.
Shop delicious spices, blends and sauces that are directly sourced to create a more equitable trade from Diaspora Co.
Shop my all-time favorite champagne vinegar along with other tasty, California soured oils and vinegars from Brightland.
Shop holiday cards, letterpress printed notebooks and other pretty home accessories from Middle Dune.
Root for Women Tote Bag from Overseasoned
Shop this empowering tote that can carry TONS of groceries, wine, whatever from Overseasoned.
Shop delicate spices and blends as well as culinary gifts like pickling kits and hot chocolate mixes from Curio Spice.
Stock up on the tastiest, small batch sea salted caramel aka Cara-Sel from Ardent Homesteader.
Chambray Culinary Goddess Apron
Shop this comfy, two pocket apron in a super cute pink chambray from Overseasoned.
Stay In Your Magic Print from Lunch City Studio
Shop this bold and inspiring print from Somerville artist Lunch City Studio.
Shop pressed flower art and beautiful preserved mixed media art from Botanical Creations.
Shop absorbent and attractive beach towels from Peshtemal. I love the teal color!
Mini Disco Ball from Libby Living Colorfully
Shop the most festive accessory from Libby Living Colorfully. I have one of these disco balls on my desk and it makes me so happy!
Get Lit Art Print from Ash + Chess
Shop this art print that makes a perfect addition to a reading corner or office from Ash + Chess.
Ankara Apron from Diasporas Daughters
Shop this vivid apron that is both beautiful and practical from Diasporas Daughters.
Geometric Planters from The Blank Canvas Co.
Shop these hand painted terra cotta planters and add some chic and funkyness to your space from The Blank Canvas Co.
Shop hand colored, awesome sprinkles from River Road Sprinkles. I love their holiday sets!
Fall Seed Collection from Joy Max Jardin
Shop curated collections of vegetable and flower seeds as well as fun accessories from Joy Max Jardin. I love the suncatcher!
Holiday Packing/Gift Bundles from Make & Mend
Shop holiday wrapping and gift supplies from sustainable shop Make + Mend.
Daily Annual Planner from Kindred & Co.
Shop calming and pretty journals, desk pads and annual planners from Kindred & Co.
EXPERIENCES
Get your hands messy with a Pottery with a Purpose Kit. Many of the kits can air dry at home- no studio needed!
Tarot Readings with Rach Does Yoga
Book a special tarot reading with Rach from Rach Does Yoga. Rach offers 3 card, career clarity and year-ahead readings and they’re all excellent!
Literati Book Club Subscription
Give the gift of a curated monthly book subscription with clubs with Malala, Steph Curry and more from Literati.
Cheese Classes with Formaggio Kitchen
Formaggio Kitchen cheese mongers will guide you through a tasting of some classic cheeses in these classes.
Learn more about wine and support a Black-owned business with the Urban Grape wine club!
Rainbow House Garland Papercraft Kit
Make your own rainbow paper house garland! This kit includes everything you need to fold and assemble six adorable paper houses and string them up on a piece of baker’s twine. Each little house opens, providing a perfect spot to hide a treat, a treasure, or a lightweight LED light.
Learn to Knit with Third Piece
Take up knitting with the virtual classes with Third Piece. Start with a beginner scarf and you’ll be amazed at how well you do!
Gift a Monthly Flower Delivery
Send the gift of color with this monthly flower subscription from Urban Stems.