Alright friends, it's heeeeere! Your ultimate guide to shopping small this holiday season. I hope that you discover some great finds on this list. <3
FOOD related:
The BEST granola you will ever eat. Pat pours her heart and soul into this granola and gosh can you taste it. I order a ton of small bags at the holidays for friends, teachers, etc..
Kween Granola Butter Can you tell that I love granola products?! If you follow me on Insta then you know that I am positively obsessed with Ali's granola butter. I put in oats and yogurt, on toast, or eat it straight from the spoon. It's also a great alternative for nut-free environments!
Dean's Beans Coffee A friend recommended Dean's Beans and I'm excited to try their coffee!
OmMade Peanut Butter Hand-crafted flavored peanut butter? YES.
Esquire Confections Amanda is a local mom who makes incredible cakes and baked goods tailored to your preference! We've ordered many cakes from her and they are always amazing.
Red Truck Bakery Well-known across the country for their delicious baked goods, Red Truck Bakery has two local storefronts in Warrenton and Marshall, Va. That being said, they also ship their delectable treats all over the country! Did someone say rum cake???
Gratisfied Empower Bars I am obsessed with Empower Bars. Developed by a fellow UVA alum, these are such a nutritional powerhouse.
Clean Conscience Chocolate I came across this chocolate randomly on a road trip and it's AMAZING for those of us that have a lot of dietary restrictions. The chocolate PB cups and the coconut cups are out of this world. CP, are you reading this? :)
SweetsBye Another local baker that puts out amazing custom work.
The Happy Tart If you're local and anyone in your circle is gluten sensitive, you must go here! So many delicious options.
*Additionally, consider purchasing gift cards/certificates for favorite local, non-chain restaurants and cafes that can be redeemed down the road in person or for takeout!
KID related:
Pufferbellies Toys You know those amazing toy stores that seemingly no longer exist? Pufferbellies is your spot. They have it ALL and they deliver! Their book section is hands down my favorite of anywhere I've shopped.
Doodlehopper This toy store is also wonderful, particularly if you're in NoVa and want to see things in person. We frequent Doodlehopper for birthday gifts!
Stitchy Fish I recently discovered Stitchy Fish through Instagram (#theygotme) and it is adorable clothing that is preppy but not over the top. They also have smocked items if that is your jam.
Shutterbugs Boutique Another adorable kiddos clothing store out of North Carolina.
Maple and Lark Darling eco-friendly gifts for the little ones in your life!
Rose and Rex An assortment of great toys that inspire creativity.
GENERAL GIFTS:
The Urban Farmhouse Located in Arlington, this adorable shop has lots of great finds for all sorts of people in your life. From art to vintage goods and to holiday decor- they have you covered.
Covet Next to The Urban Farmhouse is Covet! Whereas the former has more homey gifts, Covet has smaller, more quirky stuff. It feels like you're shopping a bunch of awesome Etsy stores all under one roof!
*Both The Urban Farmhouse and Covet have an online store with delivery.
MadeVA Another AWESOME gift store out of Staunton, Virginia. I always find the best gifts here and their online store has just about everything that they have to offer in person, too.
The Tiny Tassel Fun jewelry and accessories fill this adorable shop!! I'm eyeing some headbands for the holidays!
Botanologica A darling store in Falls Church City, Botanologica is a must for any plant lovers in your life. They have an incredible assortment of unique plants that are impressively priced.
Rachel Mulherin Jewelry I've been a fan of Baltimore native Rachel's jewelry for years. It is just so unique and stunning. I may have picked up a few pieces recently and I just love them so much.
SweatyBands Hands down the best non-slip headbands! I have so many (the 3/8 inch and 5/8 inch width are my favorite) and there are endless fun designs.
Seven Oaks Lavender Fam If lavender is your jam, this is your spot to buy from. They have all things lavender from yoga mat spray to candles to tea.
Christina Kober Jewelry Owned by a friend's sister, Christina has stunning pieces that would make the perfect gift. Her bar necklaces would be perfect for a mama in your life.
BOOKS (please please please consider purchasing books from local, small bookstores!):
Mahogany Books Based in DC, Mahogany Books is owned by power couple Derrick and Ramunda Young. They write, "We take a leadership role in the African American community by promoting reading, writing, and cultural awareness as tools to improve self-esteem, self-love and ultimately our communities to enrich the lives of motivated individuals."
One More Page- A wonderful locally owned bookstore that ships everywhere!
SERVICES:
Ivy Calvert, Wardrobe Stylist (@calvertandco.styling on Instagram): This is the service that you never knew you needed and you totally need. As someone who loves clothes, I've never nailed down a style....until Ivy! From a style consult to a wardrobe edit, Ivy will have you covered with tips and tricks to streamline your wardrobe and style. For me, paying for her service cuts down on a LOT of wasted money on clothing down the road.
Balanced Female Fitness My lifesaver in regards to my fitness and sanity. I've realized how much a sense of community inspires me with my fitness as I've gotten older and you will not find a more supportive and uplifting group of females anywhere else. With a digital library and tons of online classes, you don't have to be local to join either!
Fountains Day Spa Located in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, my mom and I have been going to Fountains for facials and massages since I was in high school! While you may not feel comfortable heading in for a treatment right now, I highly recommend taking advantage of their specials and stocking up on a package for post-COVID delight! And if you are comfortable heading in, they have very thought out health protocols in place.
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