6 Gift Ideas that Support Small Businesses
When we buy from small businesses, we are giving back to our neighbors. More than ever before, small businesses need support from their community. In addition to the economic benefits of shopping locally, you can find one-of-a-kind gifts for those loved ones who may be difficult to shop for. To get the creative juices flowing, we picked these six different gift ideas from small businesses within the United States.
1. We Gather Weave Kits
Those who have a passion for textiles, crafting, or trying new things would be excited for a Frame Loom Weaving Kit from We Gather. The Frame Loom Weaving Kit comes with everything they need to design their own textile and begin a new favorite hobby. The kit comes with a variety of natural materials such as wool, hemp, silk blends, linen, and cotton. The Frame Loom Weaving Kits are a great way for people to unwind and take their mind off the day-to-day stress. The finished product is an excellent piece of home décor, especially for those who love bohemian and Scandinavian styles. The Lil Loom Weaving Kit is a miniature version of the Frame Loom Weaving Kit, perfect for people who want to keep their hands busy without committing to a large project.
We Gather is a small textile studio founded by Whitney Crutchfield and is located in Brooklyn, New York. In addition to teaching at the Fashion Institute of Technology, Parsons School of Design, and Textile Arts Center, Whitney shares her love for textiles with educational workshops, DIY kits, and community events. We Gather is also dedicated to lending a hand to anti-racism efforts through donations, apprenticeship programs, and redirecting money to black-owned businesses when possible.
2. Seattle-Inspired Candles
We all have that one friend or family member who loves rain, green landscapes, and cozy coffee shops. Wouldn’t it be nice to turn the Northwestern coast aesthetic into a candle? The Seattle Candle Company does just that. These sentimental and high-quality candles are made from 100% soy wax and are carefully hand-poured in small batches right in the heart of Seattle, Washington. Choose from a variety of classic Seattle-inspired scents such as evergreen, cedar, sandalwood, coffee, fig, and even the Seattle rain itself. Give the gift of nostalgia with a product that is fit for any age or gender. If you are shopping for a candle lover who also enjoys crafting, the Seattle Candle Company also sells candle making kits for those looking for a fun new hobby.
 3. Terrarium Kits
Do you know someone who is a passionate plant parent? Feed their love for greenery with a Terrarium Kit from Eastern Leaf. Choose from over twenty different terrarium kits for a plant child your loved one will swoon over. Each kit comes with everything they need to create the perfect little home for their new succulent babies. Many of the glass vases come with the option to hang the terrarium on a wall for a decorative ecosystem. Terrarium kits are a unique and ideal gift for those loved ones who find fulfillment around nature or enjoy collecting plants. After all, plants are like potato chips; you can never have just one.
Eastern Leaf was founded by couple Jason and Renee in Chino, California, and has been educating their community on plants since 2004. Jason has been actively serving in the bonsai community, dedicating his time to the Golden State Bonsai Federation, Kofu Bonsai Kai club, and Bonsai Club International.
4. Cottagecore Décor
Have a bestie who can’t get enough of the cottagecore aesthetic? Jolie Marche, a small business in Franklin, Tennessee, has the decorative pillow covers and throw blankets you’ve been looking for. These comfort pieces feature the soft, warm colors that are a signature component for a peaceful cottage look. Jolie Marche offers a wide range of patterns and textiles that earthy, vintage elements. These handmade pieces will add one-of-a-kind texture to any living room, bedroom, or reading nook. Your gift recipient will think of you every time they admire the details of their cottage-inspired space.
5. Unique Dinnerware
The kitchen and dining room are frequently used spaces that deserve pieces that are as unique as the person you’re shopping for. Tina Huang from Los Angeles, California opened her own studio, Ren Vois, that offers ceramic pieces that can’t be found in large, corporate suppliers. The minimalist silhouettes and pastel colors, inspired by California’s dreamy sunsets and sandy beaches, come together to create a contemporary design that will fit in with any style of kitchen. Ren Vois’ dinnerware collections have a raw clay appearance that invites a natural element, perfect for your most down-to-earth loved ones.
6. Vintage Books
Give a gift that will satisfy someone’s craving for unique vintage finds. Privet House is a charming shop located in Connecticut that sells all kinds of vintage-inspired pieces for homes, including a collection of vintage books that hold a significant piece of history. Privet House’s vintage book collection features old-fashioned cookbooks, poetry about world wars, and biographies of European royalty. These antique treasures are perfect for those who want to display their passion for history on their bookshelves or coffee tables.
What small businesses are you supporting this holiday season? Show us your unique gifts ideas by tagging Walker Edison on social media.