Can you believe it’s almost Thanksgiving?? I know the various shortages and threat of mail delivery slowdowns make everyone feel like they need to get a little more creative with gifts. For me, that’s an even better opportunity to rethink what I’m purchasing and go more for experience gifts instead of being so focused on a typical gift. Here is my holiday gift guide, both for shopping in the Philly area and in general, to help give you some ideas on what to buy for your loved ones.
Fashion
“We Don’t Do ‘Just Okay’ Anymore” – If you want to introduce someone to how styling and loving fashion can literally change their life… well, that’s exactly what my book is all about. Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon.
Wander Boutique (Collingswood, South Jersey) – Super cute Black-owned boutique with a small selection, but so many gorgeous pieces that are slight twists on basics and contemporary styles. So yes, you can get your friends and family great clothes and support small businesses. (And shop online!)
Goddess Goods (Online, Holiday Markets) – I recently had a booth at a pop-up market right across from Goddess Goods and fell in LOVE. They find such unique vintage pieces and add their own twist with dyes, embroidery, and screenprinting. Make sure you follow them on Instagram to see where they’re vending in-person and how to buy online.
Self & Spiritual Care
Mystic Ginger (Blackwood, South Jersey) – An apothecary plus an amazing hair salon? Yes, it does exist. If you want to feel more relaxed and in-tune while getting your regular hair treatments, I cannot recommend them enough. Also, being able to pick up a huge variety of self-care goodies like tea, bath soaks, and balms makes a visit to their salon the ultimate treat. You can also browse and buy from their apothecary on their website.
Formation Sauna (NoLibs, Philly) – Get a gift certificate for your fave to treat themselves to sauna sessions or a massage. This gorgeous small spa is super strict about adhering to COVID guidelines and very small, so it’s truly relaxing. Get gift certificates here.
Witch’s Way Craft (Online) – If you want to gift someone something really unique like a crystal or something for their spiritual practice, you have to know them really well. If you don’t feel confident in choosing for them, get a gift card to an ethical supplier, like our local Witch’s Way Craft. They carry all kinds of unique crystals in addition to making their own (AMAZING) candles and ethically sourced spiritual tools. Get gift cards here.
Freedom Apothecary (NoLibs, Philly) – Shop a wide range of indie skincare and self-care brands in this gorgeous Black-owned shop in Northern Liberties. Perfect for putting together a care package to help someone feel extra special or try something new for their skin.
Home
Philadelphia Independents (Old City, Philly) – Pick out something truly unique at this boutique that sells art and products from many local artists and makers. And yes, there’s a lot of Philly love in there, but there are also gorgeous handmade mugs, adorable toys, and hand crafted cutting boards.
Jinxed (Fishtown, Philly) – Amazing vintage and variety store that also carries original art and some clothing. It’s pretty much guaranteed that you’ll find some really unique pieces. (You need to go shop in-person though!)
Safa (Manayunk, Philly) – Gifting a plant in a cute pot is always a good idea. This little shop started as a tea house and cafe, and transitioned to a plant shop during the beginning of the pandemic, and they’re still going. They have everything from rare plants to low-maintenance basics that anyone can take care of.
Casscabell (Online & Pop Up Markets) – Gorgeous and truly one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces, including plant pots, plus a range of other homeware. Cass is working on updating her website so it’s easier to shop online, but in the meantime, follow her on Instagram to find her at pop up markets this season!
Something for Everyone
Spiral Bookcase (Manayunk, Philly) – If you need a one-stop shop for a few gifts, this magical bookstore in Manayunk is the one for you. Pick up new releases, used books, fun merch, and home goods like candles and hand-crafted jewelry, all while supporting a local bookstore that actively gives back to the community.
Meraki Market (Haddonfield, South Jersey) – Everything that ends up on their Instagram seriously catches my eye… I want it all. This is such an amazing store to pick up host gifts, stocking stuffers, and crowd pleasers that still feel very unique.
Looking for more small businesses to support? Check out these other posts for gift inspiration.
