Small and Thoughtful
2024 GIFT GUIDE
Local businesses are what make our communities feel like home. We’re proud to highlight what makes them shine by helping you find the perfect gift for everyone on your list!
Note: An asterisk (*) denotes online only businesses.
Shop Small Around Buffalo
There’s nothing better than supporting small businesses in person. This holiday season, pay a visit to these Buffalo-area businesses!
Nestled in the Village of Hamburg, NY, Turn the Page is a used bookstore with the right read for everyone. With more than a thousand titles to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect book to gift the bookworm on your list.
At Buffalo Gift Emporium, shopping for the perfect present has a true hometown feel. This Tonawanda, NY, gift shop offers products from more than 100 local small businesses – so whether you’re buying a t-shirt, coffee mug or a yard sign, you’ll be supporting a Buffalo-based artisan.
No matter how old you are, you’ll feel like a kid again when you stop into Bloomsbury Lane Toy Shoppe. With a large selection of toys, games and puzzles for people of all ages, this independently owned Lancaster, NY, business is the perfect place to holiday shop.
After you finish gift shopping on Main Street in Williamsville, NY, stop for a perfectly polished pint and a yummy bite at Britesmith Brewing. From the wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas to its cozy beer garden, this taproom is one you won’t want to miss.
Shop Small Around Baltimore
There’s nothing better than supporting small businesses in person. This holiday season, pay a visit to these Baltimore-area businesses!
Since 2008, The Spice & Tea Exchange has been fueled by a mission to connect customers with exceptional ingredients that will elevate their home cooking. Find the perfect gift for any home chef when you shop their vibrant selection of teas, spices and salts at their Fells Point storefront.
Why not choose something fun for your holiday party catering? At Sporty Dog Creations, food is made fun again. The mother and daughter duo behind this Baltimore, MD, business have infused their passionate approach to food into every hot dog, side and drink on their menu.
At Dangerously Delicious Pies, the pies are just that – so dangerously delicious that you can have them for breakfast, lunch and dinner. After a day of gift shopping, stop for a bite at the O’Donnell Street location and choose from quiches, savory pies, fruit pies, cream pies, pancake pies and more!
Family-owned and operated Dellwood Designs was founded with a passion for art and an eye for beauty. You can catch this retailer at festivals around town and find the perfect gift among their selection of quilted goods, woodwork and Maryland pride stickers.
Shop Small Around Delaware
There’s nothing better than supporting small businesses in person. This holiday season, pay a visit to these Delaware businesses!
There’s a sweet treat for everyone at DonutNV. Book their mobile donut trailer for your holiday party and try out a bag or bucket of mini donuts available in flavors like powdered sugar, s’mores and even French toast. Don’t forget to grab a glass of fresh-squeezed lemonade to wash it all down!
No matter who their favorite artist is, JAM Music and Memorabilia has the perfect gift for the music lover in your life. Browse this woman-owned business’ selection of vinyl records, CDs, posters and unique band t-shirts.
Have you heard of Bluecoast Seafood Grill and Raw Bar? What about Thompson Island Brewing Company? These businesses, along with 10 others, are all part of SoDel Concepts’ chef-driven restaurants – making them a perfect place to gather for a holiday dinner.
Family-owned and -operated, the 302 Horseshoe Crab offers tees, hats and accessories that capture the essence of salt-air style – perfect gifts for anyone who calls the First State home. Their original designs can be found at their flagship location in Lewes and other storefronts around Delaware.
Shop Small Around Connecticut
There’s nothing better than supporting small businesses in person. This holiday season, pay a visit to these Connecticut businesses!
For more than 20 years, Electric Hand Barber Shop has been serving the community of Bridgeport. Treat that special guy in your life to a basic beard trim or a haircut with a specialty design. Electric Hand’s detail-oriented team of barbers are the best of the best.
Main Street Creamery has been providing Bridgeport with a variety of tasty treats since 2004. If you’re craving a soft-serve cone, hot fudge sundae or a warm churro after holiday shopping – this year-round ice cream shop will leave your sweet tooth satisfied.
Located in Seymour, Swan Conservatory of Dance provides the well-rounded education necessary for a strong foundation in ballet. Give the gift of youth and adult classes or support the school by attending their annual performance of The Nutcracker.
If you’re looking for smooth whiskey and delicious food for a holiday meal, look no further than Brick & Barrel. From happy hour specials to Sunday brunch, this downtown Bridgeport establishment infuses bourbon-inspired flavors into every last bite.
Shop Small Around Rochester
There’s nothing better than supporting small businesses in person. This holiday season, pay a visit to these Rochester-area businesses!
For more than 25 years, Salena’s has been serving up delicious Mexican food. With a menu boasting flavorful margaritas, tacos, enchiladas and more, this restaurant is perfect for lunch, dinner or even catering your holiday party.
After you finish gift shopping in the Park Avenue neighborhood, stop by Magnolia’s for an upscale café experience that will leave you coming back again and again. From breakfast to pizza to craft beer on tap, this eatery has everything a foodie could ask for.
Next time you’re strolling through Neighborhood of the Arts, keep your eyes peeled for Craft Company No. 6. Inside this refurbished firehouse, you’ll find a beautiful selection of handcrafted gifts, jewelry and home furnishings unique to this eclectic gem.
The recipes at Leo’s Bakery and Deli have been shaped by years of hard work, creativity and even a brief hiatus to Hawaii. Visit this historic deli and pick up anything from carrot cake to chicken marsala to bring to your holiday party.
Shop Small Around Maine
There’s nothing better than supporting small businesses in person. This holiday season, pay a visit to these Maine businesses!
If you have a seafood lover on your list, gift them some high-quality clams, salmon or lobster from Harbor Fish Market. This family-owned business has been committed to providing the freshest seafood to the community of Portland, ME, since 1966.
Aurora Design is a woman-owned Etsy shop based in the beautiful state of Maine. Their selection of t-shirts, ornaments and candles are designed to reflect themes of travel and the great outdoors, and make perfect gifts for any adventurer.
There’s no better combo than the fresh seafood and delicious drinks offered at Rose Cove in Ogunquit, ME. Enjoy a delicious holiday meal made with locally sourced ingredients or share some celebratory cocktails with friends at the bar indoors.
For the Coffee Lover
Whether they love their lattes or craft their own cold brew, those who need their daily coffee fix will delight in these caffeine-fueled favorites.
Gnosis Coffee Roasters was founded on a passion for showcasing the natural flavors present in the coffee bean. Shop their online selection of uniquely roasted coffee beans to find the perfect stocking stuffer.
Each Winfield Street Coffee location in Connecticut, New York and Florida offers warm service, a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients and a space to connect with the community. Their fun merchandise makes the perfect gift for anyone with a serious coffee craving.
Our team provides a variety of services designed to help ensure that your trust is efficiently administered to help grow, protect, and preserve wealth for future generations, such as administrative and recordkeeping; tax-related responsibilities; and ongoing communication with the trust’s beneficiaries.
Coffee ice cubes? Say no more! In addition to their bubble tea, MighTea Boba in Canandaigua, NY, offers a menu full of unique coffee drinks. Fuel up before you hit the town for some holiday shopping.
For the Health and Wellness Enthusiast
Don’t sweat over finding a gift for that wellness-loving friend or family member who always has a fitness class booked or has plans for a healthier new year.
With locations in Lewisburg and Wilkes-Barre, PA, ONE Health & Fitness is here to help the community achieve their fullest potential through the power of both hot and cold therapies. Book a cold plungeor sauna session for your loved one to bolster their body and mind.
If getting in shape is the goal, a class or membership to Box BFLO in Williamsville, NY, is the perfect move. The coaches at this woman-owned cardio boxing gym will offer guided techniques in a welcoming, judgement-free zone.
Know someone who loves yoga? Then look no further than Yoga with Keri-Ann based in Rhinebeck, NY. Owner Keri-Ann Laurito offers private yoga lessons, yoga soirees and even recorded classes, so that all can find relaxation and rejuvenation through the practice of yoga.
Are they into strength training, yoga, boxing or all of the above? Gift them a membership to Backyahd Boston in Massachusetts! The team of passionate instructors here will help the fitness guru in your life become an even better version of themselves.
For the Community-Conscious
Diversity is what makes the communities we love and live in even stronger. Promote cultural equity this holiday season by supporting local multicultural businesses.
At AAPI-owned Gong Glass Works, each work of art has been crafted using traditional techniques that focus on color, balance, line and texture. A sculpture or stained-glass kit is sure to brighten your loved one’s home or workspace.
Based in Orange, NJ, Luxurious Wellniss was founded on a mission to address the specific needs of people with melanin-rich skin. Give the gift of a facial, peel or skincare product from this minority woman-owned skin lab.
Hispanic-owned Static Era Records is a record label and retail store that’s bringing the sweet sound of music to Milford, CT – and to the music lover in your life. Treat them to a new record for their collection – whether it’s pop or punk, Static Era has it all.
Based in Buffalo, NY, Elle James was founded to help customers foster positivity in their homes and business spaces. When you shop their collection of crystals, sage and incense, you have the power to give the gift of good vibes.
For the Dad Who Has Everything
Or really any hard-to-shop-for guy in your life.
If dad is a handyman or DIYer, gift him a membership to The Tool Library. Based in Buffalo, NY, they have an inventory of more than 3,000 tools to loan – so he’ll be able to tackle any project without breaking the bank.
Treat your special guy to a delicious dinner from Chicago Steak Company, and have it shipped right to his door! This online retailer offers steaks that were raised, trimmed and aged using centuries-old techniques, meaning you’ll find the very best flavor in every bite.
Want to upgrade his home entertainment system this holiday season? The Speaker Shop has what he’ll need to take game day or movie night to the next level. This Buffalo, NY, small business offers everything from TVs and projectors to speaker systems and vinyl turntables.
Whether he’s young or just young at heart, a gift from Hobbytown is sure to bring a smile to his face. Hobbytown’s Fairfield, CT, location offers something for every passionate hobbyist, including model boats and planes, drones, puzzles and games.
For the Sweet Tooth
We all have a dessert lover on our list. Why not treat them to a sweet surprise?
Browse the selection of delicious desserts from AppleCore’s Bake Shoppe, and you’ll find a perfect gift in no time. This minority-owned bakery offers everything from specialty cheesecakes to vegan and gluten-free cakes – and it can all be shipped anywhere in the US.
Based in Scarborough, ME, Len Libby Candies has chocolate and confectionaries sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. Stop in to hand select some favorites or order online anytime. Either way – from taffy to peanut butter cups – you can’t go wrong.
Want to gift them a plant-based ice cream that’s creamy and delicious? Look no further than the handmade ice cream from The Vegan Stuff. Pick up a pint in Beacon, NY, or order a munchie box full of vegan baked goods available for nationwide delivery.
Since 1948, Park Edge Sweet Shoppe has been serving up delicious chocolates in Buffalo, NY. From their unique sponge candy sticks to chocolate-covered strawberries and even “choc-uterie” tables, this confectionery has a variety of treats that make for the ultimate gift.
For the Animal Lover
Whether they’re a dog dad, a cat mom or an animal enthusiast of any kind, these gift ideas are for the pet parents!
The Maryland SPCA’s mission is to improve the lives of people and pets in the community through education, veterinary services and humane care. This holiday season, make a donation in their name to help our furry friends in need.
For the new puppy parents in your life, Dog Guard Out of Sight Fencing offers the perfect gift: reliable pet containment systems that will keep any pet safe. And what’s a better gift than peace of mind?
If you’ve got an equestrian in your life, saddle up and head on over to The Stagecoach West in Irving, NY. From blankets and bridles to chaps and carts, this retailer offers the highest quality goods at an affordable price – and they ship nationwide too.
For the Busy Mom
Give any special woman in your life a gift that’s just as caring and thoughtful as she is.
If Mom’s a true home chef, she’ll love a bottle of one of the 40+ artisanal varieties of olive oil or vinegar from Phat Olive. This Katonah, NY, store was born from a passion for sharing the flavor and benefits of olive oil.
Give her the gift of a spa day at Skin Sanctuary of WNY. This Williamsville, NY, boutique spa offers self-care experiences aimed at relaxation. From facials and waxing to lash extensions and aromatherapy, there’s something for every special lady in your life.
Want to gift them a plant-based ice cream that’s creamy and delicious? Look no further than the handmade ice cream from The Vegan Stuff. Pick up a pint in Beacon, NY, or order a munchie box full of vegan baked goods available for nationwide delivery.
Who doesn’t love brunch? Treat mom to an all-day breakfast, a delicious crepe or even a sizzling smash burger at one of the Skinny Pancake locations in Vermont, Massachusetts and New York.
For the Social Butterfly
These experience-based gifts will have your friends laughing, smiling or even cooking their way through the new year.
Get together for a scary good time at this Halloween-themed fun center. Located in Southern Maryland, Scary Strokes offers spooky mini golf, a state-of-the-art arcade and e-sports gaming. Talk about a unique gift option!
For the little ones on your list, a fun, hands-on science workshop at Kiddie Science in Brooklyn, NY, could make the perfect gift. Since 2013, this Hispanic-owned nonprofit organization has been dedicated to their mission of providing kids with the tools and opportunities necessary to foster a lifelong love of science.
Winery of Ellicottville is helping this New York ski town earn a reputation for more than just its slopes. Get your friends together and celebrate the holiday season with a wine tasting or enjoy a wine and chocolate pairing.
At Read It & Eat Bookshop in Buffalo, NY, they believe that reading can be a culinary adventure. This woman-owned culinary bookstore offers cookbooks, artisanal food kits and events that would make for perfect experience-based gifts.
For the Host with the Most
Whether they’re hosting the holiday party, or their house is game night central all year long, these gifts are a great addition for any gathering.
If they have a worldly taste when it comes to wine and spirits, gift them a bottle from Wines by Nature. From rosé and merlot to tequila and whiskey, this Wading River, NY, shop offers delicious, sustainable wine and spirits from around the globe.
The Belgian-inspired craft beers at Brewery Ardennes are best paired with good food, friends and conversation. Shop the selection of brews from this Geneva, NY, business, and bring a pack to your next holiday gathering.
Have a charcuterie connoisseur on your list? Gift them artisanal cheese from Palmyra Farm Cheese! You can find their cheddar cheese varieties at select locations around Montgomery, Washington and Frederick counties in Maryland.
Add a personalized touch to their home bar with the beautiful craftsmanship of Susquehanna Glass Company. This Pennsylvania-based retailer offers a variety of high-quality glassware that can be customized for any home or business.
For the Self-Care Guru
If they always have a “me day” slated on their calendar, these gifts will be the perfect complement.
If they love to give their hair some serious TLC, Diva by Cindy has got them covered. This Maryland-based retailer offers a line of shampoos, conditioners and growth systems that were carefully formulated with natural ingredients to promote longer, healthier hair.
Woman-owned and operated Bella Glow Med Spa has one goal: enhance and preserve the natural beauty of every client. Gift cards for this Montoursville, PA, med spa can be used for services like filler, a microneedling session or even laser hair removal.
Based in Columbia, MD, Queen’s Temple offers a full lineup of handcrafted body care products. Give the gift of a spa night at home with their handcrafted soaps, body butters or bath bombs.
While the W Salon may be located in Rochester, NY, the stylists bring generations of British training to create a hairstyle that’s perfectly suited to you. Purchase a gift card for anything from pedicures to highlights.
For the Homeowner
Whether they just closed on their first house or are living in their forever home, these ideas are sure to spark joy in any homeowner.
Constructed in 1902, the Copper Shop Gallery at the Roycroft Campus houses the work of more than 100 local and national artists, as well as unique home goods and gifts. Located in East Aurora, NY, the gallery hosts handmade work in media that includes wood, metal, glass and ceramics.
At Satella Power, they believe technology should make your life easier, safer and more enjoyable. Founded in Maryland, this online retailer offers smart locks systems and security cameras that will give any new homeowner peace of mind.
Make their walls a little more beautiful with a custom frame from Five Points Framing in Buffalo, NY. From paintings and textiles to photography and historical artifacts – the team at this woman-owned studio will handle any project with the utmost care and attention to detail.
Highland Design by Chrissy is a Black woman–owned interior design firm dedicated to creating spaces that are true reflections of every client. A color consultation or full interior styling from their Lewisburg, PA–based team will help to achieve the living space of their dreams.
For the Outdoor Aficionado
For anyone who feels one with nature, these gifts are a breath of fresh air.
Their next winter adventure could begin with Dion-NeviTREK. This woman-owned company makes every snowshoe by hand. All you need to do is choose the frame, cleat and binding – they’ll build the perfect snowshoe and ship it anywhere in the US.
Once a tiny goat farm, Catapano Dairy Farm is now Long Island’s go-to source for goat milk and goat-based experiences. Treat the nature lover in your life to a tour of their farm or a baby goat yoga session.
Located in York, PA, Uller’s Outdoor is the year-round destination for sporting goods of every sort. Whether they’re in need of new skis, pickleball paddles or even equipment for water sports, an Uller’s gift card makes the perfect present.
Looking for the perfect gift for the snowboarder or skater in your life? Phatman Boardshop is dedicated to providing Western New York with high-quality skateboard and snowboard hard goods, outerwear and apparel.
For the Fashion Fanatic
If they’re always following the latest style trends, there’s no better gift than some new threads.
Woman-owned and operated, Ashley’s seeks to create a supportive shopping environment that empowers every customer to leave feeling their best. Treat them to some cozy new sleepwear or a gift card to be used online or at their Western New York locations.
Based in Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay, Southwind Apparel offers performance and athleisure clothing designed with comfort and versatility in mind. From fleeces to tennis skorts, the pieces from this woman-owned apparel shop are made with high-quality fabric and stylish patterns that are perfect for those who are always on the move.
Help them foster positive energy with the beautiful jewelry from New Vintage by Sam. Based in Baltimore, MD, each piece of healing hardware is handcrafted with intention, so anyone wearing it will feel inner strength and empowerment.
If a luxury handbag is in their future, look no further than Handbag Social Club’s selection of new and vintage designer pieces. Shop their collection of brand-name bags online or at one of their pop-up events in the Mid-Atlantic region or give a gift card so your fashionista can peruse this woman-owned business’ inventory and find a dream piece for themself.
Save it for Later
Download a copy of the gift guide and stock up on the perfect presents for everyone this holiday season.
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