November 22, 2021

Spread Some Joy & Shop Local This Holiday Season

Shopping small and local this year is more important than ever. Supporting the creative and dedicated small business owners in our communities is our opportunity to invest back in our neighbors while giving this holiday season.

Small Business Saturday is on November 27, but supporting our local artisans and businesses is something we love to do all year round. Our NBS locations span across Southeast Michigan and Northwestern Ohio, so we broke out our small business gift guide to highlight a few of the unique shops in each one of our regions. Our shopping guide below will introduce you to some of the coolest local businesses so you can be a more mindful gift-giver this season. Thank you to all the small businesses who get up every day and do what they love.

Based in Detroit

If you know someone who loves nicely scented candles and bath products, check out Mahatma Candles. This woman-owned online store offers a variety of handcrafted candles, as well as luxurious bath and beauty products to gift this year. With a name that means “great-souled,” it’s no doubt that Mahatma’s products will radiate good vibes during the holidays.

When we think of the holiday season, counters full of delicious appetizers such as cheese and meat boards pop into mind. As you prepare for your holiday parties, be sure to visit the Cheese to Please online store. This one-woman show designs amazing boards from her home and will happily deliver them to you herself, giving you a beautiful platter that your guests will never forget.

Based in Toledo

Looking for personal gifts that your fellow Ohio and Michigan people will love? Jupmode makes it easy to show off your midwestern pride by creating fun, trendy apparel and accessories, with graphics that focus on all things Midwest. Visit the Toledo store or explore their online shop!

For all the art lovers out there, Copper Moon Studio is a local hot spot for exceptional art and cool finds. Not only do they provide a large selection of fused glass gifts, but they offer classes where you can come in and customize your gift exactly how you want. I mean, who doesn’t love DIY gifts? Stop in the store or browse the website to choose from unique picture frames, suncatchers, magnets, and so much more.

Based in Ann Arbor

Jewelry is always a great go-to gift, but what if we told you that you could give your loved one something so one-of-a-kind that you can’t find it just anywhere? Thistle and Bess, an Ann Arbor shop and online store, sells fine, handmade jewelry from artists all over the globe. They even travel the world looking for high-quality vintage and antique treasures to excite their customers. Whether you choose a ring, tote bag, or scarf, these gifts will truly “wow” your person this holiday season!

For more one-of-a-kind gift ideas, Found Gallery is a great option, featuring local artists and providing a beautiful collection of jewelry, home décor, coffee mugs, and paper goods. With a wide variety like this, available both online and in-store, you’re guaranteed to find something that your friends and family will love.

Based in Great Lakes Bay Region

If you love shopping and are seeking the perfect gift, Violets Blue is the place for you. This beautiful boutique has a courtyard garden, providing a relaxing shopping experience while picking out the most special gifts. Or if you’re not in the Great Lakes Bay Region area, you can conveniently explore their online shop. Owned by a mother and daughter duo, they are passionate about sharing their love for beautiful home accessories and vintage items with their customers.

Shopping for a music-lover this year? If so, be sure to stop in Electric Kitsch. Located in Bay City, this music store offers a wide selection of records, cassettes, vintage clothing, electronic equipment, and music gear, making it an excellent spot to find the perfect music-themed gift this holiday season.

Based in Lansing

Who doesn’t love soap that is both natural and moisturizing? A & S Soap Co. believes that a healthy lifestyle isn’t just about what you put in your body, it’s also about what you put on your body. They offer many different types of nourishing body soaps, face bars, and bath soak that not only smell good, but feel good. Explore their online shop to discover your favorite soaps!

When thinking of holiday gifts, you can never go wrong with popcorn. Cravings Popcorn serves tins of different types of delicious, gourmet popcorn that their customers can either order online or buy in-store. Offered in options like caramel, cheddar cheese, and chocolate drizzle, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect gift for your popcorn-loving friend.

All these amazing businesses make it easy to shop small and support local. Please join us in giving back to our local communities this holiday season!