The holidays have a way of turning shopping into something more meaningful — a chance to slow down, be thoughtful, and support the local businesses that make our neighborhoods feel like home. This year, we asked our team members to share their favorite places to shop for the holidays -the small businesses they return to again and again for gifts that feel personal, joyful, and a little bit special. From beautifully curated stationery and jewelry to cozy bookstores, chocolate bars, and even a potluck-ready party trick, these are the shops that inspire us and make holiday giving more intentional.
Whether you’re shopping for a loved one, a host, or yourself (because yes, that counts), we hope these local favorites spark ideas and encourage you to keep your holiday spending close to home.
Laura Clise, Founder & CEO
- Facet Modern Mercantile (Issaquah) – Welcome to your new go-to gift store. I love the way that Adia Bobo has thoughtfully curated items from independent small businesses – from candles, to artisanal honey and olive oil, to home decor! If I’m on your gift list, go here.
- Retail Therapy (Capitol Hill) – Wazhma Samizay’s boutique is where I go to purchase everything from a delightfully irreverent card, to jewelry, to surprise gifts for my wife — like a DIY pottery kit. Fun Fact: This is also where I picked up the dress I wore to the 2024 Intentionalist Awards.
- Mam’s Books – I love the incredible selection of books by Asian American authors. Kids books, yes! Memoirs, of course! Cookbooks, you bet! And while you shop, you’ll experience the vibrant community that Sokha Danh has built at the first Asian American bookstore in the Pacific Northwest.
Theresa – Small Business Outreach Manager
- Mixed Pantry (Belltown) – EVERYTHING! Jams and caramels, curries, dried fruits, sauces, everything!
- Cocoa Legato (Greenwood) – Chocolate Bars!
- Friend Museum (Pioneer Square) – Hair claws and clips, candles, and coasters.
Simran Singh, Operations
- Esme & Elodie (Renton)- Created by women, for women. This store is wonderful to shop in since they have products for bodies of all shapes and sizes. They also offer a variety of classes, if anyone on your list has “quality time” as a love language.
- Seward Park Pet (Seward Park) – This is such a great place to get stocking stuffers for family pets!
- Andaluz (Columbia City) – Whether you’re looking for jewelry, candles, t shirts, self-care products, or other items, Andaluz is THE best place for last minute gifts.
Sarah Studer, Content Contributor
- Lauda (Tacoma) – I am a stationery addict and Lauda is one of the best curated shops for stationery lovers that I have found in the area. I always make sure to visit the neighboring businesses McCoy & Kids, Tacoma Knife & Mercantile, and the brand new Civic Roasters – so this recommendation is actually four-in-one!
- Fancy (Madison Valley) – I love visiting Sally and browsing her beautifully curated collection of jewelry from over 20 different women jewelers. Plus, she’s been so incredibly helpful to me in restoring jewelry that I inherited from from my mom. This year, we’re going to take apart some pieces from my mom’s collection that aren’t quite my style and design a custom ring in her memory!
- Spring Roll House Deli (Chinatown-International District) – I hesitate to reveal my best potluck party trick, but it is such a crowd pleaser: I save myself a ton of time (and a ton of dishes) by ordering dozens of piping hot shrimp and pork egg rolls at Spring Roll House Deli – it’s something like $40 for a half-pan and they’re always the first to disappear from the table. Plus, you can also stock up your freezer by ordering frozen egg rolls to cook at home.
Kylie Aberle, Marketing
- Good Sister Shop (West Seattle) – this West Seattle shop has the best curation of goods that celebrate beauty, wellness, and community in all shapes and forms made by artists and creators in underrepresented communities.
- Hoste (West Seattle) – a vintage store celebrating styles for all bodies. I can always find something in here for anyone on my list, whether it’s clothing, a handmade ceramic piece, or a new-to-me body product.
- Queen Anne Book Company (Queen Anne) – I may be biased since some of my favorite people work here, but this is my favorite cozy neighborhood bookstore in Seattle! QABC is always able to give recommendations for extremely niche tastes, or help find the perfect gift for friends and family.
Joel Simpson, Engineering
- Math ‘n’ Stuff (Maple Leaf) – As someone who is obsessed with boardgames, I love visiting Math ‘n’ Stuff to find unique games to gift my friends, and I always pick up something for myself as well.
- We Rise Wines (Downtown) – We Rise Wines is the perfect spot to pick up bottles for all the holiday parties I am looking forward to attending this year!
- Marina Mercantile (Des Moines) – Marina Mercantile is very close to my house, and I love browsing their gift selection. I can always find something for anyone on my list, or take friends to a high tea experience!