The holidays are just around the corner, and if you’ve missed shipping deadlines to guarantee gifts on time (we’ve all been there), don’t panic. Although wrapping up a picture of your gift or blaming shipping delays is always a (not awesome) option, we’ve thought of a better one: shop local. You can bring home the gifts right away, and the work of sourcing, curating, and sometimes even wrapping is done for you.
In that spirit, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite gifts from small businesses inspired by our two office locations: Portland and Brooklyn. Don’t live in either of these cities? No worries—many of these finds are available in stores nationwide so you can shop small, no matter where you are. From sweet-and-salty snacks to the perfect weekend tote, these gifts cover everyone on your list.
1. Baggu Standard Tote
The Baggu Standard Tote is a must-have for anyone who’s always adding to their collection (or maybe that friend who’s forever asking you to carry their stuff). It’s roomy enough for errands, yet compact enough for a weekend getaway. Plus, Baggu is committed to quality and sustainability, so it’s a stylish and eco-friendly option.
2. Felt Taco Ornament
Made by Global Goods Partners, this Felt Taco Ornament supports artisans around the world. It’s also a fun little nod to our office’s taco obsession (we’ve shared over 3,000 tacos over Slack using Hey Taco in just a few months!). Perfect for decking out your tree or tying onto a gift for a fun touch.
3. Malin + Goetz Candle
Since 2004, Malin + Goetz has been crafting some of the best fragrances around, and their candles are no exception. These clean-burning candles are essential for cozy nights in, filling your space with calming scents that last long after the wick’s been blown out.
Photo by MJ Kroeger
4. Fatty Sundays Pretzels
These are not your average pretzels—not even your average chocolate-covered pretzels. With flavors like salted caramel, birthday cake, and seasonal holiday varieties, Fatty Sundays makes a delicious gift (or a treat for yourself). Grab a couple of packs for anyone on your list or a bundle for those last-minute holiday hostess gifts.
5. Miss Hannah’s Popcorn
Handcrafted in Oregon, Miss Hannah’s popcorn is seriously addicting. Whether you’re stuffing stockings or rounding out a gift basket, it’s the perfect sweet-and-salty snack. Don’t miss their seasonal flavors like peppermint and hot cocoa—we can’t get enough of them.
Photo by Julia Gartland
6. Secret Aardvark Hotsauce
If you’re looking to add a little heat to your meals, Secret Aardvark’s hot sauce is the way to go. This fiery Portland-made sauce amps up everything from tacos to eggs (and really, anything that could use a kick). Bold, flavorful, and just the right amount of spice.
7. Parlor Coffee
Parlor Coffee started as a pop-up espresso bar in a Brooklyn barbershop and has since grown into one of Brooklyn’s top roasters. Their artisanal blends are a coffee lover’s dream—rich in flavor and quality. Perfect for anyone always on the hunt for their next great cup.
Photo by James Ransom
8. Deadstock Coffee
We also had to include one of our favorite Portland-based coffee brands, Deadstock. While you might not be able to replicate their stenciled sneaker art, you can still enjoy their coffee by grabbing a bag of their whole beans or joining their #DripSquad. Bonus: They also sell some cool apparel, too.
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We want to know: What small businesses are you supporting this holiday season?