Hi everyone!
Shop Small Saturday passed and it left me thinking… Where do I go to shop small during the holidays? It is very easy to get caught up in the corporate frenzy of the holiday season. I don’t even want to count the number of emails I received on Black Friday for cyber deals! Therefore, I wanted to work on compiling a list of some of my faves to share.
Idaho Falls:
I have been here countless times for gifts. They are especially great if you are looking for some tasty treats(cupcakes, candies, you name it!). They also have specialty cooking items, lotions, decor, and more!
This place is so unique and I am absolutely in love. They have handcrafted wood items (like coasters, wine tags, decor). They also have artisan food items and other local fares. To top it off they have a bar called The Hollow. If you get pooped from shopping recoup with a drink. Please don’t miss their Whistle Stops! They have tastings and pairings for local companies. The next is a Cider Tasting (12/14) and it features great local music.
This shop is so much fun, and an incredible option for shopping small for little ones (and for big ones that like toys!).
I was really excited to learn that we have an independent book store in Idaho Falls! This is the perfect place to find gifts for your friends who love to read. The books here are really affordable, so you can pick up a new read for yourself too!
Boise:
Olivin Olive Oil & Vinegar Taproom
This shop features fresh olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar from around the world, but is bottled in store. Samples of mild to robust olive oil can be paired with fresh bread, as well as, a variety of balsamic. You can try a basic balsamic or one of the many infused balsamics. They include lavender, champagne, and a personal favorite the cranberry pear white balsamic. The olive oil also has infusion options, such as rosemary, basil, and lemon. There are over 30 different options, and you can find them downtown on 9th Street!
Pocatello:
In my opinion there aren’t enough local bookstores around these days! So, I am absolutely enthralled with Walrus and Carpenter. This bookstore is crammed with used books at really great prices. They also have new and popular books at the front of the store. I would have a hard time believing that you can’t find something you need. Perfect for the book-lover on your list!
Owned by an adorable family from California, A Different Cup has some of the BEST coffee you will find in east Idaho. I cannot say enough about how great it is…you need to try it for yourself. In addition to their amazingly fresh hot and Nitro coffees, they have bottled Cold Brew and house-made Kombucha prepared and ready to gift your family and friends.
If you are looking for gifts that are more conscious this place is perfect for you! They specialize in sustainable, organic, fair-trade, and eco-friendly products and carry locally crafted items. What is even more fun is that you can make your own lotions, balms, and essential oil roller bottles.
Blackfoot:
If you are looking for truly one-of-a-kind gifts, this is your stop. A business new to the area in 2017, Collecting Americana offers a great variety if vintage, 70’s contemporary, mid-century, political, collectibles, and souvenirs. They currently have a WHITE ELEPHANT room where you can find gifts that you won’t be able to find anywhere else! Support local and make a statement with your gifts by shopping here.
Ogden:
I love this store so much! Not only does it always smell like fresh bread (it is connected to a Great Harvest), but it has my other favorite things! Books and chocolate. It is the perfect store to wander through and see what adorable and unique things you can find.
The Art Box is a really cool store. Not only will you find beautiful items, but you can make them in their classes! During the year they offer art classes like painting and pottery or you can stop in and make candles or reserve for a candle-making party. While you are there wander through the gift shop in the front of the store. I’m sure you will find a treasure for you or a loved one.
Gift your loved ones a new hobby! This store is the perfect place for beginners or experienced fiber artists. Not only do they have quality yarn and supplies, they also have books and classes. Join them for the classes and get in person guidance and make some new friends.
I hope you have some favorite places to shop small. It is so important!
Thanks to my contributors Sharece Mecham and Jordan Wixom.
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