As you make your holiday shopping list, and check it twice, choosing to buy from local businesses can be a real gift to our neighbors. I’m all about buying local. For instance, I buy artwork from local artists, I purchase furniture from local makers, I contract a local woodworker for repairs and I rescue architectural pieces headed for the landfill (old doors, mantles, etc.).
Shopping at locally-owned businesses you’re more likely to find something unique and personal. I promise, you will not find those funky earrings from 11 & Thoms at the mall. It might be easier to click and ship, but if we want to keep these neighborhood gems we need to support them. Plus, it’s our neighbors who own these places and they deserve our help.
@11andthoms
THREE LOCAL PLACES I LOVE
When I walk into this place everything I see seems to be a “must have”. First of all, the space is beautiful and there are so many fun finds inside. Secondly, it’s vintage, modern, glamorous and perfectly curated. There’s ethically-sourced clothing, jewelry, home furnishings and gifts. Finally, Roam & Dwell shares a space with a salon in Plaza Midwood and has a great vibe.
This is another Plaza Midwood fave, and they also have a South End location. Featuring one-of-a-kind pieces from local artists and vendors, you’ll find jewelry, clothes, home accents and gifts. Hey, remember those funky earrings from 11 & Thoms? I get them here.
Charlotte Collective is hosting events for Small Business Saturday and a Pajama Party shopping experience on December 18th.
It’s not your typical holiday gift kinda place, but I promise there’s something for everyone here. For example, you’ll fine vintage clothing, china, embellished picture frames and estate jewelry. This place has it all. Plus, it’s so much fun to explore! Can’t figure out what to get someone? A gift card from Sleepy Poet isn’t just a gift card, it’s an experience!
@goballantyne
LOCAL POP-UP MARKETS
I just adore the pop-ups this time of year. The biggest is South End Shop Small Saturdays.
They have live music, prizes and even a cameo from Santa. There are literally hundreds of local vendors with their holiday best on display. Grab a Shop Small Hero Card at one of the welcome tents, and you will be rewarded for supporting local businesses! All you have to do is spend $10 or more with at least five vendors and you’ll get a prize!
Saturday, December 3rd and Saturday, December 10th
- Atherton Mill: 8a – 1p at South End Farmers Market
- Camden Road: 10a -5p street festival from East/West Blvd Station to Park Ave.
- Winnifred Street: 10a – 5p street festival at The Winnifred
Makers Market CLT Pop Ups
There are two opportunities to enjoy this unique shopping experience (and good craft beer as well)
- Saturday, December 3rd from 12pm – 6pm at Bhrami Brewing
- Saturday, December 10th from 1pm – 5pm at Pilot Brewing
Camp North End Mistletoe Market
- Saturday, December 3rd, 10th and 17th from 4pm – 8pm
- Eat, drink, shop and be merry. You can chill in an igloo or get cozy by a fire pit. This event usually has a reindog parade too.
Hi-Wire Brewing Pop-Up Market
- Thursday, December 8th from 6pm-8pm
- Hi-Wire has a mini market every Thursday evening featuring new local vendors each week
VTG CLT
- Pop-up village at The Metropolitan
- Saturday, December 10th – December 23rd, every day from 10am – 7pm
- This market will have vintage and homemade products from more than 90 local and regional vendors.
Ballantyne Markets at 11
- Saturday, December 10th from 11am – 4pm
- Open air market with live music, outdoor yoga, local beer, food trucks and local vendors.
There are so many fabulous local places to get your shopping done and enjoy yourself. Happy holidays to you and yours.
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