Can you believe that this will be the first holiday season without travel restrictions, testing, masking and social distancing since the first initial Covid-19 outbreaks? While we are grateful for the precautions in place to keep us all safe, we also are looking forward to the fact that we can enjoy this year without restrictions. One of the best parts? The buzz in the air from holiday gift shopping.
Considering 45% of small businesses earned less than half of their pre-Covid revenue by September 2022 (Bankrate), we highly encourage you to shop small this season & boost your local economy whenever you can. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of some of our favorite shops, all small businesses that reach many local markets — bonus they are all women-owned too. Note, there are NOT affiliate links enclosed within nor are these paid endorsements. These are great shops that we hope you’ll consider this year. #shopsmall
Muntu brings the finest of luxurious African artistry into the limelight. Muntu founder Aida sources unique and beautiful pieces for your home that belong in a museum. Fashion accessories and jewelry that look like they came straight off the runway. We particularly love her unique chandeliers, which start at $495 USD, her Romeli bag (as pictured) for $90 or the cozy chic Basotho Heritage Blanket Scarf (as pictured) for $250 USD.
MISO Living is a luxury lifestyle brand that uses motivational products and cultural exploration to enhance your everyday life. Founded by Melita Issa, a NCIDQ Licensed Interior Designer and LEED accredited professional with over 20 years of experience in the interior design industry. We absolutely love her FOCUS Candle, a coconut-wax base aromatherapy candle with hints of rosemary, grapefruit and peppermint designed to keep your concentration on whatever task is at hand - starting at $38 USD. This is ideal for the executive graduate student or small business owner in your life.
Reflektion Design offers afro modern home decor that creates a sense of connection. The company was born after Anitra spent 8 weeks in Ghana, immersed in the culture and textile making process. Anitra sources globally from partners handmade by artisans in Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda and Ghana. Reflektion Design has been featured in HGTV, Architectural Digest, HSN, Essence, Apartment Therapy, Vanity Fair and BH&G. You can prep for the new year with their gorgeous journals starting at $15 USD. Or perhaps a gratitude mug for $24, perfect for your favorite colleague. The HSN collection is perfect for the hosts you’ll be visiting this season, starting at $39.95 USD.
Watch the video of of our IG Live with Reflektion Design: https://www.instagram.com/reel/ClCva2aDZeX/
Looking for something with a little more sparkle? At Boujee Bling Customs, owner Alexis hand-crafts each tumbler specific to your desired preferences. She offers a sparkly rhinestone option and just released a gorgeous snow globe option, perfect in time for the holiday season! Whether you’re adding this as a stocking stuffer, gifting this to your favorite coworker or treating yourself to stay hydrated through the holiday season and beyond — you won’t be disappointed with her custom creations. You can order on Instagram or email. Directions and other samples are here →
Update from November 21, 2022: Interview with Alexis from Boujee Bling Customs.
This year you can have your cake and eat it, too. At Niche Home Supply & Closet you can be sustainable, shop small and give a gift they will actually love this year. The founder, Julia sources all of her products from vintage or second-hand thrift stores. Her eye is impeccable and you’ll gift a truly unique one-of-a-kind find. Her products range from hostess gifts to men’s and women’s clothing to home accessories. She works off of an auction model solely on Instagram. Find your next holiday or hostess gift now.
Article Updates:
November 16, 2022: Muntu Global was edited to muntu
November 22, 2022: Interview with Alexis from Boujee Bling Customs was added.
November 22, 2022: Link to IG Live with Reflektion Design was added.