As most of us know, the past few months have hit small businesses incredibly hard. 20% of small businesses have closed in the past eight months, and a return to “normalcy” is not expected for years. A lot of these businesses are hoping that holiday gift giving can give their businesses a boost, and it is important for everyone to be mindful of where they are purchasing this year. Remember, Amazon and Target aren’t going anywhere, but your purchase at a small businesses means more to them than you know.

So without further ado, here are the gifts I have suggested/purchased this year:

For Coffee and Tea Lovers

1. Coffee cup– I am a sucker for anything speckled, as well as beautiful crafted ceramics. I absolutely love how these mugs look and the contoured sides to fit into your hand perfectly.
2. Iced tumbler– Summer or winter, I love cold drinks. Iced coffee, iced tea, water, whatever you like to drink this tumbler looks good no matter what.
3. Tea Drops– I love trying new variations of tea, and these tea samplers are the perfect plastic-free way to explore new flavors.
4. Bourbon Infused Coffee– Alcohol and coffee? Say no more, I love it!

For the Cozy Home

1. Robe– My favorite part of the day is slipping in this robe, and it’s thickness is perfect for chilly winter nights.
2. Candle– Candlefish started by making candles out of old wine bottles, and have become a boutique shop based in Charleston, SC. I visited while I was there and every scent is so good!
3. Shower steamers– Bath bombs are nice, but for those of you who want the same relaxation but don’t have/like baths, this is what you need in your life. Pop one into the shower and be transported to a spa.
4. Slippers-If you have a robe you need slippers, and these are a WFH staple.

For Kids

1. Color Pajamas– My niece loves unicorns and drawing on herself (funny to me, not so much to her mother), so when I saw this I had to get it for her.
2. Ball Pounding Toy– This is a great toy for a baby to work on their fine motor skills.
3. Rattle– It’s a panda, it’s made from sustainably harvested bamboo, and it’s adorable!
4. “Women in Art” Book– It’s a great book collection to inspire kids to pursue the arts.

If you are in the Maryland/DC/Virginia area, here are some local small businesses to stop by:

1. My Big Finds– Gaithersburg, MD
2. The Family Room– Laytonsville, MD
3. Red Orchard– Bethesda, MD
4. Three Littles– Washington, DC
5. Politics and Prose– Washington, DC
6. Best Life Organics– Alexandria, VA