A Gift that Gives Back

Have you had a go-to local shop where youve found your holiday gifts in years past? If you cant get to a store in-person, there are still ways to support the small businesses in your town or towns like yours. One of the busiest shopping times this year kicks off with Black Friday, but continues on the next day with Small Business Saturday. If ever there were a year to shop small, this is it! Kick off your holiday shopping by finding a small business to put your dollars behind.

Bookstores are the heart of so many communities. If you have a book on your gift list, order it from an independent bookseller like Porter Square Books in Cambridge, MA or Yankee Bookshop in Woodstock, Vermonts longest-running independent bookstore.

Treat yourself (or a loved one) with some sweets this year! New Hampshires Yum Yum Shop features their GingieBox, which includes 24 heritage Gingerbread Man Cookies, their frosting, and a pastry decorating bag. If you cant be together, schedule a Zoom decorating session instead.

Maybe you have someone on your list with less of a sweet tooth. In that case, get them something to drink! Order a bag of the Berkshires Tunnel City Coffee, a 4-pack from Massachusetts Trillium Brewing, or a bottle of bourbon, rye, rum, or apple brandy from Vermonts Mad River Distillers.

Grab gear to hit the slopes at Stowes Pinnacle Ski & Sports. Stop by Mountainman Outdoor Supply Company to make sure you have everything needed to hit the trails or get on the water in the Adirondacks.

For the kids, check out A2Z Science & Learning Stores online shop. If youre not entirely sure what youre looking for, try their suggestion and toy curation form to get advice from their staff over email, or even via FaceTime.

Give the gift of sparkle this year! Northeast Harbors Lisa Hall Jewelry features sea glass found along the coast of Maine. The brand took off after being featured by Martha Stewart. Gladstone Jewelry of Manchester-by-the-Sea includes a collection of unusual antique, vintage, and designer pieces.

Create a treasure trove of gifts like candles, notebooks, kitchenware, jewelry, and stocking stuffers from shops like Portlands Zane Boutique, Camdens Sugar Tools, Concords Nesting, or Cape Cods Love Live Local.

Toci in Rhode Island is the perfect place to look for the person in your life who embodies casual luxury. At December Thieves, youll find apparel, accessories, shoes, and home/gift items from emerging brands from independent global designers. Alternatively, order supplies from Knotty Knit to make a homemade gift.

Finally, you may be shopping for someone who wants to give back. In that case, support a non-profit, like the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, with a gift membership or donation in the name of your loved one.

Find more small businesses to support this Small Business Saturday here.