Hey hey, St. Louis squad! It’s your gal, Gina, here to sprinkle some local love and holiday cheer. November 25? You know what that means – Small Business Saturday! But hey, why limit the local love to just today? Let’s keep that spirit alive all season long and support our fantastic small businesses right here in our city. And boy, do I have some gems to share with you!
Let’s start this local shopping journey with a bang. First up, Urban Matter on South Grand. Picture this: a cozy store filled with unique, quality-made gifts that scream “St. Louis pride.” I’m talking about a treasure trove curated with love, boasting independent designs and locally handcrafted goods. Oh, and did I mention they have their own Urban Workshop, whipping up custom lighting, tables, and more? Swing by 3179 S Grand Blvd and let the magic of Urban Matters woo you.
Next stop, pet lovers! Have a furry friend on your gift list? Say no more! Lola & Penelope’s is where you need to be. This boutique and wellness center are dedicated to Lola the cat and Penelope the dog, offering the trendiest pet apparel, treats, and everything your fur baby desires. Plus, they have pet experts dishing out wisdom on enhancing your bond with your four-legged pals. Check ’em out at lolaandpenelopes.com and spoil your pet rotten this season.
Now, let’s switch gears to a slice of my heart – the Garden District STL. Imagine a store that’s a perfect blend of my Southern roots, filled with courtyards, plants, and that warm, cozy feeling of home. This spot celebrates the historical and architectural arts of both St. Louis and New Orleans. They’ve got treasures from handmade items by local artisans to trinkets for the kiddos and your furry pals. Swing by and soak up the vibes at gardendistrictstl.com – your South City spirit will thank you!
Last but certainly not least, let’s globetrot with Zee Bee Market. This place is where socially and environmentally conscious gifts shine bright. Ethical, Fair Trade, sustainably produced goodies? Count me in! Their handcrafted collection from around the world is a sight to behold. And get this, they’re all about supporting artisans and families through Fair Trade practices. Get ready for a virtual tour around the world at zeebeemarket.com or stop by their spots on South Grand Blvd or Maplewood for a fairytale shopping experience.
And hey, why not make a day out of it? Gather your crew, fuel up on local coffee or grab a bite from the nearby eateries, then dive into these local spots. It’s a recipe for a perfect day – exploring, supporting, and feeling that warm fuzzy feeling of making a difference in our community.
Here are a few of my favorite brunch spots.
Here are a few of my favorite micro-breweries.
And here are some of the favorite Starbucks drinks for the season.
Speaking of our backyard, let’s dive into the vibrant neighborhoods that make our city shine like a beacon during the holidays.
The Loop in University City – Ah, this eclectic paradise! It’s like a treasure trove of unique finds waiting to be discovered. Think funky boutiques, artsy galleries, and a melting pot of dining options. One of my top haunts here is Phoenix Rising for that bohemian-chic vibe or Vintage Vinyl for music that hits all the right notes.
Soulard Market – For that old-school market charm, head down here. It’s a haven for fresh produce, local goodies, and artisans showcasing their craft. You’ll discover handmade candles, artisanal cheeses, and quirky gifts that radiate “St. Louis original.”
Cherokee Street – Brace yourself for a whirlwind of vintage shops, antique spots, and quirky galleries. This street is where Firecracker Press dazzles with unique prints or Retro 101/Cherry Bomb Vintage for throwback fashion that screams “cool.”
Maplewood – Cozy with a hipster edge, Maplewood is a small business haven. Swing by Maven for adorable home décor or Kakao Chocolate for locally crafted sweet treats. Chocolate during the holidays? Yes, please!
Central West End – Elegant and chic, this neighborhood is a treasure trove of upscale boutiques and specialty stores. Left Bank Books or Provisions St. Louis will have you covered for something luxe and oh-so-classy.
This holiday season, let’s make it a St. Louis affair. Let’s celebrate our neighborhoods, support our local heroes, and spread joy, one locally-sourced, handcrafted gift at a time. Cheers to a season filled with warmth, love, and oh-so-many local treasures! 🎁✨
If you missed previous blogs on fun holiday events, light shows, and cocktails…
Holiday Fun and Festive Light Displays
Holiday Cocktails and Appetizers