I can’t believe it’s that time of year again to start thinking about holiday shopping! I’m so grateful to live back in Colorado Springs again because I can’t think of many more magical places in the winter.

I’ve heard several people talking about wanting to do their best to shop local this year and invest in small businesses especially after they’ve been affected so much during this trying year. So I thought I’d share some fabulous local gift options!!

1. Macrame pieces from Knots for Freedom

Okay, I know this first one is a total shameless plug, since I run Knots for Freedom 😉 But I can’t get over thinking how perfect my pieces would be as Christmas gifts! I would suggest small to medium size pieces (think plant hangers, ornaments on cinnamon sticks, keychains, coasters, small/mid-size wall hangings, etc.) if you aren’t sure precisely what someone’s style is or where they would hang a large piece in their home.

And YES, for those of you wondering. I am currently taking custom orders for gifts!! Especially since I don’t have a ton of available inventory after just coming out of busy season with photography and I want to make things you think your loved ones would actually use and appreciate! Just DM me over @knotsforfreedom on Instagram for your request!

You can see current inventory over on my Etsy shop and past projects over on my Instagram. And don’t forget that 10% of all sales goes directly to The Exodus Road to help fight human trafficking around the world (hence the name of my little biz)!

I’m also running a giveaway + fundraiser so be sure to check that out and enter for your chance to win a wall hanging plant hanger for you AND one for a friend!

2. House Plants or Pot from The Living Room

I visited The Living Room in downtown Colorado Springs for the first time the other day and am completely obsessed! They have an incredible variety of house plants and are very affordable! Not to mention all the adorable pots and plant themed stickers, cards, etc.

Perfect gift stop for your plant loving friends and family! You can find them at 22 E Rio Grande Street and on Instagram HERE.

p.s. The owner’s mom owns an adorable family friendly bookstore right next door so check that out while you’re there!

3. Yobel Market

Yobel Market’s mission is to “empower and promote the value of exploited, displaced, and impoverished people groups of the world through the development of sustainable economic opportunities.”

They have a variety of goods that would make perfect Christmas gifts while ALSO providing opportunities for underprivileged peoples around the world. Read more about them HERE!

You can find them at 11. E. Bijou St. Colorado Springs. CO 80903 and on Instagram HERE.

4. Candles from Boulder Street Candle Co.

Beautiful, handmade, soy wax candles poured right here in Colorado Springs! My best friend from high school’s brother-in-law just so happens to have started this fabulous endeavor and every candle is made with precision and love! Check out their website!

You can find them on Instagram and follow along HERE.

5. Mental Health Awareness Stickers, Mugs, Apparel by Button Designs

I met Marie when she hired me to take some product photos of her new line of mental health awareness products a couple months ago! I am so impressed not only by the designs of her products an apparel that she creates, but also by the incredible meaning behind them all and how she used them to promote awareness of mental health issues and encourage people that it’s okay to ask for help sometimes!

You can find her products (which make perfect stocking stuffers I might add) at the Button Designs shop and follow along on Instagram HERE!

6. Dried or fresh floral arrangement by BSPK Creative (Denver based)

So, it turns out I have an incredibly talented family! My sister-in-law styles weddings and events… as in she handles all of the decor and florals so people don’t have to worry about a thing! She especially has a knack for dried florals that can last up to a whole year if stored in an area that doesn’t get too hot or cold!

This holiday season, she’s offering dried floral arrangements to add a pop of joy to your Thanksgiving decor and just reach out to her for any other specific needs you might have! You can find the link to order an arrangement in her Instagram bio HERE.

7. Sugar Cookies from Ten Thousand Cookies

I met Ashley through a local group of creatives and was fascinated by her story! She sold 10,000 cookies to fund her and her husband’s adoption and now, while still making adorable, delicious cookies, she helps teach other moms in the adoption process how to fundraise with a side hustle for this important cause!

These would make the perfect addition to any holiday party or occasion!

You can find her shop HERE and follow along on Instagram HERE!

8. Jewelry from Fresh Finds Boutique

A family friend actually started this businesses so I’m thrilled for the chance to promote it! They “specialize in unique jewelry & serving a greater good.” and always have beautiful options to choose from!

You can find their products in the Briargate shops at 1925 Briargate Pkwy Suite 607, Colorado Springs, CO 80920 or look online HERE. You can also follow along on Instagram HERE!

9. A fine art landscape painting by Glen Roberts

I wasn’t kidding when I told you guys I have a very talented family! Score one of my dad’s original paintings over on his website or request a custom order! He does incredible work and I’m blessed to have several paintings hanging throughout my own home!

Can you imagine the joy on a loved one’s face when you present them with a gorgeous painting from the state they are so in love with?

10. Candles from North 29 Candle

I was given a candle with a scent called “Bungalow” and am completely obsessed! They sell candles in both large and travel sizes and I can’t wait to try out some other scents.

These would make the perfect stocking stuffer or gift for your friend or family member who is obsessed with smelly good things. You can find their shop HERE and follow along on Instagram HERE!

11. Paris Market Vintage

Located in the Promenade Shops at Briargate, Paris Market Vintage is a French, Farmhouse inspired local boutique offering home goods, lifestyle, gifts, and boutique treasures from 30 Etsy style vendors.

You can find them at 1885 Briargate Pkwy #515, Colorado Springs, CO 80920 or on Instagram HERE!

12. Terra Verde Boutique

Located downtown Colorado Springs, Terra Verde Boutique offers a variety of clothing, accessories, and gifts for everyone in the family!

You can find them at 208 North Tejon, Colorado Springs, CO 80903 or on their website HERE.

Have another local Colorado Springs area business you’d suggest for local shopping this holiday season? I’d love to know so I can support them! Share their info in the comments below!