The 2020 holidays could use a lot of that kind of gift-giving. It’s been a tough year for many people, and the holidays offer an opportunity to remember things like love, joy, peace, and hope.
So we've put together a list of a few of our favorite small businesses and creators who, like us, have a passion for ethical and sustainable business practices.
If you want to give and shop thoughtfully this year, here are some great places to start.
1. Karacotta Ceramics
If there's one thing we've learned about working from home, it's that environment matters. A living space conducive to productivity is a must, and that's why Karacotta Ceramics is #1 on our holiday gift guide this year.
Kara handcrafts every piece in Austin, TX, and is passionate about creating products that enrich your life by adding more beauty to your home. This is the perfect gift for the friend, roommate, or partner who's stuck working at home and could use something that gets them excited all over again about their home office.
Plus, their Perfume Oil No.37 is a Weather & Story favorite right now. :)
Instagram: @karacotta_ceramics
2. Gracious Garlands
Gracious Garlands is an Austin-based business that delivers fresh greenery straight to your doorstep. Their winter collection is filled with elegant threads and garlands that will transform your home into a charming winter respite.
They work directly with small, family farmers from around the country to source the highest quality greens for their designs. Once you place your order, the greens are cut, assembled, and shipped within a day.
This is an excellent gift for Mom or a partner who could use a little extra cheer when they start their holiday decorating.
Instagram: @graciousgarlands
3. WKND Vintage Shop
This shop is a MUST for vintage lovers. They feature vintage clothing and homewares as well as modern, handmade lifestyle goods. They regularly showcase products on their Instagram account, which you can snag by sending a DM. So make sure you follow them and don't miss any of the beautiful, vintage products that are sure to drop in the next several weeks.
They sustainably source all their goods and, as a bonus, we're grateful that Weather & Story products are a part of their beautiful collection.
Instagram: @w.k.n.d
4. Mohinders Woven Leather Sandals
We absolutely love Mohinders. Not only are the sandals gorgeous, but they're handmade in India by families of 3rd- and 4th-generation shoemakers and leather tanners. Each sandal is crafted using an old, traditional method that results in a durable, beautiful shoe.
They focus on sustainability and minimizing their environmental impact throughout every part of their process.
If you want to give someone a gift that looks amazing, lasts a lifetime, and contributes to a global impact, look no further than Mohinders.
Instagram: @mohindersshoes
5. Local Shops in and around Austin, TX
If you're looking to support some local brick + mortar retail shops this holiday season, make sure you don't overlook these Weather & Story favorites:
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ArtUs Co Pop Up Shop features artwork and goods from local makers and fine artists from around Austin, TX. They're currently open 7 days a week from 12 pm - 6 pm at The Arboretum.
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Three Little Birds is a lovely salon and boutique in Wimberley, TX, that offers a thoughtful selection of home goods, art, and clothing. If you want to get down to the hill country and support some local business, you definitely don't want to miss this shop.
6. Holiday Market at Broad Studios
Broad Studios is an art collective in Austin, TX, that seeks to elevate women artists in the local Austin community. They have workshops and events throughout the year, and their holiday market is happening on December 5th. This is a great chance to check out some breathtaking products developed by the most talented female creators in Austin.
If you're shopping for a roommate or friend, you'll find some incredibly unique and stunning products at this market. Don't miss it.
Instagram: @broadstudios
7. Home for the Holidays Pop-Up Shop
This is an online, interactive pop-up in the form of a shoppable gift guide. Kate Bowler is hosting the event and has handpicked eight brands to offer some great discounts on exclusive products.
Weather & Story is honored to be a part of this event. The guide is filled with some stunning goods available exclusively this holiday season.
Browse the Home For the Holidays shoppable gift guide.
Where are you shopping this holiday season? Share with us some of your favorite small businesses in the comments below. We love discovering new, like-minded companies.
