Springfield, MO Local Gift Guide
This holiday season, I have made it my mission to support as many locally-owned businesses as I possibly can. Years past, I’ve ordered so much crap online, none of which meant anything particularly special, it was just to be able to put something under the tree. I’m not doing that this year! I will be taking my list, checking it twice, and then hitting up local stores that sell things I think my people will like.
When you shop small, you’re not just buying a gift, you’re literally making someone's day! You’re helping someone put food on their table and presents under their own tree!
So, I have compiled a list of some stores in Springfield, MO that I would like to support! It’s a long list, so bear with me! I’ve tried to sort it into somewhat related categories, but many of these places sell a huge variety of products!
For your vintage-obsessed friend
Vintage and retro decor has become increasingly popular over the last few years! I’m definitely on board with this trend! There’s something that’s just so cozy about this aesthetic! Bonus, it’s super eco-friendly since a) you’re not buying new, reducing the demand for the manufacture and transport of new stuff, and b) you’re keeping awesome stuff out of the landfill! So, grab some brass candlesticks and statuettes, vintage, heirloom linens, and other decor items from one of these vintage shops! There are a plethora of things to choose from, you might be able to shop for more people than you’d expect!
For the plant lover in your life
I don’t want to attempt to speak for everyone, but I know very few plant collectors that wouldn’t die over a new baby! Even if it’s a plant we already own, there really can’t be too many! Next time you’re talking to your plant obsessed friend, try to sneakily ask them about any new plants they have acquired. Use this as an opportunity to suss out any plants on their wish list. Or, just be upfront and ask them what their bucket list plants are!
Garden Adventures (2 locations, Battlefield Mall, & Nixa)
For the collector or hard-to-shop-for friend
Local art galleries and coops are fantastic places to browse for just about anyone on your list! They are full of handmade items from all kinds of artists! You’ll find everything from polymer clay earrings, hand-thrown pottery (highly recommended for your coffee or tea lover), mixed media art, apparel, you name it, they probably have it! Put together a themed gift basket with some hand-crafted items! (Other ideas below).
Art Galleries and Co-ops
There are so many amazing local boutiques in the Springfield area. This list is far from exhaustive. I’ve kept it pretty limited to Springfield, but there are also a TON in Nixa, Ozark, and Republic! There are stores for every taste and personality! There’s really something for EVERYONE!!
Boutiques/ Independent Stores:
Springfield Leather Company (Touchstone Beads = Crystal HEAVEN!)
For the creative person on your list
Grab them a certificate for art classes, or supplies for their favorite (or a new) craft. You can go along with them to make it extra special! Art classes are great for people of all ages and skill levels! Put together a basket full of art and craft supplies, a slack (see below), and coffee or tea!
For your self-care obsessed or uber-stressed friends
Being an Esthetician, this list would not be complete without a section on self-care and relaxation-based businesses. Whether you’re shopping for a Yogi, or you want to give your overworked friend an excuse to slow down, self-care is for everyone. Build a self-care basket with a gift certificate for a massage or facial, some skincare tools (or one of my Self-Care kits), some tea (see below), some crystals (see above), a notebook, and a nice pen (see above).
Self-Care\Relaxation
Datura Wellness - Private yoga lessons, massage, energy work
Self Preservation - Massage
Lively Esthetics - Facials, skincare products and tools, crystal chakra healing
Hawthorn and Honeysuckle - Facials, massage, reiki, hand-poured soy candles
Theta Float Spa - Float tanks, sauna
Essential Yoga Studio - Yoga classes
For the coffee/tea lover
Coffee is kind of a big deal in the 417! There are so many coffee shops, there’s no way I could list them all! If you typically gift cups, coffee, or gift cards from “The Bucks,” I would urge you to consider gifting those same things from a locally owned and operated coffee shop! Put together a basket with a hand-thrown mug (see above), some locally roasted coffee beans or grounds, a french press, cookies (see below), loose-leaf tea, and a tea ball!
Coffee:
For the foodie in your life
There are a never ending variety of restaurants and sweet shops to choose from! You can’t go wrong with a few gift cards to some local cafes and restaurants, and even breweries. The list below is a smattering of all kinds of eateries, all local to Springfield! Put together a basket with gift cards, cookies, and a cocktail kit, or grab a charcuterie-to-go, and some cupcakes to seriously make someone's day! (It’s me, I’m someone! 🤣)
Food:
I hope this inspired you to think outside the box with your Holiday gift giving this year! I’m a big fan of putting together care packages and themed gift baskets full of goodies! Like I said before, my goal is to support as many local businesses as possible. There’s no way one person can support every business in the 417 area, but if everyone shopped local, imagine the difference it would make!
~ Your Skin Witch,
Ashley
