The holiday season is finally upon us! From festive tunes to dazzling decor, this time of year just can’t be beat. One of my very favorite parts about the holidays is picking out gifts for my friends and family—there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of a successful present pick for a loved one. However, this year, due to labor shortages and shipping delays, our treasured tradition of online shopping from the comfort of our beds might not be as convenient as we’d like. With the threat of presents not arriving on time, we may need to start thinking outside of the boxes of our computer screens. Have no fear! I’ve compiled a list of my favorite small businesses to support in the Seattle area, and I can’t wait to share these gems with you and your family!
- Miro Tea — Ballard
Who doesn’t love a warm cup of tea? Okay, I realize not everyone loves the stuff, but chances are somebody you know does. Miro Tea in Ballard offers a unique take on the classic coffee shop by serving every kind of herbal, milk, or iced tea you can imagine! Not only a great place to chill, but also a great shopping stop for all things tea: infusers, special blends crafted by the wonderful staff, cups, pots, and more. They even offer classes on the “Fundamentals of Tea Brewing” (may change due to COVID)! Check out this awesome brand at 5405 Ballard Ave NW. Cheers!
- Ten Thousand Villages — Roosevelt
Have you ever been to Cost Plus World Market? Did you love it? If so, you’re in luck! This volunteer-ran market is the connection between you and dozens of villages around the world. They carry ornaments, rugs, jewelry, instruments, children’s clothing and toys, candles, and so much more. Each item is clearly handcrafted with love and deserves a home in the hands of you or a family member! This beautiful shop is located at 6417 Roosevelt Way NE, Suite 101.
- Blue Poppy — Wedgwood
If you haven’t found a gift idea on this list yet, this next small business will be sure to find you success. This charming little floral shop tucked away in my very own neighborhood has the most aesthetically pleasing collection of pots, plants, and floral arrangements! As a mother-daughter duo, the ladies of Blue Poppy draw inspiration from their previous home in coastal Vietnam to share their love of funky plants with Seattle. They even have a helpful plant-care guide on their website, tailored to our Pacific Northwest climate and everything. Blue Poppy can be found at 8504 35th Ave NE.
- Light In The Attic Records (KEXP) — Lower Queen Anne / Seattle Center
Every family or friend group has a music lover, so what better gift than music itself? Seattle’s beloved radio station, 90.3 KEXP, has a welcoming and cozy gathering space complete with couches, coffee, and records for sale. Here you’ll find a wide variety of genres and artists that are well-known or still underground. The shop is small and intimate, eliminating the overwhelming feeling of entering a larger record store. You’ll be able to enjoy the live broadcast of the radio station while browsing through the vinyls to find just the right pick for your loved one. Afterward, take a stroll through beautiful Seattle Center and soak up the holiday spirit under the Space Needle! KEXP is located at 472 1st Ave N.
- Twice Sold Tales — Capitol Hill
Finally, what might be my favorite spot in all of Seattle, a heaven on earth for lovers of books and cats alike! This expansive used book store has everything from art history to science fiction to chess strategies. One stroll through the plethora of books will be sure to provide at least one good read about a family member’s super niche hobby. Meanwhile, the shop’s feline friends will keep you company and brighten your day as you flip through pages and give a good scratch behind the ear. The cats aren’t the only ones purring at Twice Sold Tales! Give them a visit at 1833 Harvard Ave. Meow!
Supporting local businesses is both fun and rewarding, especially during a holiday season where virtual shopping may be slow. Get out and explore our beautiful city while checking off those on your nice-list this year—these shops will not disappoint!