Honestly, because my FT job revolves around digital marketing for online retail Black Friday isn’t really something that excites me. I asked and you guys said you weren’t really interested in reading it. I get it. There is a “sale” overload this time of year.
However, one thing I’m really passionate about is supporting small, local businesses.
As an aspiring entrepreneur myself, supporting the dreams of others is really fulfilling. I think it's important to lift each other up. So, I’ve gathered some cool finds from local Austin companies to put together a gift guide that supports small and/or local businesses. I also threw in some fun Austin spots that offer great giftable experiences.
FOR THE BFF
Treat your bestie to a day of pampering at Parlor Beauty Bar. I can't think of a more appropriate gift for your best friend. What girl doesn't love to be pampered? She listens to you vent. She deserves something nice. You can purchase a gift certificate at their location off East 6th.
FOR YOUR MOM
I sell Origami Owl jewelry. So, essentially, this is my small business. :) If you've never heard of Origami Owl, it allows you to tell your story with meaningful, customizable jewelry. You can choose charms that represent your passions, memories, dreams and the things you love and capture them in your Living Locket or Locket Watch. My mom LOVES this stuff. It's so personal and unique. You can customize so many of the pieces. I really love Signature Gold Locket Watch. Watches make such beautiful gifts. You can add charms to make it really special - which are sold separately. But, the Black Friday deals are incredible. Don't miss out!
FOR YOUR DAD
My Dad is really tough to shop for, and although I know he'd be grateful for any gift, I feel like the perfect gift is always elusive. My Dad really enjoys spending time outdoors, so Whole Earth Provision Co. has some really interesting items for the nature lover. I'm definitely stopping there for his gift. If your Dad is more of a movie buff, then a gift card from Alamo Drafthouse would make a great gift. You could even go a step further and package it together with some movie memorabilia.
FOR YOUR BROTHER
If your brother is of drinking age, it's likely he may enjoy a nice cold beverage on occasion. Austin is packed full of breweries and distilleries. Scheduling a tour at one of these establishments is a great way to bond and spend time with your sibling. ATXcursions is a company that will arrange all the travel, so you can enjoy beverages safely. You can sample at each stop and they lay out all the details very simply on their website.
If he's not a drinker, axe throwing might be in the cards. Yes, I said AXE THROWING. You do still have to be 21 or older to participate, but this out of the ordinary experience will surely be memorable. Although Urban Axes didn't originate in Austin, their location on Airport Boulevard is the company's second location. They offer gift cards for purchase directly from their website.
Image Source: UrbanAxes.com
FOR YOUR SISTER
Mana Culture is a cute boutique tucked away off South 1st. They offer so many beautiful designs and styles. I think that earrings make such a sweet gift. Earrings are something your sister can use throughout the year. Bold earrings are on trend right now, so ones like pictured below can make any outfit feel complete. They are even nickel free for sensitive ears. Image Source: ManaCulture
FOR YOUR BOYFRIEND
It's fun to get out of the house and try something new together as a couple. Personally, Kyle and I love cooking. When we first started dating, Wednesdays were our nights to hang out and we always made dinner together. So, enjoying a cooking class together is a such a wonderful gift idea. Even if you're not great in the kitchen, this is sure to be a fun experience. Faraday’s Kitchen Store in Bee Cave offers lots of cooking classes. You can check out their schedule here.
Image Source: FaradaysKitchenStore.com
FOR YOUR NEPHEWS/NIECES
Spending a day at the Thinkery with your niece or nephew is a great way to bond with them and have some fun! Unfortunately, my nephews are in Minnesota. But, if your family is coming into town or they already live in Austin, spending a day at the museum can be a ton of fun for everyone!
If you're looking for cool interactive toys, Whole Earth Provision Co. also has an amazing kid's section. The location on South Lamar near Central Market has an abundant amount of choices for all ages. I highly suggest checking them out.
FOR YOUR OUT-OF-STATE FAMILY
If you're shopping for friends and family outside of the great state of Texas, giving them a chance to experience the flavors of Texas is an awesome gift idea. Salt Lick is a must-see barbeque joint just South of Austin. Anytime family visits, we take them here. Salt Lick offers a great gift set of sauces and rubs, so that your family can try making their own Texas BBQ no matter where they are located.
Image Source: SaltLickBBQ.com
I hope this post gave you some fun gift giving ideas for the holiday season. If you found this helpful or you have some other local businesses I should check out, let me know in the comments! Wishing you all a happy holiday season.
XO,
Kimberly
