Holiday Gift Guide 2021
Here we are again folks, our annual capitalism tradition of kicking off the holiday shopping season. This year, just like every year, I urge you to shop small and local whenever possible. More specifically, shop my friends below in this (not nearly comprehensive enough) gift guide to begin your Michigan-Made shopping list. Do you have a favorite that isn't listed below? Be sure to drop a link in the comments!
FOOD STUFFS
Ham Sweet Farm: I will never stop singing the praises of these wonderful humans. New this year, they have regular hours in their farm store throughout the holidays. Swing by to not only pick up all the meats for your holiday gatherings, but also peruse offerings from other local farms and establishments such as Apple Blossom Kombucha, Fruit Belt Tonics, Owl Energy Bars, Janie's Mill Flours and more.
Akagi Sushi: Akagi has been our go-to sushi spot in the Greater Lansing Area for about the last 15 years! Incredible quality, tasty and imaginative combinations, and the atmosphere just keeps getting better. Oh, and did I mention they deliver?
Strange Matter Coffee Co.: Forever favorite local coffee shop. Delicious brews and bakes of course, but they also now offer bottle and bean delivery. Gift Cards make a perfect stocking stuffer!
Goldfinch Fine Chocolate: Sustainably sourced, incredibly rich, locally made chocolates. I've been snacking on a delicous bag of their wellness bark and I'm pretty sure it's been carrying me through the week. With complex flavors such as toasted pumpkin seeds, coconut, sea buckthorn berries, aronia berries and more, these treats are sure to please!
Akagi Sushi: Akagi has been our go-to sushi spot in the Greater Lansing Area for about the last 15 years! Incredible quality, tasty and imaginative combinations, and the atmosphere just keeps getting better. Oh, and did I mention they deliver?
Strange Matter Coffee Co.: Forever favorite local coffee shop. Delicious brews and bakes of course, but they also now offer bottle and bean delivery. Gift Cards make a perfect stocking stuffer!
Goldfinch Fine Chocolate: Sustainably sourced, incredibly rich, locally made chocolates. I've been snacking on a delicous bag of their wellness bark and I'm pretty sure it's been carrying me through the week. With complex flavors such as toasted pumpkin seeds, coconut, sea buckthorn berries, aronia berries and more, these treats are sure to please!
LOCAL SHOPS
Vintage Junkies: A Lansing staple, and truly my go-to when I'm shopping for gifts. Amy has curated a balanced selection of classic vintage and mid century modern pieces, complimented by handmade products. With gorgeous crystals, sassy stationery, fun jewelry, and more Vintage Junkies is an excellent place to find a unique addition to your gift basket.
1991 Greenery: I am SO thrilled that Lansing seems to have a large budding plant scene, and Hillary from 1991 Greenery is leading the way. Offering not only a stunning selection of houseplants, but plant care seminars, endless tips and tricks, potting soil blends, and even workshops. If someone in your life has a green thumb, you'll definitely want to check out this shop!
Bad Annie's: Last holiday season, I literally got ALL my stocking stuffers at Bad Annie's - they stock fun above everything else. With snark tees, ornaments, sweary books, socks, candles - you name it - their shelves are promised to have something to make you smile.
Deadtime Stories: Do you have someone on your list who is a true-crime fanatic? Lansing now has a unique shop specifically catering to those with more macabre interests. Deadtime Stories has a wide selection of true crime and horror books, and it's attached to The Screamatorium, a spooky gift shop!
1991 Greenery: I am SO thrilled that Lansing seems to have a large budding plant scene, and Hillary from 1991 Greenery is leading the way. Offering not only a stunning selection of houseplants, but plant care seminars, endless tips and tricks, potting soil blends, and even workshops. If someone in your life has a green thumb, you'll definitely want to check out this shop!
Bad Annie's: Last holiday season, I literally got ALL my stocking stuffers at Bad Annie's - they stock fun above everything else. With snark tees, ornaments, sweary books, socks, candles - you name it - their shelves are promised to have something to make you smile.
Deadtime Stories: Do you have someone on your list who is a true-crime fanatic? Lansing now has a unique shop specifically catering to those with more macabre interests. Deadtime Stories has a wide selection of true crime and horror books, and it's attached to The Screamatorium, a spooky gift shop!
LOCAL SHOPS CONT.
Constellation Cat Cafe: What's a better gift than an experience? An experience with CATS. Cuddle some kittens, (and maybe go home with one!?), shop from a great selection of goodies for your kitty, and browse the best pin and sticker selection in East Lansing.
A Novel Concept: A fabulous new women-owned indie bookstore, located right downtown Lansing. I cannot tell you how long I have been waiting for this exact thing to happen. Located inside the Middle Village Micro-Market, A Novel Concept has an excellent selection of both new and pre-owned titles, with a focus on women, BIPOC, international, and LGBTQ+ authors.
Clean Refillery: A true gem and one-of-a-kind shop in the Lansing area. If you've been looking to live a more sustainable, low-waste lifestyle, Alexa is here to show you where to begin. She has a great selection of soaps, lotions, detergents - bring your own container, or borrow one of theirs - and has even put together some lovely gift sets for the season. I bought a toothbrush here, and when it had worn out, I literally took out a staple and threw it in my compost pile. Mind. Blown.
Woven Art: A cozy spot in downtown East Lansing, Meg has created an oasis for fiber artists. Peruse endless walls of yarn, wool, knitting tools, crochet hooks, and even books and small gifts.
A Novel Concept: A fabulous new women-owned indie bookstore, located right downtown Lansing. I cannot tell you how long I have been waiting for this exact thing to happen. Located inside the Middle Village Micro-Market, A Novel Concept has an excellent selection of both new and pre-owned titles, with a focus on women, BIPOC, international, and LGBTQ+ authors.
Clean Refillery: A true gem and one-of-a-kind shop in the Lansing area. If you've been looking to live a more sustainable, low-waste lifestyle, Alexa is here to show you where to begin. She has a great selection of soaps, lotions, detergents - bring your own container, or borrow one of theirs - and has even put together some lovely gift sets for the season. I bought a toothbrush here, and when it had worn out, I literally took out a staple and threw it in my compost pile. Mind. Blown.
Woven Art: A cozy spot in downtown East Lansing, Meg has created an oasis for fiber artists. Peruse endless walls of yarn, wool, knitting tools, crochet hooks, and even books and small gifts.
APPAREL
Object Apparel: Never have undies felt so dang special. All items are made by hand, with organic fabrics, natural dyes and non-toxic inks. A perfect special treat for the eco-friendly person on your list.
Grace Boutique: I generally think of Grace when I'm looking for an outfit or dress for a special occasion - but they are so much more than that too! With a fabulous selection of extended sizes, cozy knits, and unique baubles this is a must-stop during your Greater Lansing area shopping trip.
INFKNIT: Handmade in Detroit, this is a unique line of completely reversible, easy to wear clothing. Their pieces take the place of multiple garments in one, thus reducing the consumers need to purchase more clothes and support fast fashion.
Concious Clothing: When I think Michigan-Made Slow Fashion, I think Concious Clothing. This line of small-batch apparel and accessories are made using only ethically sourced, sustainable materials. I especially appreciate their inclusive sizing, and the time they take to list measurements for each item.
Grace Boutique: I generally think of Grace when I'm looking for an outfit or dress for a special occasion - but they are so much more than that too! With a fabulous selection of extended sizes, cozy knits, and unique baubles this is a must-stop during your Greater Lansing area shopping trip.
INFKNIT: Handmade in Detroit, this is a unique line of completely reversible, easy to wear clothing. Their pieces take the place of multiple garments in one, thus reducing the consumers need to purchase more clothes and support fast fashion.
Concious Clothing: When I think Michigan-Made Slow Fashion, I think Concious Clothing. This line of small-batch apparel and accessories are made using only ethically sourced, sustainable materials. I especially appreciate their inclusive sizing, and the time they take to list measurements for each item.
ART & ILLUSTRATION
Laurén Brady: Laurén is an amazing local visual artist and teacher. She is able to create these vast landscapes, and small intimate moments through expressive brush strokes that are endlessly engaging to the viewer. Check out some of her paintings IRL at Nelson Gallery in Downtown Lansing.
Anusree Sattaluri (Outer Peace): I fell in love with Anusree's illustrations the moment I saw them. She captures everyday moments in the most magical and romantic ways. Check out her website for prints, originals, and more!
Batwing Designs: Batwing Design's spooky and sweet illustrations are some of my faves! Her pop culture inspired stickers and pins are the perfect addition to a stocking or gift bag.
Avery Williamson: Avery's work is infused with a sense of play and movement. She uses bright colors and eclectic mark-making in a way that can appeal to a large variety of folks. Snag an original piece from her shop as the perfect present for your friend with a new home!
Anusree Sattaluri (Outer Peace): I fell in love with Anusree's illustrations the moment I saw them. She captures everyday moments in the most magical and romantic ways. Check out her website for prints, originals, and more!
Batwing Designs: Batwing Design's spooky and sweet illustrations are some of my faves! Her pop culture inspired stickers and pins are the perfect addition to a stocking or gift bag.
Avery Williamson: Avery's work is infused with a sense of play and movement. She uses bright colors and eclectic mark-making in a way that can appeal to a large variety of folks. Snag an original piece from her shop as the perfect present for your friend with a new home!
CERAMICS
Debbie Carlos: I maintain that everything tastes better out of Debbie's exquisite dinnerware. The perfect balance of form and function, her minimalist ceramics seamlessly fit in with whatever else you already have in your cupboard. Pairs well with a bag of beans from Strange Matter.
Jeff Hamm: I first saw Jeff's work at the UICA Holiday Market a few years back, and was immediately smitten. His quirky sense of humor, and ham logo sold me on the spot. This new collection of his features strong, classic shapes in unexpected bold colors that are sure to please.
BellaJoy Pottery (Heidi Fahrenbacher): Some of the very first handmade pottery I ever purchased as an "adult" was from Heidi. That was almost 15 years ago, and her work remains some of my favorite. Her whimsical drawings and fun color choices bring so much joy every time I use one of her pieces.
ReSeed (Brooke Pieffer): Inspired by nature, Brooke's pottery looks like you could have plucked it straight from the ocean or forest floor. Sophisticated cream and neutral glazes, paired with an endless amount of texture makes her work truly unique.
Jeff Hamm: I first saw Jeff's work at the UICA Holiday Market a few years back, and was immediately smitten. His quirky sense of humor, and ham logo sold me on the spot. This new collection of his features strong, classic shapes in unexpected bold colors that are sure to please.
BellaJoy Pottery (Heidi Fahrenbacher): Some of the very first handmade pottery I ever purchased as an "adult" was from Heidi. That was almost 15 years ago, and her work remains some of my favorite. Her whimsical drawings and fun color choices bring so much joy every time I use one of her pieces.
ReSeed (Brooke Pieffer): Inspired by nature, Brooke's pottery looks like you could have plucked it straight from the ocean or forest floor. Sophisticated cream and neutral glazes, paired with an endless amount of texture makes her work truly unique.
PAPER GOODS
Dote Note & Gift: Kristen's sweet illustrations and sentiments are sure to make any recipient smile. Her thoughtfully designed collection of stationery is a staple in my home!
Just Follow Your Art: Greeting cards, note pads, stickers and more! Jesi's designs are so much fun. I particularly love to mix and match and make my own variety pack. If you are shopping for any small business owners this season, JFYA's "Minding My Own Women-Owned & Operated Small Business" Tote is one of my favorite buys this year!
Paisley Paper Co.: Made with love in Detroit, this line of paper goods features bold colors and fun sentiments. Andrea's series of Black History = American History cards are definitely on my holiday list - they feature quotes from Gordon Parks, Marsha P. Johnson, Harriet Tubman, and Robert Sengstacke Abbott.
Just Follow Your Art: Greeting cards, note pads, stickers and more! Jesi's designs are so much fun. I particularly love to mix and match and make my own variety pack. If you are shopping for any small business owners this season, JFYA's "Minding My Own Women-Owned & Operated Small Business" Tote is one of my favorite buys this year!
Paisley Paper Co.: Made with love in Detroit, this line of paper goods features bold colors and fun sentiments. Andrea's series of Black History = American History cards are definitely on my holiday list - they feature quotes from Gordon Parks, Marsha P. Johnson, Harriet Tubman, and Robert Sengstacke Abbott.
Dear Ollie: HAHA SHAMELESS SELF PROMOTION.
JEWELRY
Tree Trunk Arts (Collyn Debano): A perfect gift for the nature lover in your life - each piece Collyn makes is "true-to-nature", meaning that each piece of jewelry is created from a once living element- an ash seed, a succulent rosette, a chestnut twig. An exact replica is made by casting, pouring molten metal into a one time use mold of the plant.
Alex Ren: I just discovered Alex's work this year at the East Lansing Art Festival and I'm so glad I did! This minimalist jewelry is all handmade from recycled metals and ethically sourced gemstones.
Jean Jean Vintage: I always appreciate a gift with a story, and you are bound to get that at Jean Jean Vintage. Specializing in vintage and antique Edwardian, Victorian and Art Deco styles, these carefully curated pieces will be an heirloom for years to come.
Grammar: I am obssessed with this line of thoughtfully designed jewelry that is inspired by architecture. Each piece is just stunning - in form and wearability. Bold but classic shapes make this jewelry a modern yet timeless gift.
Alex Ren: I just discovered Alex's work this year at the East Lansing Art Festival and I'm so glad I did! This minimalist jewelry is all handmade from recycled metals and ethically sourced gemstones.
Jean Jean Vintage: I always appreciate a gift with a story, and you are bound to get that at Jean Jean Vintage. Specializing in vintage and antique Edwardian, Victorian and Art Deco styles, these carefully curated pieces will be an heirloom for years to come.
Grammar: I am obssessed with this line of thoughtfully designed jewelry that is inspired by architecture. Each piece is just stunning - in form and wearability. Bold but classic shapes make this jewelry a modern yet timeless gift.
SELF CARE & WELLNESS
Oracle's Apothecary: Hands down, Oracle's Apothecary is one of my favorite additions to Lansing in the last year or so. Candice is so welcoming, and stocks everything you need to take care of yourself - mind, body, and spirit. Shop her thoughtfully crafted lotions, serums, soaps, deoderant and other potions, or sign up for one of her current workshop offerings.
Soulful Earth Herbals: Another excellent source for handcrafted personal products and herbal medicines. Whether you are seeking a gift or raw materials to make your own, Kathaleen has an excellent selection.
Bee Queener Massage: THERE IS NO BETTER GIFT THAN A MASSAGE. Bee is a warm, welcoming, safe presence - and is wildly talented at her craft. Grab a gift certificate on her website for the hard-to-shop-for person on your list.
Holiday: When you walk into Holiday, it's just a whole vibe. With a powerhouse of service-providers to choose from, take a moment to treat yourself this season. Slow down with a hair treatment, wax, or new color and start 2022 feeling hella fresh.
Soulful Earth Herbals: Another excellent source for handcrafted personal products and herbal medicines. Whether you are seeking a gift or raw materials to make your own, Kathaleen has an excellent selection.
Bee Queener Massage: THERE IS NO BETTER GIFT THAN A MASSAGE. Bee is a warm, welcoming, safe presence - and is wildly talented at her craft. Grab a gift certificate on her website for the hard-to-shop-for person on your list.
Holiday: When you walk into Holiday, it's just a whole vibe. With a powerhouse of service-providers to choose from, take a moment to treat yourself this season. Slow down with a hair treatment, wax, or new color and start 2022 feeling hella fresh.