I wasn’t sure whether or not I wanted to share any gift guides this year. This time of year everyone is sharing them and while I love reading gift guides for ideas some times I think it can be a bit of overload. I also don’t want to put pressure on anyone to spend money over over-extend themselves getting the perfect gifts this year. But I felt like there were 2 gift guides that are important to share this year given everything that has happened in 2020.

So the first up is my favorite small business picks. Small and local businesses have been hit hard this year by many shut downs and restrictions and need extra support. I always loving supporting small businesses but this year it is very important to support the businesses in our community

Here are a few of my favorites:

Dudley Stephens: Shocking, I know… but of course Dudley Stephens is one of my favorite small businesses to support. They have pieces for men, women and kids! Something cozy for everyone on your list seems like the perfect gift this year. Get $25 off your first order here!

Thom Kelly: Thom Kelly is female owned small business that I discovered about a year ago. I finally order one of their shirts this spring and quickly became obsessed. Their button downs are so comfortable and well made. You can use this link for $20 off of your first order of $100+.

Chappy Wrap: This mother & daughter ran business is one of my favorites. We have several Chappy Wrap blankets and use them daily. They truly are the perfect family blanket that you will have for years and years that everyone will fight over.

Le Papier Studio: Le Papier is the perfect way to highlight loved ones and preserve memories. The silhouette necklace is high up on my wishlist. You can also create rings, bracelets, prints, and ornaments along with lots of other options. These all make great gifts for moms and grandparents.

Virginia Dare Dress Co.: Virginia Dare was one of my very first collaborations and I immediately fell in love with their dresses. They also have the most beautiful aprons and gift sets for the chef or gardener in your life.

The Striped Sheep: It is no secret that I’m a lover of stripes. One of my favorite small businesses happens to be the perfect destination for all stripe lovers! The Striped Sheep creates striped shirts for moms and their littles too. Jack and I have matching shirts that we love wearing! Right now everything is 40% off so be sure to snag some shirts!

Jen Strandberg Studio: My friend Jen has a very cute etsy shop with watercolor prints, personalized stationary, holiday gift tags, coffee mugs and more. Order notecards to go along with the gifts you give this year or give personalized stationary to keep in touch with loved ones far away. Sign up for Jen’s email list for access to a special Black Friday promotion!

Haverhill Collection: A bracelet from Haverhill is another piece I have on my wishlist. They have beautiful birthstone and intial necklaces or bracelets that would be perfect for moms and grandmothers!

Suite Child: Suite Child is a local baby store but you can also shop online to ship anywhere in the U.S. If you are local to Nebraska be sure to check out their Kearney or Elkorn locations. And if you aren’t local you can call the store and have them help you find the best baby gear or the perfect gift to have shipped to you.

Sara Fitz Studio: I have been a fan of Sara Fitz for years. I love her prints, wrapping paper, and stationary. You can gift someone her prints and stationary or use her wrapping paper and gift tags for all of you gifting this year.

House of Shan: These incredible shirts, sweatshirts and accessories are a reminder to live life doing what you love and what brings you peace and happiness. The fleece sweatshirts are so so cozy and I love the imperfect heart stitched on each item. Not only do they serve as a reminder for everyday but a portion of each purchase goes towards a very worthy cause. Visit House of Shan for more info!

Buffalo Jackson: The perfect spot to shop for the men on your list. Buffalo Jackson has incredible leather good and accessories. I gave Andrew a leather duffle bag as a wedding gift almost 5 years ago and after lots of use it still looks incredible and it in great shape. I also have a leather camera bag from BJ that I love. Use the code Holiday25 for 25% off of your purchase.

Shop Local: Check out your local stores and boutiques before hitting up Amazon and Target this year. Chances are you will find some perfect gifts and help to support your community at the same time! You can also grab gift cards from locally owned restaurants to treat your loved ones to a nice meal at home since going out isn’t always an option this year.

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This year has been difficult for many of us with so many hard times and unexpected changes. Don’t put pressure on yourself this holiday season. This gift guide isn’t meant to encourage needless spending or giving gifts that you can’t afford this year. Do what you need to this year to make the holidays enjoyable and stress free.