How to Gift Local This Holiday Season

The holiday season is in full swing, and many are searching for the perfect gift for everyone on their lists. From family and friends to secret Santas and more, finding the perfect gift for all the special people in your life can be an overwhelming task!

Shopping local is one way to ensure your gifts are meaningful, personal, and one-of-a-kind. Imagine the look on your loved one’s face when they open a present that you found right in the Carmel community, hand-picked with them in mind.

The Joys of Local Gifting

 

There are so many wonderful benefits to giving local gifts.

One perk is that it supports small businesses!

This fosters a sense of connection and helps uplift shopkeepers who put extra craft and care into what they offer, treats your loved ones to something special and supports the community at the same time.

Local gifting is also an amazing way to find really unique and thoughtful presents.

It can show your family and friends that you put extra time and effort into this season of giving, finding gifts that truly match their needs and personalities.

Lastly, shopping in your community allows you to spend time at your favorite destinations and find new ones that you might not have had a chance to explore!

If you’re looking to give local gifts from Carmel this season, here are some ways you can get started finding the perfect items for everyone in your life.

 

Search Thoughtfully and Intentionally

Give the gift of a cozy night in! Find face masks and bath salts at Bluemercury and books for all ages at River House Books.

Gifting locally gives you the opportunity to take some extra time and select something with intention.

Consider your loved one’s interests and hobbies. Have they mentioned any needs or wants throughout the year?

Or, is there something exciting you think would brighten their season?

For the adventurer, consider outdoor gear or luggage to take with them on all their expeditions.

Personalized skincare or a book you think they would enjoy are perfect treats for those who appreciate a quiet night of self-care.

If someone you care about is going through a life transition and needs some extra support, you could also consider gifting personal care items.

If you aren’t sure what exactly to give, don’t worry.

One incredible benefit of shopping local is the personalized support you will enjoy.

When exploring different shops, ask a sales associate for gift recommendations!

They’ll be happy to help you find something that’s sure to wow.

 

Discover Unique Finds You Can’t Get Elsewhere

 

Another special element of exploring businesses in your community is that you can find one-of-a-kind items you can’t get elsewhere!

If you want something simple yet heartfelt, consider a specialty loaf of bread and a bag of coffee beans from a local coffee shop they love.

Create a basket made with a mix of handmade goods, and enjoy all the flavors The Crossroads Carmel has to offer!

For a gift that is built to last, consider custom-made jewelry, designed with detailed craftsmanship.

Engage Your Community

 

One exciting way to give back is to gift less conventional presents to the people you care about, while also uplifting small businesses in The Crossroads Carmel!

For example, if you have a fashion lover in your life, you could gift alterations to help them perfect their look for a special event or breathe new life into family heirlooms!

If you know someone who has home projects they’ve been wanting to tackle, consider the gift of home improvement!

Or if you’re handy yourself and feeling especially generous, consider giving your time to help them with the project.

A gift of service is a great idea for those who seem to already have everything.

It’s also a heartfelt way to show love through acts of service.

Don’t be afraid to think outside the box! Sometimes, less traditional gifts make for the most delightful surprises.

 

Share the Gift of Your Favorite Spots

 

Another amazing way to gift locally is to treat those on your list to an experience at a destination they will love!

Think of the last time someone gave you a recommendation for a restaurant or service and it became one of your favorites.

Make a list of your favorite local spots and pick up some gift cards from those that you know others will enjoy.

This is another fun idea for those loved ones who already seem to have everything.

Giving someone special the gift of self-care with a certificate to treat themselves to a massage, a beauty consultation, or a facial, or treating friends to a dinner for two or a group wine tasting, are great opportunities to give something truly priceless: time spent together!

Your favorite destination might just become a go-to spot for your loved one as well!

 

Wrap Presents With Love

 

Once you’ve found all the perfect items, it’s time to wrap them up!

Explore one-of-a-kind paper and ribbon options at your local stationery store to present your gifts with a personal touch.

Don’t forget to add a card with a heartfelt, handwritten message to capture the meaning of the season and share it with those you love.

Mindful presentation adds another layer of sentiment to any gift, and gives you another opportunity to support your community this holiday season!

Spread Love to Those Far Away Right From Carmel

 

Even if your loved ones are far away, you can still share local gems through the mail!

While it may be tempting to find something at a big-box retailer online and have it delivered directly to them, there is nothing more exciting than receiving a festive, hand-wrapped box sent with love and care!

Your family and friends will truly appreciate the extra thought, time, and effort that went into sending them something from far away.

And, it allows them the joy and wonder of unwrapping a beautifully presented present (something we all love).

Give Local With The Crossroads Carmel This Holiday Season

 

From shops offering handmade and hard-to-find goods to thoughtful, quality services and more, it’s easy to get closer to your community and support small businesses this holiday season.

If you’re on the hunt for the perfect gifts in Carmel, you’ll find a winter wonderland of local, specialty destinations at The Crossroads.

Share in the magic of the season by finding truly unique and thoughtful gifts right in your community.

Who knows, you might find a treat for yourself, too!