This holiday season, be kind to yourself and don’t cram all of your shopping into a hellacious spree frantically completed the week before Christmas. Get ahead of the game this year and support local businesses with these Queen City-sourced gift ideas.
A candle from Charlotte Candle Company
Nothing makes a home feel cozier around the holidays. Choose from scents like White Birch, Carolina Christmas, and Hot Cocoa to infuse your happy place with the holiday spirit.
Price: Starting at $8. Buy
A cozy blanket from Thread Talk
These blankets are beautiful, luxurious and they come in three different styles. A portion of all proceeds is donated to fund critical wish list items at over 2,600 domestic violence shelters nationwide.
Price: $129. Buy
A pair of sunglasses from Johnny Fly Co.
Everyone can use a good pair of sunnies and this local brand offer options that are both stylish and made from sustainable materials.
Price: Starting at $120. Buy
A CLT neighborhood candle from Ella B. Candles
Pay homage to their favorite Queen City neighborhood, landmark, or street with a candle from Ella B. They’re beautifully packaged and hand-poured.
Price: Starting at $15. Find the closest retailer.
An entire quiche from Central Coffee Co.
Let everyone else bring sad veggie trays and cheese plates to your office holiday party. A quiche from Central Coffee is sure to earn major brownie points with your boss.
Price: $19. Buy at their Plaza Midwood or Southend location.
Holiday gift basket from Reid’s Fine Foods
Packed with Reid’s 5 O’clock Crunch Box, Reid’s Cheese Straws Box (classic), Holly Jolly Mix, Reid’s Chocolate Chip Cookies 10 oz., shortbread cookies, Poppy Popcorn and peppermint cookies.
Price: $65.99. Buy
A cupcake in a jar from The Cupcake Queen
Tell me one person who wouldn’t love a cupcake in a jar. The ‘Joy in a Jar’ from The Cupcake Queen comes in flavors like cookies and cream, vanilla confetti, and red velvet cheesecake.
Price: Starting at $5. Buy
A Charlotte-inspired bracelet from The Alley Way
This delicate, hand stamped bracelet from The Alley Way Market displays the Queen City skyline in aluminum, brass, or copper.It’s unique but still understated.
Price: $17.95. Buy (use the code CLTFREESHIP for free shipping)
A game day-friendly purse from Policy Handbags
These stylish handbags are the perfect gift for any ladies in your life who frequent Carolina Panthers games. The purses meet stadium requirements so she won’t have to cram everything into a teeny tiny clutch.
Price: Starting at $59. Buy
Fun accessories from Girl Tribe Co.
From quirky mugs and jewelry to the CLT hats you see all over town, Girl Tribe Co. is your go-to gift spot for anything and everything that screams ‘girl power’.
Price: Starting at $8. Buy
A handcrafted bottle of liquor from Doc Porter’s Distillery
From gin and vodka to bourbon and rye whiskey, Doc Porter’s Distillery has you covered in the holiday spirits department. Pair with a nice set of glasses or whiskey stones.
Price: Starting at $29.95 at your nearest ABC store.
A Queen City-inspired t-shirt from 704 Shop
There should be no question about where you’re from when you rock gear from 704 Shop. They’ve got items for men, women, and kids, so buy for everyone on your list.
Price: Starting at $30. Buy
100 Things to Do in Charlotte Before You Die book
Authored by Queen City local, Sarah Crosland, this book is the perfect stocking stuffer. Go with the 2nd edition for the most up-to-date recommendations.
Price: $16. Buy
Fried chicken map from EDIA Map Makers
This thoughtfully curated map is a fried chicken lover’s dream and it includes go-to spots in both NC and SC. EDIA also offers an NC Beer Map, an NC BBQ Map and a Charlotte Adventure Map.
Price: $9.99. Buy
A one-of-a-kind necklace from Twine & Twig
Twine & Twig’s unique jewelry pieces are made right here in Charlotte, and instantly upgrade any outfit. People will definitely be asking where it came from.
Price: Starting at $60. Buy
Leather wallet from Buffalo Jackson Trading Co.
Buffalo Jackson’s handcrafted, fine leather goods are designed right here in Matthews, NC. They offer wallets for both men and women.
Price: Starting at $29.95. Buy
Agenda related guide: 8 best reasons to visit downtown Matthews
“Anchored in Love” print from Anne Neilson
This print, from locally-based artist Anne Neilson, is sure to soften any home’s aesthetic. It’s part of her Angel Print series, and it’s perfect for art connoisseurs and newbies alike.
Price: $100. Buy
[Agenda related guide: 10 Best places to buy art in Charlotte]
Skincare products from Pink Hippo
Everyone loves an excuse to pamper themselves and Pink Hippos products are all-natural and organic. Choose from moisturizers, sunscreen, and even deodorant.
Price: Starting at $10. Buy
A statement necklace from Erin McDermott Jewelry
Your mom, sister, Grandma, or bestie will think you are Santa Clause himself if you gift them one of Erin McDermott’s gorgeous pieces. If you’re extra nice, maybe they’ll let you borrow it.
Price: Starting at $30. Buy
A bottle of spiced rum from Muddy River Distillery
The holidays = a lot of family time, which means that alcohol is probably a good idea. Muddy River‘s spiced rum is made right here in Belmont and is ideal for holiday cocktails.
Price: $27.95 at your nearest ABC store.
All-natural dog treats from Pet Wants
Make your dog love you even more this Christmas with all-natural, locally made dog treats from Pet Wants Charlotte. They’ve got everything from dog biscuits to buffalo ears.
Price: Starting at $1. Buy
A retro Charlotte tee from Glory Days Apparel
If someone on your list has serious civic pride, let them rep accordingly with gear from Glory Days Apparel. The retro tees are sure to win Christmas this year.
Price: Starting at $5. Buy
A custom Charlotte neighborhood map from Karen O’Leary
These custom, hand cut works of art from artist Karen O’Leary, are a super cool, unique addition to any home or apartment. Choose from eight local ‘hoods.
Price: Starting at $125. Buy
An artisan gift box from Lily + Grey
Forget a lame fruit basket. Lily + Grey’s gift boxes are ideal for Christmas gift giving. Each one has a different theme so you can choose based on who you’re gifting to. We love the ‘Cocktail Hour’ and ‘Spa Day’ boxes.
Price: Starting at $68. Buy
A button down shirt from Ole Mason Jar
A simple, but stylish, button down from Ole Mason Jar ought is the perfect guy gift. Their local shop was recently recognized at Garden & Gun‘s Made in the South Awards, so you know they’re legit.
Price: Starting at $99. Buy
