Kick-Ass Gifts From 7 MSP Women Makers To Keep Your Holiday Shopping Local
The holidays are upon us and, no matter how you celebrate, gift giving is top of mind. Because of this, we wanted to do a blog featuring some kick-ass, woman-owned companies that would be perfect to shop this holiday season. Below is a list of seven companies to look into while you’re hunting for holiday gifts.
The Gift of Décor
COMPANY: A MANO
CREATOR: LOUISA PODLICH
When it comes to our homes, every detail matters, and that’s why I love A MANO. Selling handmade ceramic decorative items, such as bowls, planters and spirit rocks, A MANO is a great choice this holiday season. And with pricing ranging between $9.50 and $45, gifting is affordable.
Be sure to check out Louisa’s beautiful Instagram for updates on products, news on upcoming events and for pure inspiration.
The Gift of Clothing
COMPANY: ZUMA BLU FITNESS APPAREL
CREATORS: LEA AND BRIAN LEOPOLD (WIFE & HUSBAND TEAM)
If you’re shopping for someone who loves to bike, do yoga, run or simply stay active, Zuma Blu offers a variety of fitness apparel they'll love. With vibrant colors, fun patterns and rave reviews, this Minneapolis-based company is worth checking out.
In addition to having a great selection of fitness apparel, Zuma Blu donates 10 percent of its annual profits to anti-bullying charities and school programs that help build confidence in kids and foster kindness, acceptance and inclusion. Now, that’s something to feel good about! To learn more about Zuma Blu, the apparel and its mission, visit their site.
The Gift of a Stay-At-Home Spa
COMPANY: TWO SISTERS SPA
CREATOR: AMANDA ROYER
Bath Bombs are a fun way to enjoy a bath, moisturize your skin and relieve some stress, making them a great gift for adults, but what about the kiddos? The Kids Bubble Bath Bombs dissolve in bath water to reveal a special surprise, making this a unique and interactive gift. And a new incentive to get your kids to take a bath.
Another reason I love this company is Amanda incorporates business opportunities for moms, like her, who enjoy work but value time with their family above all else. To learn more about these opportunities, the company and, of course, the fun bath bombs, visit the site.
The Gift that Keeps Giving
COMPANY: STILL KICKIN
CREATOR: NORA MCINERNY
Still Kickin is a non-profit that started with a man, a loving wife and a thrift store t-shirt. When Nora McInerny lost her husband to a brain tumor, she and a friend started Still Kickin, a local non-profit that supports people who experience unexpected loss and emergencies.
There is so much more to this company that I cannot possibly include in this brief writeup, but if you’re looking to give a gift that keeps giving, shop Still Kickin. With a variety of products including shirts, bags, mugs, posters and sweaters, you’ll find something for someone in your life. Even better, you’ll be supporting families and individuals who really need it.
To learn more about Nora’s story and Still Kickin products, visit her site.
The Gift of Words
COMPANY: LOVE LETTERS MN
CREATOR: MOLLY MCDOUGALL
Custom gifts are a perfect way to celebrate your favorite humans and show them how much you appreciate them and, more importantly, how well you know them.
That’s why Love Letters MN made the list. Although Molly offers a variety of ready-to-purchase goods on her Etsy page, I love that you can contact her directly to create a one-of-a-kind gift for your one-of-a-kind friend or family member.
The Gift of Good Drinks
COMPANY: URBAN GROWLER® BREWING COMPANY
CREATORS: BREWER DEB LOCH AND JILL PAVLAK
After conquering malls, scouring boutiques, exploring Etsy and diving into Amazon to find the perfect gifts for your loved ones, you’re going to need a drink.
Urban Growler Brewing Company is the first woman-owned and woman-brewed microbrewery in Minnesota. With a welcoming taproom, a menu featuring handcrafted food made with local ingredients and, of course, a variety of delicious brews on tap, Urban Growler Brewing Company is a great place to treat friends and family. While you're there wrap up the rest of your shopping with their gift cards (available online or in the taproom).
The Gift of FILL IN THE BLANK
Shopping directly from an individual seller or company is great, but we know people like options. If that sounds like you, below are two great, women-owned businesses you can shop to your heart's content!
COMPANY: I LIKE YOU MINNEAPOLIS
CREATORS: ANGELA LESSMAN AND SARAH SWEET
Supporting local people, unique pieces, and Minnesota pride.
COMPANY: GALLERY 360
CREATOR: MERRY BECK
Supporting local artists with a wide range of quality pieces across varying media.
Of course, this list has only scratched the surface. The Twins Cities metro area is full of amazingly talented women artists, business owners and entrepreneurs who deserve our business, so whether you plan on shopping on Small Business Saturday, buying online for Cyber Monday or just keeping your eyes peeled throughout the next month for fab-finds, I encourage you to support women-owned businesses.
Have a woman-owned business you think would be perfect to feature? Send MPLS MadWomen a note! We’re always looking for amazing women who are doing amazing things.