After years of playing sports, I can’t help but be a little competitive when it comes to gift giving. Thanks to downtown Beverly, I am confident that my friends and family are going to love what they are getting this year. Working for Beverly Main Streets has given me a new appreciation for local products and I continue to be surprised at just how much variety our downtown businesses have to offer. Even better? Small business Saturday is November 30th, giving you the perfect reason to head downtown and work on your holiday shopping list. If you’re looking for some inspiration, check out what I’ve snagged so far.
Garden City Books
Garden City Books might be a small hidden away space within The Bottle Shop, but their selection of used poetry is extensive. A friend of mine recently began writing poetry again and is finding so much inspiration from little known poets of the past. She’ll be getting a few selections from Garden City Books this year. Oh and did I mention it’s located in a wine shop owned by Alex who regularly hosts tastings? Don’t mind if I do.
Harbor Sweets
Growing up in California, every holiday party featured See’s Candies. Now that I’m in Beverly, I’m so excited to start a new tradition with locally made chocolates from Harbor Sweets. These adorable Be Pawsitive Paw Prints will make the perfect hostess gift for my friend’s annual Christmas Eve party. Don’t tell my family, but Harbor Sweets’ offerings are also infinitely better.
House of Hot Sauce
Let’s be honest, watching the Patriots has been downright painful this season. However, my partner is still adamantly watching every week. House of Hot Sauce has an awesome selection of hot sauces and condiments and if he’s going to have to watch this offensive line play, he might as well have some quality queso to snack on.
The Salty Cottage
My six year old’s obsession with charcuterie boards knows no bounds. These handmade ornaments are going to be the perfect addition to our holiday tree. I also snagged an adorable bumble bee stuffie, handmade by The Salty Cottage owner’s daughter.
Second Rodeo
My mother, appropriately nicknamed Zsa Zsa, has never met an animal print she didn’t love and Second Rodeo continues to provide me with tons of options. This new business has the cutest selection of clothing and is constantly bringing in new items despite opening mere weeks ago. Mary and Emily, owners of Second Rodeo, have transformed this space into the ultimate cozy and inviting shopping experience. Thanks to the warm lighting and blush walls, I can confidently say it is also home to the most flattering dressing room I’ve ever used.
Soy Much Brighter
It might seem silly to mention Soy Much Brighter for something other than their candles (which are fantastic and made on site!), but I had to snag this cozy beanie for myself. The material is soft and warm and the deep colors are perfect for the holidays. I also picked up an assortment of stickers to add to holiday cards I’m sending to friends out of the area.
Sully’s Brand
Alright, I will admit this one is a little self-serving, but did you know that you can support Beverly Main Streets by purchasing this Charlie XCX inspired tee? My cousin’s grandmother is named Beverly and the past few years she has loved receiving various Beverly shirts from Sully’s. Brat summer forever.
Unpacked Living
In a world that too often prioritizes fast fashion and wasteful practices, Unpacked Living is a welcome reprieve. I have two white elephant parties this year and the care package I’m building with personal care products from Unpacked Living are going to guarantee I’ll have the gift everyone wants to steal.
Now- where are you going this weekend, Beverly? Be sure to support our small businesses by keeping it local. Happy shopping!
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Note: Beverly Main Streets does not accept discounts or free items in exchange for any promotion. This article reflects personal shopping purchases.