Need some inspiration for your holiday shopping this year? We’ve got you covered! Here are just some of our top picks for local shops to support this gift-giving season (including one explicit rec for anyone trying to make it onto the naughty list this year 🤫). Tune into the City Cast Denver podcast for the full gift guide 🎧🎁
Gifts Under $20
Stocking stuffers from The Wizard’s Chest
Beyond great puzzles, complex board games, and costumes galore, this classic Denver shop is also a treasure trove of trinkets, fidget toys, and fun little thingamabobs for any age.
A ‘blind box’ from Talulah Jones
Add an element of surprise to your stocking stuffers this year with the blind boxes from Talulah Jones boutique, which are filled with an assortment of different doodads, like these adorable little smiskis in a variety of positions.
Gifts You Can Consume
A hand-selected box of sweet treats from Italian Supper Club and Bakery
From pistachio cookies and classic eclairs to mousse-filled “lobster tail” croissants and cannolis, Chef Gaspare stocks his pastry case with freshmade goodies and rotating specialty desserts (starting at just $1.75) he dreams up daily!
A eucalyptus shower bundle from ReRoot
Perfect for the plant girlies and spa day lovers in your life. Shop plant kits, soil mixes, and terrarium supplies at ReRoot online. Our pick: The Verde Shower Bundle ($36).
Gifts For Your White Elephant Exchange
Adult toys from Awakening Boutique
Take your pick from the fun and exotic adults-only playthings at this woman-owned, queer friendly, sex-positive shop on South Broadway, from cheeky stickers and t-shirts to sexual education classes and — our fave — the Santa-shaped butt plug, a seasonal bestseller ($25).
A box of fidget toys from Autism Community Store
Who doesn’t like a good fidget toy? The Busy Brains Pocket Fidget Kit ($29.99) comes with nine to choose from! Also check out the store’s other sensory friendly offerings.
Gifts For The Person Who Has Everything
A taxidermy class from The Terrorium Shop
This Berkeley store specializes in the odd and eclectic with a focus on insect pinning, terrarium building, and taxidermy workshops — we recommend the upcoming Jackacorn class ($250).
Clean-burning specialty candle from Wooly Wax
The hand-poured candles here are made from 100% soy wax, phthalate-free essential oils, and cotton wicks. Plus, they’ve got holiday specials: Burnt Orange & Toasted Juniper and Amber & Eucalyptus. (Candles start at $18 and go up depending on size.)
