As much as I’ve tried to get away from the over-consumption culture that is around us, I absolutely LOVE shopping for the perfect gift for someone special in my life. Finding that item they’ve been looking for, or maybe have no idea exists but is PERFECT for them! If I’m shopping, I try my best to shop small and I’m sharing some of my absolute favorite Michigan and Midwest small businesses to shop this holiday season!
For other gift guides, check out:
- Non-Material Gift Guide
- Camping Stocking Stuffers
- Outdoorsy Book Guide
- Top Outdoor Gear
- Trail Runner Gift Guide
Poppy Things
326 N Saint Joseph St #123 Suttons Bay, MI 49682 | Hours: Mon-Sat 10AM-5PM, Sun Closed
This Sutton Bay based, woman-owned business has been one of my favorites since its debut brick and mortar store opened while I lived in Traverse City. I take every friend, family member, and acquaintance here and recommend it to anyone visiting northwest Michigan as a must hit stop! Chelsea curates a beautiful, cozy, homey store featuring numerous local artists, designers, and creators. There’s something for everyone whether you’re looking for pottery, children’s items, clothing, jewelry, and so much more! Don’t miss this shop when looking for midwest small businesses!
Maddy Marquardt
instagram amazon hard copy book, e-book link, hand knits
Looking for some of the most special hand-knits, e-books on hiking, and beautiful presets for photos? Look no further! Maddy knits beautiful Selbu-inspired wool mittens, chunky beanies, she also fixes well-loved hand knits so they can be loved again! Purchase her ebooks for the midwest adventurer in your life! I’ve explored more places in Michigan and look forward to when I can venture to Minnesota and Wisconsin!
Ambrosia
Delectable, delicious, cozy and warm! That’s what you’re getting when you purchase this fine, European sipping chocolate that’s made in Michigan and from a woman-owned business! This is the perfect gift to share with anyone! Whether it’s a house-warming gift, something special for teacher’s, or something to treat yourself with the stress of the holiday season! This delicious gift will be greatly enjoyed.
Lady Wood Goods
The most unique and gorgeous Michigan decor, all hand-crafted and designed using a scroll saw! From Michigan decor to Pet Portraits, ornaments and stickers, Nicole truly has a passion and it shows! Lady Wood Goods is always on my list of midwest small businesses. My mom and I have purchased from her appearances at markets throughout Michigan and online, each piece just as gorgeous as the last! For a special and beautiful gift, look no further!
City Bird/Nest Detroit
460 W Canfield Detroit, MI 48201 | Hours: Mon-Sat 11AM-7PM, Sun 11AM-6PM
These sister stores in the Cass Corridor of Midtown Detroit have all the Michigan goodies! From cookbooks, to clothing, mugs, candles, pet toys, puzzles, cooking items, and SO much more. This is my must hit store I tell people to visit when they’re in Southeast Michigan! There is truly something for everyone!
Cadillac Markets Detroit
Hours: Wed-Thurs 11AM-8PM, Fri-Sat 11AM-11PM, Sun 11AM-7PM
Sticking downtown, if you’re in Detroit in the holiday season, you must hit the Cadillac Markets! Located adjacent to Campus Martius in the Cadillac Square, you’ll find 17 vendors in the cutest mini-markets. With shops selling repurposed bags, desserts, children’s toys and clothing, adult apparel and accessories, home goods, and so much more, you could check everything off your list just passing through the Cadillac Markets.
Compass Rose Outpost
326 E Front St Traverse City, MI 49684 | Hours: Tue-Thurs 11AM-6PM, Fri-Sat 10AM-7PM, Sun 10AM-4PM
Previously known as West Bay Handmade, this gorgeous, locally sourced shop has been my favorite store while living in Traverse City, and still is now! Selling so many different local goods and art from Northern Michigan and beyond, it’s hard for me to not walk out of the store with my arms full of items! Some of my favorite prints, puzzles, stickers, and other home decor have come from this store. They also feature their own candle company, Ambush Candle Co, which has some of the most aromatic scent combinations I’ve ever enjoyed!
Cherry Republic
Locations in: Glen Arbor, Traverse City, Frankenmuth, Holland, Charlevoix, Ann Arbor
The ultimate Michigan foodie spot. Whether you love cherries or not, there’s something here for everyone! Make your own gift baskets with the plentiful options of food, snacks, and drinks. Or just grab some stocking stuffers! Cherry Republic stores are plentiful throughout Northern Michigan, but can also be found in a number of locations all throughout Michigan! Sweet, savory, wine, cider, pop, you’ll find something for anyone here.
Enjoy Michigan
Locations: 104 W Nagonaba Northport, MI & 118 S Union St Traverse City, MI
Another one of my favorite Northern Michigan shops, located in downtown TC and originating in Northport at the tip of the Leelanau Peninsula this Michigan shop loves all things Michigan! This shop is my favorite way to represent Michigan through apparel. The coziest sweatshirts, hats, and more, you can match your whole family and friends! This is a must shop midwest small business either online or if you’re heading up north!
The Mitten State
This is one of the best midwest small businesses for t-shirts! Super soft and comfortable, with endless designs and prints for any type of person! With collections like Michigan parks, euchre, Michigan beer, colleges throughout Michigan, Faygo, and National Forests, there are so many designs to be found and loved!
Michigan Mittens
Find them at City Bird , Country Mill Orchard, Purely Michigan and more!
Super niche item, but something that every Michigander will love! (I’ve honestly thought about asking for another pair!) Coming in nearly every color to represent the best state, grab green and white, maize and blue, classic red buffalo plaid and more. Sizing for children and adults lets everyone in on the fun! If the person you’re buying for doesn’t like venturing out in the cold, or maybe has moved from Michigan to somewhere warmer, you can purchase oven mitts instead!
Great Lakes Collection
Eco-conscious, comfortable clothing for whether you’re on the water or in the woods. Founded and based in Minnesota they pride themselves on creating easy-going apparel that looks good no matter where you’re adventuring. From my first sweatshirt I purchased over 7 years ago, to cabin socks, and beanies, I’m never disappointed in the high quality and comfort that comes from Great Lakes Co!