Once December rolls around, you know it’s time to get serious about holiday shopping. And while doorbuster sales at your favorite department store may sound tempting, there’s a better way to get the perfect gift. The DMV is home to some great independently owned and operated shops and boutiques.

Shopping locally not only stimulates your local economy, but it allows those small businesses to continue to operate and shape the character of your community! Do you want to show your friends and family that you’re not only an awesome gift-giver, but an ethical and sustainable one too? Check out these local vendors for unique gifting opportunities!

Lettie Gooch

Gift your fabulous fashion friend with a piece from a boutique that celebrates women just like her: empowered and unique. Lettie Gooch is an independent boutique located in Shaw. It proudly sells well-made items from emerging designers in the city. If you have a friend with impeccable and eclectic style, this is the perfect place to pop in and pick out something that will make her jaw drop.

Cordial Craft Wine, Beer and Spirits

Impress the sommelier of your crew with a bottle or two from local Cordial Craft Wine, Beer and Spirits. Their knowledgeable staff will keep you from getting overwhelmed and point you towards the perfect choice. Plus, their selection focuses heavily on their relationships with smaller vendors which means you will be supporting your local wine and beer makers.

Potomac River Running Store

The athletic family member that puts the rest of you to shame would love some gear from Potomac River Running Store. With 9 locations across the DMV, this growing company is extremely active in cultivating a healthy lifestyle among our community. They give back not only by providing a safe space for people who want to start a journey to fitness, but also support run/walk charity events. Buying from them will help support these initiatives while you impress your marathon-running, show-off brother with the Nikes he’s been eyeing all year.

Second Story Books

Is your best friend a book worm? There’s a way to gift beyond the Barnes and Noble gift card. Pick out something they’d love among the extensive collection of both up and coming and renown authors at Second Story Books in NW Washington. You’re BOUND (get it?) to find a great story among one of the largest collection of used books in the world.

#FrayLife Tip: Wanna go above and beyond for your pal? Check out their exclusive rare book room for a book they would never be able to find themselves.

Salt and Sundry

For the flawless homemaker in your life, Salt and Sundry will have the perfect find. In addition to their brick and mortar 14th St. location, you can visit them in Union Market for adorable stand-out home decor pieces. From candles to coasters and everything in between, Salt and Sundry’s passion for hospitality shows through and will please your like-minded friend this holiday season. Their small-batch furniture and decor pieces are switched up often enough that you can be sure your purchase is original and special.

Bazaar Spices

Rare spices, herbs, and botanicals from Bazaar Spices make the perfect gift for the chef in your circle. They’re located at 2130 8th Street NW and they offer local delivery! They carry one of the most vast inventories of hard to find spices, seasoning blends, bulk herbs, rices, and flours. Their mission is simple: to help their customers make great traditional food and healing recipes in their own kitchens.

Do you have a favorite place to snag locally-sourced gifts over the holidays? Share your shopping experiences with us using the #FrayLife or #DCFray tag on social media!

The fun doesn’t stop with shopping during the holidays. Don’t miss out on all the awesome festive activities happening right in your backyard this month.

View More Articles By Brittney Miles

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