As the holiday season approaches, it's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of Black Friday deals. However, by waiting just one more day, you can make a significant impact on your community by participating in Small Business Saturday. This annual event celebrates locally-owned businesses, encouraging shoppers to 'SHOP SMALL' and support the unique establishments that give our towns their distinctive character. In Orange County, North Carolina, a diverse array of small businesses awaits your discovery, offering personalized service and one-of-a-kind products that make holiday shopping both enjoyable and meaningful. By choosing to shop locally, you not only find special gifts but also contribute to the vitality and sustainability of our community.
My Muses Card Shop
Carrboro
A mystical card shop sourcing Inspirational cards, playful truth tellers, journals, artisan paper, books & gifts to illuminate. Give the gift of an art class, a whimsical piece of jewelry or bath salts for a soothing and therapeutic relaxing soak. After a long peruse around the shop, we bet you'll have something for yourself as well!
Womancraft Gifts
Carrboro
A unique shopping experience. As a cop-op, the artists create and sell their work as well as manage the business operations and they are on hand to share their stories. They've been around since 1973 with their first location at 407 W. Franklin Street, Upstairs headed by a six member team. They've come along way since then and jas 25 members plus representing more than 30 other local artisans.Knock out some holiday shopping at their Carrboro store while supporting locally-based artistic talent.
This & That Gift Gallery
Carrboro
You'll find just about any gift imaginable in this artsy & colorful shop. Find locally crafted work, locally made food products, eco-friendly gifts, as well as candles, t-shirts, scarves, childrens crafts, too many to list - you just have to go see for yourself!
Uniquitiques
Hillsborough
Located in a little farmhouse in downtown historic Hillsborough, is a HUGE selection of vintage and new cowboy boots, hats and western style clothes. AND cottage furniture and gifts, vintage clothing and jewelry, paintings, House of Swank tees, NC gifts and much much more. Just look for the beautifully decorated wrap around porch on East King Street.
Purple Crow Books
Hillsborough
Owner Sharon Wheeler played a key role in earning Hillsborough the title of "America's Little Literary Town" by The Wall Street Journal in 2014. Her shop, The Purple Crow, proudly highlights the town's rich literary culture, showcasing works by acclaimed local authors. If you're shopping for a book lover or looking to explore stories rooted in Hillsborough's 27278 zip code, this charming bookstore is the perfect place to find a meaningful gift.
Vesta
Hillsborough
Nestled in the heart of Hillsborough’s historic district, Vesta - Home, Life, Clothing is a family-owned boutique that perfectly blends style, sustainability, and thoughtful living. Inspired by the Roman goddess of the hearth, home and family, Vesta offers a carefully curated selection of women’s clothing, home décor, and design services, all reflecting a commitment to quality and timeless elegance. With a focus on supporting artisans and creators who prioritize responsible craftsmanship, Vesta is a treasure trove of unique finds that make everyday living a little more special.
The Shrunken Head Boutique
Chapel Hill
You wonder about the name? You probably guessed it. Back in 1962, Mary Edna and Shelton Henderson owned the Shrunken Head Boutique in the beach town of Jacksonville, NC. In those days, SHB was a head shop that sold everything from hippy paraphernalia to beach clothing and Levi jeans. In 1969, the family moved to Chapel Hill where four generations have been serving Tar Heels ever since and is Chapel Hill’s oldest UNC shop carrying fan gear for adults, teens, kids, toddlers, even Fido!
Julian’s
Chapel Hill
Julian’s has been the jewel of the Julian family since Mary and Maurice first opened the shop years ago. This eclectic Chapel Hill spot offers fashionable clothing for men and women alike, as well as an assortment of fun tchotchkes. You’ll love taking in the elegant atmosphere and browsing through so many fashion-forward options right here in Chapel Hill!
SallyMack
Chapel Hill
Sally Mack, the person, has been in Chapel Hill since 1976, and if you've been in Chapel Hill anytime since then you've probably run into her at any of the many hot spots around town. SallyMack, the store, is a true extension of Sally's personality and taste - whimsical, sassy, handcrafted and unique.
Shop Local Events (November 30):
Kick off the holidays on November 30th in Hillsborough. A Small Town Family Holiday showcases Hillsborough local shops, features Mr & Mrs Claus, reindeer games and a Tree Lighting.
The 2024 Local Art Showcase at the Eno River Farmers' Market will feature 40+ vendors with the perfect, unique gifts for everyone on your shopping list! Delicious hot mulled cider, yummy treat, stocking stuffers & so much more!
Support local artisans and discover unique, handmade goods including specialty baked treats, artisanal spreads, gourmet cheeses and more at the Carrboro Farmers' Market
And don't forget about our locally owned restaurants - take a break from your holiday shopping with a bite to eat at one of the amazing eateries
We hope this gives you some direction as you embark on your holiday shopping mission! And don’t forget that while this list is a great start, there are so many other ways to #ShopSmall in Chapel Hill and Orange County. Find more info on local businesses on our website.
(Top Image: This & That Gift Gallery)
