2020 has been a crazy year with a lot of changes in how people shop. Christmas will be different, and one way it can be different is buying online instead of shopping in stores. Luckily, a lot of local businesses have online shops so you can support local businesses and stay safe!
Rebel Grand Rapids
Rebel GR is the cutest shop to visit in person, and they keep that magic even when you shop online. It comes packaged in pretty paper and is well-worth having shipped to you. They also have curbside pick-up if you want to get something faster.
The Found Cottage
Founded by Liz Marie Galvan who always has the cutest things in her home, this store is everything you could want. They have a wide variety of items for your home, and your wardrobe available for shipping online.
Midwest Supply Co
This shop has a lot of “Michigan” and “Midwest” themed products, so it is perfect for the proud Michigander. There are honestly a lot of t-shirt stores selling “Michigan” themed apparel, but this one has some new designs I haven’t seen before.
Brush and Timber
SUPER cute home sign store on Etsy, based in Grand Rapids. All their signs look very cute, and are reasonably priced.
Oh Hello Paper Co
Adorable paper company with stationary, planning supplies and home office items.
Madcap Coffee
Grand Rapids has some of the best coffee roasters, and you can have it shipped directly to you. If nothing else, the branding is on point.
Grand Rapids Coffee Roasters
Speaking of the best roasters, Grand Rapids Coffee Roasters is simply amazing. In the past, they had a “Saturday Experience” where you could ask the roasters questions, taste test their coffee, and see the roasting process while it’s happening. They make some of the best coffee I’ve ever tasted.
Monica’s Cookies
If you haven’t had Monica’s cookies, you need to at least get one from a local store. They are available for shipping, but also available at a lot of local grocery stores.
Schuler Books
I remember strolling through this bookstore and picking out books for my birthday as a kid, so this store definitely has sentimental value to me. They have a wide variety of books and gifts to choose from – you are sure to find something for everyone on your list.
Books & Mortar
All bookstores have a special place in my heart, but I like this one specifically because they are a progressive bookstore promoting equal rights and justice. While some companies have only decided to be “values-focused” this year, they have been open about supporting progressive causes from the beginning.
Michigan Distilleries and Breweries
There are way too many Michigan distilleries, wineries and breweries to list here, but they all deserve your patronage. If you don’t want to buy directly from the brewery, you can buy from a small business close to you; since then supports two small businesses.
Shopping Local First
If you don’t like any of the options I’ve listed above, or have a specific gift-type in mind, you can search Local First’s directory of small businesses. Gift cards to local restaurants or local businesses would be great gifts as well, since we are all hoping for a “normal” summer.