The holiday season is just around the corner, and while big-box stores and websites are vying for our attention, there's something truly special about shopping small. Not only do you find unique and personalized gifts, but you also support the hardworking entrepreneurs and artisans who make our communities vibrant and diverse.

In the spirit of giving back and supporting local businesses, we’ve rounded up a selection of small businesses - and Venture North clients! - that offer wonderful gift options for everyone on your list. From delicious treats and handcrafted goods to thoughtful experiences, these businesses are sure to make your holiday shopping extra special.

1. For Putting Together a Gift Basket/Charcuterie Board Extraordinaire!

J.bird Provisions (Charlevoix) - From paté to potato chips, plus darling kitchen towels, serving spoons, beverages…everything you need and more for putting together the perfect gift for that foodie you know and love.

Saltless Sea Creamery (Traverse City) - Most people look to Europe for cheese this special! We’re so lucky to have these artisanal delights here in our midst - visit their website to see where to pick yours up today!

Grocer’s Daughter Chocolate (Empire) - From their famous Peppermint Bark to artisanal, seasonal truffles using locally-sourced ingredients…you know we’re big fans! And you can still place an order online!

9 Bean Rows (Suttons Bay) - Is there anything better than a loaf of freshly baked bread? 9 Bean Rows makes some of the very best - a great addition to your basket/charcuterie board/holiday feast! Bonus: same day ordering/in-store pick-up available!

The Lively NeighborFood Market (Empire) - Delicious, local produce, cheeses, not to mention a great spot to grab a sandwich when you’re out holiday shopping! Swing by and grab some fresh goodies to go.

Great Lakes Chocolates & Dessert Co. (Traverse City) - Hot chocolate bombs, anyone? Pick some up to tuck in a basket, a stocking or your own mug! And reserve the option to take home one of their decadent cakes to grace your holiday buffet.

Perfect for: When you’re unsure of someone’s favorite size/color/hobbies. A gift basket full of local treats is always a perennial favorite and - bonus! - is always the right size. Don’t forget to get extra for those days when you need to throw something together for holiday drop-ins!

2. For The Wine/Beer Lover on Your List!

BOS Wine (Elk Rapids) - Quickly becoming a destination for wine lovers visiting the region - for good reason. With a varied selection of nearly two dozen biodynamic wines to choose from, you’re sure to find one (or two or…) perfect for gifting this year. Online ordering available.

Earthen Ales (Traverse City) - “…We like to brew beer that brings people together here in beautiful Northern Michigan.” A great standard that has resulted in a great assortment - currently boasting 14 varieties on tap! - of beer and ciders to select from.

St. Ambrose Cellars (Beulah) - Introduce your “giftee” to the deliciousness that is meade - made from fermented honey and a variety of bold, natural flavors - the speciality (but by no means only) beverage of the house!

Stormcloud Brewing Company (Frankfort) - Available at markets across northwest Michigan, it shouldn’t be hard to find some of their award-winning Belgian-inspired ales. If you’re in Frankfort, consider stopping in and making a meal of it!

Perfect for: Those who enjoy a glass or two on occasion and/or those who have yet to be introduced to the quality and variety of Michigan beer/wine. Also good for having on hand for holiday dinners/New Year’s Eve!

3. For the Clothing/Jewelry Enthusiast!

Charming North (Cadillac) - Beautiful, thoughtfully curated homewares and an seasonal selection of clothing and accessories by popular and local designers for him and her. Note: call or check their Facebook page to confirm they’re open.

MJ Design Co. (Mancelona) - Handmade and custom jewelry and home goods - a great place for personalized ornaments and signs! - using local hardwoods. Online ordering/shipping available.

Crystal Lake Alpaca Farm/Boutique (Frankfort) - Your favorite place to bring the kids in the summer might be closed, but the boutique is still up and running and has some of the softest, sure-to-be treasured pieces of clothing (and toys!) for everyone on your list! Online ordering/shipping available.

Perfect for: Lovers of a great sweater (or hat or scarf or pair of socks…) or a meaningful piece of jewelry.

4. For the Fitness Fanatic!

Coastline Cycles (Frankfort) - Is someone you know in the market for a new bike (or helmet or sunglasses…)? Or, do you know someone with a bike that just really needs a tune-up or repair? Coastline Cycles in Frankfort is good for both - a great gift to encourage getting “back in the saddle” in the new year!

Brick Wheels (Traverse City) - A little farther north brings you to this Traverse City staple with a truly impressive selection of bikes and gear for all ages/skill levels. Bonus: select bikes are now 30 - 50% off through 12/14!

ELEV8 (Traverse City) - While you’re in Traverse (or shopping online), check out ELEV8! For those feeling stuck in the same old fitness routines - or those who’d like a break from the snow/ice - a gift certificate for this climbing gym (that also offers yoga, weightlifting, youth activities and more!) is a great idea. Check out their Gift Promos for more info or to order your gift card today.

L.A. Gymnastics and Fitness (Kalkaska) - More than just somersaults, gymnastics has been shown to promote strength, flexibility, and mental focus and this Kalkaska gym has a variety of classes and programs for every age/skill level - and even some for us older folks! Follow them on Instagram or Facebook for regularly posted class info or give them a call today: 231-564-2420.

Wolf Wellness (Traverse City) - Perhaps you know a young mother who is struggling to make time for working out? Wolf Wellness in Traverse City not only offers a variety of fun, bootcamp-style workouts, but also offers free childcare for several of their daily classes. Bonus: the first week is always FREE!

Perfect gift for: Those who need/want to get more physical activity in their day-to-day!

5. For Those Interested in Health & Wellness

MI Farm Co-Op (Northwest Michigan) - Is there a better way to start the new year than with a subscription to a CSA? Let the local farmers do the (growing and) shopping for you, with regular boxes full of fresh, whole foods ranging from farm-fresh eggs to kale to maple syrup! They’re still accepting spots for their Winter CSA; learn more today!

In It to Win It (Traverse Area) - Know someone who loves the idea of a CSA, but just doesn’t have the time/skillset to cook healthy meals? Look no further than Dana at In It to Win It. Her popular meal prep service delivers (or provides several pick-up locations) for nutritious, delicious, ready to heat/eat options.

Hearth Sauna (Traverse City) - Who couldn’t use a little time to breathe and relax in a warm, welcoming setting? The benefits of regular sauna use are many and we’re lucky enough to have one here in northern Michigan! Book a time for you/a loved one today!

Elemental Compass (Traverse City) - Another great option for a gift of rest/relaxation? A massage, of course! Beverley and her highly skilled team are ready to knead away some of those knots - a great gift for those working hard to meet seasonal deadlines!

Northern Elderberry (NW Michigan retailers/online) - Want to do what you can to keep your loved ones healthy this holiday season? Grab a little more insurance through the gift of these delicious elderberry syrups and herbal tonics. Bonus: you can now add a few bottles to your cart next time you’re on Amazon!

Perfect for: Those looking to increase their overall wellness in 2025!

6. For Those Who Might Be “Challenging” to Shop For

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Scutes and Scales (Cadillac) - Perhaps someone on your list is just not a “puppy person” - no matter! Some folks would gladly forego fur for scales and this Cadillac shop might have just the pet they’re hoping for: snakes, iguanas, lizards and all the supplies needed to care for them! For those who love reptiles, but aren’t ready to commit, consider a gift of a membership to their Reptile Room and Learning Center with regularly changing exhibits.

Owl Eye Coffee Roasters (Cadillac) - Stay with us! Some folks seem to have everything - or need/want nothing - but even these people more than likely love a great cup of coffee. Owl Eye Coffee Roasters gives us that and then some and even offers a 12 Days of Christmas Sampler making it easy for you to delight the java enthusiast in your life! Online ordering available.

L’chayim Delicatessen (Beulah/Frankfort) - Also for that person who doesn’t need another “thing”? Bring them breakfast/brunch! Tell them you’re on your way with some of L’chayim’s freshly made bagels and toppings. If they’re anything like us, they’ll be utterly delighted.

Immaculate Home (Traverse Area) - For that special someone who would love nothing more than some extra hours in the day. Immaculate Home provides the ultimate luxury of more time through their skilled household management and personalized organization services. An investment, yes, but many would say a priceless one.

Perfect for: That special someone who isn’t into “things”!