This holiday season, consider stepping away from big box retailers and exploring ways to support local small businesses and entrepreneurs. Here are some thoughtful ideas to ensure your gift-giving has a meaningful impact beyond just the presents.
Why not support college students while tackling your shopping list?
By choosing to shop from student-run businesses, you can help them gain valuable experience and contribute to their education—all while finding great gifts!
Student-Made at ASU®, powered by J. Orin Edson E+I Institute, offers a custom-designed, professional online storefront for ASU student businesses, as well as in-person pop-up shops, business support and real-world management experience to the team of student workers who run the site. The site features a variety of hand-made creations from ASU students, including jewelry, apparel, and crocheted animals.
Learn more: Visit the student entrepreneurs at the Sun Devil Campus Store in Tempe on November 21st, from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm, for an in-person shopping experience. Or visit the online storefront here.
Support Local: Discover Unique Holiday Gifts from Edson E+I Collaborating Small Businesses
Supporting local shops during the holidays is a meaningful way to give back to the community while finding unique, thoughtful gifts. Local businesses offer one-of-a-kind products that reflect the creativity and culture of the area, providing a more personal shopping experience. By choosing to shop small, you help sustain local economies, support artisans and entrepreneurs, and foster a stronger sense of community. This holiday season, consider the impact of your purchases and the value of supporting neighborhood businesses that make our towns vibrant and special. Check out some valley shops involved in Edson E+I programs and support them this holiday season!
Lina’s Macarons: Specializing in making delicate meringue-based pastries in a variety of flavors, often adapting them to look like bears, ladybugs, or adorned with intricate flowers. Their macrons are designed to make you smile!
Shop here: Lina’s Macarons inside Cha Tea at 1911 W. Main St #5, Mesa, AZ or online at linasmacarons.com
Amor Collective: Amor Collective is a boutique shop in Peoria, AZ that curates a unique selection of artisanal goods and lifestyle products from Latina entrepreneurs. It emphasizes community engagement, sustainability, and supporting local artists and makers, offering handmade items with heart and purpose.
Learn more: https://amorcollectiveaz.com/
Audrey’s: At Audrey’s, inside Everything Goes in Phoenix, AZ, you’ll find an inspiring selection of DIY products perfect for updating your home and creating handmade holiday decor. Featuring premium items like Jolie Paints for furniture transformations and Iron Orchid Designs for beautiful, customizable decor accents, Audrey’s booth is a must-visit for creative projects. Whether you’re looking to refresh your space or craft unique, personal holiday decorations, Audrey’s has everything you need to make your home shine with style and creativity this season.
Learn more: https://www.instagram.com/audreyshopaz
Fair Trade Cafe: Fair Trade Cafe in downtown Phoenix, AZ is a socially-conscious coffee shop dedicated to offering fair trade, ethically-sourced coffee and treats. With a focus on sustainability and community, it provides a welcoming space for customers to enjoy high-quality coffee while supporting fair labor practices. A perfect stop for a delicious holiday beverage and treat!
Learn more: https://azfairtrade.com/
85Local: 85Local is a community-driven boutique in Peoria, AZ that celebrates Arizona-based artisans. It offers a diverse range of locally-made products, from handcrafted jewelry and art to eco-friendly goods, all supporting small businesses and creative entrepreneurs in the Valley.
Learn more: https://85localaz.com/
Momo’s Mercantile: Momo’s Mercantile is an eclectic shop in Chandler, AZ that blends vintage charm with modern trends. It features a variety of unique home goods, decor, and gifts, making it a go-to destination for those seeking one-of-a-kind treasures.
Learn more: https://www.instagram.com/momosmercantile/
Agoge: For nutrition and wellness gifts, try Agoge’s Universal Hemp Protein™. Fuel your body the natural way with USDA Organic hemp protein, a complete source of essential nutrients that powers recovery, supports digestion, vegan, and enhances overall wellness. (Gluten and Dairy free)
Shop here: https://agoge.com/
Auré: Surprise the pet lover in your life with a cozy, personalized gift from Auré, where every product is designed to bring comfort and love to hearts and homes! Made in 100% polyester canvas characterized by sturdy construction and vivid, crisp color. Canvas provides the clearest photo quality when printed.
Shop here: https://aure.co/products/custom-pet-pillows?variant=42899730366616
