Tis the season to be compiling your gift list and thinking about where you’ll find gifts for everyone. But before you head to the big-box retailers like Target and Wal-Mart, why not take a look at what your surrounding community has to offer? This holiday season, give back to your community by supporting small business and shopping local.
Here are the best places to shop local in Raleigh—and check off everyone on your gift list!
The Best Local Raleigh Stores for Everyone on Your Gift List
For the Pet Lover (and Your Furry Friend!)
Head to Unleashed, a private and locally owned pet store with a few convenient locations throughout the Triangle (including Raleigh, Cary, Crabtree Valley Mall, and Cary Towne Center). They focus on serving up “ the best a dog and cat can get”, whether that’s cold-weather gear, leashes and collars, or nutritious food.
Bonus: Thinking of taking a new furry friend into your home or know someone who is? Connect with the staff to learn more about adopting your next four-legged best friend!
For the Fashionista
Check out Gypsy Jule in Downtown Raleigh, home of everything vintage-trendy and a little bohemian. Accessories and clothing, footwear, trendy home accents, candles and decor, even holiday gifts if you’re not sure what to buy… you’re sure to find something great!
For the Home Decorator (or New Homeowner)
While you’re in Downtown Raleigh, stop by Deco Home to find something that’ll please your home-conscious friend. Home accents, cookbooks, dishware and kitchenware, and even cards and Secret Santa gifts are just the beginning! Explore a wide range of goods and crafts by local artisans and vendors at Deco.
For the Vino
Make the Raleigh Wine Shop the third stop on your Downtown tour to find something to please that friend who always has a wine glass in hand. Buy your friend some wine, or if you don’t have that exquisite palette, a gift card. You can also take your friend to a free tasting or give the gift of a wine class.
For the Avid Reader
Make a trip up to North Hills to visit Quail Ridge Books, whose wide variety of books even features selections by local authors. Gift cards are great, but you can also give the gift of a Reader’s Club membership to get them discounts throughout the year.
For that Friend with a Big Sweet Tooth
There’s no place like Videri Chocolate Factory! They make their own exquisite chocolate flavors, which they sell by the bar. Take your friend on a not-quite Willy Wonka chocolate tour, dine out on the patio, or even book an even and make the chocolate come to you!
Shop Local & Join the Triangle Community!
Raleigh is a great community for local businesses—which is just part of the reason it’s a top place to live, work, and play! If you’re thinking of relocating to Raleigh or the Triangle area, then it’s time to contact Carla Freund Realty. As your guides to real estate and lifestyle throughout the Triangle, we can help you explore the area, discover its lovely neighborhoods, learn more about buying a home in the Triangle, and find the perfect place to live.