The season of gifting is here! While many traditions may look different this year, the opportunity to spread joy by shopping small is available to everyone in our community. And now, more than ever, our small businesses need us. Presented in conjunction with the City of Grand Rapids and a host of community partners, we encourage you to put your money where your heart is this holiday season and #SupportOurGRBiz.
Gifts Without the Guesswork
Finding the perfect gift for friends and family can be challenging. Instead of spending hours curating your own stockpile of goodies, consider ordering from a local vendor specializing in pre-assembled, intentionally crafted gifts.
- Pack Elephant: With the mission of giving local neighbors a platform to share the work they are most proud of, Pack Elephant has scoured the nooks and crannies of our neighborhoods to curate gift boxes comprised of unique treasures from local makers. From sweet treats and booze to tiny tots and bearded men, we guarantee there’s a pack for everyone on your nice list. Order from The Marketplace at Studio Park for curbside pick-up!
- Horrocks Market: Hold the filler! Horrocks is known for its fruit and gourmet gift baskets that never have — and never will — be fluffed with messy fillers. Completely scalable and customizable, a basket can be small enough for one person or large enough for an entire family. To explore offerings, give the market a ring or stop in to sip a cold beer at the Horrocks Market Tavern while you assemble.
Need a few more options? Check out the vendors below.
- Ferris Coffee & Nut Co. Holiday Gift Boxes & Baskets
- KOKI Gift Boxes & Bundles
- Pochi’s Sweet Designs
- Martha’s Vineyard
- Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery
The Homemaker Who Needs a Break
Many of us have spent more time at home in the past nine months than we have in years. Kitchen tables have transformed into classrooms, closets into home offices and parked cars into brief escapes from the madness. Give the gift of kicking back by bringing in the professionals.
- Crystal Clean Auto Detailing: Not everyone has the equipment (or time and patience) to get their vehicle back in fresh-off-the-lot condition. Crystal Clean Auto Detailing offers Professional Auto Cleaning Packages for vehicle interiors and exteriors of all shapes, sizes, and conditions.
- Cascade Fresh Cleaning Services: Our homes have fallen victim to more wear and tear because we are doing more of life in them, and even the most diligent, dedicated homemakers are ready for a break. Available for everyday housekeeping needs or special cleaning projects, Cascade Fresh Cleaning Services is dedicated to creating a happy and healthy home so you can enjoy the more important parts of life.
Looking to add an extra helping of relaxation for your favorite busy bee? You can never go wrong with a day of pampering.
Health is Wealth
With cold weather approaching and gyms open at limited capacities, finding new, creative ways to stay active through the upcoming season will be top-of-mind for those focused on health and wellness.
- Gazelle Sports: For many, maintaining a healthy lifestyle has been key during the highs and lows of the pandemic. To help with shopping for the pavement pounders, studio lovers and heavy lifters in your life, Gazelle Sports has assembled a holiday gift guide categorized by activity type.
- Shefit: With almost 24,000 five-star online reviews, Shefit’s Ultimate Sports Bra is the perfect fit for active women of all shapes and sizes. As the first and only fully adjustable sports bra, both fit and level of support can be personalized to suit the needs of the wearer.
Need a few more options to compliment your gift? Pick out a selection of juices from Malamiah Juice Bar & Eatery, purchase drop-in class credits at a local gym or get the first round of golf once the snow melts.
The Hometown Tourist
Grand Rapids is home to museums, theaters, sports teams, and even a zoo! For those who love all our city has to offer, gifting a membership or season pass allows your favorite hometown tourist to explore every day of the year.
- Circle Theatre
- Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
- Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
- Grand Rapids Art Museum
- Grand Rapids Ballet
- Grand Rapids Children’s Museum
- Grand Rapids Civic Theater
- Grand Rapids Griffins
- Grand Rapids Public Museum
- Grand Rapids Symphony
- John Ball Zoo
- Cecilia Music Center
- West Michigan Whitecaps
Stocking Stuffers
It’s easy to get lazy when it comes to stocking stuffers — the real estate is smaller, awkwardly shaped and often left unwrapped. To that, we say… challenge accepted! Check out a variety of local stocking-friendly options below.
- Nothing Bundt Cakes Bundtlet Towers
- Super soft tees from The Mitten State
- Caffeine from Madcap Coffee Company, Ferris Coffee & Nut Co. or Schuil Coffee Co.
- An adult beverage (or two or five) brewed and bottled locally
- Gift cards from local restaurants because food tastes better when somebody else cooks it for you
Regardless of where you shop or how much you spend, we urge you to invest in the businesses that make our community vibrant. Together, we can ensure they remain in West Michigan for many years to come.
Happy holidays!
