Some Of The Best Holiday Gifts Come In Small (Business) Packages

While plenty of mega-retailers from Amazon to Target are hosting big holiday discounts, this past year has proven that small businesses could use some additional support.

With the pandemic's effect still taking its toll, small businesses are struggling more than ever. This holiday season, we’d like to reinforce the importance of shopping small. In our search for surprisingly cool gifts to feature, we discovered that some of the best presents can come in small (business) packages. So put away your Prime account, if only for a gift or two, and discover the special gems you can find at these independent retailers ahead.

We’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. 

KES Nude Masks

KES likes to keep things local. The New-York based contemporary women's brand, named after owner Lia Kes, utilizes local resources. All collections are organically dyed and sustainably manufactured right in its home city. 

KES Peace Covering Skin Complexion Bundle, $, available at KES

J.Hannah Mini Nail Polish Set

You may be familiar with Jess Hannah’s jewelry which we've featured more than a few times on our site. We’ve been longtime fans of the Los Angeles-based jewelry designer for years. Since launching her minimalist brand, she’s expanded into the beauty space with a collection of carefully curated nail polishes that complement her array of dainty and signet rings.

J.Hannah Mini Polish Set, $, available at J.Hannah

Max-Bone PB&J Dog Treats

Before launching that brand, Max-Bone's founder Parisa Fowles-Pazdro faced a problem many pet owners can relate to: a market that was severely lacking chic dog accessories that would pair well with her inclination towards design. She then set out to create Max-Bone, a luxury pet brand that creates aesthetically mindful pet gear made from high-quality materials.

Max-Bone Peanut Butter and Jelly Dog Treats, $, available at Max-Bone

Otherland Candle

Otherland creates candles so pretty, you'll Google every craft project possible to find a way to put the empty glass tumblers to decor use once you've burned through the wick. The hand-poured candles feature unique scents blended into its toxin-free coconut and soy wax.

Otherland Manor House Weekend Candle, $, available at Otherland

Our Place Always Pan

Outside of a Le Creuset, we never dreamed a stovetop staple could achieve such fame. But the Always Pan has taken Instagram by storm. Our Place, the brand behind the millennial-friendly utility piece, is on a mission to promise ethical labor, an investment in responsible materials, and to give back to its local south L.A. community.

Our Place Always Pan, $, available at Our Place

Cuyana Leather Laptop Sleeve

Cuyana's entire ideology rests on the motto: Fewer, better things. Female founders Karla Gallardo and Shilpa Shaharla believe in mindful consumption. By investing in quality items, your closet and your home can remain uncluttered. The brand has an extensive sustainability pledge that's focused on keeping items out of our landfills and finding ways to give products a second life through responsible recycling.

Cuyana Leather Laptop Sleeve, $, available at Cuyana

Piecework Punch Line Puzzle

Meet the brains behind your chic new coffee table addition and your quarantine hobby. Piecework is leading the pack in the growing trend of design-minded jigsaw puzzles. Randing from 500 to 1000 pieces the puzzles' themes are just as decadent as the high contrast photography that gives Ravensburger a run for its money.

Piecework Punch Line 1000 Piece Puzzle, $, available at Piecework

KkCo Pierced Dog Shirt

Apart from the cute new dog shirts, KkCo (pronounced "Kay Co") produces fun human clothing, too. The female-founded brand had a big hand in the tie-dye trend spike last year and has continued to create designs beloved by influencers the world over. All production is done locally near its L.A. atelier.

KKCo Pierced Pet Tank, $, available at KKCo

Stoney Clover Lane Leather Duffle

Interested in adding some color to your life? Then you'll relate well to sisters Kendall and Libby Glazer, the minds behind Stoney Clover Lane. On the site, you'll find an explosion of rainbow-colored travel accessories and even a Hello Kitty collaboration to boot.

Stoney Clover Lane Textured Leather Duffle Bag, $, available at Stoney Clover Lane

Krewe Aviator Sunglasses

For non-NOLA natives, Krewe's name may not carry much meaning. But for the New Orleans-based eyewear brand, it's a direct tie to its physical roots. Traditionally affiliated with Mardi Gras, a krewe describes a group that stages a parade for a carnival celebration. The word has since become synonymous with your local community or a tight-knit group of friends. The brand itself has a mighty large krewe having been spotted on the likes of Beyoncé, Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid, and many more. The glasses themselves are made from plant-based acetate, rilsan (a 50% bio-waste-based material), and premium metals.

Krewe Carver, $, available at Krewe

from refinery29