Shop local: my Cleveland holiday gift guide
Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday! If you are feeling (literally) stuffed like me, I definitely indulged in delicious food and wine, but am now ready to get out and about. Since it’s Black Friday and that means holiday shopping is officially underway, I already shared my holiday gift guide – the online shopping edition. But in honor of #smallbusinessSaturday, I wanted to share my favorite local spots for finding beautiful, one of a kind home décor and special gifts. I look forward to afternoons when I have an occasion to stop into any of these places and discover what new treasures I can score, and hopefully you will love them as well! Coming at you from Cleveland, Ohio, here is my holiday gift guide, the hometown edition:
Photo Credit: @shopbanyantree
You’ve definitely heard me mention this store before, but Pure Enchantment in Rocky River, Ohio is one of my go-to local destinations for gorgeous and unique home décor. With a farmhouse meets French country style, I don’t believe I have ever left the store empty-handed. Not only have I found some incredible, unique pieces for my own home (from vintage wood signs to distressed metal vases), but I’ve also (#spoileralert) started a tradition where I bring my clients a surprise gift from the store as a thank you (another reason to hire me!). They also make the most luxurious bath and body products in-house, which I first discovered when searching for natural, safe products while pregnant. Their body butter is a must, not just for everyday use but for keeping hands in supple condition during the cold Cleveland winter months. My must-haves are the peppermint vanilla, pure Noel (a holiday-time limited edition), lavender, and coconut – yum!
Photo Credit: @pureenchantment
Photo Credit: @pureenchantment
The name is so beyond fitting, but Lovely Paperie and Gifts describes exactly what you will find in this home décor and specialty gift haven. Also located in Rocky River (about a block from Pure Enchantment, which makes for a very fun shopping-filled afternoon!), Lovely always has an abundance of luxurious gifts and home décor items, from candle holders to chic desk accessories (so you can #girlboss with the best of them), to pretty clutches and charming jewelry. I always walk out feeling incredibly empowered and in love with whatever purchase or gift I’ve just found, whether for myself or someone else.
Photo Credit: @lovelypaperieandgifts
Cuyahoga Collective is nestled in the Lakewood area, and is a store that oozes Cleveland grit. It pays homage to our beloved city through local Cleveland area signage and framed prints, home goods, and apparel for adults and kids. We have their West Side market herbs and spices print proudly displayed in our dining room, and my husband can be found sporting their Great Lakes sweastshirt. A must-see spot for any Cleveland native or those just wanting to express their hometown pride.
Photo Credit: @cuyahogacollective
Photo Credit: @cuyahogacollective
I first spotted Architectural Justice’s flagship location while driving through Strongsville, and was so intrigued by the storefront that I had to find out what it’s all about. Turns out, it’s an interior design studio meets European café meets event space and professional-grade kitchen that offers cooking classes. Besides having the most amazing experience (and most delicious food) during one of their cooking classes, I also had the chance to tour their studio and home goods shop. The immaculately designed interior made up of gorgeous marble, exquisite chandeliers, intricate molding detail, and dramatic splashes of color is home to special pieces and décor items for sale, the likes of which I haven’t seen elsewhere in Cleveland. You simply must stop in to grab a cup of barista-brewed coffee and browse their store – no doubt you will be feeling the inspiring vibes too!
Photo Credit: @architecturaljustice
Photo Credit: @architecturaljustice
Finally, there’s one other local spot that is pure Cleveland and pure cheeky – Banyan Tree, with locations on both the west and east side. Offering everything from chic, cozy clothing to beautiful jewelry, to barware and books, you are bound to find something for at least someone on your holiday shopping list here. They also have an adorable nook that features one of a kind children’s clothing, toys, and books. Just one visit to any of these special locales is a reminder of exactly how hip, prideful, and magical the city of Cleveland is to be a part of.
Photo Credit: @shopbanyantree
Photo Credit: @shopbanyantree
*This post contains affiliate links to retail stores mentioned in this post.