Local Holiday Shopping Guide, Part 2

The holidays are already making me feel behind in every aspect of life. While I have my shopping list ready with a few ideas, I haven’t been able to start loading up on gifts as early as I’d hoped.

My time has been consumed with whipping up ties, bow ties and peter pan collars for the upcoming Hover Craft event. So, I thought re-introduce you to my holiday gifting series from last year: Part 1 includes ideas for the many different personalities in your life; Part 2 features three how-tos, including an iPad case, snow globe and of course, ties; and Part 3 offers a few sustainable tips on gift wrapping for the holidays.

I also want to point back to my column on infusing your own vodka. In this example, I made a basil mint vodka, but consider a spiced rum for a holiday twist. These homemade infused liquors make great host gifts, and I’m sure your co-workers and boss might appreciate the sentiment as well. Go online or to your local resale shop and try to find interesting, small bottles for your gifts. I just love these swing top bottles!

I’ve also made a few additions to the local shopping guide—Small Business Saturday all over the East Side and the deals are for real! You HAVE to go to this website and take a look at all of the local businesses offering great deals for this one day only. Do it!

Local Holiday Shopping Guide

Shops of Grand Avenue Mall
275 W. Wisconsin Ave.

For every $100.00 that is spent at a shopping center, $55 is reinvested in the form of local jobs and tax revenue. Help support our local retailers, including the new Renaissance Books location, and restaurant owners at The Shops of Grand Avenue.

Rummage-A-Rama
Saturday, Dec. 8, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sunday Dec. 9, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Wisconsin State Fair Park
640 S. 84th St.

You never know what you’re going to get at Rummaga-A-Rama. Sometimes you have to sort through a bit of junk before you find that treasure, but I’ve had luck in the past with some great records, old jewelry and antiques. Admission is $4 or $2 with two canned goods for the Hunger Task Force. Check it out!

The Waxwing
4415 N. Oakland Ave.

This place looks like quite the gem. Owner Steph Davies curated her shop with art and other sweet goodies from local talent. Have you guys been here yet?

Urban Garage Sale
Saturday, Dec. 28, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Turner Hall Ballroom
1034 N. 4th St.

I’m hoping to make it out to this event featuring a great variety of local artists, makers and retailers. Check it out!

Holiday Artisan Market
Saturday, Dec. 1-2, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Discovery World
500 N. Harbor Dr.

Enjoy festive treats, live music and free gift wrapping while you shop. Over 30 vendors will be slinging great local gift items including soaps, jewelry, hats, purses and more!

Fischberger’s Variety
2445 North Holton St.

Fischberger’s is a great spot for quirky books, knick knacks and games for kids, fabric, sewing notions, yarn and some of the coolest gifts you never thought you were looking for. Get lost in this classic gem.

Sparrow Collective
2224 S. Kinnickinnic Ave.

You’ll find a great variety of jewelry, apparel, baby goods and art in this Bay View hotspot. All of the items are made from folks who live right here in Milwaukee.

Art Bar
722 East Burleigh St.

Art Bar’s “Tiny Art @ Tiny Prices” exhibit is one of my favorite places to shop during the holidays. You can find pieces from reputable local artists that are actually affordable. Plus, you get to drink a beer while you peruse.

Art vs. Craft
Saturday, Nov. 24, 10-6pm
Harley-Davidson Museum
400 West Canal St.

I have yet to attend Art vs. Craft and that kills me. You will find truly one-of-a-kind items at this event and you’ll be supporting local artisans all in one swoop. Admission is $4 and the first 300 shoppers will receive limited edition tote bags.

Hover Craft
Saturday, Dec. 1, Noon-6 p.m.
Sweet Water Organics
2151 S. Robinson Ave

Like Art vs. Craft, Hover Craft is going to be one of the best places in the city to tackle your holiday shopping. Plus, I’ll be there slinging ties, bow ties, peter pan collars and more! Come say hello!

I’m sure I’ve left out plenty of great local shopping opportunities, so please comment below and we can watch the list grow together. Happy holidays!