We get it, we’re days away from Christmas, and you’re scrambling to get those last few gifts. Amazon can’t deliver in time and most of the stores are sold out, it feels like you are out of options. Luckily for you, there are lots of great local shops in the Valley that are sure to have some good deals left, so even at the last minute, you can be a great gift-giver this holiday season.
Phoenix General: Distinguishing themselves as “the new general store” Phoenix General offers a variety of products that would make for great gifts. Phoenix General reflects the fresh and functional artistry found in our desert metropolis. They have been selected as Phoenix New Times Best Clothing Store for three years running, making this an ideal shop to grab a gift for your friends or family. They have two locations, one in Uptown Phoenix, and one downtown at the MonOrchid.
Local Nomad: An aesthetically pleasing boutique shop with creations from makers, artists, and independent designers from all over the world. When you shop at Local Nomad, you can be sure that your gift will be unique to that person, and that they’ll love it. Local Nomad also donates 1% of sales to Black Girl Ventures, an organization with a mission to provide Black/Brown woman-identifying founders with access to community, education, and leadership development, so you can be sure that part of your purchase is going to a good cause.
Changing Hands Bookstore: If you have a bookworm in your life that’s usually looking for something new to read, Changing Hands is the spot to find something unique, while supporting local business. Opened in 1974, they have seen and grown with the transformation of the Phoenix Metro area. With two locations now in the Valley, Changing Hands offers a wide selection of new and used books, and will even pay you for your used books. Not only can you find a great read here, but once you’ve picked out your new novel, you can dive in while enjoying a draft beer. Yes, Changing Hands has a coffee, beer and wine bar called First Draft (creative, we know), attached to their bookstore.
Sibley’s West: Located in Chandler, Sibley’s is perfect for your out-of-state friends that you want to give a taste of the southwest to. Sibley’s has offerings like prickly pear cactus jelly and taffy and raw Arizona honey, and we all know how tasty those are. They also offer metal and glass art, children’s gifts and other locally sourced products in case you are not a fan of prickly pear (we won’t judge… at least not a lot). Sibley’s is owned by two longtime Chandler residents who will be able to answer any questions you may have about the products.
Berridge Nurseries: We all know someone who has a green thumb, you show up for lunch and they’re just washing the dirt of their hands from gardening. Buying plants this time of year in practically any other part of the country might be a bad idea, but Arizona is now approaching prime gardening season, with cooler temperatures providing relief for your garden. Berridge Nurseries offers a variety of plants that make an ideal gift for those of all gardening skill levels, even if you just need a house plant to post on Instagram. Plants tend to go quick (sometimes being snatched right off the delivery truck) so be sure to get there early for the best pick.
Let Shea Homes® know…What are your favorite local shops?