Are you looking for the perfect gifts this holiday season? Me too! And after the challenges businesses faced in the past few years, I have made it my personal goal to shop local as often as I can. Supporting artists, vendors, and business people in our community not only provides unique gifts for the ones we love but also helps improve our city’s workforce and economy. I hope you’ll make it your personal goal to shop small, not only this year but for years and years to come.
In my search for the perfect gifts, I found some local options for budgets under $35. There are so many amazing local vendors and small businesses right here in New Mexico. How could we as a community NOT support them? It’s as easy as a drive across town or placing an online order. Here are some budget-friendly ideas for everyone on your list!
Gifts for Kids
Love the Little Things book, which is written by Albuquerque’s Roxanne Barry. It is a reminder to both parents and children to find joy in the mundane things as our children grow and appreciate nature in all of its smallest forms ($9.99, Amazon).
Geode-inspired tie dye onesies. These are so unique and the dye quality and colors are breathtaking! Sandia Gypsy is able to take custom orders, including “Mommy & Me” matching sets. Yup, I’m definitely THAT mom. ($15 for onesies, Sandia Gypsy).
Wooden “New Mexico” puzzle . . . I purchased one for all the youngsters in our lives and plan to paint them in special colors and designs specifically for each individual child. You can even leave them natural if you’re going for that boho vibe. ($20, No Coast Goods).
A sterling silver Native American bracelet for little wrists. There’s so much beauty in the handmade craftsmanship of Native American jewelry. Get your little one an heirloom piece and some special occasion bling. You’ll have to go in the store or call as their inventory changes often (starting at $25, Rio Grande Trading).
Gifts for Her
I absolutely love lavender and Los Poblanos Farm. If you’ve never been to their Farm Shop, they have such amazing bath and body items (amongst other products). This is the perfect little lavender duo to promote #selfcare and pamper the ones you love ($13, Los Poblanos Farm Shop).
Desert perfumes made from dryland plants in New Mexico. This is the perfect gift for the eco-conscious woman on your list. They use salvaged plants found in New Mexico, reusable or recyclable packaging (no plastic), and they donate 15% of their limited edition perfume sales to social and environmental justice organizations in the southwest. ($26-$34, dryland wilds).
Do you have a favorite place? Your first home? Where your baby was born? Commemorate the occasion with a special personalized coordinate necklace that will be sure to tug at her heartstrings! Use code “ABQMOMS” at checkout for 15% off your order ($35, willajunejewelry).
Gifts for Him
If you know a man who loves great quality grooming products, look no further than Colonel Ichabod Conk Products, made in Los Lunas. They offer beard, mustache, and shaving items. My husband loves their natural shave line ($3.50 for shave soap, Col. Ichabod Conk Products).
Baby, it’s getting cold outside! If you know someone who loves coffee and/or tea, consider purchasing loose leaf tea from the Old Barrel Tea Company! If he loves BOTH coffee and tea, they have a ‘Christmas Cabin’ blend with oak, chocolate, local Pinon Coffee House coffee, and mint . . . so good! ($11-$13 per tin, Old Barrel Tea Company).
Zia Coasters made of cork. Protect your furniture from moisture damage while showing off your New Mexican roots. Perfect to pair with his favorite brews. Use code “ABQMOMS” at checkout for 15% off your order ($15, willajunejewelry).
Gifts for Everyone
Hot cocoa bombs have been so popular! ChocGlitz & Cream make seasonal hot cocoa bombs in marshmallow or peppermint flavors. These sell out fast, so you can always call and order ahead. Add it to a cheeky, sarcastic mug for lots of laughs. ($6.95 each, ChocGlitz & Cream).
Limited Edition New Mexico ornaments made by Darling Clementine Illustrations. She is a special needs mom who is passionate about life. She shares her love of art with her son. Moms supporting moms, I can’t pass that up! Message her on Instagram for your order, but don’t hesitate. Once these limited edition ornaments are gone, they are GONE! ($20, @darlingclementineillustrations).
Hand-crafted soy candles made with organic, locally grown botanicals. Check out Enchanted Sugar’s “New Mexico Collection” to find scents that remind you of your hometown or favorite Land of Enchantment things ($7 votive and $23 tumbler, Enchanted Sugar).
Thank you for shopping small this holiday season!
If there is a local business you love, please let us know!