I don’t know about you, but I really like to shop at small businesses — especially women-owned local ones in Central Mass. There’s something about discovering that extra unique gift for a family member or close friend (or hey, even myself) and supporting a small business that just fills me up. Over the years, my heart has connected to a few favorite local small businesses — and I just keep on returning for more.
If you’re looking for the perfect gift this upcoming holiday season or a present for yourself because — you deserve it, then I really recommend starting with these faves of mine:
Wild August
Where do I even start? Danielle is the sweetest soul, a mama of three, and an art teacher! When she’s not balancing all of that, she’s running Wild August, an online shop featuring gorgeous handmade leather bags, clutches, totes, and backpacks. The fabrics! The color combos! This creator has a vision, and she executes it every time. You have to give her a follow on Instagram and keep your eye on her Stories for when she drops new, poppin’ bags! They go fast — for obvious reasons. I got myself one and I’ve never loved a bag more. Functional, beautiful, spacious, and durable as ever.
Lather and Soul
Pam is an absolute doll, and she throws all her love into each and every handmade bar of soap (and every other product she develops) for Lather and Soul. Her mission is simple: “Inspired by nature, backed by science.” I couldn’t love that more, because it means she’s extremely mindful about every ingredient she pours into her small-batch bath, body, and skincare line. Gem! Flowers! To-die-for scents! She’s got it all. Give her a follow on Instagram to peep at her incredible, toxin-free products. Her reels are so fun, too!
Hodge Podge
I recently popped into this cute vintage and crafty small shop in Holden and quickly fell in love. There are treasures in every corner and surprises left and right. If you enjoy perusing a store and looking for one-of-a-kind vintage gifts and home goods, you must pay Debby a visit soon. This store owner is so dedicated to what she does, engaging with every customer and going out of her way to find you exactly what you’re looking for (and items you didn’t know you needed… ’til you see it.) Her Facebook is updated frequently with new items, so every visit feels like the first time.
The Mac Maker
I’m pretty obsessed with Bri and her drool-worthy macarons. I’m not quite sure how she did it but this one-woman show has created the perfect macaron, and her flavors are fun, inventive, and seasonal. Keep an eye on her site and Instagram, as she updates her flavors regularly and you don’t want to miss them when they drop! What I love about this Holden business owner is her attention to detail and amazing customer service. She cares, and it shows. And, that she sticks with what she knows and has clearly perfected “macarons, and only macarons.”
Kate’s Powerhouse
I can’t write a piece about small women-owned businesses without shouting out the incredible Kate’s Powerhouse (KPH). This Princeton-based fitness studio is run by mother-daughter duo, Kate and Jaime. Their energy, passion, and joy are simply unmatched. They motivate so many people. Offering an array of classes like yoga, Pilates, HIIT, and strength training. They even host local community events. Check out their Instagram for healthy tips and fitness challenges (I’ve done a couple of 6-week ones and they offered the accountability I needed). I know KPH isn’t technically a “small shop” but they deliver when it comes to warm and welcoming fitness classes that get you real results. Gift yourself or someone you love a class, membership, or even some cute workout swag (keep your eye on their IG for that).
It’s hard to believe the holidays are just around the corner. When the time comes to shop businesses you know and love, I hope you’ll consider these ones. Go and support this bunch of ladies by showing their products and services all the love they deserve!
