Support Small Businesses this Holiday Season
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Support Small Businesses this Holiday Season

by Lauren Humphrey

When the leaves have all fallen, and the air has a chill, you know the holiday season is right around the corner! If your visit to the area happens to overlap with the holidays, you can find a gift for everyone on your list in the shops in our quaint downtowns. From handmade art and artisan vinegars to toys and fine jewelry, holiday shopping is a breeze when you visit Genesee County.

For the Trendsetters:

 

Immerse yourself in luxury at Lambert’s Design Jewelers, where the allure of certified diamonds, bespoke engagement rings, and exquisite watches meets a curated selection of jewelry designed for special moments. Lambert’s takes great joy in the art of discovering or crafting the ideal holiday gift, ensuring each piece reflects the spirit of the season in the most enchanting way.

Embark on a journey with Valle Jewelers, where the Valle family's commitment to excellence has spanned since 1951. Devoted to providing top-tier products and services, Valle Jewelers offers a range of high-quality offerings. Whether it's handcrafted creations or renowned brands like Alex & Ani and Stia, Valle's collection is poised to hold the perfect something for that special someone on your holiday list.

For the Crafty:

 

Explore the creative wonders of The Art of Mandy, a local gem that hosts weekly classes for adults and children ages 2 and above, utilizing a variety of artistic materials. From vibrant paint parties to exclusive private events, there's an artistic experience for everyone! And the best part - no prior experience is required to join an art class. Consider gifting a loved one with a personalized gift card or plan a paint party for a memorable gathering with friends and family!

Indulge your passion for crafting with yarn at Karen’s Yarn Paper Scissors, the ultimate destination for craft enthusiasts. Karen's is a haven stocked with an extensive array of yarn, fulfilling every knitter's fantasy. Want to get hands on? Join one of the how-to classes, covering the art of crocheting, wreath-making, painting, and more!

Discover the artistic wonders at Jade Pottery, where you can explore custom and hand-printed art, engage in paint-your-own pottery sessions, partake in creative classes, and shop handmade jewelry, among other treasures. Browse their array of holiday-themed ceramics to help immerse yourself in the festive spirit. Schedule a visit at your convenience or join a pre-planned class for a hands-on holiday craft night!

Experience the artistic joy at Fired Up: Ready to Paint Ceramics. This local studio is your ultimate destination for all things ceramics. Drop in and unleash your creativity by painting a squirrel, elephant, plate, or whatever captures your imagination! Every ceramic piece is handcrafted by the owners in their home and curated for you to stay and paint on-site or take home for personalized decoration. Spread the joy of creativity by creating a personalized gift for a loved one or friend, or gift them the experience of a hands-on class;  it's the perfect way to make lasting memories together!

For the Youngsters:

 

This holiday season, make Adam Miller Toy & Bicycle, a timeless family tradition. This local institution since 1918, specializes in bicycle sales, repairs, and complete bicycle restorations. They don't stop there - while they offer an impressive array of bikes, the shop also carries a delightful selection of model cars, Slinkys, stuffed animals, puzzles, and more! Dive into the treasure trove for unique stocking stuffers, shiny new bikes, or engaging games perfect for family fun during your holiday gathering.

Calling all comic book and pop-culture enthusiasts! Join the celebration at Foxprowl Collectibles, where a treasure trove of hundreds of action figures, comics, and collectible items spanning the decades from the 1960s to the present awaits. Dive into the nostalgia of the 70s, 80s, and 90s, and explore the latest gems of the current era. Find the perfect gift for the superhero aficionado, Dr. Who enthusiast, or Indiana Jones fanatic on your holiday list at Foxprowl Collectibles, where passion meets collectibles in the heart of our local community.

For the Patrons:

Discover the quaint charm Country Cottage, situated on five picturesque acres with six charming cottages, surrounded by lush country gardens brimming with distinctive gifts and handmade decorative items. Elevate your holiday gifting by exploring this treasure trove, or sign up for one of their exciting workshops and delve into a world of unique techniques, where you can craft with amazing DIY clay-based paints and experiment with molds, stamps, and more. Unleash your creativity at Country Cottage, where every gift becomes a personalized masterpiece inspired by the beauty of our local surroundings.

Embrace the spirit of giving with warmth this holiday season by exploring the exquisite offerings at Northwoods Alpaca. Delight in the selection of sweaters, socks, hats, gloves, and yarns crafted from the soft and luxurious fleece of alpacas. Alpaca fiber, akin to sheep wool, stands out for its lighter weight, enhanced strength, silkier texture, and superior warmth. Visit the shop on Saturdays and Sundays to experience the cozy charm in person, or conveniently shop online for these thoughtful and snug holiday gifts.

Roam the isles of artistry at Norton’s Chizzelwood, a haven for custom woodworking, design, and a curated selection of Amish furniture, products, as well as primitive crafts and gifts. Whether you're in search of grand pieces or smaller, intricate creations, Norton's is your local expert in bringing beauty to every detail. Discover the charm of personalized craftsmanship and unique designs at Norton's Chizzelwood, where anything, big or small, can be expertly created and transformed into a beautiful masterpiece.

Travel the world of unique gifts at One World Projects, a wholesale center nestled in Batavia, NY, open for shopping Monday through Friday. Shop jewelry, clothing, handbags, housewares, fashion accessories, toys, and more, all imported from artisans across 25 developing countries in Latin America, Asia, and Africa. Every item is meticulously handmade using sustainable methods and materials, adhering to fair trade practices where artisans receive a just and living wage for their craftsmanship. Since 1992, the 'One World Projects' network has flourished, connecting with over 11,000 artisans from diverse corners of the globe.

For the Mixologists:

 

Get into the holiday spirit with Autumn Moon Farm Winery, where a diverse array of specialty blends promises to make your taste buds dance. Experience the extra touch of personalization with their specialized wine labels suitable for any occasion or event. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of their tasting room and explore the charming gift shop, open to visitors on Saturdays and Sundays. Make your celebrations memorable with the unique flavors and personalized touches from Autumn Moon Farm Winery!

Savor the flavors of the season with Black Creek Cidery, where hard cider comes to life through a meticulous process using locally sourced apples pressed and processed within the region. Committed to delivering a genuine "tree to glass" experience, Black Creek Cidery follows their grandfather's recipe and employs a time-honored slow, cold-aged wood barrel process, resulting in a classic hard cider with a smooth finish. Shop for this local crafted cider at The YNGodess Shop and Angotti Beverage in Batavia, NY, and treat yourself or a loved one to the rich taste of authentic, locally crafted cider.

Embark on a flavor-filled adventure at Circle B Winery, where you can explore unique fresh fruit wines, including apricot, peach, peach & honey, pear, pumpkin & spice, blueberry, spiced apple, and yes, even tomato wine. Intrigued? Don't knock it 'til you try it! Indulge your taste buds with a personalized tasting experience, or snag a bottle from the Sweet Life Country Store in Elba, NY. Give the gift of distinctive local flavors this holiday season with Circle B Winery's one-of-a-kind fruit wines.

Celebrate the brewing legacy of Genesee County with Eli Fish Brewing Company, the first brewery in a century to grace our community. This award-winning establishment offers a perfect holiday treat with its special seasonal beers, including the delightful SuperCrantastic, a 6% Sour Ale infused with Cranberries, Orange, and Citra. Gift the craft beer lover on your list with a 4-pack of this festive brew, or take advantage of their holiday deal from November 24 to December 30: Purchase a $50 gift card and take home a complimentary 4-pack of Eli Fish beer, spreading the joy of local flavors this holiday season.

Beer-lovers rejoice; our county's brewing scene is growing! Windy Brew, the newest brewery nestled in the Harvester Center, boasts an industrial taproom with an impressive selection of 15 craft brews, ciders, cocktails, and pub food. Elevate your holiday gifting by surprising the beer-lover on your list with a Windy Brew Mug Club membership. This exclusive offering comes with year-round perks, including enticing discounts, a complimentary birthday beer, and stylish branded merchandise. Give the gift of a flavorful experience at Windy Brew, where local brews and community spirit come together in the heart of our county.

For the Healthsome:

 

The perfect gift for that special someone's might just be at Empire Hemp! If you're considering CBD products but unsure where to begin, visit Empire Hemp for a selection of the highest quality, locally handcrafted hemp offerings! Their commitment to excellence extends to utilizing the finest ingredients from trusted New York growers, ensuring all products, including hemp CBD topicals and hemp CBD oil, are of the utmost quality. Can't make it in person? No worries—they provide free shipping on all online orders.

Step into the realm of self-care and metaphysical treasures at The Self-Care Shop, a woman-owned boutique dedicated to enhancing well-being. Explore an array of items, from crystals and essential oils to natural makeup, jewelry, clothing, and beyond. If you're unsure about the perfect gift, consider a gift card that opens the door to their weekly events and workshops, featuring activities like yoga and guided meditation. Give the gift of self-care with thoughtful offerings from this unique local shop.

Elevate your holiday gifting with a rejuvenating experience at The Spa at Artemis. Whether you opt for a quick manicure or a full-day massage, the expert staff is dedicated to curating the perfect spa day. The tranquil ambiance characterized by earth-tone hues, aromatherapy essential oils, and a soothing atmosphere cultivated by the attentive staff is sure to relax. The Spa at Artemis goes the extra mile to enhance your holistic experience, offering a thoughtful selection of refreshments, including coffee, tea, cucumber water, and wine, to complement and complete your spa experience.

For the Historians:

 

Delve into the rich history of Western New York at the Holland Land Office Museum, where thousands of artifacts tell our compelling story. Elevate your holiday gifting by shopping their gift shop, which includes a diverse bookstore. Surprise the history buff on your list with titles like "Emory Upton: Misunderstood Reformer," "Warrior in Two Camps: Ely Parker," and a myriad of other selections that dive into our vibrant local history. Give the gift of knowledge and immerse your loved ones in the fascinating tales that shaped our community at the Holland Land Office Museum.

Jiggle on down to the birthplace of JELL-O - right here in Genesee County since 1897. The JELL-O Gallery Museum, dedicated to all things JELL-O, offers the perfect stop for the history enthusiast on your holiday shopping list. Uncover unique JELL-O themed souvenirs at the museum shop, where, for a limited time, cranberry-flavored JELL-O awaits—just in time for the holidays. Take a stroll through Thursdays to Saturdays and discover a range of Christmas gift ideas, from books and clothing to charming stocking stuffers. Make this season extra special with a taste of local history and festive finds at the JELL-O Gallery Museum gift shop.

To view our full list of retailers, click HERE.

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