“I love shopping downtown because I am passionate about supporting local businesses.” As a marketing strategist and brand builder, Maren Jensen is no stranger to championing great businesses. She’s also got great taste and shares her top picks through her Midwest in Style blog and Instagram account. Here, she takes you on a guided trip to some of her favorite downtown spots to snag great gifts. On this year’s shopping list: the tricky trifecta of men, kids, and teachers. Follow along for some great ideas!
1. Duluth Trading Company
Maren’s first stop is Duluth Trading Company. The store is jam-packed with classic, hard-wearing pieces for men and women. Choosing from all the options might be the hardest part of finding a gift for men here! Clothing is the star at Duluth, but they’ve also got an array of beautiful games, perfect for kids.
2. Child’s Play Toys
With games on the brain, it’s time for the next stop: Child’s Play Toys, where the perfect puzzle catches Maren’s eye right away. “Our family always puts together at least one puzzle throughout the month of December!”
Child’s Play has plenty of gift inspiration in their playful displays of toys and books. It’s easy to soak in the atmosphere and feel a childlike wonder as you check out the shop. Hot tip: gift wrapping is complementary at Child’s Play, making it even easier to gift this year.
3. JH & Sons
It’s time to shift from kids’ gifts to mens’ gifts with a stop at JH & Sons. “The men on on my list are tough to shop for, but stores like JH & Sons are always full of items I’m excited to put under the tree!” says Maren. The shop is warm and luxe, full of handsome clothing and shoes in beautiful materials.
4. Great Outdoor Store
Them next location is full of great gifts, and a reminder to treat yourself! “The Great Outdoor Store is always a dangerous stop for me…in the best of ways! They carry some of my favorite brands and I never struggle to find a new sweater or coat that belongs in my closet.”
If you’ve got an adventurer on your list, don’t miss The Great Outdoor Store’s great range of outdoor gear and clothing. Have giftees that lean more indoorsy than outdoorsy? You’ll find plenty of cozy items to help them through winter at home!
5. Jones 421 Marketplace
It’s time to close out the shopping trip at Jones 421 Marketplace. This marketplace is full of personality and the coziest shops, perfect for winter shopping. It’s a great place to find teacher gifts that are a step above the classic mug and card. “I was blown away by the locally-made pieces I found at all of the shops in the Jones building,” Maren shares. Shops include Sharing the Dream/605 Florista, Henna Harvest, and Interiors, Etc.
6. Sharing the Dream/605 Florista
Searching for meaningful teacher gifts? At Sharing the Dream, find handmade scarves, jewelry, and homegoods, all created by artisans in Guatemala. Thanks to a collaboration between Sharing the Dream and 605 Florista, you’ll also find beautiful potted plants and cut flowers to gift.
7. Henna Harvest
Henna Harvest is best known for their henna body art. You’ll also find sweet gifts, from crystal terrariums to hand-poured candles, all with a hint of magic.
8. Interiors, Etc.
Hosting for the holidays? You’ll want to include the gorgeous decor from Interiors, Etc. They’ve got pillows, throws, wall decor, and items for perfect tablescapes.
Ready for your own delightful holiday shopping trip? Find shop recommendations with DTSF’s Shopping Itineraries.
Want more holiday inspiration? Follow Ceca Cooper’s delightful shopping trip and Maddie Peschong’s Simple Holiday shopping.