Shopping local and supporting small businesses should be ongoing year round, but just in case you’re still needing some holiday gifts and want to support some Memphis Makers + Creatives, here’s a round up of some of my favorite locally owned small businesses that you can (happily) shop with this season. *Please note: this is NOT a definitive list. Memphis is overflowing with so many creatives and makers that I implore you to research the small businesses here in the city and support your community. These are just some of my favorites to support and I think that you will enjoy them as well.
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Buff City Soap
The newest to my list. Started using their naturally made soaps and oils (Love them!) and I’ve been told great things about their facial skincare products as well. My favorite scent is Narcissist.
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Eclectic Eye
They have the coolest team working there, and if you’re someone that loves eyewear (and loves to try new brands and invest in your glasses), you will love them.
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IV by David
I personally love David (he has the most infectious energy), but I also own jewelry from his collections as well. They are truly statement making pieces that you can wear with everything.
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Paper & Clay
Brit’s company has grown sooo much since I met her, and her modern, handmade ceramic homeware designs are absolutely gorgeous. I own a mug, but if I owned a set of her dishes they would be on display year round.
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Question the Answer
I own a few pieces of Lauren’s jewelry line from when she first started and it’s amazing how much her brand has evolved over the years (from wood-based to metal made fine jewelry).
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Maggie Russell Art
I enjoy the quirkiness of Maggie’s artwork. She pulls inspiration from people and photos that she’s seen through the years, and in addition to original commissions, she sells smaller prints and postcards as well.
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Downtown Candle Company
Hands down, these are some of the best candles I’ve ever smelled.
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Novel Memphis
If you’re a book lover that prefers to shop locally, this is a great place to find new releases (and also chill in their onsite cafe).
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CrazyBeautiful
Trendy women’s clothing (caters primarily to 21-35ish women who like to follow trends, but still have their own personal style). Great mix of modern meets boho pieces.
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Stock + Belle
Contemporary clothing for men and women, while also carrying artwork and furniture with a mid-century modern touch. They currently have a “Made in Memphis” section filled with a ton of products from local Memphis makers as well, so it’s perfect if you’re trying to knock out a lot of gifts at one time.
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Ivory Closet
Ownership recently changed, so their style is shifting to be a lot more trendy + fashion forward. The new owner trend has such great, modern, personal style and it’s reflected in the new inventory.
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Southern Muse
The largest women’s boutique in Collierville, they have a great mix of classic + trendy pieces; they carry brands like AS by DF, Rails, Chinese Laundry, Chaser, YBF, and James Jeans. They also carry homewares + other gifts.
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Falling Into Place
The owner Mary Claire White started with an amazing candle line (soy based) but opened up the cutest gift shop a few years ago that’s filled with smaller, indie brands.
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City + State
Go for the coffee (their seasonal menu is on POINT) but stay for the connected gift shop that carries over 75 small/independent brands.
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Shelby Jewel
Shelby has curated the prettiest collection of classic pieces that are wardrobe staples (think structured trousers, feminine blouses, cozy sweaters). The only way to describe the aesthetic is dreamy.
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Missy Russell Beauty
Newly launched online; if you’re a fan of liquid lipsticks you will love these. The formula is great and the colors are bold (and look fantastic on WOC skintones). The color Unapologetic is a must-have.
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In Search of Our Gardens
I’m obsessed with Andrea’s growth hair oil + hair cream and am planning on ordering the facial serum and toner as well. Her products are safe for all hair types and WORK.
Honorable Mentions
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17 Berkshire
Technically a patisserie BUT Nuha does carry teas, books + calendars, handmade blankets and other small goods that make great gifts. If nothing else, gift everyone you know a box of macarons or chocolate chip cookies!
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Smallcakes Collierville
The owner Tara supports my cupcake addiction and I love her for that. She also makes some pretty yummy ice cream as well.
Every time you shop local you directly affect your local economy. While helping support these businesses and brands, you in turn help them support their families, grow their businesses (and in most cases, help them to supply jobs to other people). It’s a win-win for everyone.
Happy Shopping!
gift guide holiday guide memphis creatives memphis makers shopping list