Shopping local and at small businesses is so crucial this holiday season. With the pandemic, many are struggling to keep the lights on. In this gift guide, I’m spotlighting some unique places in Indianapolis – all can also accept online orders, so even if you live out of state, you still might find something at one of these amazing locally owned establishments.
Two Chicks District Co.
Owned by “Good Bones” stars Mina Starsiak-Hawk and her mother, Karen Laine, this small shop opened in the summer of 2020 in the Bates-Hendricks neighborhood where many of the homes they remodel are located.
You will find lots of home goods items inspired by their own personal taste, gifts and seasonal decorations. There’s also a cafe attached to the store, so you can grab something to eat or drink after you shop.
Two Chicks District could possibly be the next Magnolia, just in the heart of the Midwest.
Lesley Jane Boutique
If you’ve never made a trip to Zionsville, you are in for a treat. It’s one of the cutest little towns in the Indianapolis area and has tons of chic shopping including the upscale boutique Lesley Jane.
You will find something for any age and most items are not restocked, so you know you’re getting something unique. I really like her selection of band tees, retro flares and plaid skirts and jackets.
The Local Radish
Uniquely handcrafted crystal jewelry, I’ve been in love with The Local Radish‘s designs for several years now. You can find her shop online as well as in four locations around Indianapolis.
My favorite pieces are the crystal “bullet” necklaces she makes from recycled brass casings. They’re unlike anything I’ve ever seen and extremely popular. She also has a variety of earrings an bracelets too.
Gina Celeste Boutique
Looking for an affordable, size-inclusive boutique? Gina Celeste is perfect for you! I’ve been a brand partner with her for most of 2020 and can honestly say she’s one of the nicest people you will meet.
Her boutique is mostly out of a room in her home, but she does do pop-up shops from time to time and of course you can shop online. I love the boho pieces she brings in. And you can use my code librarian10 to get you a discount if something isn’t already on sale.
The Flying Cupcake
The BEST cupcakes I’ve ever eaten and you can send them to your out of town friends and family! There are five Flying Cupcake storefront locations in Indianapolis, but the bakery takes “cupcake in a jar” orders through their Etsy page, so you are able to share something deliciously sweet with the people you love.
Be sure to check out seasonal favorites like Butterbeer as well as personal favorites Red Velvet Elvis and Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough. They also have vegan and gluten free options.
The Shop Indy
Looking for something retro for your Hoosier buddies? The Shop Indy is definitely worth checking out. With everything from tees to beer mugs, this hip spot in Broad Ripple often gives back to the community with portions of sales from special merchandise going to support The Arts Council of Indianapolis and Riley Children’s Hospital.
You can order online or visit one of their brick and mortar stores in Broad Ripple or Clay Terrace in Carmel.
Viewpoint Roasters
This one is for all the coffee lovers out there. Viewpoint Roasters is a new, up-and-coming home based coffee roasting company. They pride themselves in ethically sourced, air roasted beans.
You will love some of the unique flavors like Peach Cobbler (brown sugar and cinnamon with peaches, reminiscent of peach cobbler) and Lakehouse Vista (notes of Chocolate, apple, almond, molasses, dried fruits.)
Happy holiday shopping, friends! I hope that no matter where you are, you will choose to support some of your local small businesses. Peace and blessings to you in this holiday season.