Shop Small with Our Favorite Chicago Businesses
Looking for thoughtful holiday gifts while supporting local Chicago businesses? Our 2026 Holiday Gift Guide highlights some of our favorite small businesses in Chicago and beyond — curated by Meg Grochowiak, Eddie Grochowiak, Lynn Jarrick, and Nicole Sauer. From handmade home goods and wellness gifts to vintage finds, books, candles, jewelry, and local experiences, this guide is designed to help you shop intentionally this holiday season.
Whether you’re shopping for a host, foodie, design lover, wellness enthusiast, pet parent, or the person who already has everything, these Chicago small businesses offer gifts that feel meaningful, personal, and community-driven.
Meg’s Top Picks
Handblown glass mugs, vases, dishes, straws, and home goods made with artistic craftsmanship in Chicago.
A reconnection deck designed for self-reflection, mindfulness, and intentional living.
The 2026 Moon Workbook combines astrology, rituals, and reflection into a beautifully curated guide.
Timeless fine jewelry including stunning 14k yellow gold Beau Hoops.
A Logan Square favorite for curated vintage clothing, designer pieces, and handmade home goods.
Chicago-made soy candles and essential oils handcrafted in small batches.
Beloved Chicago confectionary known for handcrafted truffles, marshmallows, caramel, and hot chocolate.
A wellness gifting experience featuring unlimited Finnish sauna and cold plunge sessions.
Boutique Pilates class packs at their Lincoln Park and Lakeview studios.
Unexpected home goods and design-forward gifts for modern living.
Lynn’s Top Picks
Handcrafted soaps and wellness gift sets made in the Western Suburbs.
Beautiful hand-stamped stoneware and artisan flower vases.
Thoughtful gift curation boxes perfect for children and families.
A community-focused independent bookstore with something for everyone.
Custom charcuterie and cheese boards perfect for holiday gatherings and hosts.
Modern and minimal fine metal jewelry including the Red Brass Hairpin.
Clean-burning candles where proceeds support Autism Awareness initiatives.
Handmade ceramic cups featuring beautiful signature brushstroke designs.
Chicago bath and body products with elevated fragrances and self-care essentials.
Vintage-inspired maximalist artwork and reading calendars for book lovers.
Eddie’s Top Picks
Limited-release Chicago-designed hats with intentional craftsmanship.
An iconic Chicago record store and must-visit for vinyl lovers.
A favorite local destination for dog and cat treats in Chicago.
A hybrid coffee shop and plant store offering greenery, drinks, and bites.
Holistic wellness and acupuncture services ideal for self-care gifting.
Funny cards, gifts, and Chicago humor for the unapologetically inappropriate friend.
Chicago history tours led by historian Shermann “Dilla” Thomas celebrating the city’s cultural legacy.
Modern lifestyle goods featuring local Chicago brands and independent makers.
Nordic and Japanese-inspired clothing, accessories, and homewares.
Buy, sell, and trade rare streetwear and hard-to-find sneakers.
Nicole’s Top Picks
Simple, modern, and meaningful jewelry including the Paperclip Bracelet.
Joyful and sustainable clothing and gifts for children and families.
An iconic used bookstore with over 70,000 books in Chicago.
Chicago-inspired gifts including the legendary Malört keychain.
Vintage Christmas lights and nostalgic holiday décor perfect for seasonal gifting.
Bold, colorful, and playful home décor and accessories.
Unique gifts, home goods, and novelty items including Snackaroni bag clips.
Hand-poured Chicago candles with custom scents and fragrances.
Curated home goods, clothing, gifts, and accessories with a strong local focus.
A historic Chicago apothecary founded in 1875 offering skincare, wellness, and specialty products.
The Holidays may be over, but these small businesses are open for business year long!
