Don't get trapped in the Black Friday frenzy! Consider waiting just one day to get your holiday shopping on! Small Business Saturday honors locally-owned establishments and highlights 'SHOP SMALL' for the holiday season and in Orange County, there are many great locally-owned shops that are fun to explore - here is just a small sampling...
My Muses Card Shop
Carrboro
A mystical card shop sourcing Inspirational cards, playful truth tellers, journals, artisan paper, books & gifts to illuminate. Give the gift of an art class, a whimsical piece of jewelry or bath salts for a soothing and therapeutic relaxing soak. After a long peruse around the shop, we bet you'll have something for yourself as well!
Womancraft Gifts
Carrboro
A unique shopping experience. As a cop-op, the artists create and sell their work as well as manage the business operations and they are on hand to share their stories. They've been around since 1973 with their first location at 407 W. Franklin Street, Upstairs headed by a six member team. They've come along way since then and jas 25 members plus representing more than 30 other local artisans.Knock out some holiday shopping at their Carrboro store while supporting locally-based artistic talent. During the months of November and December, comment on their Instagram and or Facebook pages for a chance to win some prizes
This & That Gift Gallery
Carrboro
You'll find just about any gift imaginable in this artsy & colorful shop. Find locally crafted work, locally made food products, eco-friendly gifts, as well as candles, t-shirts, scarves, childrens crafts, too many to list - you just have to go see for yourself!
Uniquitiques
Hillsborough
Located in a little farmhouse in downtown historic Hillsborough, is a HUGE selection of vintage and new cowboy boots, hats and western style clothes. AND cottage furniture and gifts, vintage clothing and jewelry (pictured at the top), paintings, House of Swank tees, NC gifts and much much more. Just look for the beautifully decorated wrap around porch on East King Street.
Hillsborough Yarn Shop
Hillsborough
Thinking of getting crafty this holiday season? Hillsborough Yarn Shop has all the materials you need for any knitting and crocheting projects you plan to undertake. The shop’s impressive collection is sure to have whichever colors you’re seeking, and the staff is more than ready to offer advice and ensure you purchase the materials that best suit your crafting needs. Currently taking orders online and in-person shopping with an occupancy limit of 5 at a time.
The Shrunken Head Boutique
Chapel Hill
You wonder about the name? You probably guessed it. Back in 1962, Mary Edna and Shelton Henderson owned the Shrunken Head Boutique in the beach town of Jacksonville, NC. In those days, SHB was a head shop that sold everything from hippy paraphernalia to beach clothing and Levi jeans. In 1969, the family moved to Chapel Hill where four generations have been serving Tar Heels ever since and is Chapel Hill’s oldest UNC shop carrying fan gear for adults, teens, kids, toddlers, even Fido!
Julian’s
Chapel Hill
Julian’s has been the jewel of the Julian family since Mary and Maurice first opened the shop years ago. This eclectic Chapel Hill spot offers fashionable clothing for men and women alike, as well as an assortment of fun tchotchkes. You’ll love taking in the elegant atmosphere and browsing through so many fashion-forward options right here in Chapel Hill!
SallyMack
Chapel Hill
Sally Mack, the person, has been in Chapel Hill since 1976, and if you've been in Chapel Hill anytime since then you've probably run into her at any of the many hot spots around town. SallyMack, the store, is a true extension of Sally's personality and taste - whimsical, sassy, handcrafted and unique.
Chocolatay Confections
Chapel Hill
Chocolatay Confections is sure to inspire delicious gift ideas for your chocolate-loving friends! Check out their online store for small batch chocolates and confections. Orders for pickup are available Saturdays at the Chapel Hill Farmers' Market or place an order for nationwide shipping.
Shop Local Events (November 25):
Our Chamber of Commerce's are highlighting local businesses for Shop Small Saturday. Follow them on Facebook for businesses offering specials, gift bags and more...
Hillsborough/Orange County Chamber of Commerce
The Chamber for a Greater Chapel Hill and Carrboro
And don't forget about our locally owned restaurants - take a break from your holiday shopping with a bite to eat at one of the amazing eateries
We hope this gives you some direction as you embark on your holiday shopping mission! And don’t forget that while this list is a great start, there are so many other ways to #ShopSmall in Chapel Hill and Orange County. Find more info on local businesses on our website, and share your Orange County favorites with us in the comments below!
(Top Image: This & That Gift Gallery)
