Alright. I’m here to spill out – a hidden truth about me.
I’m a craft show junkie.
There, I said it. I can breathe again. ????
Yes, I am that crazy lady that will drive an hour to Saxapahaw during the holidays and roam the aisles slowly (annoyingly so) checking it all out with a list I keep in my mind of which friend would like which item. It’s all very organic, you see – when I see it, I know! ???? (I prefer to go alone so as not to be rushed even though my sweet husband Kyle offers to drive me around to all the holiday markets)

Shop what?

I know. I know what you’re thinking – who has time for that, am I right? Shop local—what? Running around town to a bunch of different places, have I seen your list?
Listen, I get it your point of view but let’s be real for a moment many of us have a few people on our list that we want to gift something extra special. That’s why we’ve created this list of some of our favorite shops around the Triangle. I don’t know about you, but I like to start my shopping early, so it doesn’t feel like a chore.

Cary:

  • Monroe 26
  • Impresa
  • The Pink Pearl
  • Swagger
  • LauraLee Gifts
  • Scout and Molly’s
  • Peachy Keen
  • Autumn and Avery
  • Everything but the Monogram

Raleigh / Wake Forest:

  • Charlotte’s
  • Designed for Joy (supports transitional living wage jobs for women in vulnerable situations)
  • The Art of Style
  • House of Swank
  • Edge of Urge (edgy)
  • Voda (great for your teenagers)
  • Flourish
  • Deco
  • Gingham and Posh
  • Logan’s one-stop garden shop
  • Local Charm (Rolesville)
  • The Zen Succulent (for the plant lover in your life)
  • The Cotton Exchange (this mini-mall has several retailers)

Apex:

  • The Doodling Bug
  • Apex Outfitter
  • Stylish
  • Downtown Knits

Are you looking for an “experience gift” for your loved one?

  • Ax Throwing
  • Wine and Design
  • Craft get-togethers @ The Devilish egg or AR Workshop
  • Knitting parties @ Warm ‘n Fuzzy in downtown Cary
  • A business workshop for your besties with a local business owner
  • A foodie event at one of our fantastic Food Halls (Morgan, Transfer, Blue Dogwood)
  • A retirement planning evening or a marketing workshop for female business owners
  • A day trip to Wine Country
  • A facial or spa experience
  • A piece from one of our MANY local artists
Here are some additional resources: Downtown Raleigh, Shop Local Raleigh.


Until next time! -Kris