12 places around the Triangle to shop local this holiday season
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Illustration: Maura Losch/Axios
The holidays are back upon us, and I've been on a mission in recent years to source most of my Christmas gifts from local sellers.
- It's a fun challenge that makes me feel good and results in beautiful gifts that are often one-of-a-kind.
Why it matters: Buying local keeps your money circulating through the North Carolina economy and reduces the distances your goods travel, which is a win for the environment.
- Keep reading for 12 of my trusty standbys around the Triangle.
What shops did I leave off the list? Reply to this email, and we'll include your choices in a newsletter after Thanksgiving.
North Carolina Museum of Art (Raleigh)
I love a museum gift shop, and this is a good one, with gorgeous handmade jewelry, books and artisan goods.
- Perfect for an artsy relative.
If you go: The hours are 10am to 5pm. It's closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
- 2110 Blue Ridge Road
State Farmers Market (Raleigh)
Don't sleep on the farmers market, which has a ton of made-in-North Carolina products and a wide selection of plants.
- Great for gifts under $25.
If you go: The hours are typically 5am to 7pm. They're different on Sundays.
- 1201 Agriculture St.
North Carolina Botanical Garden (Chapel Hill)
The garden shop stocks a huge selection of cards made by local artists, as well as pottery, T-shirts and other treasures.
- Perfect for a nature-lover.
If you go: The hours are 9am to 5pm. It's closed Mondays.
- 100 Old Mason Farm Road
Edge of Urge (Raleigh)
I can always find something for one of my sisters at this shop, which has funny, random and beautiful items, often from indie brands. There's a men's version across the street called Unlikely Professionals that's worth a visit.
- For your cool siblings.
If you go: The hours vary, but it's open every day.
- 215 E. Franklin St.
Parker and Otis (Durham)
This stylish spot in American Tobacco Campus always surprises me with its variety of books, games, decor and fun little items. It also serves up yummy food. Now I'm craving a shrimp BLT ...
- Pro tip — bring cash if you don't want to pay a credit card fee.
If you go: The hours are 8am to 6pm. It's closed on Sundays and Mondays.
- 324 Blackwell St., Bay 4
Chet Miller (Durham)
This spot is owned by the same folks who own Parker and Otis, but it's great for home goods and has a wider selection of products geared toward men.
- Perfect for a parent.
If you go: The hours are 10am to 6pm. It's closed on Sundays and Mondays.
- 2631 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd.
Wine Authorities (Raleigh and Durham)
Sometimes, a bottle of wine is all that's needed. For that, I love Wine Authorities, which partners with small farms and sends you home with tasting notes for each bottle.
- Pro tip — buy six bottles, and your purchase is 10% off.
If you go: The hours are 10am to 7pm during the week, and vary on the weekends.
- 211 E. Franklin St., Raleigh
- 2501 University Drive, Durham
Peel (Carrboro)
This is a must-shop for me every year because it's such a fun space to browse. They sell local artwork, cards, tchotchkes, books and jewelry.
- For a weirdo you love.
If you go: The hours vary, but it's closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
- 708 W Rosemary St.
Bowerbird Flowers & Apothecary (Durham)
Their main business is in flower arrangements, but the shop overlooking University Hill has lots of treasures to pore over, including candles, teas, jewelry and table decorations.
- For someone who loves pretty things.
If you go: The hours are 10am to 5pm most days. It's closed Sundays and Mondays.
- 3105 Shannon Road (above Bul Box)
Museum of Natural Sciences (Raleigh)
There is a ton of good merch in this gift shop, especially if you're looking for something ocean- or dinosaur-themed.
- For your favorite kiddos.
If you go: The hours are 10am to 5pm. It's closed Mondays.
- 11 W. Jones St.
Yours (Durham)
This photo studio has film, cameras and a huge collection of Kodak merch. I love a disposable camera for that friend who seems to have everything.
- Perfect for a film-lover.
If you go: The hours are limited to 5-7pm Thursdays and 11am to 2pm Saturdays.
- 209 N. Gregson St.
Crazy Alan's Emporium (Chapel Hill)
Oh man, this place is fun. I get notebooks and art supplies from here, and they've also got fancy ink pens, stickers and other goodies.
- For a friend who loves crafting.
If you go: The hours are 10am to 6 or 7pm.
- 1129 Weaver Dairy Road
Bonus: East Fork (Asheville + online)
This Asheville-based pottery brand has a cult following because its rustic wares are beautiful, and also because it's a certified B Corp that raises money for good causes.
- Pro tip — don't be afraid to shop the items marked "seconds." I've loved all my purchases.