2020 is the year that needs no introduction. If you’re reading this, you know exactly what I mean. I took a break from the blog for a while to catch my breath and create more intentional content. For years, I had been a contributor to multiple websites and found little time to do my own writing. The good news, I own my words. The better news, I never actually stopped.
If you’ve been following along on Instagram, this was not the year for me to focus on myself. It was a time to uplift the voices of others. To reflect on the ways we have and have not been supporting our communities of color. To protect the most vulnerable during a global pandemic. To hold space for those who are grieving and mourning. To support local and help our neighbors. To listen to and uplift Black voices. To go beyond allyship and become an activist. To have the hard conversations with family and friends about the issues that we face as a society. Ever the optimist, I believe we have better days ahead.
2020 has provided perspective to us all. As a result, my personal shopping ethos has shifted. While spending the majority of the year at home and living in a small rotation of elastic waistbands, I started to give a sh*t about where my money goes. Long gone are the days where I place an order from a big boxed store or Amazon and expect two-day shipping. I want to support my friends and my community. This is my love letter to Chicago.
While there’s a lot of speculation, cities in America aren’t dead. As the sweatshirt I bought says, “Chicago, forever and ever.” Let’s ensure our friends and their businesses thrive. Check out these local shops that would be amazing gifts for you or a loved one this season.
Semicolon Bookstore – The Bookworm & Activist
Chicago’s only Black woman-owned bookstore and gallery space. Shop their books and audiobooks through Bookshop (an amazing invention) and spend some time browsing their staff picks. I just ordered a big haul of books for my nephew in English and Spanish and snagged a copy of Obama’s new memoir A Promised Land for myself…. ok and a few other books for myself too…
Humboldt House – The Stylish & Chic Feminist
If you’re looking for something unique, eclectic and you want to shop for everyone in one spot, Humboldt House is the place! Self-described as a feminist home goods, jewelry & gift shop (queer owned!) in Chicago’s Humboldt Park neighborhood, the aesthetic is equal parts quirky and calm meets Marie Kondo meets indoor garden… if that makes sense. Shop the candles and stay for the vibes.
Semillas Plant Studio – The Gardener & Planta Collector
Semillas was THE first place I ventured out wearing my mask to over the summer. This Latina-owned shop in Pilsen has a great variety of greenery and unqiue plants for collectors and novices alike. I selected more than an armful’s worth of plants, hangers and pots to bring some greenery to my home, including a giant cactus and a cat-friendly fern for my sister as a housewarming gift! The shop is currently closed due to COVID, but the website should be up and running soon! Be sure to stock up on the eucalyptus to hang in your shower to calm your energy and clear your lungs… sana sana…
Belle Up Boutique – The Stylish Mama, Woman & Baby
While I might be living in sweatpants now, I was THRIVING in sundresses from Belle Up Boutique over the summer. The curated boutique on the South Side has great options for maternity, women and babies! To all my friends expecting, if you haven’t gotten this “Someone in Chicago Loves You” onesie and polka dot baby turban yet, you know it’s coming. Shipping is incredibly fast!
Alice & Wonder – The Chicago Gal and Mama
An old co-worker of mine had shared this woman-owned boutique with me way back when it was only an online shop and my collection of clothing and home items continues to multiply. While I don’t know Ali personally, I have loved watching this shop grow into the storefront and brand that it is today! I have an Alice & Wonder dress waiting for my Christmas card photos and highly recommend the Sweet Home Chicago sweatshirts, hats and their collab with Oxford Pennant! We have one of the banners hanging in our front window that says “Chicago Will See This Through.”
Back of the Yards Coffee Co. – The Coffee Lover
My neighbor gifted me a bag of their 47th Street Blend and I was HOOKED. My morning cup of coffee is a ritual. It helps me ease into my day and I don’t want the burned, bitter flavor of certain coffee beans *ahem Starbucks* I want flavor. And more than anything, I want my coffee to be ethically sourced and support community causes at the same time – the fact that this shop is Latina-owned is even better! My favorite blend is the Cuetlaxochitl coffee which has a hint of cinnamon and brings back a flood of holiday memories (even if I drink it every season). If you’re not familiar with Back of the Yards and its unique history in Chicago, I highly recommend visiting their coffee shop or gifting a coffee membership.
Plant Salon – The Beauty Buff & Plant Parent
Skincare and plants – probably two of my favorite things that I never pay enough attention to but absolutely should. The Black woman-owned shop is located in West Town and sources incredible plant varieties, really unique planters and terrariums and supports indie brands who specialize in natural clay masks, hand soaps, and oils. There’s something for everyone, including beard oil for the guys!
Kido Chicago – The Little Loves
My nephew is my whole entire world and I know I’m not alone in that regard. Kids really are the future and Kido Chicago is working to ensure kids have an opportunity to see themselves represented in books and toys, to foster inclusivity and to create better citizens by learning more about others and empathy. This Black-owned business is located in the South Loop and parents Keewa and Dave are the ones I trust with helping me find the perfect gift for every kid on my list regardless of their age. Also, my nephew looks beyond adorable in this shirt.
District – The Homegoods Lover
One of the many things I miss about life before COVID was meandering through Homegoods and sniffing every scented candle, touching all the pillows and finding interesting things I loved that I could add to my home. Chances are, you probably know someone like this and District will be yours (and their) new best friend. If you’re looking for restored and quality furniture, definitely bookmark this place. I’m already dreaming of this couch in a future living room, love these puzzles and can’t wait to get my husband this bourbon old-fashioned candle!
Pun Dulce Studio – The Pen Pal
I bought a LOT of stamps this year and if you’re reading this, you may have gotten a postcard or two from me! Snail Mail is on the rise again and it’s time to invest in some quality and handmade cards. Whether you’re looking for holiday cards or something custom, this Latina-owned shop can do it all. I am obsessing over these papel picado gold foil pressed cards.
Pour Souls Chicago – The Group Cocktail Class
This summer, another Chicago blogger had shared these pre-made cocktail mixes that were not only delicious, but also supported charitable causes in Chicago. Pour Souls Chicago is Black-owned and a one stop shop for all things mixology. If you’re looking for a fun and delicious activity you can do over Zoom with friends, family or colleagues, Pour Souls Chicago can host and handle the event! There’s a lot you can do to customize your experience too, so be sure to reach out!
Let’s be sure to do everything in our power to support our communities and shop small this year. If there’s someone you’re looking to buy for and need help, reach out! I’ve been told I’m a gift giving wizard (this is 100% true) and would love to help!
Have a safe and happy holiday.
