With Thanksgiving just around the corner, that tells me that a couple of other important days are also on the horizon. Those days being Black Friday and Small Business Saturday. What, I like to shop! Of course the holidays are about giving back and being grateful, but shopping, getting caught in a bunch of traffic, and buying all the gift sets is part of all the fun.
In my opinion, shopping local is more important than ever. Supporting and giving back to your surrounding community is how we all grow and make the world a better place. Just think about it, each and every time you swipe your card and give a company your business, you are placing a vote. Voting for what you support and what you value. This holiday season, I encourage you to value those around you. Shop small throughout the beautiful city of San Antonio. Tip your barista a little extra this holiday season. Whatever it may be, I hope it brings someone a little extra joy as we round out the year of 2021 and move on to the next.
Keep scrolling for a list of local crafters and events happening near you this holiday season!
Lil Wonders Studio
Nominated by San Antonio Magazine for Best Maker, Lil Wonders Studio is a super cute pop-up boutique specializing in nostalgic quirky earrings here in the Alamo city. I’ve seen so many cute pieces come from this maker, but my favorite thus far have been the little pie slices! So far she’s made pumpkin and pecan among a ton of other cute options like avocados and carrots.
Check out their Instagram and shoot Madison a DM to place an order. Madison is also the host for @alamomakersmarket so if weekend markets are your thing, show her some local support!
Instagram: @lilwonderstudio
Nominate your favorites via the link below through Nov. 26 and return Dec. 1-29 to vote for the Best of the City 2022!
SA Local Market
Known as the curated pop-up mercado, SA Local Market has a ton of holiday market events going on throughout the months of November & December. Below you can find out when and where these pop-ups will be happening so you get to visit all of your favorite vendors in one fell swoop.
Head out to one of the below events to support your local artisans and snag some gifts for the fam (or yourself) this holiday season.
- November 26th: Local Is The New Black Friday – Brick at Blue Star (10am-6pm)
- November 28th: Liberty Market (12pm-4pm) & The Block SA (3pm-8pm)
- December 4th: Silver Bells Tree Lighting at Main Plaza (4pm-9pm)
- December 5th: Liberty Market (12pm-4pm)
- December 11th & 12th: La Gran Tamalada at Market Square
- December 18th: Christkindlmarket at Main Plaza (4pm-9pm)
- December 22nd & 23rd: Brickmas Holiday Market
Instagram: @salocalmarket
Website: https://www.salocalmarket.com/
Hey Mijita
This brand, founded in San Antonio, strives to celebrate Latina culture and aims to spread positive “Chingona” vibes whenever possible. Although there isn’t a brick and mortar location just yet, you can head to their website or Instagram to spread some local love. And don’t forget, chingonas never settle.
Instagram: @heymijita
Website: https://heymijita.com/
Pinche Raf Art
I discovered Rafael’s art when I heard about his Pandemic Lotería cards, which were just a millimeter short of genius, but he didn’t stop there. Once I hit the follow button and saw what else he was creating, I knew he was definitely going to be one to watch. He’s the guy you go to for super relatable and hilarious content – especially if you’re looking for a certified piñata rope puller. Head to his website to snag some merch if you want to stand out this coming year.
Instagram: @pinche_raf_art
Website: https://pincheraf.threadless.com/
Bexar Goods Co.
Ahh if there was a way to bottle up the smell of leather and keep it forever, I’d do it! Bexar Goods is a local leather goods company located off Broadway Street that specializes in wallets, satchels, and dry goods. Their vision is to create carry goods that can journey the world with you that slowly develop character and charm over time.
If you’re looking for something to give from Bexar Goods this holiday season, I highly recommend placing your order yesterday (you can’t rush quality ok!).
Website: https://www.bexargoods.com/
Instagram: @bexargoods
BarbacoApparel
Dressing Texans since 2014, BarbacoApparel is a local t-shirt company that set out to embrace what it means to be Tejano. They aim to capture a feeling of home and identity in all their products, whether it’s exclaiming their favorite breakfast taco or accessorizing a jacket with a glittery crispy dog. Whether you live deep in the heart of Texas or are a “Tex-pat” who still wants to rep home, BarbacoApparel looks forward to clothing your sense of pride in San Antonio and the Lone Star State.
Website: https://barbacoapparel.com/
Instagram: @barbacoapparel
La Casa Frida
Head out to La Casa Frida, an authentic Mexican boutique located on Broadway Street (where a lot of magic happens). Voted Best Women’s Boutique by San Antonio Magazine, this little shop serves up premium products and can definitely be considered your accessory dealer for the holidays!
Website: https://www.lacasafrida.com/
Instagram: @lacasafrida
Happy Holidays San Antonio!