Small Business Saturday is a great way to get your holiday shopping done while also supporting independently owned local businesses and taking advantage of sales they’re offering in honor of the occasion. Some suburban downtowns, such as Frankfort and Naperville are making the day into a festive event; Skokie will even have 40 artisan/craft vendors set up pop-up shops along Lincoln Avenue.
Take your kids so they learn about the different businesses in their community. While getting into the holiday spirit, you may just awaken entrepreneurial spirit in your kids, too. Here are some favorite shops area bloggers are excited to shop at this Small Business Saturday.
In the city
Enjoy, an Urban General Store, 4723 N. Lincoln, Chicago
Recommended by Sheila Quirke of Mary Tyler Mom:
“I love Enjoy because it lives up to its name – an urban general store. The staff is so friendly, the merchandise covers gifts for friends, family, husband and kids, and the gift wrapping is free and stylish. I know when I give a gift from Enjoy, it will look great and the person I shopped for will love it.”
Women & Children First, 5233 N. Clark St., Chicago
Recommended by Katy Maher of Too Sober For This:
“I’ve gone to many of their events highlighting authors and their kids story times are the best. The owners are wonderful, too. Great community support and so many great book and resources for women and children and the LGBTQ community.”
Ravensgoods, 4703 N. Damen, Chicago
Recommended by Julia Passamani of Lipstick, Lollipops & Life:
“I love this woman-owned boutique in Ravenswood that carries goods from small independent companies as well as local artists, and their work is just beautiful. They have mugs, jewelry, candles and clothing. I feel good about shopping there knowing that they focus on products that give back to communities and that feature Chicago.”
Choc Choc Cosmetic, 614 W. Belmont, Chicago
Recommended by Taylor Wood:
“Choc Choc cosmetic is on Broadway and Belmont and is a k-beauty haven. They have gift packs of sheet masks, creams and is my favorite stop for gift giving during the season because it’s really the best stuff. Plus, it’s a local woman-owned business and the staff there is SO helpful for finding what you’d need.”
Unabridged Bookstore, 3251 N. Broadway, Chicago
Recommended by Ana Martin Sagredo of Foreign Affairs: Children Edition:
“Not only does Unabridged have a children’s section, they have a fantastic one. They are great at helping me find whatever I’m looking for, and they can recommend appropriate books for my three sons and my husband. I like to give teachers gift cards here.”
In the suburbs
Enzee Boutique, 140 N. York St., Elmhurst
Recommended by Vanessa Jackson:
“Enzee Boutique is my small business crush every year. They have the friendliest staff that comes out from behind the counter to help you shop, they ask what you’re looking for, about your style and help you truly feel valued. It’s a great place to shop.”
Raffy’s Candy Store, 21 S. White St., Frankfort
Recommended by Kathy Mathews of Quilting, Sewing, Creating:
“They seem to hire the brightest and best students who are so friendly. They carry all kinds of old-fashioned candy and no matter what kind of candy your family’s sweet tooth craves, they have it.”
Two Wild Seeds, 320 W. Main St., St. Charles
Recommended by Elizabeth Rago of The Modern Domestic Woman:
“This gluten-free, mother-daughter owned bakery has crazy unbelievably yummy treats, even if you’re OT gluten sensitive or intolerant. It’s a natural place to find hostess gifts and sweets, but don’t be surprised if the treats steal the show. We love the oat-n-honey pies, salted caramel bars and the dark chocolate cherry oat vegan cookies. They also carry a variety of nice gifts.”
Marvin’s Toy Shop, 64 A N. Williams St., Crystal Lake
Recommended by Cheryl Eugenio of O The Places We Go:
“My family and I love Marvin’s Toy Shop. Besides the unique toys that you don’t see at the big box stores, they offer fantastic customer services to help you find the best toy as well as fun events.”
