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Most of us (all of us?) would agree that goods from small businesses just feel more special — a bonus given that shopping small supports local economies and creates jobs. Small businesses also often offer a touch more insight into what you’re spending your money on, whether it’s something as practical as hand soap or as delightful as a flower-growing kit.
Our team pulled together 13 of our favorite items from smaller shops; some run by families, others by friends and independent makers. So if you’re looking for a new biz to support or are on the hunt for something with a story behind it, this roundup’s for you.
Petalume Shrub Co. Cocktail Shrubs
These fresh, tart mixers are made with fruit, apple cider vinegar, cane sugar, and herbs, and come in an array of delicious flavors like Honeydew Cucumber Jalapeño and Strawberry Rhubarb Rosemary. You can use them to make delicious cocktails, of course, but they also go great in mocktails, matcha drinks, tea, and sparkling water.
– Stephanie Baxter, Staff Writer
Murphy’s Naturals Insect Repellent
Murphy’s all-natural bug spray is made from lemon eucalyptus oil, the only plant-based active ingredient recommended by the CDC as a DEET alternative. I picked it up during a trip to Yellowstone National Park and can vouch for its efficacy. The scent is a major step up from many of the other sprays on the market, and it doesn’t leave any sticky residue behind.
– Ally Mauch, Associate Editor
Saipua Handmade Soap
Saipua (derived from the Finnish word for “soap”) makes the loveliest hand soap. The bars are crafted in small batches at a farm in upstate New York using essential oils, olive oil, and shea butter. My favorite scent is saltwater — I genuinely look forward to washing my hands with it.
– Marika Spitulski, Writer
Itty Bitty Handcraft Microcrochet Bookmarks
These delicate crocheted bookmarks make the joy of reading that much more joyful. Available in a number of floral species — roses, tulips, orchids, poppies, and so many more — they make a great gift for book lovers.
— Rebekah Brandes, Assistant Editor
Tula Hats
I purchased a Tula Hat during a national park road trip a few years back and wear it almost daily while going on walks with my dog. The natural palm fiber hats are handwoven by artisans following a traditional style of weaving that’s been practiced for hundreds of years — and they provide UPF 50+ sun protection to boot. The brand sells hats in various styles, from western to beach and fedora. Can’t recommend them enough!
– Natalie Stone, Managing Editor
Yiayia and Friends Olive Oil
The Yiayia and Friends olive oil collection has been around for a while, but the brand released a set of mini bottles last year, which I think are adorable. The set comes with six flavors, including chili, basil, garlic, and the original EVOO. As a Greek myself, I also love that the brand is based in Thessaloniki and centered on an appreciation for “yiayias,” which means “grandmothers.”
– Marika
Hey Girl Run Matching Sets
It’s (not so) scientifically proven that wearing a matching set makes you run faster. And the bike short-sports bra sets from Hey Girl Run are both affordable and practical, with a compressive feel and plentiful pocket space for your phone, keys, and fuel. The small business also offers free training guides for various levels, from a six-week beginner program all the way up to a full marathon.
– Ally
The Jonsteen Company Seed Grow Kits
These grow kits include everything you need: seeds, a growing medium, mini greenhouse, and instructions. There are tree and flower kits — I’ll soon be planting the English lavender, and I can’t wait for the pop of purple (and lovely smell of lavender) to eventually be outside my bedroom window.
– Natalie
Sequoia Nut Butters
This farmers market find quickly turned into a staple in our house that I crave regularly. Sequoia’s nut butters feature simple ingredients and an array of unique, incredibly delicious flavors like Blueberry Lemon Pancakes and Carrot Cake Cashew Pecan Walnut. It’s a struggle to not eat an entire jar of the Strawberries & Cream Cashew Pecan butter by the spoonful.
– Stephanie
Christy Dawn Dresses
My Christy Dawn dress is easily one of the most beautiful — and beautifully made — articles of clothing I own. The brand uses upcycled fabric and regenerative cotton and has a farm-to-closet philosophy, meaning each purchase helps replenish soil and sequester carbon. It also has a pre-loved marketplace where customers can buy and resell apparel.
– Rebekah
Pons Leather Sandals
Pons avarcas are my go-to comfy shoe. Handcrafted by the third generation of the Pons family in Menorca, the updated take on a traditional Spanish sandal combines craftsmanship, modern technology, and high-quality materials. They can easily be dressed up or down, and are also available for men and kids in various colors and styles.
– Natalie
Sticky Lemon Accessories
From a fish wallet bag to a tartan tote with a raccoon, this brand is packed full of all kinds of fun, happy accessories (technically for kids, but I love them as an adult, too!). I received one of the Sticky Lemon phone pouches as a birthday gift, and with a crossbody strap and only enough space for your phone and a few cards, it’s the perfect minimalist accessory.
– Stephanie
Bitterleaf Teas
I received a tin of Goldrush yellow tea from Bitterleaf as a gift from my dad, and it prompted me to check out more of the company’s offerings. It’s a small, family-run business in China, and I love the artwork on the labels and packaging. The tea itself is incredibly aromatic and complex — a wonderful, warm treat.
– Rebekah
RELATED: Nice News’ “Nice List”: 20 Products Our Team Bought and Loved This Year
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