A Thoughtful Year’s End
As this year comes to a close, I want to pause and acknowledge what made it meaningful: this community. This project may look like a website or a directory, but behind it are real people—reading, sharing, shopping thoughtfully, and supporting small businesses when they can. Hearing that you’ve used this space to find gifts, plan experiences, or discover something new is what keeps this work moving forward for me.
I don’t believe anyone needs to shop small perfectly or constantly. Even choosing to do it intentionally, when it makes sense, has an impact. That belief sits at the core of everything I’m building here. So on that note, I wanted to share some of the gifts I received and places that I shopped this holiday season!
Image of a scattering of small business gifts.
Small Businesses Gifts
At the end of the year, I like to pause and notice what made its way into my life. The gifts I received this season feel like small markers of intention—objects chosen thoughtfully, meant to be used, kept, and carried forward. I have listed them out below in case you are interested in checking them out yourself! And if you have the desire to share, make sure to tag us on Instagram and we will share your gifts as well!
Camp Wandawega x Wally’s - Tackle Box. I love fishing with my family and have never had my own. Now I do!
Gemini - The Martini Book. I love a good martini!
Smithereen Farm - Wild Bixa Fixa Salve. Really does work magic on scrapes, burns, dry skin etc..
Humboldt House - Nomad Candle. Can’t get enough candles, you guys!
Winsome - Earrings. Love a chunky earring!
Kate Mcleod - Body Stone. I gifted this to myself and all the ladies in my family!
Penelope’s - Gloves. I always need more than one pair of good gloves. I am the one that loses them!
All Together Now - Crunch Party. Nothing better than good snacking food!
Wooden Spoon - Magic Magnesium. I sleep so well when I drink a glass of this! And it tastes so good!
Dalkin and Co. - Flake Salt. I love a good finishing salt and this one is a treat!
Looking ahead, I feel energized by what’s possible. There are new ideas taking shape, deeper stories to tell, and more small businesses to highlight in the year to come. If this project has been helpful to you, sharing it with a friend or family member goes a long way—and I’m always open to hearing your thoughts on what you’d like to see next.
Thank you for being here, for reading, and for supporting this work in whatever way you can. Here’s to closing this year gently—and stepping into the next with curiosity and care.
With Heart,
Caitlin