Shop local: Des Moines gift wishlist

Now that we're in the last week of November, I'm really gearing up for all the gifts I am waiting to give to those I love. While I can’t share with you what I am getting them quite yet, I have quite a few fun things on my wishlist that I think you’ll love too! It's important to shop local every year, definitely, but this holiday season it's especially meaningful to support the local small businesses who have been so greatly impacted by COVID. The holidays are a chance to boost the local economy, showing small business owners you care and support their initiative! And, truly, you can't beat the local finds when it comes to original, unique gifts. There's so many more to mention than what's listed here, but here's a few favorites I've noted for this year: 

1. DSM Mercantile. The cutest basket backpack I have ever seen. It is cute enough that it can be casual and filled with picnic blankets, snacks and a bottle of wine, but it is flexible enough to turn around and become a computer bag with plenty of space for wires, a planner and a water bottle! Might as well, while you’re there, grab some of their old fashioned sweets and a cozy Amana blanket for that picnic!
2. Eden. All of the self-care rituals can be started here. Everything from bath salts in the yummiest smells you can think of, to candles that can transport you to another place, to treatments that make you feel all fresh and new! They’re the perfect stocking stuffers that still leave room for the candy canes and fuzzy socks.
3. Art Terrarium. I can never have enough plants, and Art Terrarium has the cutest selection of plants and pots. I just recently got a new desk and it is much larger than the one I had before, so a plant is much needed. The fun with Art Terrarium is that they will make sure you know how to take care of your new plant baby and a variety of easy and difficult plants to take care of!
4. Beaverdale Books. This year has been all about reading both for educational purposes and for entertainment, and I can’t get enough. This quaint little bookstore has a cozy ambiance, a fair selection, and helpful staff to make sure you are getting the perfect book for your loved one.

Happy holiday shopping and #supportlocal when you can!