Small Business Gifts That Inspire: Support Handmade This Holiday Season
There’s something really special about giving a gift that someone actually made with their own hands. Every little curve, brushstroke, or detail has a story behind it.
Ever since I started Ark & Gold two years ago, I’ve developed a whole new level of appreciation and respect for small business owners and artists. There’s so much that goes on behind the scenes to bring even one product to life, from sketching out ideas and testing materials to photographing, packaging, and sharing it with the world. And for so many of us, especially when we’re just starting out, it’s a one-person team. I’m the creative designer, the maker, the product photographer, the social media manager, the marketer, all rolled into one.
That’s why this year, I’m skipping the big-box rush and choosing to support the small, handmade shops, the ones where you can feel the love and care in every single piece and share their story with a loved one.
Whether it’s a hand-painted clock, a tray that feels like art, or handmade jewelry, these are the kinds of gifts that actually mean something.
So here’s my little round-up of small business finds that inspire, a mix of my favorite handmade pieces from Ark & Gold, a few beautiful finds from other makers I adore, and some Amazon Handmade gems that make thoughtful gifting a little easier.
We are deep in the season of babies in my circle of friends, 3 of whom are pregnant and one who just had her sweet baby girl! I plan to make one of these for each of the moms to add to their diaper bags, they look so cute with the crochet flower! I can also see them look lovely as stocking tags and great for stocking stuffers that actually feel personal.
2. Cozy Hand-Poured Candle
I’ll admit it, I’m a total sucker for summer-y, fruity scents all year round. I’m also pretty sensitive to strong fragrances, so I always gravitate toward lighter florals and fresh, citrusy blends. These hand-poured candles from a Canadian maker, from kayla, have been my absolute favorite lately. I actually discovered her through her YouTube channel and have purchased from her several times since. You can tell how much love and care goes into every candle.
Here are a couple of my favorites:
3. Artisan Jewelry- Ark and Gold
If you love jewelry that feels like art, these are for you. I hand make each pair from stained glass acrylic. Every piece catches the light in such a unique way making no two pieces identical. I designed these to be bold yet lightweight, so they’re easy to wear all day.
They pair beautifully with simple outfits and make even the most casual look feel pulled together. These
have become some of my favorite pieces to make (and wear!), and are best-sellers at markets.
Stained Glass Half Moon Dangles ($20)
Stained Glass Drop Earrings ($20)
Stained Glass Circle with White Flower ($20)
For the person who appreciates functional art and statement wall décor.
These funky, unique handmade clocks make for a thoughtful gift for someone moving into a new home, furnishing a unique room in a home, a college student personalizing their dorm, or anyone who loves pieces that feel intentional, handmade, and not something you can buy in a mass produced store.
5. Eco-Friendly Gift Wrap Supplies
As much as I love gifting season, I cannot stand the wasted gift bags and wrapping paper. One of my favorite ways to wrap a gift is to use a silk scarf that can double as a bonus gift! I'm planning on buying a few of these from this Small Business on Amazon (affiliate link).
Check out this Reusable Cotton Wrapping paper (affiliate link) set that comes in a pack of 4, also from a Small Business on Amazon.
No gift is truly complete without a card and a heartfelt message to go along with it. Check out the collection from Ark and Gold. Most of these pieces are my own photographs that I've digitally edited into unique artistic looks. My most recent collection was the Alhambra collection below.
Every time we choose to support a maker, we help keep creativity alive. We remind the world that slow, intentional craftsmanship still matters.
This holiday season, gift something that inspires, something made with care, purpose, and love.