The holiday season is officially here, which means it’s the best time of the year to shop small. When you support small businesses in our area, not only are you buying unique gifts, you’re supporting your neighbors, dreams, creativity, and the heartbeat of your community. With cozy shops filled with thoughtful, handcrafted treasures and the charm that you can only find when shopping locally, there’s something so special about shopping small this holiday season, and giving back while crossing gifts off your list! This blog highlights Waxi Taxi’s business ‘besties’: our small business neighbors who truly shine!
Chesterton
Chesterton Feed And Garden Center
If you’re shopping for the garden fanatic this holiday season, Chesterton Feed and Garden Center has everything you need. Located just a short, scenic drive away from the Indiana Dunes and Lake Michigan, this charming shop makes holiday giving feel effortless and enjoyable! The welcoming atmosphere houses plenty of unique finds, from gardening gifts and cozy decor to items for pet lovers, bird watchers, and anyone who takes pride in their outdoor space. The friendly and knowledgeable staff is happy to help you with ideas, inspiration, and anything else you may need. They still have an amazing selection of fresh cut Christmas trees if you have yet to find the perfect one! Be sure to visit this store when shopping small this holiday season!
Learn more here: https://chestertonfeed.com/
O’Gara & Wilson, LTD. Antiquarian Booksellers
For the book lover on your list, O’Gara & Wilson offer a hand-curated collection of unique books. Who wouldn’t love the gift of curling up by the fire with a cozy book this season? With a rich history and deep roots, this shop has a story of its own, and purchasing a book from a locally owned bookstore is so much more meaningful than ordering one from a big-box store. These gifts are personal, thoughtful, and entirely one-of-a-kind! This year, make your gift as meaningful as the stories themselves by shopping small.
Learn more here: https://www.ogaraandwilson.com/
Crown Point
Toys In The Attic
If you’re on the hunt for a holiday gift with nostalgia, whimsy, and a little extra holiday magic, be sure to visit Toys In The Attic! The shop, located in Crown Point (our neighbor in the Courthouse), is known for its charming toys, games, and collectibles. With their welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff, you’ll find fun and thoughtful gifts perfect for kids, nostalgic adults, or anyone who loves a little playful charm. Skip the big-box stores this holiday season and find gifts that spark joy, imagination, and lasting memories at Toys in the Attic.
Learn more here: https://www.toysintheattic.net/
The Candy Cove
When it comes to shopping for the person with a sweet tooth this holiday season, the Candy Cove in Crown Point (another Courthouse neighbor!) is full of sweet holiday surprises. Whether you’re looking for stocking stuffers, gift baskets, or holiday party favors, the Candy Cove has a friendly staff that can provide custom treat selection for any occasion. Nothing says ‘Happy Holidays’ like gifting something sweet, and the sweetest part is that you’re supporting small businesses while shopping here! If you’re stuffing a stocking, thanking a host, or looking for a little something special to pair with a card or gift certificate, a treat from the Candy Cove is a delicious way to spread joy.
Learn more here: https://www.candycovecp.com/
Michigan City
Maple City Roasters
For the coffee lover on your list, choosing something special from a small business like Maple City Roasters is the gift that keeps on giving! With freshly roasted beans from around the world delivered straight to your door, this gift is sure to make the coffee enthusiast smile. From rich original blends to flavored coffees, decaf, and even green beans for home roasting, this gift is as meaningful as the coffee itself. Shopping at Maple City Roasters means you’re not only supporting small businesses, but also shopping at a store that takes pride in quality, sustainability, and the perfect roast.
Learn more here: https://maplecityroasters.com/
The Barker Mansion
For the history buff who dreams of stepping back in time to another era, tickets for a tour of the Barker Mansion in Michigan City offer a holiday gift that’s rich with stories and wonder. The history lover on your list will be transported back to 1857 and surrounded by the elegance and craftsmanship of the Gilded Age. Give the gift of something you can’t buy at a store! A tour of the Barker Mansion is more than a gift; it’s an experience, making this gift unforgettable for anyone who loves heritage, culture, and our community!
Learn more here: https://barkermansion.org/
Happy Shopping!
Small businesses offer so many thoughtful and amazing gifts for everyone on your list this holiday season. By choosing to shop local, you’re not just giving a gift, you’re supporting your community, uplifting your neighbors, and sharing something truly meaningful.
