Whether you're hosting a lavish event this holiday season, or just searching for the perfect gift, forgo the temptation to head to a big box store and make the commitment to shop local. Austin has an abundance of locally-owned stores curating the best in home and kitchen decor. So, make the commitment to patronize places where you're destined to uncover unique and beautiful finds while also supporting independent retailers.
Take Heart
Our love of Take Heart knows no bounds. This is East Austin shop is our first stop when looking for housewarming gifts, or just looking to splurge on something for ourselves. Though Take Heart offers everything from Japanese incense to independent books to ceramics from local artisans like Ryan McKerley, everything is highly and tastefully curated.
Kettle & Brine
Prepare to spend hours meandering around this beautiful Lamar Boulevard shop. Kettle & Brine sells everything from impeccably-designed kitchenware to gorgeous, handmade items destined to become heirloom items. Pick up a chef's knife for the the cook in your family or just snag one of these brass trivets for your own holiday tabletop.
Urbanspace Interiors
If Take Heart and Kettle & Brine aren't quite your style, then consider a stop at the uber modern Urbanspace. The online shop accompanies the company's downtown showroom, and offers everything from whimsical accessories to Missoni throws to custom lightboxes from local artist Matthew John Winters.
Nannie Inez
True story: Last year, two days before Christmas, my harried mother and I walked into Nannie Inez in desperate need of gifts. Twenty minutes later, we emerged giggling and with our to-do list complete. (The complimentary flutes of champagne may have caused the giggling.) Over the years, we have snagged everything from one-of-a-kind artwork to our favorite Nora Kagan ring at this South Austin shop. Oh, and design lovers should note that Nannie Inez also carries HAY, the cult Danish design house.
Jack + Lola
This sweet South Austin shop specializes in small batch goods with a decidedly Western influence. In addition to planters, glassware, textiles, Jack + Lola also offers a selection of Austin-inspired goods. Recently, we have become obsessed with this pillow, and would like our loved ones to note that this would make an excellent gift for the upcoming holiday.
Urbanspace Interiors sells everything from modern clocks to furniture.
