Since a huge majority of my followers have local ties to the Capital District, I decided to do a local holiday gift guide. The Upstate area is home to so many amazing crafters and small businesses. And with this year’s events, I think more than ever it’s a great opportunity to shop small.

I’m sharing all of my favorites in this lineup and including their Instagram handles so you can follow their creations on social media.

Capital District Local Holiday Gift Guide

Apparel

Haute Messes in Dresses – I connected with Nicole and Randi, the women behind Haute Messes in Dresses, on Instagram. They are personal stylists who also create some stylish apparel. I worked with them to create this “Mama” hoodie. But be sure to check out all of their other designs including their tie dye collection.  @hautemessesindresses

Crooked by Design – Amanda is a local mom and knitter based out of Saratoga. Her shop Crooked by Design has a great selection of handmade knit and crocheted hats and scarves. (Her little baby yoda hat is adorable!) You can follow her on instagram @knaptimeknitter

Compas Life – I’m obsessed with these “Upstate of Mind” sweatshirts. Compas Life is a business between 2 friends where they hope to inspire people to get outdoors and disconnect from technology and the stresses of everyday life.  You can also find their stuff at the Fort Orange General Store. @compaslife

Solulu Handmade bags – Created by Allison, all of her handbags are made of durable, high quality materials. I love this Signature Stripe Commuter Bag. She also makes face masks and stuff for your furbabies too! @soluluhandmade

Home Goods

Twin Dhalias – A beautiful local flower farm that does a summer flower share, similar to a vegetable crop share. Gift 5 beautifully arranged fresh summer bouquets. Memberships go on sale Small Business Saturday. @twindahlias

Bluebird Home Decor – Nicole is the local owner of Blubebird Home Decor. Based out of Schenectady, and with a shop that just opened in Troy, her store has a gorgeous variety of home decor and gifts. @bluebirdhomedecor

Wick Apothecary – Based out of Clifton Park, Michelle makes all natural 100% soy, phthalate free candles so they are better for you and the environment. You can find her on Insta @wickapothecary.

Rad Soap – I love their sugar scrub made with local Death Wish coffee and their pumpkin face mask. They also make an array of soaps, and other bath/body products. You can shop online or check them out in Stuyvesant Plaza. @radsoapco

Abby Kirkman Quilted Goods – I discovered these adorable pillows on instagram and had to check them out in person. Abby Kirkman is a local quilter who makes a variety of quilted goods including these New York State pillows. They come in a variety of colors and patterns including solid, floral and flannel. @abbykirkmanquilts

Kids

Birds of a Feather – I met Sarah, the owner of this shop and a wonderful mama of 3 this past year when she was my patient and I had the pleasure of caring for her. Her and I instantly clicked and have stayed in contact. Sarah’s creations are available for sale at the Anchor No5 Boutique in Troy. These adorable cuddle bears would be perfect for your littles. @birdsofafeatherhandmade

Chelsea and Marbles – If this is baby’s first Christmas, check out this locally run shop! Katie is the mama and creator for all the adorable things for little humans. Teethers, rattles, swaddle blankets, monthly milestone cards and more. Her work is beautiful! @chelseaandmarbles

So Handmade – These are the most adorable playmats to inspire imagination! And they roll up making them easy to store and take with you any where. @sohandmade1

Coral & Blue – Kid-friendly stationary. Ashley is the creator behind this small biz and she just sent me some for my oldest. A great way to teach them gratitude, help with their writing and to keep in touch with loved ones they may not see these next few months. Plus, they’re lined and big enough for those learning to write. @coralandbluepaperco

Food

Cookie Therapy – I have loved watching Faye and Ashley’s success grow. When the pandemic started, they turned their love of cookies into a business, creating delicious cookie lineups every week. They’ve since gone national and have been featured on Tamra Hall. And these stuffed cookies are legit and the reason for my Covid weight gain. Check them out on Instagram @cookietherapyalb

Detox Box Delivered – This is the perfect gift for the health nut or the busy mom on the go. Ready to blend smoothies with all fresh, real ingredients shipped right to your door. Laura is a wife and mom to 3 from Amsterdam, NY who turned her passion for healthy eats into an amazing concept and business!  And you can use my code OURTINYNEST for 10% off. @detoxboxdelivered

What’s Poppin – for the popcorn lover. Amazing gourmet popcorn with an array of flavors. Create something special for the popcorn aficianado in your life. Would make a great stocking stuffer or addition in a movie basket. @whatspoppinalbany

Grate Expectations – did you think I’d have food without an epic charcuterie board? These boards and boxes are great for celebrations at home or if you want to gift someone a “date night in”. @grate.expectations.ny