This holiday season, skip the chaos of malls and crowded big-box stores and embrace the charm of shopping small. Local shops not only offer unique, one-of-a-kind gifts you won’t find anywhere else, but they also provide personalized service that makes every purchase special. Plus, every dollar spent helps keep shop owners’ dreams alive and strengthens the local economy. It’s a win-win that makes your holiday shopping meaningful!

Barrel-Art

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Barrel Art

4807 Market Drive

For a truly unique gift, visit Barrel-Art, where reclaimed wine and whiskey barrels are transformed into handcrafted furniture, barware, and decor. They offer one-of-a-kind finds like wine caddies, whiskey flight boards, candle holders, and even Adirondack chairs. Perfect for wine enthusiasts, whiskey aficionados, and beer lovers alike, Barrel-Art’s creations make unforgettable gifts. Don’t miss their quirky touches like the Barrel-Art kart for a fun photo op! Whether you’re shopping for a conversation piece or something practical, Barrel-Art delivers.

Captains Locker

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Captains Locker Gift Guide

Christopher Newport University, 1 University Place

Show your Captains’ pride at Captains Locker, the official bookstore and spirit shop of Christopher Newport University. Stocked with everything from cozy cable knit throws and dorm decor to CNU apparel, sports gear, and unique gifts, it’s the ultimate destination for students, alumni, and fans alike. Every purchase supports the CNU campus community, funding scholarships, programs, and initiatives. Whether you’re grabbing a sweatshirt or finding the perfect tailgating gear, shopping at Captains Locker is a meaningful way to give back!

Design & Consign - The Indoor Marketplace

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Design & Consign Gift Guide

9720 Warwick Blvd.

Discover treasures galore at Design & Consign, where more than 60 vendors come together to offer a mix of boutique clothing, antiques, vintage finds, refurbished furniture, and home decor. From custom-made pieces and unique gifts to special handmade items, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re hunting for antiques or a one-of-a-kind holiday gift, this marketplace has it all. With so much variety under one roof, you’re sure to find something that speaks to you! Our advice? Take your time exploring, and you’ll leave with plenty of fabulous finds.

Peninsula SPCA Shelter Chic Boutique

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Pensinsula SPCA Boutique Gift Guide

523 J Clyde Morris Blvd.

The Peninsula SPCA’s Shelter Chic Boutique is bursting with festive finds and custom gifts perfect for pet lovers! From Feliz Navi Dog mugs and Hanukkah Moose floppy toys to the Happy Pawlidays T-shirt and glass ornament, there’s holiday joy for everyone. Cats get cozy with the Holiday Snowman Scratch Pad, while dog moms snag keepsake ornaments. Don’t miss Meowy Christmas T-shirts or The Real Housecats of _____ (bowls customized with your city’s name). Plus, grab a 2025 Pet Calendar to cherish local furry friends.

The Yard Sale LLC

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The Yard Sale LLC Gift Guide

2 Newmarket Square

Discover a trove of unique finds at The Yard Sale, a family-owned business packed with thousands of items at unbeatable prices. Explore their sprawling 11,000-square-foot storefront – filled with antiques, furniture, vintage toys, tools, collectibles, home goods, electronics, and more treasures arriving daily. From Hot Wheels and model kits to glassware and rare collectibles, The Yard Sale is a haven for bargain hunters and nostalgia seekers alike. With a reputation for uncovering hard-to-find gems, this shop promises to offer you an unforgettable treasure hunt with every visit.

Vinny's Vinyl

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Vinnys Vinyl Gift Guide

1045 J. Clyde Morris Blvd.

Vinny’s Vinyl is a true gem for music enthusiasts, offering an “old-school” record shopping experience. With more than 12,000 new and gently used records – from rock and jazz to world music and more—this spot on J. Clyde Morris Blvd lets you buy, sell, and trade vinyl treasures. Owner Vince Seidnitzer’s passion for records shines through, and collectors will appreciate affordable prices ranging from $8 to $12. The store also stocks CDs and cassette tapes, catering to every generation of music lovers. Rediscover the joy of vinyl at Vinny’s!


When you shop small, you’re not just buying gifts – you’re making a big difference. From handpicked treasures to heartfelt service, local businesses turn holiday shopping into something special. This season, explore these hidden gems, support your community, and make your gift-giving as unique as the people you’re shopping for!