Written by: Madison Stano, Des Moines Girl Contributor

We love to support our small businesses here in the Des Moines metro, and what better way to do that than by curating a holiday gift guide! The holidays are a busy, stressful time of the year. You may find yourself spending hours scrolling the endless amount of gift options on Amazon, creating multiple Pinterest boards of gift ideas, or watching hundreds of Tiktoks to see what influencers recommend for this years’ gift-giving. And let’s be honest, it’s all the same stuff regurgitated over and over again. 

What we love about small business shopping, is that you can really find some cool stuff and choose gifts that your loved ones will not only enjoy but remember for a long time. 

A Small Biz Holiday Gift Guide For The People In Your Life

For the Sibs

Shopping for your siblings can be a hit or miss; you feel like you know them so well until it comes to finding the perfect gift. Or, maybe they never truly “grew out” of their pickiness or likes/dislikes. No matter what your sib-relationship may be, check out these options for gifts this holiday season and don’t stress!

Skylabs: Records, Sound Systems & More

Got a brother or sister who loves oldies, records, or simply music in general? Skylabs is a locally-owned and operated record store in Valley Junction, specializing in their variety of vinyl records both old and new, as well as their knowledge in record players. For any niche music interest, they’re sure to have the perfect vinyl for it!

New to music or all things vinyl? Shop owner Kevin Moll and his team of experienced sound technicians would be happy to chat with you about your gift-giving needs. Whether it’s picking out the perfect record player or deciding what kind of speakers to get- they are ready to help you make it a show-stopping holiday! 

Best for: The sib who is obsessed with their sound setup. 

Eden Beauty: Gift Sets, Candles & More

Let’s face it; you totally have the prettiest sister out there. That’s why we chose a self-care boutique trusted by the Des Moines area since 2003 to grace her beautiful face. Eden is all about sourcing the best products from around the world and bringing them to Des Moines so that we can experience luxury beauty at its finest. 

Eden has multiple skincare sets you can choose from when shopping for your sis, and honestly, we recommend all of them. The luxurious sets will make her feel like she is receiving a spa treatment from the comfort of her own home and introduce her to one of her new fav local businesses.

Best for: The sis who likes to treat herself.

Reading in Public: Books, Cafe & More

Got a sibling who can’t seem to put down their latest read? Or, perhaps they’re always looking to learn more or immerse themselves in a fantasy world? Whatever their reading habits may be, Reading in Public is a bookstore and cafe in Valley Junction with a warm staff who has all the best reccs. 

Whether they’re in to politics and education, romance and fantasy, or mystery and thrillers- Reading in Public is likely to have the book that’s been on their wishlist all year. Not sure what they’re reading? A gift card is just as nice (and they can enjoy a warm cup of coffee or holiday drink with it too!). 

Best for: The sibling that always has their nose in a book.

Rooted Yoga + Fitness: Classes & Membership

If you’ve been following us for awhile, then you know we’re BIG Rooted Yoga fans. There’s no gift like that of movement, community, and a sense of belonging. At Rooted Yoga, that is exactly what your sister will find. Rooted Yoga has a team dedicated to inner and outer growth. They have created a space that encourages many people to do just that. 

Whether you want to treat your sister to a single class or purchase a membership, she will be met by empowering instructors and a class full of people who are excited to lift each other up and take on their growth journey together.

Best for: The sis who loves to stretch, relax and move. 

For the Partner

Really fine tune your understanding of your partner’s love language this holiday season with a gift you know they’ll enjoy (and hey, shows that you’ve been listening 😉 ). You can truly find a meaningful gift for them from a DSM local small business. 

Cooking Class at the Culinary Annex

Make your gift something you can do together, book a cooking class! Chef Cass has opened her very own culinary studio not only with delicious class opportunities from Korean and Peruvian cuisine, to Thai and and Indian- but does it all with home cooks who range from no skilled to personal experts. 

With hands-on experience and lasting knowledge, this gift is a must-have. There’s nothing better than doing something together and not only learning new skills, but making lasting memories. Not sure what cuisine to test your skills at? No worries! The Culinary Annex also offers fun events, so be on the lookout for upcoming pop-ups and future cooking class schedules.

Best for: The couple who loves trying new things together.

Divine Times Vintage: Hidden Treasures

If you haven’t quite made it over to Divine Times Vintage in Highland Park, now’s the chance! We all love the feeling when you casually browse a vintage or thrift shop, and you come across the P-E-R-F-E-C-T gift- something that reminds you of your loved one. From home decor and collectibles, furniture and clothing, Divine Times has got you covered. Their rotating selection of vintage vendors means that there is always something new in store. 

Got a partner who loves vintage sweaters, jackets or shoes? Or, perhaps they collect mugs or other kitchen decor? Exploring vintage and thrift shops around the Des Moines metro is the best way to find that perfect lil’ something!

Best for: The partner who loves the little things (and perhaps has an eye for the eccentric)

Moglea: Stationary & Home Goods

Moglea is a design and letterpress studio near the heart of downtown Des Moines. Artisans work to create beautifully designed cards, stationary, and other home decor. Their simplistic, bright designs are sure to put a smile on anyone’s face. Want to go all out? Their artists can also provide custom services such as wallpaper or interior art work. Or, if you’re looking to go a bit more simple, then their selection of home goods such as puzzles, art books, candles, and more!

P.S., we’ve also caught wind that soon they’ll be offering furniture! Be sure to give them a follow and stay up to date when that’ll be dropping.

Best for: The partner who loves keeping things neat or needs something to brighten up their WFH space. 

Petals & Moss: Plants & Collectibles

Looking for something for the partner who adores their plants? Petals & Moss is a plant lover’s sanctuary in East Village, boasting beautiful tropical and indoor plants, as well as home decor and various collectibles. This cozy plant shop is ready for the holiday season, with a knowledgable staff ready to offer their advice should you have any questions about choosing the perfect plant for a gift. 

Not too confident in your plant-picking abilities? No worries! They also offer a wide selection of terracotta pots, planting materials, unique planters, candles, and so much more. 

Best for: The partner who is a plant-dad or plant-mom. 

Varsity Cinema: Gift Cards, Membership & More

Photo creds to @hiddendsm

Want another idea of something you can do with your S.O.? How bout a membership or gift card to one of Des Moines’ classic gems, Varsity Cinema! Support this locally-owned theater and check out their merch, gift cards and membership options. This is such a cool gift for you and your partner to not only enjoy the movies, but support local while you do it!

Purchase a membership and schedule a monthly movie date night with your partner, make a fun game out of different types of movie genres you can see, or simply choose the Varsity whenever you’re thinking about checking out Hollywood’s next blockbuster (or that indie movie you keep seeing on your FYP). 

Best for: The partner who is the resident movie buff.

For the Parents

“You don’t have to get me anything” or “Just bring yourself, you’re a gift”. Alright, we know that the holidays are a season of giving. So, even if you’ve got a parent who swears they don’t want anything, here are a few ideas on how to rebel and make sure they get something from you under that tree.

Kitchen Collage: Kitchen Essentials, Cookbooks & More

If you’ve never stopped inside kitchen collage, then did you really visit the East Village? This store is full of kitchen gadgets, tools, recipe books, specialty spices and so much more from floor to ceiling. Did we mention you can also peruse beautiful kitchen supplies like Le Creuset and Smeg (you know, the upscale brands we fantasize about owning)? Outside of funky salt & pepper shakers, Kitchen Collage also offers gadgets that’ll have you thinking, “I didn’t even know this was a thing!”- and you’re life changes because of it.

Want more? They also offer a calendar full of unique classes, whether it’s learning about how to mix the best martini, or the secret behind a yeast donut, their cooking demonstrations and tastings will make any parent swoon.

Best for: The family cook (moms, dads, or hey- don’t forget the grandparents!)

Jane’s Family Shop: Adorable Kid Clothes & Accessories

I have to admit, I am a huge sucker for baby clothes– and the new mama in your life probably is as well. Jane’s offers modern and aesthetically pleasing family goods that any parent would love to have in their home and babes’ closet. One thing that makes Jane’s stand out is the women’s section in the store. This allows moms to treat themselves while stocking up on clothes, toys, and supplies for their littles.

Be sure to check out their selection of classic stuffies, adorable wooly sweaters, and unique toys. So whether you know someone who is expecting, someone who “has expected” or simply want to browse all things cute- Jane’s is the place!

Best for: New moms/dads, experienced moms/dads & all those with kiddos!

Wildflower: Flower or Seasonal Wreath Subscription

Giving your mom a thoughtful arrangement on her birthday, mother’s day, and other special occasions is a great way to show her she is loved. One way to make flower deliveries easier (and more frequent) is to get her a Wild Flower subscription.

You can choose between weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly plans to deliver your mom an elegant hand-crafted arrangement. Not only will you light up your mom’s day every time her flowers arrive, but you will be supporting a local business in its efforts to fill Des Moines with more joy.

Best for: The mom with a green thumb (or simply enjoys the presence of beautiful flowers). 

Fontenelle Supply Co.: Custom Leather Goods & Gifts

Fontenelle Supply Co. is one of those stores that you walk into open-minded, and the shelves show you what you need. From their stunning apparel, custom leather goods, and camping supplies, you may leave with more than you intended.

At Fontenelle, you will find a small but mighty team that is dedicated to what they do and getting you the best product. Whether your loved one spends free time outdoors, locked up in a study, or working magic in the kitchen, you are sure to find a great gift here. Explore home products such as unique snacks, stationary, apothecary and more. While you’re there, stock up on winter clothing like hats, gloves and scarves to brace for the Midwest chills!

Best for: Dads or any other person who enjoys their life a little rugged. 

For the Gals, Pals & Everyone In Between

We love our fav girlies and gals, pals and more- so show them some love this year with gifts that let them know they’re on your mind! Our favorite things about them are their quirks, humor, hobbies, and general company, so why not pick out something that is so uniquely them. 

Storyhouse Bookpub: Custom Book Box

Partnering alongside small businesses, you can create a box unique to your book lover (while supplies lasts). Based on literary classics, choose a candle from Madison County Candle Co., coffee or tea from Happy Home Coffee or Fly Paper Products, and choose a chocolate from Open Book Chocolates. Plus, enjoy some stationary goodies from Ephemera and Dainty Knotts Art! 

Outside of book boxes, Storyhouse Bookpub is home to all sorts of genres to enjoy from adult fiction and non-fiction, to even some bookish products like bookmarks, stickers and more. We really can’t think of a better way to give back time and time again than with a book or gift card to Storyhouse Bookpub. 

Best for: Your fav bookworm

Preservation: Accessories and Gifts

We can’t think of a more harmonious blend of vintage and modern than that of Preservation. This brick-and-mortar shop offers a unique combination of home goods, accessories, clothing, and all things stylish. Preservation has a rotation of curators who make it their goal to find items that truly speak to the vibe of the store. Chic and modern is their go-to.

Preservation has a rotation of curators who make it their goal to find items that truly speak to the vibe of the store. Chic and modern is their go-to. Of course, if this store seems to have your friend’s vibe, but you don’t quite know what to get her, you can always opt for a gift card and let her treat herself. But if you need some guidance, the vintage hats and modern apothecary are absolutely stunning.

Best for: The trendy bestie whose outfits are a constant slay.

KIN DSM: Jewelry, Crystals, or Candles

If you’re looking for a local shop where you can’t go wrong, look no further than KIN. Between their stunning jewelry collection, mesmerizing crystals, unique pop-up events, and modern home pieces, you are sure to find something to gift your friend. We love that KIN has a modern take on mystical things and creates an environment you will instantly feel welcomed. Even if you are a beginner, the staff will always jump at a chance to help you and give you personalized recommendations.

Also, this year they’ve put out their OWN gift guide for those who simply love to feed off of the energies of others or are into art. Chose from a plethora of handmade candles, a 2024 ritual kit, holiday-inspired incense, and so much more.  

Best for: the free-spirit in your life, or the hostess with the mostest! 

MARNē: Sweaters, Accessories & More

Marnē is a boutique in East Village known for their beautifully curated miscellaneous decor, bags, accessories and their wide selection of clothing. Each item is hand-picked, creating a whole vibe that any of your fav gal pals will love (esp any of your vegan girlies). If you haven’t stopped into Marnē yet, it’s essential to know just how much this shop does for our community. They are a sustainable, vegan, and locally curated. Oh, and did we mention their little gift selection is to die for?

Best for: The local fashionista & sustainable girlies who love a bit of color.

East Village Spa: Spa Services, Beauty & More

Located in the historic and bustling East Village is the luxurious East Village Spa. Here you will find expert massage therapists, estheticians, and nail techs that live to bring your body comfort and radiance. If your bestie is a skincare fanatic, opt for a rejuvenating facial. If they’re a go-getter who is on their feet all day, book a calming massage. Or, book nail appointments for you two to enjoy together!

If you’re in between services or not sure which they’d prefer, a gift card makes for the best gift, giving them the option to choose the spa treatment of their choice. Or, stop in and view the premium spa products East Village spa offers for more of an at-home “treat yo’ self” experience.

Best for: The friend who is in dire need of some R&R.

Bozz Prints: Show Some DSM Love

For the person in your life who’s a bit too far away, show them some love from Des Moines with products from Bozz Prints. This local print shop has t-shirts, wall art, coasters, postcards- you name it! Ranging from just Des Moines to the entire Midwest and beyond, Bozz has wonderful gift ideas for people of any age- whether it’s someone who lives far away and has never lived in DSM, or someone who has moved away and is feeling a bit homesick. 

Located in Valley Junction, peruse their store and get inspired by minimalist wall art depicting iconic Gray’s Lake or High Trestle Trail, or take a look at postcards to make a unique addition to your gift. Not sure what to get? No worries! They also offer gift cards, making it the perfect opportunity for your gift receiver to pick out something they’re going to love.  

Best for: Our long distance besties, S.O.s and family members

Are you ready for our 12 Days of Giveaways? Kicking off in December we’ll be giving away one prize every single day on Instagram. Make sure you’re following us and tell your friends. 

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