Shop independent: 5 special places to do your holiday shopping

November 20, 2024

Making a list, and checking it twice? We can't quite believe it's that time of year again already – but luckily for all of us, we know just where you can go for feel-good gifting that supports a whole lotta people. Right this way!

The only thing better than a thoughtfully chosen, just-for-you gift? One that keeps giving back long after you've given it. That's one of the things we love most about shopping from small independent retailers, especially during the festive season. At Mustard, we're lucky to work with some truly incredible stockists all around the world, and we know just how much love (and hard work!) goes into keeping their shelves full of shiny things.

This time of year can be truly make or break for many independent retailers. They're up against some seriously stiff competition in the form of giant corporations, but you can't beat the experience of browsing a lovingly curated range of unique, special pieces and talking to the people who know them inside out. Take it from us, every small business owner really does do a little happy dance with every purchase (even if it's in their head!)

Let's meet some of the lovely stockists in the Mustard community, ready to make your holidays extra magical.

Burke Mercantile

Location: Long Beach, California

Wanna feel REALLY good about your gifting this year? We suggest a visit to Burke Mercantile. Not only will you find yourself surrounded by beautiful contemporary fashion and lifestyle pieces from emerging and established designers, you’ll also be supporting a business that gives back. Female owned-and-operated, Burke Mercantile donates to charities doing important work in community, civil rights, the environment and more. That really brings a whole new meaning to ‘pretty and practical!’

Francis Henri

Location: Westfield, New Jersey and Montclair, New Jersey

Shopping for the little people in your life? Francis Henri is a beautifully curated pair of childrens’ boutiques bringing the best Australian, European and UK brands to the US. Founder Katherine Oyer’s love of travel inspired her to create her very own store. She would spend every vacation scouring the world’s destinations for hidden gem baby boutiques, and so Francis Henri was born. She’s beautiful!

Socius Design

Location: Rochester, Minnesota

While they’ve been operating online and via pop-ups since 2020, Socius Design has a shiny new store and the grand opening is just around the corner. They really are the new kids on the block! Once the ribbon has been cut, pop in to see good design and beautiful craftsmanship on show, with plenty of inspiration to boot. Socius is both a design studio and store, so you’ll find expert advice along with a curation of homewares, textiles, gifts and more.

Arrietty Home

Location: Victoria, Canada

If you’re working with limited space, you’ll love Arrietty Home. Their streamlined and colorful selection of organizational and decor supplies are designed for small spaces with big ideas! If you’re shopping for an apartment-dweller then you’re sure to find something unique and lovely in their range. As Arrietty say, “regardless of its size, your home should be a sanctuary.”

Thistle & Poppy

Location: Seattle, Washington

When it comes to supporting small, local business, it doesn’t get more genuine than Thistle & Poppy. This family-run concept store has real heart, prioritizing sustainability, ethical production and social justice, with 5% of every purchase donated to a rotating roster of organizations. Inside you’ll find a mix of vintage, pre-loved and brand new pieces for the whole family, from clothing to decor, toys, craft and more.