Shop small, gift big: Your Central Ohio holiday gifting guide

Lifestyle

Dec 1

There’s something extra special about shopping local during the holidays. Whether it’s handcrafted goods, cozy boutiques, or unique experiences you won’t find on Amazon, Central Ohio is full of ways to give meaningfully — and support small businesses at the same time.

Here are our favorite gift ideas from around Columbus and beyond to help you finish your list (and maybe treat yourself, too).

For the foodie:

North Market gift cards & foodie baskets
Perfect for that person who loves trying everything. Pair a gift card with artisan pasta from Pastaria or spice blends from The Barrel & Bottle.

Cleveland Avenue Kitchen Collective treats
Home to immigrant and refugee chefs building their businesses — from baked goods to hot sauce, it’s a gift with a purpose.

Local coffee roasters
Stauf’s, Mission, or Roosevelt Coffee. Bundle a bag of beans with a mug from a neighborhood gift shop for an easy go-to.

For the artsy + creative types:

Workshops or experiences
Think candle-making at Penn & Beech or even cooking classes at Sur la Table in Easton.

Wild Cat Gift & Party (Clintonville)
A quirky stop full of art prints, funky finds, and stocking stuffers with serious personality.

For the style lover:

LadyBird (Short North)
Chic, curated pieces from local and national designers — perfect for the fashionable friend or sister.

Vernacular (Grandview + German Village)
Effortlessly cool clothing and gifts, from cozy sweaters to minimalist jewelry.

For the homebody:

Fourth Interiors
A go-to for modern-rustic decor, coffee table books, and gifts that make any home feel cozy.

Locally made candles
Penn & Beech, and Small Batch Candle Co. all deliver cozy, clean scents.

For the experience lover:

Columbus Museum of Art memberships
A gift that lasts all year — and supports the arts.

Columbus Food Adventures gift cards
Perfect for couples or food lovers who prefer memories over material gifts.

Hocking Hills cabin getaway
Know someone who needs a weekend escape? Many cabins offer gift certificate options — or go big and explore ownership opportunities with our Hocking Hills listings.

For the one who has everything:

Make a donation in their honor
Gift to the Mid-Ohio Food Collective, Ronald McDonald House, or She Has A Name — and let them know their gift helped someone in need.

Adopt-an-animal or tree programs
Great for kids and animal lovers — consider a symbolic animal adoption through the Columbus Zoo or a commemorative tree from Metro Parks.

Custom holiday boxes from local makers
Curate a box with wine, chocolate, and handmade goods from places like North Market, Celebrate Local, or Littleton’s Market in Upper Arlington.

Pro tip: shop local, early, and smart:

Many small businesses offer pre-ordering, holiday gift boxes, or even local delivery. Plus, shopping early means you avoid the last-minute stress — and ensure you're supporting real people and families in your community.