warebya local holiday gift guide: gifts from makers near you
gift ideas you can buy from bakers, potters, florists and makers near you, plus how to order in time and give food gifts the right way.
the best local gifts are things people use up or use every day: a mug from a potter, a candle, a loaf and jam from a home baker, a standing order of flowers. order early, because makers make in small batches and home bakers’ pickup windows fill up in december. you’ll find them at holiday markets, in your neighborhood’s shops, and on wareby, where every shop is a verified local business within 25 miles.
what are good local gifts?
what can you give at each budget?
| budget | ideas |
|---|---|
| a little | soap, a small candle, a half dozen cookies, a print, stickers |
| in the middle | a mug, a big candle, a box of pastries, earrings, a bouquet |
| something special | a serving bowl, a custom portrait, a class, a flower or bread subscription |
when should you order local gifts?
earlier than you would online. makers work in small batches, custom orders take weeks, and home bakers cap how many orders fit in each pickup window. if it’s custom or baked, order by early december. markets are best for buying on the spot.
what should you know about homemade food gifts?
most homemade food from home bakers is sold under a state cottage food law, and the rules on handing it over vary. in minnesota, it has to be picked up from the baker or delivered by them, and it can’t be shipped until august 1, 2027, so plan to give it in person. cottage food rules by state.
where do you find local makers?
- holiday markets and craft fairs, if you’re in the twin cities
- your neighborhood’s shops and main street
- wareby: verified local shops within 25 miles of you, one cart, pickup or delivery by the shop, and warebucks on every order
questions people ask
what are good gifts from local makers?
things people use: mugs, candles, soap, honey, baked goods, prints, flowers, and classes.
when should i order handmade gifts for the holidays?
by early december for anything custom or baked. makers work in small batches and pickup windows fill up.
can i ship homemade food as a gift?
it depends on the state. in minnesota, homemade cottage food can’t be shipped until august 1, 2027, so give it in person.
how do i find local makers near me?
holiday markets, your neighborhood’s shops, and wareby, which only lists verified local businesses within 25 miles of you.
sources
we started tandoco, a small bakery in minneapolis, and sold under a blue tent at farmers markets before we built wareby. our story
