Shop Small: A Saint Paul Gift Guide
Uncover unique Saint Paul makers and services with presents that nobody will want to return, exchange, or even re-gift.
Shop the talented and eye-catching works of Saint Paul's artists, chefs, artisans, designers. From stocking stuffers and individual presents to catering services and DIY classes, give the gift of hidden treasures and experiences across Saint Paul. Take home the best presents for art lovers, sports fans, fashionistas, and foodies.
Talisman & Co.
A "Beautiful Game” deserves a beautiful accessory: Talisman & Co. Saint Paulite, Dustin Branan is a former Minnesota Thunder soccer player who wanted to make the highest-quality gear to support soccer clubs both locally, nationally, and internationally. Lines include a USA collection, “legends,” Minnesota, The U.S. Women’s National Team Players Association, and more. Talisman & Company donates proceeds from purchases to meal sharing groups such as Second Harvest Heartland and Eat For Equity. | Location: 2179 St Clair Avenue
Burl Gallery
Original art, while making for a colossally great gift, can often also have oversized price tags to match. Enter the Tiny Art Expo, from Burl Gallery, where tiny art— no larger than 10’’ X 10”— aligns with moderate prices as well, at $100 or less. This is a perfect way to scoop up some original local art that is inclusive of all mediums, content, and skill level. | Location: 308 E Prince Street # 130
House of Gristle
A curated charcuterie platter by House of Gristle, now partnering with local charcuterie masters Red Table Meats, is a stunning addition to any holiday (or post-holiday) table. HOG is one of the few Black-owned and operated catering companies in the Twin Cities area, and in addition to custom charcuterie plates, Chef Jametta Raspberry offers full-service catering from intimate to grand. Ask about their Grazing Tables— groaning tables of snackers designed to keep your people, that’s right— grazing.
Spoils of Wear
Nestled in the Snelling Hamline neighborhood, Spoils of Wear is fighting fast fashion one thread at a time with stylish and chic apparel. Here, eco-conscious clothing is crafted with organic fabric and expert artisanship. Spoils of Wear features a wide range of clothing, shoes, and accessories for women and men. Shop 'til you drop for cozy sweaters, one-of-a-kind boots, fun knickknacks, and more. Whether you're looking for stocking stuffers or presents to place under the Christmas tree, Spoils of Wear features unique clothing that will last for many years to come. | Location: 1566 Selby Avenue
Rose Street Patisserie
Locals know that small and unassuming (the way we like to do it in Saint Paul) Rose Street Patisserie packs a super big wallop on the worldwide pastry stage. Owner John Kraus is the only American-born member of “Relais Desserts Group,” which to the uninitiated means simply that he is one of the top 100 pastry chefs in the world. Gift world-class bonbons, jam, pastry, cake, cocoa, and “viennoiserie” (croissants, brioches, pain aux raisins, more). Christmas inventory will be set up on Tock and will be accessible via their website. | Location: 171 Snelling Avenue North
Saint Paul Brewing
Beer! Let your recipient know you’ve been to Saint Paul like this: “Beer here!” And not just any beer, but the brewery that goes by the saintly city name itself: Saint Paul Brewing. Located in the Historic Hamm’s Brewery building on the East Side, this brewery is bursting with Minnesota history and the pride that goes with that pedigree. Gift shop items include growlers and wearable merch, including a fleece blanket, which Minnesotans are not ashamed to wear when sitting on a patio, drinking beer. | Location: 688 Minnehaha Avenue East
Bare Honey
Family-owned and operated, Bare Honey has been taking the mystery out of your honey purchase for years. Dustin Vanasse started placing hives and collecting honey by hand so that they knew exactly what they were bottling. The company has grown exponentially and the products now not only include the same pure and delectable honey from lavender to wildflower to hot & spicy; but also everything from honey sticks (stocking stuffers!) to a honey lover's gift box. And, rest assured that Bare is working to allay the worldwide pollinator crisis through “solar-based beekeeping.” Read more about Bare Honey's story here. There are plenty of locations offering Bare Honey products in Saint Paul! Keep an eye out for the honey across different restaurants, stores, and cafes.
DIY Classes for Customizable Gifts
Why not treat yourself to a hands-on experience while making personalized gifts? Here are some enriching ways to make your own gifts for this holiday season:
Functional Pottery Art
For the coffee lovers and passionate cooks in your life, reserve your spot at Northern Light Art Studio's two-hour workshop on beginner-friendly wheel throwing, and create a gorgeous mug or bowl.
Scented Candles
If you have a loved one that enjoys setting an ambient mood, make your way to Roseline's Place for a fun candle-making event. Roseline's Place hosts candle-making classes from Thursdays to Saturdays. Participants can even choose their own scents and jar colors!
Mosaic Decor
Mosaic on a Stick features a beginner-friendly mosaic mandala class for all levels! Learn how to craft vibrant stained glass pieces into a glimmering work of art. Mosaic mandalas are the perfect decoration for naturally lighting up a room in an array of vibrant hues.
This is just a taste of all the ways you can shop small in Saint Paul this holiday season. Find more places to shop local this holiday season!
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