Ah, the holidays—a time for gathering, giving, and just a little bit of chaos. This year, I’m juggling decking the halls and remodeling my kitchen (because, you know, why not add a little extra spice to the season?). And because I’m all about making gift-giving feel personal, meaningful, and unapologetically Portland, I turned to my Instagram besties to help me curate this list of local gems.
Whether you’re shopping for your bestie, your boss, or that hard-to-please cousin, these picks—recommended by you—are a celebration of Portland’s creativity, weirdness, and community spirit.
For the Homebody or the House Obsessed
Because let’s be real, making a space feel like home is an art form.
- @seekandswoon
These knit throws are Portland-designed, cozy, and sustainable—basically everything you want to drape over your couch during those endless PNW drizzles. - @boroughhome
If the holidays had a scent, it’d be Mom’s Biscotti. Think pistachio, almond, dried fruit, and pure cozy nostalgia. It’s basically like lighting up a hug from your mom’s kitchen. And if candles aren’t their thing, grab a gift card instead—easy win. - @thicketpdx
This NE Portland plant shop is pure magic for plant lovers, with lush greenery, ceramics, and garden-inspired treasures. And if you’re feeling crafty, check out their wreath-making workshop on December 3rd—it’s a cozy chance to get hands-on with greens, seedpods, and dried flowers (plus hot cocoa, of course). - @lisacongdon
Lisa Congdon’s vibrant prints, calendars, and books bring bold energy to any space. Ideal for art lovers or anyone who could use a little more color in their lives. - @jpgeneralshop
If you’re looking for locally made, sustainable gifts that are actually useful (but still cool), JP General in Multnomah Village has you covered. Think functional goodies for home, work, and play—all with that thoughtful PDX vibe. - @woonwinkel
A bright and joyful Portland home and gift shop where every item celebrates the power of color. From vibrant home goods to unique gifts, Woonwinkel makes shopping feel like pure inspiration.
For the Bold & Empowered
These gifts are for the statement-makers, the rule-breakers, and anyone who loves a little flair.
- @pigeonheartdesign
Jewelry so stunning it’s basically wearable art. I think I have five pieces from Lisa at this point. My Pigeonheart ring is a daily staple, and their bold designs are perfect for anyone who loves making a statement. - @dingly_dangly_beads_and_reads
You already know how much I love these! Funky, colorful earrings that’ll instantly elevate any outfit. They’re handmade, vibrant, and totally Portland. These are all handmade by my friend Joce. Although she isn’t local, she and her partner were displaced by Hurricane Helene and, therefore, have no jobs or permanent place to live, so they are living off of her earrings income. - @wiwinu_enterprises
Nicole’s beadwork draws from Plateau Indigenous traditions, creating earrings and bracelets that are as meaningful as they are beautiful. - @sheboptheshop
A sex-positive adult boutique with body-safe toys, books, and sensual products. For something fun and functional, check out the Arc vibrator—perfect for self-care or spicing things up.
For the Foodies & Cocktail Creators
If they’re happiest in the kitchen or behind a bar cart, these picks are for them.
- @sauvieshrubs
Handcrafted botanical shrubs that turn any cocktail or mocktail into something unforgettable. They are a Team Goché staple. - Sebastiano’s Marmellata Gift Pack
This tangy citrus marmalade is perfect for the breakfast lover or budding chef in your life. - @puppernickel_barkery
Treats and toys for your favorite fur baby, made with love in Downtown Hillsboro.
For the Makers & Doers
Inspire them to get creative with these DIY-friendly gifts.
- @makewithpdx
Workshops on everything from knife sharpening to tire changing, offered by queer-owned Portland gems. A gift card is like giving them a ticket to create something amazing. One of our favorite Portland companies - @iridescentdaydreampdx
A PDX-based queer retail group of artists – think DIY kits and handmade treasures that make gifting for the crafty types easy and fun.
For the Thoughtful & Reflective
Gifts that help them slow down, journal, or soak up the season.
- @istandforlove
Their affirmation-filled 2024 calendar is a daily reminder to keep the good vibes going all year long. - @johannawright
Follow the Magic: A Workbook to Find Your Purpose is perfect for anyone seeking clarity and connection. - @hearherecards
If you’re looking for something deeper, their oracle decks are where it’s at. Designed to empower and inspire, they’re the ideal tool for finding a little clarity during the holiday madness.
This season, skip the big-box chaos and go for something that supports the makers and dreamers right here in Portland. The best gifts are the ones that tell a story, and every single one of these picks has a local heart behind it.
Happy gifting, friends! Tag me in your gift-giving adventures—I want to see what treasures you find. Cheers to a holiday season filled with love, laughter, and the best kind of chaos.
