Shop Small for Your Little’s
It’s easy to be overwhelmed during the holiday season- not knowing what the “perfect” gift is. What I've come to find is that the thought, love and intention behind the gift is what means the most. With that in mind- we’ve created a list of a few of our favorite toys sold by/ handcrafted by some of the best small businesses around! Let’s start checking off your gift list and while we’re at it, we can make a difference in the lives of the sellers not just the little receivers! We can give this holiday season knowing that we’ve supported someone that has put as much thought, love and intention into making your gift as you’ve put into selecting it for your little :)
1. Boutique Little: Woodland Leaves, $52.00 + Holdie Folk Magical Creatures, $34.90
One of Portland, ME’s best! Boutique Little is such a fun and magical place. As soon as you step in, a sense of child-like wonder rushes over you. It was difficult selecting just a couple of toys to feature, but these tickled our fancy. The Woodland Leaves set from Moon Picnic is sure to inspire adventure. Great for any aspiring botanist, pro-matcher, or color coordinator! And it's conveniently packaged in a presentation box. Holdie Folk Magical Creatures were too darn cute to NOT feature.They are just as the title describes- magical. These little felt friends are handmade with lots of love by Olli Ella. What makes them so special is that no set is exactly the same. Imagine- a world of pocket sized dragons, unicorns and nessi’s… doesn't get better than that!
2. Coco Village: Wooden Puzzle (48 Pcs) BALTIK, $29.99
Coco Village is such a COOL shop. The toys are designed with both YOU and your little in mind! We chose the BALTIK Wooden Puzzle because of its uncanny resemblance to our beautiful ME coastline! It’s ocean landscape and lighthouse reminded us of HOME. Puzzles are such a great gift to elicit problem solving skills, gross motor skills and you have a stunning piece of art as a final product. And as we embark on our winter adventure and search for fun activities inside- this should fit the bill (maybe bundled up with a cozy blanket and cup of cocoa!)
3. West End Village School: Market Match, toys are sold in person by appointment- reach out!
Another Portland, ME find! Market Match is such a fun and versatile game to have handy while out and about at the market. It comes with a list of Ways to Play inviting your little’s to play beyond a classic game of memory. It was also designed to expand your little’s pallet with market fresh food! We would highly recommend any of West End Village’s toys and activities. All are hand crafted in small batches, with simplicity and learning in mind.
4. Elemental Leaf: Solar Printing DIY Kit, $15.31+ (price varies on the number of sheets)
This is such a fun and creative gift for your little’s. Included in the Solar Printing DIY Kit are light sensitive sheets that transform foraged items into works of art. This craft is suitable for most ages, but your little may need some help with set-up! The sheets are about the size of a postcard, which would be great for framing or it would make for a very special personalized stationery set to write letters to loved ones :)
5. Love Lab Studio: Gift Certificate, $10.00-$200.00
A gift of experience! Love Lab Studio is an absolute favorite of ours. It is such a creative, inspiring and fun place to craft. Whether you decide to gift an amount for a reoccurring workshop or a certificate for a one-timer, this gift will surely be memorable. We would be willing to bet this will be a gift requested for years to come!
6. Brave + Kind Bookshop: Gift Bundles, $18.00+ (price varies on bundle)
Last but certainly not least is a Gift Bundle from Brave + Kind. This was such a great find. The book selection in this shop is so amazingly curated. As you browse through the Bundles you will find several options- allowing you to select age appropriate reads. Another great gift to give as we trudge through the winter months- looking for our next best exploration inside! Trust me- a good book can sometimes catapult you in some pretty GRAND adventures.