Shopping Small in Staunton During the Holidays

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the bustle of gift-giving and festive celebrations. This year, consider bypassing the chaotic rush of big-box retailers and major online platforms to have a unique shopping experience in downtown Staunton. Browse an array of charming and independently-owned shops for thoughtful gifts and treats for everyone on your gifting list.

Staunton’s Community Spirit 

Small Business Saturday falls on November 30, 2024. It’s a day dedicated to supporting the businesses that create the heartbeat of Staunton’s economy. 

Shopping local isn’t merely a trend; it’s a movement that emphasizes the importance of community. Staunton’s small businesses aren’t just striving to make sales; they invest back into our community, sponsor events, and foster local art and culture. By shopping small, you contribute to a cycle of support that keeps Staunton thriving. Enjoy the thrill of finding special items while knowing you’re making a positive impact in your community.

A Treasure Trove of Local Finds

• Staunton’s antique scene boasts vintage and retro treasures that tell stories from the past and bring a layered and individual look to a modern home. Look for 18th and early 19th c. art and furniture at O’Brien’s Antiques & Art. 17 E. Beverley Antiques showcases beautiful jewelry, sheet music, and toys. Staunton Antiques Center has over 13,000-square feet of antiques and collectibles from different eras. Make sure you talk to the shop owners – their passion and creativity for curating distinctive collections is infectious..
• Imagine stepping into a boutique like Billy Opal that showcases chic modern wear for both men and women. The staff at Design@Nine understand both classic style and seasonal trends and will help you develop your perfect holiday look. Look for handmade jewelry from the Sparrow’s Nest, and fair trade garments from Latitudes. Staunton boutiques offer apparel that ranges from holiday ensembles to everyday wear. You’ll feel fabulous all winter long!

Meaningful Gifts

• Be the best guest ever with a hostess gift from one of Staunton’s home décor destinations. You’ll find beautifully crafted plant-themed items at Burrow & Vine and Lichen or Knot. Along with fine menswear, CFO Trading Company has barware and other fine gifts. Or how about gifting artisanal candles and bath products from Essentially Zen Artisan Body and Bath Co.? Many items are locally sourced, so you can support local artisans and ensure you’ll be a permanent fixture on the guest list.

• Speaking of local artists and artisans, make sure to visit a gallery while you’re in town. Staunton Augusta Art Center has opened its annual Art for Gifts shop. Artist Sarah Jones runs Sanaa Design Studio and sells distinctive paintings and  sculptures. Watch your art being created at Sunspots Studio, where artists mold molten glass into colorful holiday ornaments and more. 

Impress Everyone on Your List

• Staunton has a wealth of shops that sell unique gifts. Medieval Fantasies Company Gyfte Shoppe will have you dreaming of dragons and princesses after you shop for Renaissance-inspired stocking stuffers. The Tubular Toy Box has comics, new and vintage toys, trading cards, and lots of nostalgia on its shelves. Staunton’s other gift shops sell Virginia-themed items, holiday ornaments, pet supplies, pottery, handmade signs, specialty foods, and more. We guarantee you’ll leave with a smile and bags overflowing with presents.
• Don’t forget about the literary lovers! The many bookstores feature a selection of classic, popular, and locally-themed books. You can also score international teas and chocolates at Staunton Books and Teas. and music and more at the Heifetz shop. Words Matter Gift Shop carries clever greeting cards that convey your sentiments in the most personal way.

• Shopping for a hiker, biker, runner, skier or someone who simply loves the outdoor life? Check out Staunton stores like Wilderness Adventure for top-quality outdoor gear. Sole Focus Running has the apparel and footwear that will help you run long and injury-free. Black Dog Bikes sells cycling accessories and fits bikes for everyone.

Gift Experiences

• Experiences make wonderful and memorable gifts. Why not give a gift a bottle of wine or a gift certificate for a meal at a downtown restaurant? Pick a comfort-food favorite like Byers Street Bistro or an exciting new dish from the newly-opened Maude and the Bear, known for its small-plate tasting menu.

• Everyone is stressed out and needs a chance to relax. Super gifts: massages, manicures, and other pampering sessions at a salon or wellness center. Check out the menu of body treatments at Mill Street Body and Soul Day Spa or the hair, nails, and skin care you can receive at Allure Salon.
• Tickets to a cozy movie night at Visulite Cinemas or a lively Blackfriars performance (or a whole season) will result in both the experience as well as something new to talk about!
• Send your giftee on an adventure with a ride through the Valley on the historic Virginia Scenic Railway, a rock-climbing excursion with Vivid Earth Adventures, or a year-long membership to the Frontier Culture Museum. A gift membership at the Staunton Makerspace comes with so many possibilities for creation!

• Or get your friends together and treat them to a tasting or flight at one of Staunton’s wine bars, cideries or breweries. Ramulose Ridge sells wine, charcuterie, and margarita flights. Ciders from Mars features hard ciders produced from local apples, and Redbeard Brewing Co. has delicious craft beer and a full calendar of entertainment.

So this holiday season, embrace Staunton’s indie shopping scene and create a ripple that extends beyond the holidays. Your support for local businesses will help Staunton flourish for years to come. Happy shopping!