Each year we put together a list of gift ideas that highlight Colorado artisans and small businesses. If you’ve been in Colorado Springs for a while, you know that supporting local businesses is a priority for Coloradans. We did the research to provide you with Colorado sourced options for everyone your list!
Our 2016 List
Our 2017 List
Our 2019 List
#1: COLORADO CRAFTED BOX Gift Boxes
This company has searched all over the state for the best artisan products made right here in Colorado. Their gifts boxes are beautiful! You can choose among their pre-made gift box options or build your own box to customize your selections. This would be a great option for your out of state friends or business associates to give them the best of Colorado.
#2: EVERYDAY SUMMIT Artwork
Lindsie owns this Colorado Springs based Etsy shop that features her own hand-drawn cards and artwork. They are absolutely beautiful and we especially love the Pikes Peak print below (who doesn’t love that John Muir quote?). This could be a great option for the outdoor adventurer in your life, or you can check out her stationary sets for a cute teacher gift.
#3: ZERO FOX GIVEN Shirts
The Zero Fox Given shop is located on Bijou Street and their cheeky (and often hilarious) shirts are designed and printed right here in Colorado Springs. A fun shirt is always a great option for your best friend or maybe that teenager in your life who is hard to shop for.
#4: OLIVE & OAT Granola
Sue Felds hand crafts small batches of her olive oil-based granola in her Denver kitchen. She started out just making granola for her friends and family, but they loved it so much that they encouraged her to offer her delicious granola to the public. This would be such a thoughtful gift to send to family or friends to enjoy a healthy treat among all of the holiday indulgence . You can order online here.
#5: FANCY BOHEME Jewelry
This lovely jewelry is ethically made in Denver without nickel or lead. Each piece is made by Amanda Pehrson and designed and crafted to have minimal impact on the planet. Her jewelry is simple and elegant, and would compliment just about any outfit. Pro tip: they offer free domestic shipping on all orders.
#6: LITTLE BIRD STUDIO Stockings and Place Mats
Chelsey is the artist behind Colorado Springs based Little Bird Studio and she creates these adorable personalized Christmas stockings, as well as placements for any time of the year. The little ones in your life would really enjoy their own custom place mat for the dinner table.
#7: COLORADO CRAFT TOURS
If gifting an experience is more your style, then a beer tour would be perfect for the beer lover in your life. Colorado Craft Tours is a veteran-owned business right here in Colorado Springs. They offer 6 different types of 3 hour tours and each includes: transportation on their party bus, a pint, a flight, an appetizer and flight pairing and a behind the scenes tour. This would make a fantastic date with your significant other.
#8: COUNTER CULTURE Assorted Gifts
Denver based husband and wife team, Kaelin and Richard, hand sketch every screen printed image that goes onto their products. They strive to source all of their materials from the US whenever possible. Counter Culture offers a variety of products including dish towels, coffee mugs, shirts for adults and children, coasters and pint glasses. They truly have something for everyone on your list.
#9 PIKES PEAK ROAD RUNNERS Membership
If you have a runner in your life, they may be delighted to receive an annual membership to the Pikes Peak Road Runners (PPRR). PPRR members receive discounts on PPRR sponsored races and at local running shops, monthly newsletters, entrance into their Fall and Winter running series’, and camaraderie of their 1700 members. A 12 month membership is a bargain at $20.
#10: SWEETWOOD Beef Jerky
Sweetwood beef jerky is made in Steamboat Springs. This all natural jerky is perfect for outdoor adventures or snacks on the go for a busy family. If you have someone on your gift list who loves spending time on the slopes, some jerky may be the perfect fuel for their ski days. This is also great option if you are sending a care package to a service member overseas.
We hope you picked up some great ideas to start brainstorming your holiday gift list while supporting Colorado businesses. Drop us a comment below if you end up buying one of these great products! Send us an email if you’re a local business who would like to be considered for our list next year. If you enjoyed this list, click the picture below to subscribe to our blog. We post information about about local events and activities, home ownership and real estate. You’ll get updates sent directly to your inbox and be the first to know when we post new content.
Recipe: Authentic German Mulled Wine (Gluehwein)