Updated 12/10/24
We all know — and we don’t mind saying it — that Brooklyn is known for celebrating what’s local. So now that it’s the holiday shopping season, Fresh Orthodontics wants to highlight a few brick-and-mortar Brooklyn shopping destinations and makers to consider for holiday gift ideas. Let’s shop small in Brooklyn!
1. Brooklyn Superhero Supply Co.
Do good and surprise the superhero(es) in your life this season. Brooklyn Superhero Supply Co. in Park Slope is a storefront with superhero gifts up front and space for youth literacy workshops in the back. Cuz, you know, literacy is a superpower! An NYC outpost of youth literacy movement 826 Valencia in San Francisco, 826NYC holds year-round writing classes and workshops for youth ages 6-18. All purchases at this Brooklyn boutique support the students and programs at 826NYC.
2. Community Bookstore
Holiday shopping in Brooklyn’s Park Slope is not complete without a haul from the legendary Community Bookstore. After all, what says “I’m supporting small business!” more than shopping at your local independent bookstore? You also have the opportunity to get books in the hands of local kids through your purchases at the shop. Buy any of these selected kids and youth books, and help support Brooklyn Book Bodega, an organization that provides access and ownership of books to kids 0-18 in NYC and fosters a passion for literacy and learning.
3. Tarzian West Housewares
Lords a’leaping! The cooking enthusiasts on your list will jump for joy unwrapping a luxe selection from local housewares small business, Tarzian West. From an elegant vase to safe, made-for-kids prep tools to that jewel-toned, enameled cast iron pot they’ve always wanted, this Park Slope homestore is a must-stop for Brooklyn shopping.
4. Little Things Toy Store
Little Things Toy Store is like the “little engine that could” of Park Slope toy shopping. This local toy store has offered toys from pure fun to educational, sensory, and STEAM amusements since 1977. Peruse in-store to see what delights await for the young ones on your gift list.
5. Colson Pattiserie
On your way to a holiday party with nothing in hand for the host? Stop at Colson Pattiserie’s Park Slope location for yummy French- and Belgian-inspired baked treats. It’s an instance where shopping small will have big rewards!
6. Prospect Wine Shop
Another small business in Brooklyn to pick up a host/hostess gift? Prospect Wine Shop. If you’re looking for an organic wine to delight the palate, make this a stop on your Brooklyn holiday shopping adventures. See what the Prospect staff is currently pouring on Instagram.
7. Raggedy Threads
Have a vintage clothes lover on your list who leans towards Americana? Raggedy Threads might already be their go-to for Brooklyn shopping, so it’s a surefire option for holiday gift ideas. Located in Williamsburg, Raggedy Threads has a carefully curated selection of broken-in jeans, the softest t-shirts, and all the right textures for an understated and cozy layered look. Check out their Instagram for what’s in their Brooklyn boutique right now.
8. Tula House
Plants bring a certain something to your home and office space, that’s for sure. But not everyone has a natural green thumb (a few of us at Fresh Ortho included!). Enter: Tula House, a plant store that sets itself apart with a hefty selection of easier-to-care-for succulents. The Arid Room within this Brooklyn plant boutique is full of different cacti sourced from trusted growers. See a selection of their plants on the Tula House Instagram.
9. Puerh Brooklyn
It’s fair to say that Brooklyn locals know where to get their coffee. But how about tea? Williamsburg’s Puerh Brooklyn has fine teas from around the world, as well as medicinal tea, herbs, and supplements under the guidance of this Brooklyn boutique tea shop’s co-founder and resident herbalist.
10. Muddy Paws
We can’t forget Fido! Williamsburg’s Muddy Paws is one of Brooklyn’s beloved local pet shops. They offer nutritious product picks for nurturing your dog’s best life from the inside, a self-serve dog wash for a healthy outside, and the best accessories. Have a loved one who would be over the moon if they got a pet for a holiday present? Muddy Paws partners with a few local shelters and shows off some furry friends on their social who need homes.
11. Collyer’s Mansion
This Brooklyn boutique is home to an eclectic, colorful selection of curated home goods and artisan-made gifts. While you’ll find gorgeous pillows, table linens, bedding, and furnishings, it’s the vibrant wall art that really stands out. Collyer’s Mansion carries prints, as well as original artwork by local artists, including Steph Becker, Pauline de Roussy de Sales, Elena Megalos, and more. Visit the Brooklyn Heights store or shop online and enjoy free local pickup.
12. Annie’s Blue Ribbon General Store
If you’re on the hunt for one-of-a-kind, whimsical, thoughtful gifts this holiday season, look no further than Annie’s Blue Ribbon General Store. The independent, locally-owned Park Slope shop is a true treasure. While the stationery collection alone is worth the trip, the store is stocked with everything from playful housewares and novelty items to adorable stuffed animals, classic childhood toys, and DIY craft kits.
13. Norman & Jules
For a toy-shopping experience that’s as charming as it is unique, Norman & Jules in Park Slope is a must-visit. This neighborhood gem has been known for its beautifully curated selection of design-forward toys since 2012. From wooden treasures by brands like Grimm and Grapat to modern STEM sets, each item at Norman & Jules is equal parts durable, delightful, and thoughtfully crafted.
14. Brooklyn Women’s Exchange
The Brooklyn Women’s Exchange is a not-for-profit, volunteer-run shop dedicated to supporting independent artisans and crafters from Brooklyn and beyond. Browse an array of items, including holiday ornaments, decor, and handmade gifts. Every purchase helps foster a community of local creators, making this historic Brooklyn Heights shop the ideal destination for gifts with heart and history.
15. The Brooklyn ARTery
Located in Ditmas Park/Flatbush, the Brooklyn ARTery is an independent gift shop and community space. The store celebrates creativity through an ever-evolving selection of unique handmade goods from local artists and fair trade makers worldwide. In addition to candles, cards, jewelry, and homewares, the store also has fun, small-batch specialty food items for the foodies on your list. Tune into their social media to find out what’s new in the store.
Your Park Slope Orthodontist For The Gift of A Stunning Smile
As a Park Slope orthodontist, we can’t conclude this list of holiday gift ideas without mentioning the gift that keeps on giving for a lifetime — straight and healthy teeth. Dr. Khanna and the team at Fresh Orthodontics provide custom treatment plans with braces or clear aligners for smiles that bring out our patients’ best features. And our high-tech approach, eco-friendly practices, and friendly care ensure you have a comfortable experience in every way.
Schedule a free initial consultation at Brooklyn’s award-winning, locally-owned, independent orthodontic specialist. And happy holiday shopping!
