2025 Gift Guide: Small Business Edition

In my family, we exchange gifts at Christmas. I know some people think it’s silly for adults to get one another gifts, but I think it’s an immense act of care, to choose a thoughtful gift.

Each Thanksgiving the Sellers’ moms text, asking for our grown-up Christmas list. And although that’s lovely, thoughtful, and of course generous… my to-do list overfloweth of things I owe other people. And thus, I’ve come to dread this annual task. But a couple years ago, I had a win-win-win solution to my (first world) problem: small business gift cards. <picture heavens opening>

I texted the moms:

I know that the Christmas gift list deadline for Dave and me is looming… and this year, we were thinking: what if we send you a list of local restaurants, shops, and activities that we use frequently and would love gift cards to? That way, you’d support our friends’, neighbors’, and clients’ businesses, and we’d definitely put the experiences to use.

It was a GAME CHANGER. Both for my December to-do list and for the experiences we enjoyed throughout the year.

So if you need some localized, one-size-fits-one gift ideas for yourself or others, we’d love for you to support our clients by purchasing one from them. But regardless, I hope this idea is a fun way to check your list twice and support small, creative businesses who contribute to the economy with intention.

1 // The Perfect Pair (Nashville, TN)

A giftcard to women’s boutique The Perfect Pair happens to be the perfect gift (it’s on my list as a giver and receiver every year). The most caring team at The Perfect Pair will package up your gift card in a beautiful box, and you can add one of their signature candles for an elegant and complete little package: a gift and experience.

2 // Hola Yoga (Nashville, TN)

If the yogi in your life lives in Nashville, I highly, highly, highly suggest a class pass to Hola Yoga. I’ve been practicing yoga for >25 years, and Hola is the home studio I visit each week. But if the yogi in your life doesn’t live in Nashville, fear not: their stylish merch also makes a great gift. THIS ONESIE! Come on…

3 // The Coterie Wellness Studio (Charlotte, NC)

OR if your yogi lives in Charlotte, we’re excited that this year, we have a yoga option there too! The Coterie Wellness Studio was just awarded the best studio in Charlotte, NC – and its owner best yoga teacher. They also have an online membership option that maximizes their inclusiveness and access to top-tier teachers, no matter where your bendable buddy lives or travels.

4 // Cedar Hill Homestead (Nationwide)

Cedar Hill Homestead is based outside Nashville, TN but sells products that can be shipped anywhere. Alongside a gift card, you could buy something a bit more personalized. For the wellness-embracer in your life, a bath fizz may be just the ticket. Or a candle or any of their tinctures are a great stocking stuffer. Personally, I relied on their Dust Bowl tincture to get me through allergy season this fall and recommend it!

5 // Dove & Donkey (Nationwide)

For the interiors-loving homebody, Boston-based Dove and Donkey sells consciously crafted home textiles: tabletop, throws and bedding. Perfect for a cozy and elegant winter. I’d be looking at these for a great hostess gift.

6 // Cafe Roze / Roze Pony (Nashville, TN)

Cafe Roze is East Nashville’s all-day cafe and bistro. Aesthetically: think Paris bistro but lighter, fresher, and hipper. Food-wise: think West Village, NYC. A meal at Cafe Roze is perfect for the foodie on your list who treasures quality time, or you can get them a gift card (like my mama did for me last Christmas). If you’re on the other side of town, run, don’t walk, to try the Souffle Pancakes at their sister restaurant Roze Pony (gift cards here).

7 // Meg Bodi Skincare (Austin, TX)

A gift card to Meg Bodi Skincare is ideal for the person who cares about skin health and their whole health. This person glows from the inside-out, as they know: their outsides are a representation of their insides. They want great skin, but more than that, they treasure the understanding and education on the journey to get it.

As always, I must say: thank you for your support of our clients and of Ellevated Outcomes. This was an exciting growth year for us, in so many ways. We’ll end the year at 25% growth over 2024, not to mention all the internal growth initiatives we accomplished. Our team worked so hard this year, and we’re feeling the rush to end strong and then take a big, fat nap over the holidays.

I hope that your December has had a fun and joyous start, and you’re able to finish out the rush of anticipation, meeting deadlines, and celebrations… then wind way down for a couple weeks.