During the holidays, many of us find ourselves in a giving mood. We head to the nearest malls, brave the packed parking lots, deal with crazy drivers and hustle through crowded stores in search of the perfect gift. Avoid all of that this year and support some of these small businesses instead:
A Shop Called Quest
Image via ieshineon.com
A Shop Called Quest is not your average comic book store. I was instantly hooked by the shop’s name which is a clever homage to hip-hop greats, A Tribe Called Quest, but their collection of graphic novels, classic comic books, art magazines like Juxtapoz and Pop! Vinyl collectibles make it such a neat place to do your holiday shopping for that artsy friend of yours. Head to the nearest location in Claremont Village.
Buffalo Exchange
Image via Buffalo Exchange Twitter
Buffalo Exchange is a family run thrift shop that has been a big name in thrifting circles for over 40 years. You can find quality clothing for a relatively low price or trade in your own clothes. Buffalo Exchange has a reputation for stocking great vintage finds, so make sure to visit if you’re looking for your next statement piece. Find the nearest location to you here.
Cellar Door Books
Image via Cellar Door Books Facebook
It may seem like Barnes and Noble’s have edged out all the quaint, mom-and-pop bookstores of our youth, but Cellar Door Books in Riverside is still thriving. The independent bookstore hosts storytimes, writing circles and meet and greets with local authors. Make sure to visit Cellar Door because nothing beats browsing through the shelves of a cozy bookstore.
Freshbot
Image via freshbotco.com
Freshbot is the creation of Inland Empire (IE) based graphic designer, Daniel Martinez. Freshbot is a side project of his specializing in streetwear tees, hoodies, dad caps and stickers. He’s just getting started so if you want to snag one of his products, you can browse the online shop here.
Goldkills
Image via Goldkills Instagram
Goldkills is a well established and locally renowned streetwear brand out of the IE. They’ve expanded beyond tees and caps to include hoodies, jerseys, stickers, mugs, flags… I mean, the list goes on. View Goldkill’s Instagram for a feel of the brand. Bonus: if you want to surprise a friend living outside of the United States, they ship worldwide.
Mrs. Tiggy Winkles Gift Shop
Image via Pinterest
One of the cutest novelty shops I’ve ever laid eyes on is Mrs. Tiggy Winkles in Downtown Riverside. You can find prank gifts, mints with sassy labels, literature-themed cocktail books, handmade jewelry from local artists and a whole assortment of random things. What did you expect from a shop with a cute name like that, honestly?
Natali Koromoto
Image via Natali Koromoto Tumblr
Look at these prints, just look. I dare you to tell me they aren’t cute. Surprise the art collector in your life with original prints from artist Natali Koromoto. You can find all her prints online and browse her shop for sweaters and pins featuring her custom designs.
Philadelphia Printworks
Image via Philadelphia Printworks
You can put your spirit of activism on full display this season with gifts from Philadelphia Printworks. The company was founded on a DIY aesthetic with the goal to spread their message of social justice and activism. From their Cats Against Catcalling collection to School of Thought, you’re bound to find gifts for your faves.
Zoinks Records
Image via thevinylfactory.com
Did any of these businesses make your shopping list? Let us know using the hashtag #CampusCropChat and keep following us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat @asicpp!
