'Tis the season of holiday shopping! Columbia County is the perfect Christmas town to buy something special for every person on your list. With dozens of unique local shops and boutiques, you'll find gifts you can't get anywhere else. Skip the chain stores this year and embrace the heart-warming experience of shopping small. Here are twelve locally-owned shops in Columbia County to do your Christmas shopping local.
Voted "Best Gift Shop" by Columbia County Magazine in 2021, Southern Willow Market is a must-visit. They have many gems to uncover, from home decor to hand-poured soy candles, apparel, and bath & body products. Grab a hot cup of coffee from the bakery and browse through many locally-sourced products. If you want to slow down and savor the moment, order a cookie or cupcake from the bakery to enjoy on the patio.
A stylish yet affordable women's fashion boutique, The Ivy has tons of cute outfits you won't find in outlet malls! It's the store where you go in looking for a gift for your friend but end up trying on a dress for yourself (you deserve it!). Any item from The Ivy will surely be a new favorite in your girlfriend's wardrobe.
3. Southern Landscaping Garden & Gifts
Another gift shop that's fun to visit, Southern Landscaping, is like walking through a well-designed museum. They offer creative home decor for your home's interior and exterior. Any piece from here will bring your loved one's space alive! Plus, with the fresh smell of flowers and plants filling the air, you won't want to leave. It's just the spot to find a memorable gift for the home-obsessed person in your life.
4. Peaceful Warrior Apothecary
For the spiritual soul or all-natural person in your life, you can't go wrong at Peaceful Warrior Apothecary. They offer healing crystals, holistic herbal remedies, loose-leaf teas and much more. If you're looking to spoil your loved one extra, you could purchase one of their educational classes, workshops or wellness services.
5. The Fan Zone
Sports enthusiasts delight! The tailgaters in your life will love you for shopping at The Fan Zone. They have merchandise for every team you can think of in all different formats. Choose from jerseys, coolers, cups, keychains, chairs, and so much more. They even offer custom orders if you have something particular in mind. Whomever sports fanatic is, you'll win with them by shopping here!
6. Posh Tots Children's Boutique
For the well-dressed little ones in your life, Posh Tots won't disappoint. Their carefully curated collection of upscale designer kidswear is the most stylish you'll find. From newborn baby gowns to tween dresses and everything in between, they have luxury options for all the children on your list. If you're pining for that "Best Aunt" award this year, plan a shopping trip here!
If you know someone who lives in their garden, Greenbrier Nursery is just the place to shop for them! This garden center offers a range of shrubs, fruit trees, perennials, annuals, pine straw, handmade goods, and more. The great thing about gifting plants and fruit trees is that they continue giving for years to come. No matter what you find at Greenbrier, your friend with the green thumb is sure to be thankful.
If "vintage" is your loved one's favorite word, Southern Branches has something for them! This local antique shop is full of home decor that'll add southern charm to any space. It's an incredible experience to go in and see all the unique furniture. If you've never been, make sure to check them out!
Low Country Clothier is all about quality and style for the Southern men in your life. From hitting the golf course to cruising the lake, they have classic apparel for every occasion. They also offer smaller gifts like wallets, socks, belts, ties and gift sets. It's the kind of store that instantly says: "He's a gentleman, but he also knows his way around outdoors."
Another shop for your gal pals, Swank is all about fashion at reasonable prices. For women ages 16-80, you'll find unique trend-setting styles that your BFF will love you for. The whole experience will be joyful as you find just the right apparel to compliment your friend's personality. You might even want to add to the outfit with an adorable piece of costume jewelry.
11. Escape Outdoors
For your favorite adventurers, Escape Outdoors has gear and lifestyle apparel to leave them smiling. From the top brands to styles you've never seen, this shop is every explorer's dream! You'll find camping and hiking gear, bikes, kayaks, and accessories to fuel any adventure. For outdoor fanatics, there's no better gift than one that lets them escape outdoors.
Last but far from least on our list is a local gem with home decor and gifts that anyone will adore. The store's interior looks like it could be in a magazine, with beautiful displays and bright pops of color. You'll find holiday-themed dining sets, ornaments, and pillows to give the gift of Christmas spirit to anyone on your shopping list.
Well, that's a wrap! Armed with this list of unique shops in your pocket, even Santa is bound to be impressed by your gift-giving skills. Your loved ones will feel extra special hearing that you scoured Columbia County's boutiques to find the perfect gift just for them. Here's to a joyful season of holiday shopping locally. For a complete list of local shops, visit our Things to Do page.
