Trying to find a unique holiday gift for that special someone this holiday season? Consider shopping small this Saturday in Pittsburgh’s Lawrenceville neighborhood. You’ll find yourself in a sea of hip Pittsburgh boutiques and gift shops where you’re bound to find a one-of-a-kind gift for everyone on your list. If you’re new to the neighborhood, worry not! I’ve rounded up the five best Pittsburgh boutiques to find unique gifts this holiday season.
Locally made scented candles or make-your-own!
The Candle Lab is every bit about the experience as it is the gift. Take your friends and family to the lab to create your very own scented candles! This is the perfect option if you are in search of a personalized, yet functional, gift idea. No time to make the trip? No problem. You can find their full selection of homemade candles at www.thecandlelab.com.
Una Biologicals is perfect for the beauty junkie and the nature-lover alike. My personal favorite? The organic body butter is a luxuriously rich lotion that you’ll find yourself quickly addicted to. Try it in the Sweet Almond or Vanilla Spice scents during the winter season. I also love their organically made wellness products, including the Wound Wonder, Organic Eye Pillow, and Baby Balm. Find their products online at www.unabiologicals.com.
New to the Lawrenceville neighborhood is the chic vintage boutique that houses a carefully selected collection of vintage apparel, including beautiful silk blouses and gorgeous sweaters in the most stunning of shades. On top of her artful clothing selection, owner Kathleen Fanto creates one-of-kind beautifully crafted handmade jewelry. You can find her lookbook and purchase her creations at www.ruhlingwoven.com.
Locals know that Wildcard is your one-stop shop when it comes to any gifting needs. Walk in the door and, to your left, you’ll see a floor-to-ceiling wall of unique cards for every occasion. Continue strolling towards the back of the store, and you’ll find the most beautiful gift wrap you’ve ever laid eyes on, along with Pittsburgh themed clothing for everyone from Mom and Dad, down to newborn babies. That’s not all, though. Wildcard works closely with local artists to collect their supply of unique gifts. Trust me when I say you’ll need to schedule at least an hour in this store to take in all of its wonders. You simply cannot leave without finding something special for everyone on your list!
Pavement has been a part of Lawrenceville since the neighborhood’s revival, and it continues to thrive as one of the best boutiques in town. Owner Alissa Martin handpicks each item for her store, and most all of them are made in the United States! At Pavement, you will find a selection of beautiful sweaters, graphic tees, unique jewelry, and swoon-worthy hats and accessories. Grab your morning coffee next door at Espresso A Mano and then let your shopping spree begin (no judgement if you stumble upon something special for yourself, either)!
With so many large retailers offering major Cyber Week steals and deals, it can be an afterthought to remember how many truly great shops are right in our own backyards. Shopping small is a great way to find unique gifts that stand out from those available on the mass market. Besides that, it’s a way to give back to your own community and keep these smaller shops in business. It’s gifting that you can feel good about!
Loving this Pittsburgh Boutiques feature? Take a look here for more of my holiday favorites!