EASTside Magazine’s Holiday Gift Guide: 2022 Edition
Swoon-worthy Local Gifts
Words by Abby L. Johnson
If you’re in need of a last-minute gift, shop local. Whether you swing by to pick up that perfect something this week or place an order online for a better-late-than-never surprise, this line-up of local goods is sure to please.
1. Love All Sweatshirt from Brother Friend
Swing by Brother Friend’s newlocation and pick up this classic, cozy piece that’s sure to become a staple in this chilly season. Be sure to grab a cup of joe from their in-store coffee cart to fuel your shopping spree.
Buy Here | 2213 Poquito St., #100 | @brotherfriend.shop
2. The Xander from Helm Boots
These handmade sneakers are the perfect elevated basic that are meant to last, truly capturing the laid-back Austin vibe.
Buy Here | 1200 E 11th St., Suite 101 | @helmboots
3. A New Book from Vintage Books & Wine
Pop into the Eastside’s newestlocally owned bookstore and wine bar and peruse their selection of bestsellers and offerings from local authors.
Learn More | 1101 E 11th St. |@vintagebooksandwine
4. Weekend at The Frances Modern Inn
A staycation at the newly redesigned Frances Modern Inn may be just what your loved one needs to start the new year on the right side of the bed. This charming hotel is in walking distance of local bars and restaurants, charming boutiques, and plenty of food trucks—the quintessential escape for the perfect Austin weekend.
Book Here |1123 E 11th St. | @thefrancesmoderninn
5. Prep to Your Door Gift Card
Give the gift of time with a Prep to Your Door gift card. This local meal delivery service offers convenient, healthy plant-based meals that are good for you and good for the planet.
Buy Here | 507 Calles St., Ste. 100 | @preptoyourdoor
6. East Austin Neighborhood Honey from Two Hives Honey
This sweet little gift from Two Hives Honey is truly hyperlocal, made by honeybees from the neighborhood, literally capturing the flavor of East Austin.
Buy Here | 7617 Nez Perce Trce., Manor, TX | @twohives
7. Still Austin Whiskey from Austin Shaker
Let the expert bartenders at the Austin Shaker guide you in buying the perfect spirit and bar accessory. Their eclectic offerings range from the familiar to the delightfully unusual.
Learn More | 1199 Airport Blvd. & 420 North Pleasant Valley Rd.
8. A Cooking Class from Let’s Eat Austin
Whether you’re new to the kitchen or a professional chef in the making, learning the ins and outs of a new dish is exciting. Take some time to sharpen your skills under the guidance of the talented local chefs at Let’s Eat Austin with one of their signature cooking classes.
Buy Here |1610 Chatham Ave. |@letseataustin
9. Gift Card to Merkaba Massage
With a wide range of modalities and specialties available, the folks at Merkaba Massage are knowledgeable and well-versed in addressing many ailments. Specializing in everything from prenatal massage to Ashiatsu, Merkaba has something to offer everyone on your list.
Buy Here | 5802 Berkman Dr., Ste. B | @merkabamassagestudio
10. Tiny Hook Earrings from Fail Jewelry
Simple and elegant, these minimalistic earrings are not only gorgeous, but wearable for almost any occasion. Local designer Christine Fail’s pieces are the perfect complement to dress up or wear for the everyday.
Buy Here | @failjewelry
11. Fierce Whiskers Distillery Tour
Give the experiential gift and see how the magic is made with an hour-long tour of Austin’s newest whiskey distillery. Visitors will also have the chance to sample their four-year bourbon for themselves. Buy Here | 5333 Fleming Ct. | @fiercewhiskers
12. Cowboy Cut Wranglers from Callahan’s General Store
Sometimes the best gift is the simplest. Pick up a pair of timeless, long-lasting Wrangler’s from Austin’s favorite family-owned general store. Callahan’s not only has jeans but also has boots and hats to complete the attire.
Buy Here | 501 Bastorp Hwy. | @callahansgeneralstore