Call us biased, but we at Yelp Detroit think this metro has some of the best small business shopping in the country. Explore the region and you’re sure to find cute shops filled with fantastic locally made goods and unique gifts. But when you decide to ditch the big box stores it can be hard to know where to start! Well, lucky for you, we’re here to help!
This year, Yelp Detroit Community Manager (Annette J) and Community Ambassador (Chelcie W) scoured the area for the best gifts sure to please even the toughest person on your list. We also recruited some of our local Yelp team, friends of Yelp, and a few of our most active Elite members to chime in and share some of their favorite items from around town, as well. Oh, and the best part? Most everything on this list is under $50!
So get your shopping lists ready, because when it comes to holiday giving – we know just the place!
1. Michigan Mitten Bottle Cap Display from Catching Fireflies in Berkley | $38.95
Perfect For: Craft beer lovers
“Catching Fireflies in downtown Berkley is my go-to for unique gifts. It’s like an Etsy store in real life! Perfect for wedding or baby gifts or when you need a present for the pet lover or Michigan lover! If you check in on Yelp, you will get 10% off!” — Yelp Elite Lauren H
2. Recipe Tin from City Bird in Detroit | $34
Perfect For: The master chef in the family
This is just the most perfect way to keep track of all those delicious (and sometimes secret) family recipes, and provides a safe place to keep them all too!
3. Detroit Cocktail Glasses & Cocktail Mixer from Rock Paper Scissors in Ann Arbor | $15/glass + $18/mixer
Perfect For: Amateur mixologists
Add a good whiskey to these pre-made Bittermilk mixers and pour them into these Detroit branded glasses for easy craft cocktails in stylish vessels.
4. Pineapple Cocktail Shaker from Rail & Anchor in Royal Oak | $34.95
Perfect For: The host or hostess with the mostesses
“Good golly miss jolly! Snag this pineapple shaker for your holiday fiesta because everyone likes a festive drink!” — Yelp Brand Ambassadors Amy S + Julia P
5. Yoga Class Packages from Detroit Yoga Lab in Detroit | $18/class
Perfect For: Fitness lovers
“Detroit Yoga Lab provides a peaceful sanctuary in Midtown Detroit where the novice or seasoned yogi can get a good workout or gentle yoga class. I like the idea of yoga classes as a gift because it is a form of self-care and a workout . There are classes for everyone including gentle Yin to a definite workout with Vinyasa.” — Yelp Elite Nina M
6. Giant Coloring Roll from Nora in Detroit | $29.50
Perfect For: Young artists and exhausted parents
The perfect gift when you want to color for days at a time. Roll it out on the floor and let the kiddos color for hours on end (then put your feet up and enjoy the silence).
7. Things I Do in Detroit from City Bird in Detroit | $39.95
Perfect For: Wanderers, travelers, explorers, Michigan lovers
Penned by the Nain Rouge, this one is a pretty cool guidebook (and we rarely trust handsome devils on the cover of books).
8. Gift Card for 90 Minutes of Game Time at 3&UP Board Game Lounge in Plymouth | $25
Perfect For: Kids and fun-loving families
At $5 a person, a $25 gift card will cover a family of five for 90 minutes of gaming fun! 3&Up has over 1000 board games so there’s something for all ages and skill levels to enjoy! But a warning–you may need two cards to cover one game of Monopoly.
9. Air Plant Planters from Rail & Anchor in Royal Oak | $24.95
Perfect For: Pals with a green thumb
“Air plant planters and accessories for your garden loving friends. We love these because when winter sucks these brighten up your space!” — Yelp Brand Ambassadors Amy S + Julia P
10. Recycled Tire Coasters from City Bird in Detroit | $15
Perfect For: Anyone with a Michigan bumper sticker on their car
Set your drink down on some genuine Motor City burned rubber!
11. Family License Plate from Art is in Market in Clinton Township | $30
Perfect For: Moms, dads, grandparents, newlyweds
“Art is in Market features lots of local small business all under one roof for your convenience. This sign is one of many you can get from the “License Plate Heaven” booth. I chose this for the holidays because this time of year is usually very family oriented, so what better way to show yours how much that means by this cool, upcycled conversations peace sign they can display in their garage, entryway, mancave or family gathering room.” — Yelp Elite Shannon M
12. Simply Classic Gift Basket from Vince & Joe’s Fruit Market & Deli in Clinton Township | $39.99
Perfect For: Family on Christmas or New Year’s Day morning
“Jams, preserves, coffee and tea are all brilliantly packaged with gourmet cookies and treats. Pick up this basket and bask in the acknowledgment from friends and family, who will not go hungry this holiday season thanks to you!” — Yelp Elite Cosimo D
13. The Basic Beard Grooming Kit from Detroit Grooming Co. in Ferndale | $39.95
Perfect For: Your bearded boo, lumberjacks
Beard poo (shampoo for beards), beard butter, and two vials of grooming oil come with this set, which is manufactured right in Ferndale! Throw in a gift card for a haircut at the DGC barber shop and it’ll be you who will get the gift…of one sharp lookin’ fella!
14. “Wool and the Gang” Bundle of Wool from Nora in Detroit | $23
Perfect For: Knitters and crafters
Unwind with a skein of these beautiful yarns. Knit me baby, one more line!
15. Scotty O’Hotty Hot Sauce from Art is in Market in Clinton Township | $5.95
Perfect For: The mechanic, chef, or griller in your life
“Located in Art is in Market, the food booth has Scotty O’Hotty award winning hot sauce straight from Dearborn. I picked up several sets of 2 of my favorites for those in my life who are not afraid of flavor and appreciate the bold flavors of life.” — Yelp Elite Shannon M
16. “Detroit” Hanging Wall Bottle Opener from Detroit Artifactry in Detroit | $49.00
Perfect For: Beer enthusiasts
“Why you ask? According to USA Today, Michigan is number 5 out of 10 top states for craft brews. So yeah, I doubt you’ll find any of those yummy beers with a twist off.” — Yelp Elite Rodrigo T
17. Sweet & Bubbly Gift Basket from Vince & Joe’s Fruit Market & Deli in Clinton Township | $59.99
Perfect For: Hosts or hostesses with the mostesses
“Is there any better way to say, ‘Thanks for not letting me be home alone on New Year’s Eve,’ to your hostess than chocolate and sparkling Spumante? No. No there is not. Look cool and make your friends drool with this neatly put together gift basket for the holidays.” — Yelp Elite Cosimo D
18. Pint Glasses + Carrier from Thistle & Bess in Ann Arbor | $12/glass + $30/carrier
Perfect For: Your best friend with the best taste
This set of glasses and carrier take any festive gathering to the next level. Grab a 6 pack of local brews in one hand, this lovely, shiny carrier in another, and make way for merriment!
19. David Bowie “Sound + Vision” from UHF in Royal Oak | $29.95
Perfect For: Your audiophile significant other
“Perfect gift for any music lover or collector! This Bowie collection was originally made in the ’90s. UHF has tons of collectors’ sets for fans!” — Yelp Brand Ambassadors Amy S + Julia P
20. Amanda’s Coffee Pure Soy Candle from The Natural Market in Detroit | $12
Perfect For: Anyone who likes the cozy life
“The Natural Market is a local spot that has pop-ups, a brick and mortar shop and offers online ordering, so that friends near and far don’t have to miss out on a holiday gift. Soy candles are heavily fragranced and are an inexpensive option for the gifting season. Amanda’s coffee is an ode to the previous owner of Always Brewing in Grandmont/Rosedale Park.” — Yelp Elite Nina M
21. Weird Michigan Travel Book from Plain & Fancy Gift Shop in Rochester | $22.00
Perfect For: Wanderers, travelers, explorers, Michigan lovers
“There’s plenty of items in here for both men and women! They also have a great selection of Michigan items as well, which I loved!” Like this guide book, which is “your travel guide to Michigan’s local legends and best kept secrets.” — Yelp Elite Amy B
22. Desk Organizer from Hugh in Detroit | $32.50
Perfect For: The organized (or organizationally challenged) fella
“HUGH…likely not the least expensive of gift shops BUT they do have quality gear that runs the gamut from beautifully functional to downright cool! I saw this piece for around $32.50 and loved the idea for that OCD man in your life who just needs a place to put all his EDC (every day carry). I liked that it was handsome, comes in two colors, has a watch platform and a spot for his glasses, as well as a tray for a pocket knife, loose change and whatever else he has in his pockets at the end of the day.” — Yelp Elite Joe B
23. Michigan Home Wooden Sign (Charlee Jack Designs) from Art is in Market in Clinton Township | $27.00
Perfect For: The out of town friend, college student or family member
Charlee Jack Designs features wooden blocks and signs primarily focusing on the good ole mitten. You can also use the handy computer in the booth to create and submit your own family name or sign they will customize for you for a later date pick up. I chose this for my best friend who lives out of state as a reminder that home is where your roots and your heart is, no matter where your life takes you. — Yelp Elite Shannon M
24. Handmade Ornaments from Detroit Artists Market in Detroit | $8-$35
Perfect For: Your freakishly festive neighbor
Handblown glass orbs, hand painted ceramics, wood pieces, textiles and more make up this variety of stunning ornaments that will make any tree far more festive.
25. Michigan Holiday Drinking Glasses from Detroit Artifactry in Detroit | $12.95
Perfect For: Your Michigan loving BFF
“These vintage ‘Holiday Time in Michigan’ frosted glass tumblers were made for Mitten fans like me. The glasses can be found at Corktown newcomer Detroit Artifactry – and I highly recommend checking out the shop if you’re on the lookout for interesting gifts or finds. I’d love to grab these for holiday entertaining or to wrap up and send to Michigan friends in faraway places. They remind me of the mismatched animated glassware we would fight over as children and the winter scene is so sweet.” — Stephanie C of Prologue Detroit.
26. Assorted Greeting Cards from Leon & Lulu in Clawson | Under $7
Perfect For: Your funny friend miles away
Leon & Lulu and their new sister store The Show have an amazing array of curated gifts, home decor, and furniture but we love their collection of greeting cards best. Funny phrases, sappy sentiments, and more can be found in their wall o’ cards. When you don’t know what to say, let them say it for you (sometimes in a vaguely inappropriate manner).
27. Hats & Socks from Carhartt in Detroit | $9.99 – $15.99
Perfect For: Anyone who loves getting cozy
“Stocking stuffers abound within the walls of Carhartt’s Flagship store in Detroit. A wide variety of affordable and durable hats (ranging from $9.99-$14.99) and socks ($15.99) are sure to keep everyone on your list warm all winter long!” — Yelp Elite Alexandra K
28. Detroit Map Dog Collar or Leash (by Citybark) from Cass Corridog in Detroit | $25
Perfect For: Pets and pet lovers
This store is awesome because it has everything my furry little friend needs! Also, they have these really cool Detroit collars and leashes that would make a perfect gift for a friend who loves dogs!” — Yelp Marketing Assistant Mehdi A
29. Cheese Basket from The Cheese Lady in Farmington | $44
Perfect For: An elegant friend
“Take your taste buds on a world tour with this gift basket from Michigan’s own The Cheese Lady. This well-paired basket includes Croccantini crackers, Marcona almonds, Beau Bien Herbed red onion marmalade, Membrillo quince paste, Blue Stilton, Prairie Breeze, Raclette and Chèvre cheeses.” — Yelp Elite Robert P
30. Rifle Paper Journal + Planner from Heavenly Metal in Ann Arbor | $13/journal $34/planner
Perfect For: Your hyper-organized boss
These lovely Rifle Paper Co. notebooks and planners will help keep your recipient’s thoughts and schedules organized in style.
31. Engraved Flasks from Nest in Detroit | $27
Perfect For: The discrete boozer on your list, you (to help get you through the holidays), or the college grad
Nest is a small boutique with unique gifts for the home. These sarcastic flasks are perfect for gift-giving, especially with funny engravings like “Put some hair on your chest” and “May you never go to hell but always be on your way.” — Yelp Elite Allison F
32. Gift Certificate for a Haircut + Color from Hair 2 Dare in Fraser | Prices vary for color service
Perfect For: A fancy lady in your life
“Wanna treat your lady, sister or even your mother to a new look? Go into Hair 2 Dare and ask for Shelby, mentioning the Yelp Gift Guide and ensure that the special lady or ladies (no judgement) in your life look their very best this holiday season!” — Yelp Elite Cosimo D
33. Flower and Herb Kits from Nest in Detroit | $20
Perfect For: Novice gardeners
Just when you thought mason jars couldn’t get any cooler. Grow some herbs up in here!
34. Cherry Republic Sampler from Cherry Republic in Ann Arbor | $46.25
Perfect For: Your aunt with a serious sweet tooth
Cherry butter, dried cherries, chocolate covered cherries, cherry nut mix, oh my! This gift box likes to cherry all the time, cherry all the time, cherry all the time. And it’s all produced in Northern Michigan. Delectable *and* local!
35. Record A Song at Third Man Records in Detroit | $20
Perfect For: Sentimental music lovers
Step in the booth and record a song for someone you love. A personalized record is sure to make your grandma will cry (in a good way….unless you’re off-key).
36. Artist Palette Serving Tray from Rail & Anchor in Royal Oak | $34.95/large; $8.95/minis
Perfect For: Your artistic pal
“This artist palette serving tray is perfect for those artsy fartsy but creative foodie types.” — Yelp Brand Ambassadors Amy S + Julia P
37. Soy Candles with All Natural Wick from Duffey & Co. in Grosse Pointe | $23.99
Perfect For: Scentacolics
“Unique and intriguing notes that enhance the spaces we live in and love. One of many treasures to be found Duffey & Co. inspired goods.” — Yelp Elite Tiffany M
38. Fruit Wines + Wine Gear from Filipo Marc Winery in Clinton Township | $23.99
Perfect For: Girlfriends, coworkers, hairdresser, moms, hostesses
“Filipo Marc is a great stop in Macomb County and boasts wine gifts and over 70 varieties of wine for all palate! The 6 pack of either white or red perfect for that holiday party, hostess gift, or small gathering with friends. For your hairdresser, favorite co-worker or girlfriend–grab a stemmed/stemless glass, fun printed towel, napkins, and dessert wine. Make a basket of joy to show you care (and want them to share with you!)” — Yelp Elite Shannon M
39. Locally Made Skin Care Products from Vis-a-Vis Salon & Spa in Ann Arbor | Starting at $3.75
Perfect For: Anyone who loves feeling fancy
“Amazing local small batch skincare made with love. When I don’t know what to get my boys’ girlfriends for Christmas, it’s either a gift certificate for Vis-a-Vis services or skin care items. Even my boys use their lip balms in winter. High-quality, local, unique products that everyone can appreciate.” — Yelp Elite Beth H
40. Pet Food Stand from Art is in Market in Clinton Township | $50
Perfect For: Pet lover or a gift for your own fur baby
“Located in Art is in Market, MAG Custom Woodworking’s booth features lots of pet feed stands made mostly from recycled pallets! A really great gift for the pet lover in your life and a great way to show you can take something old/discarded and make it new and functional.” — Yelp Elite Shannon M
41. Deluxe TeaHaus in a Box from TeaHaus in Ann Arbor | $34.59
Perfect For: Moms, aunts, friends, and even leaf-loving bros
This box has everything you need to brew the ultimate cup of tea. Perfect for keeping warm on the cold winter nights to come.
42. Running Gloves/Headgear from Road Runner Sports in Canton | $20/each
Perfect For: Friends or family on the move
“Any runner would love to have a set of these reflective and touchscreen compatible gloves, and the head gear fits snug and has a soft feel without being too tight.” — Yelp Elite Saalai S
43. Pewabic Pottery Keepsake Tiles from Detroit Mercantile Co in Detroit | $40-$50
Perfect For: Mitten groupies and/or art collectors
These handcrafted Pewabic tiles are perfect for accenting your home with some Michigan/Detroit pride.
44. Vodka from Our/Detroit in Detroit | $18
Perfect For: Craft cocktail enthusiasts
“Personally I’m was very impressed. Classic bottle – everyone loves simple. On top of that, this business is run by ALL WOMEN and located in the heart of Detroit. I love supporting my Detroit family and I hope you’ll do the same.” — Yelp Elite Shunda B
45. Potato Chip Science Kit from Genuine Toy Co. in Plymouth | $17.95
Perfect For: Curious kiddos
Full of 29 experiments that turn the simple potato into scientific wondershop! The perfect “snacktivities” for inquiring kid minds.
46. Faygo Snap Back Caps from Detroit Vs. Everybody in Detroit | $39.99
Perfect For: Anyone who loves hats and/or Juggalos
Match with your favorite Faygo pop and wear your flavor!
47. Dress Up Big Foot from The Rocket in Ferndale | $15.99
Perfect For: Those who want to believe
The Rocket is the best place for off the wall stocking stuffers and zany gifts like this Dress Up Big Foot. This Sasquatch is 16 inches tall with 28 reusable vinyl cling pieces of clothing and accessories that you can use to dress the big guy to your liking.
48. Zombie Lawn Gnome The Rocket in Ferndale | $17.95
Perfect For: Your goth cousin
It was hard to pick just one thing from The Rocket so we went with one more crazy find. This zombie gnome takes woodland creatures to a whole other level. Scare the neighbors! Terrorize the squirrels! You’re in the forest, baby. You’re gonna die!
49. No-Drip Cone Candles from Nora in Detroit | $9-$25
Perfect For: That one friend with artsy taste
These candlesticks burn without messy wax and they’re colorful and stylish. It almost seems too good to be true.
50. Rocket Cocktail Shaker from Hugh in Detroit | $44.00
Perfect For: That one friend who always wanted to be James Bond
Become the super spy you’ve always wanted to be with this out of this world cocktail shaker. Ready for blast off!
