Holiday Gift Guide: Shop Small

Hi all,

The holidays are here, and while we don’t identify religiously as fitting into any one-holiday tradition, we still take the time to purchase gifts for those we love. Finding something that is just as unique as your love for someone is a really beautiful thing, and we would like to help you make that process a little easier.

Enter the Thistle’s Summit Shop Small Gift Guide.

We are so fortunate to have relationships with many makers and small businesses in our community and throughout the state of Iowa, so we wanted to use our platform to elevate the voice of those folx who are out here making our world a more beautiful place every damn day. Thistle’s Summit is about community and that community isn’t possible without these folx who make our world vibrant.

Here’s to the makers, the experience creators, the space holders, and the curators of memory. We see you, we love you and we support you.

While these posts get a lot of attention and traction during the holidays these people are creating all year and are worth your support more than just during the holidays. If you have the privilege to do so, please shop local first, support their businesses with not just your dollars but your own personal platform. Lift up makers that you love by sharing their social media, telling your network about them and leaving positive reviews for their work. This makes a world of difference for makers and has the ability to actually impact their lives. Every time you choose to support a maker, a tiny bit of corporate capitalism is beat back. Be for people not corporations.

Without further ado, we present our gift guide. For your ease of use we have broken it down into digestible categories, however most people fall in to more than one category:

Makers & Creators
These folx are producing amazing work without a brick and mortar location.

Guilford/Gauge
Instagram: @guilfordgauge
Heather makes amazing colorful and elegant baskets, weavings and jewelry. Her work always brings a smile to our face, as well as her presence. She also is an amazing yoga teacher and healer. Catch her at markets all throughout Eastern Iowa.

Locust Grove Farm
Instagram: @locust_grove_farm
Click here for website
Rebecca is a jill of all trades, not only does she run a chemical free farm, she makes the most beautiful personal care products around. From her salt bars, to bath melts and lotion bars, her scents and packaging are to die for. She routinely sells out of her signature scents so stock up asap for the ultimate stocking stuffer.

Katie Blanchard Art
Instagram: @k.c.blanchard
Click here for website
We have admired Katie’s work for a long time, in fact have several of her pieces on display at TS. They are always conversation starters. Her work uses watercolor and social justice themes to create something truly remarkable.

Sorenson Ceramics
Instagram: @sorensonceramics
Click here for website
Ceramics nerds and stoners alike will appreciate Danielle’s work. She makes beautiful one hitters and functional ceramic platters and mugs in every color of the rainbow. Sure to please the tea aficionado on your list. Or that cousin who always disappears into the garage after family dinner.

Bath Melts from Locust Grove Farm

Metaphysical Movers & Shakers

This is as close as you can get to paying for Spiritual Enlightenment

Kae Apothecary
Instagram: @kaeapothocary
Click here for website
100 1st St W, Mt Vernon, IA 52314
Andrea has changed the main street of Mount Vernon with Kae Apothecary. Not only does the shop offer a variety of spiritual and witchcraft classes, she hand blends all of her signature loose leaf teas and makes all of the personal care products from only natural ingredients. If you are looking to make self care a priority or just looking for gifts at any price point for someone on your list, pop in.

Hazel & Thyme
Instagram: @hazel_and_thyme
Click here for website
Self described as “handcrafted wellness for body and soul by two hippie mamas in America's heartland.” These two moms and friends make gorgeous personal care products and moon mists that they online and through the ICR region. They also have new moon circles and doula services for those folx who are local to Iowa City area. We can’t say enough things about Mama’s Kiss Herbal Salve. Protip: Their seasonal herb boxes that would make the ultimate holiday gift.

Allison Fretheim Ceramics/ Heim Iowa City
Instagram: @allisonfretheimceramics
Click here for website
If her work isn’t the perfect gift for an occultist in your life, we don’t want to be right. From mugs to bowls and everywhere in-between her color palette of black and gold on b mix clay is totally both swoon and instagram worthy. We have a mug of hers from a million years ago when she was an emerging artist at the Des Moines Art’s Festival and it is one of our prized possessions. Check our her brick and mortar location or through her website.

Ash Gravity
Instagram: @ashgravity
Click here for website
Give the gift of astrological insight. Need a little helping knowing what is on the horizon or when to embark on taking your side hustle full time in 2020. Ash is your human. Bonus: readings can be done digitally or you can come over for milk (non-dairy if that’s your jam) and cookies and have a reading at Thistle’s Summit.

Mama’s Kiss Herbal Salve from Hazel & Thyme

Bold & Bejeweled
These folx know that life could always use a little extra sparkle

Dani Awesome
Instagram: @daniawesome
Click here for website
Dani lives up to her last name. Not only is she the co-founder of the legendary Des Moines event Market Day, with her partner Cat (featured in our queer makers category) she is the producer of amazing jewelry. Her work features real crystals and a variety of metals to create daily ware pieces that feel oh so special. We particularly love her the variety of brass earnings that are odes to the moon and stars.

Becca Reyna- Vasquez
Instagram: @__BVAZ__
Click here for website
A former resident of the ICR area and a multifaceted maker. She makes beautiful earnings out of seed pods (think the most ferocious earrings out of devils claw) as well as delicately woven mini tapestries out of thrifted and natural fibers. Her enamel pins are a hit in our house that feature beautiful botanicals and lots of #plantsperation.

Kin
Instagram: @kin.dsm
Click here for website
333 E Grand Ave #106, Des Moines, IA 50309
The baubles here are unreal, you won’t be able to believe your eyes. Think enormous rings both vintage and one of a kind made from Turquoise, Abalone, Jasper and Gem Silica. If the rings don’t get you their extensive collection of vintage and local maker necklaces certainly will. Go drool over their Instagram feed right now.

Lux Debris
Instagram: @luxedebris
Click here for website
We have always been drawn to the distinctive geometric shapes used by artist, Carissa, in the creation of her gorgeous dangly earrings and bold necklaces. You can find her work online or at the charming Found and Formed in Cedar Rapids, which we always recommend our guest take a swing through.

Stationary made for us by Iron Leaf Press

Boss Babes
These women are crushing the local business game. We look up to them and admire the path that they have paved. Women owned and women operated. All of these stores have a brick and mortar location.

Fuel Art and Espresso
Instagram: @tommie.fuel
107 1st St E, Mt Vernon, IA 52314
Seriously is the most wonderful cozy coffee shop that is so much more than a coffee shop. Find the perfectly curated selection of artisan-made, fair trade and antique goods. Jewelry is always a particular hit in our house as well as the sugar cookies made by the owners mama. A gift all themselves.

Iron Leaf Press
Instagram: @ironleafpress
Click here for website
102 1st St W, Mt Vernon, IA 52314
Should be the go to for anyone on your list that is in to paper or pens (We see you Capricorns).  A personalized letterhead or note card is not just a pipe dream, thanks to the Iron Leaf Press. The shop has even been featured by Johanna Gaines of Magnolia Magazine, as a must buy! They made the postcards that we distribute to guests and we could not be more tickled by them.

The Local
Instagram: @glynmawrwinery
Click here for website
103 1st St W, Mt Vernon, IA 52314
Not only do they make their own Iowa wine, they have a lovely selection of local made goods and snacks. From cutting boards, to personal care products, with a few antiques mixed in for good measure, this place is so totally unexpected. Grab a glass of their wine, or a local kombucha and poke around, you will love what you find.

Art Terrarium
Instagram: @art_terrarium
Click here for website
106 11th St, Des Moines, IA 50309
One of the places we miss most from our former life. Filled with plants and pots of all sizes and at all price points, this brilliantly styled store is a must stop for any plant fanatic. Popping in here actually helps relieve seasonal depression, it is clinically proven.   Give the gift of green this year.

White Rabbit
Instagram: @whiterabbitgalleryic
Click here for website
112 S Linn St, Iowa City, IA 52240
Our ultimate go to giftery. We usually make an annual holiday pilgrimage to pick up local made gifts for all of our loved ones. Prepare for beautiful jewelry, vintage threads, poppy art and killer stickers. Super queer friendly as well. Shopping here is enhanced only by a few cocktails from neighboring Pullman, before and after.

Beautiful Candles from Fuel Art & Espresso

Queer Creators
Near and dear to our heart! Support the gay agenda and these makers!

Cat Rocketship
Instagram: @ooomami
Click here for website
Queer witches unite! Look no further than their illustrated skeleton tarot deck or deck of many things to check off that hard to shop for art aficionado or deck collector. Cat’s work takes inspiration from the occult, social justice, DND and everywhere in-between. They are also a co-founder, ( along with their partner Dani, listed above) of Des Moines based Market Day, a black Friday shop small alternative. You can purchase their prints, decks and stickers on their etsy!

The Side Garage
Instagram: @thesidegarage
Click here for website
513 Elm St, West Des Moines, IA 50265
Owned by wives, Ashleigh and Elena, their mobile screen printing experience up has taken Des Moines by storm. What started as their side hustle is now their full-time hustle and we are in awe of how they are everywhere all of the time. Their sweatshirts and tees are adorable, soft and perfectly suited for gift giving. You can buy directly from their storefront in historic Valley Junction, or from their website. They also are happy to work with you on a custom order for your printing needs.

Queer Candle Co.
Instagram: @queercandleco
Click here for website
These two are just the coolest. They launched their now booming candle enterprise from their Brooklyn apartment. They have the best scents like Oat Milk, Coffee Shop and a whole line of rotating seasonal scents that look as beautiful as they smell. Often adorned with real herbs, salt or flowers, they are easy on the eyes. They are basically the feel good gift of the season as they give 10% of their profits to Sylvia Rivera Law Project.

CannaPride
Instagram:@cannapridelifestyle
Click here for website
Give the gift of a higher and more mellow state of mind this holiday season. Wives Kayla and Tara are making it their mission to educate folx about the impact that CBD can have on their overall health. All of their products are vegan, 3rd party tested and gluten-free. They carry topicals, tinctures and even calming goodies for your furry friends.

Give the gift of comfort and hospitality: Thistle’s Summit Gift Certificates.

Available in $50 increments.

Treat Yo’ Self
Whether you are shopping for a Taurus or looking to surprise and delight, these folx have just what you need.

Wander Women Iowa
Instagram: @wanderwomeniowa
Click here for website
They guide and empower womxn on all inclusive camping and adventure trips throughout Iowa. The owner Jenn, is creating safe space for connection for womxn of all walks of life to feel safe, uplifted and inspired by nature. We had the pleasure of hosting Jenn for a few days earlier this year and can say without a doubt, she is generating some magnificent opportunities that are well worth the reasonable fee.

Brick House Yoga
Instagram: @brickhouseyogamv
This one is for all the ICR/ Mount Vernon folx only. We love love love Brick House Yoga. From their Monday night slow flow class with Cindy, to Wednesday yoga with Heather, we can’t say enough nice things about this tiny studio. While you could certainly gift a class or two for the very reasonable cost of $10 per class, if you are looking for a bigger gift, consider purchasing an month long membership. Unlimited classes are available for a little over $100 per month, the ultimate gift for the passionate yogi.

Hands in Harmony
Click here for website
The holidays (and existence frankly) can be so stressful, help your loved ones unwind and feel taken care of with a spa service. With two locations, one in downtown Mount Vernon and in Cedar Rapids and expansive therapists and hours, you are sure to always be able to make time to rest and restore. Services range from simple massages, to decadent and comforting body wraps as well as reiki. The staff is always helpful, professional and ready to melt away tension.

The charming patio of Rodina in the Czech Village

Gastronomic Gurus
Looking to add a little spice to your gift giving, these folxs have just what you need. From ingredients to experiences, look no further.

Rodina
Instagram: @rodina_resturant
Click here for website
1507 C Street SW, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
We are drooling just thinking about this knock out restaurant. Rodina offers Midwest Comfort Food to the people of their local community and beyond. Everything served is offered with love from the farmers, the chef, and every industry professional through whose hands it passes. Looking to champion the slow food system, they aim to source local, sustainable, and humanely raised products as much as possible. Give a gift certificate or share a meal with a loved one. For you non-local folx, it is worth the trip to Cedar Rapids. We happen to know a place to stay if you need one.

Allspice
Instagram: @allspicedsm
Click here for website
400 E Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309
A sure bet for any culinary enthusiast! This Des Moines staple has been around for many years, and still continues to supply the best herbs and spices in the area. They have pre-boxed gift sets for the grill master or bakers in your life, though if the pre-boxed option doesn’t trip your tigger their friendly staff is always willing to help assemble something that works for you, as well as providing tips and tricks along the way.

Lincoln Wine Bar
Instagram: @pizza_lwb
Click here for website
125 W. 1ST St | Mt. Vernon, IA
Self described in their instagram bio as “Wine, beer, pizza music”. All the simple and wonderful things that make life worth living, but is is so much more than that. LWB is an culinary powerhouse in downtown Mount Vernon, less than a mile from our home. The menu is always fresh and changing, chocked full of produce and foraged foods from local farmers. The place is popping on Fridays and Saturday’s especially so be prepared to wait for your family get together, or come during the week. Monday’s are half off pies, and Wednesday’s are half off wine….really makes you ask yourself, why not come more than once!

Rapid Creek Cidery
Instagram: @rapidcreekcidery
Click here for website
4823 Dingleberry Rd NE #2, Iowa City, IA 52240
Rapid Creek Cidery, housed on the property of the iconic Wilson’s Apple Orchard, has a menu that is focused on simple food that reflects the culinary teams interest, using produce grown with care, animals treated with respect, and a well-curated pantry. The dining experience here is pleasurable (albeit a bit gluttonous sometimes- hello duck for two) through and through. The bar is well curated with cider craft cocktails, and you cannot miss the bread from Mount Vernon’s own The Local Crumb and creative daily butter. Pro-tip: If you fall in love with Wilson’s Hard Cider, it is available in most HyVee’s throughout the ICR area.

Aposto
Instagram: @apostodm
Click here for website
644 18th Street, Des Moines, IA 50314
We have long loved this restaurant and with the powerhouse head chef, Shawn at the helm it is better than ever. Everything about dining here just feels so damn comfortable and special, from the slightly sexy lighting to the friendly (but not overbearing staff) it is dining as it should be. Chef Shawn’s charcuterie should not be missed nor should the hand made pasta. Come hungry and ready to settle in to lingering conversation over beautiful food.