It is the Christmas season and we could not be more excited. Team 834 lives for parties, treats and networking – we also LOVE supporting and buying local. In fact, last week we had the chance to sit down with Shelley Irwin for the WGVU Morning Show and chat with local businesses. Listen to the full interview here.
Below are a few businesses that have unique, affordable and local gifts for all of your holiday needs.
G.B. Russo
As the largest wine selection in West Michigan, they offer thousands of wines for purchase by the bottle or case, at competitive prices. G.B. Russo & Son is the place to shop for true connoisseurs and novices alike. The Russo family is always happy to help, with personal service and knowledgeable advice. Stop on in and visit their deli, grab #MadeInGR stocking stuffers or create a custom gift basket.
They also have a variety of events featuring local vendors like Brewt’s Bloody Mary Mix, Gray Skies Distillery and more.
NODDA Shirt
Don’t know what to buy that hard-to-shop for guy in your life? This is seriously the coolest product out there. Do you like the look of a button-down, collared shirt layered underneath a sweater on the men in your life? If you hate that bunched-up feeling of wearing a button-down under a sweater or fleece, NODDA SHIRT has the solution.
They start with a deep v-neck t-shirt with a sewn-in insert of button-down, collared shirt. When wearing under a sweater or pullover, it appears as if you are wearing a button-down shirt, but in reality, it’s ‘NODDA SHIRT.’
Little Lucy’s Cafe’
This is a NE Grand Rapids staple. Whether you head there for their amazing breakfast, bloody mary bar on the weekend or need a dozen baked goods to bring to your next holiday part – this is the place for you.
Little Lucy’s Café is the Creston Neighborhood hot spot for healthy and eclectic breakfast and lunch dining. This café and eatery brings an urban feel to our beloved neighborhood setting, without the hustle, bustle, and crowds of downtown. Whether you’re looking for a quick cup of joe and housemade pastry to take on-the-go, catching up with friends over a sweet or savory breakfast plate, or simply watching the day pass by with a laptop and cup of locally roasted coffee, Little Lucy’s Café will satisfy your needs.
Gray Skies Distillery
Our friends at Gray Skies make some great booze. From their Single Malt Whiskey to their Apple Brandy to their Coffee Liqueur, these guys know how to make phenomenal spirits. Looking for a unique gift? Stop in to their tasting room and ask for them to pair coasters and glasses with one of their spirits.
At Gray Skies Distillery, they don’t try to be everything to everyone. Instead, they focus our attention on our process, flavors, environment and those looking for the unexpected. They take pride in introducing traditional spirits – like gin, vodka, whiskey and rum – with a surprising flavor twist, making them unique to Gray Skies Distillery.
Whichever of these local companies you choose to buy from, you will be the talk of the Christmas party – or just buy it for yourself. Who says you can’t buy presents for numero uno?
