Teacher Gifts: Where to Shop Locally for Glorious Goodies

If you’re like me, you love finding new local spots to shop and support our SATX economy. Small businesses need our help more than ever, and what better season than the festive one to spread dual cheer? Our teachers work tirelessly each year to educate and support our children. Holiday gifts can be a great way to show them your appreciation, explore our local community, shop local, and give yourself a merry outing. Here are a few of my favorite places to grab glorious gifts your amazing teachers will love.

Memory Lane

I FINALLY stepped into Memory Lane for the first time today, and I am so glad I did! It is beautiful and full of so many gorgeous options for the teachers, mothers, and friends on your list. They specialize in embossing, monogramming, and personalization, but the reason I loved it most? So many cute and thoughtful gifts to consider that will fit any budget, like these soaps, bath bombs, and lotions with peppermint infusions, perfect for the holidays. They also had some tea towel and cookie cutter sets that are perfect baking gifts. Even my son, who came along to choose gifts for his teachers, felt holiday ready after our trip to Memory Lane.

So festive, so much peppermint!

5800 Broadway #204, SATX—Open Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

Belle & Union

It comes as no surprise that I adore Belle & Union. It’s magical and all things lovely, and not only are they local, but they also partner with other local artisans. Drop in for all things stationery, letterpress, foodie-oriented, apothecary, or printed. I feel like they always have a unique gift for every person on my list. Check out their collection of notebooks and notepads (teacher staples) infused with the owner Meg’s creative fairy dust.

7959 Broadway #502, SATX—Open Monday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; Sunday, 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. 

Nowhere Bookshop

My fave local bookshop has you covered. With an eclectic and beautiful selection of children’s books, it’s the perfect place to pick up a few titles for the classroom library. They’ve just opened their café, so a gift card would be perfect in every way: downtime + coffee time + book shopping = well-deserved winter break. I also love their selection of gifting items: clever totes and socks, and of course, signed copies of Jenny Lawson’s books. Go for the books, but also the beautiful window displays and book love throughout the shop!

We heart reading. Thank you, teachers!

5154 Broadway, SATX—Open Monday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.; Sunday, 12:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.

Feliz Modern POP at the Pearl

Feliz is my gifting spirit animal. If you haven’t ever been there, block out at least seven hours to explore all the goodness. From RBG Superdiva Stickers to tortilla coasters, earrings, mini journals, Rifle Paper Co. beauties, and dog ponchos, Feliz is infused with all the light and color your eyes and heart can handle. Pro tip: Go alone or with friends, if you can, so you have time to browse without pressure.

303 Pearl Pkwy Ste. 104, SATX—Open Monday through Wednesday, 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; Thursday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.; and Sunday, 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Niche at Pearl

While they do carry vibrant and beautiful clothing, Niche carries unique and gorgeous earrings and other accessories made from mediums like clay and elaborate beadwork, and with Fiesta color palates or muted desert tones, there is a mood for every personality. Many of the teachers I adore love fun and chunky pieces of jewelry, especially earrings. Take a look and check out the Desert Cactus Beaded Earrings.

Rainbows from Niche!

302 Pearl Pkwy Ste. 112, SATX—Open Monday through Friday, 11:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; Saturday, 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; and Sunday, 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. 

Rose Hip Market

Rose Hip Coffee has just moved into its storefront market location. Teachers will love this coffee spot. It’s fierce and pretty and all things glorious. They can sip and nosh on healthy (or not as healthy) goodies. Grab a gift card for your teacher here to support a female-owned local coffee shop. Check out their IG, @rosehipmarket, for instant happiness.

120 W. Olmos Dr., SATX—Open Tuesday through Friday, 7:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; Saturday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Wherever your holidays find you, I hope they’re joyful and full of all the good things. Thank you, teachers! You are loved, appreciated, and deserve so much. Happiest holidays!

Jacey Blue Renner
Jacey Blue Renner is a freelance writer & poet who holds an MFA from Lesley University. Most recently you can find her work in San Antonio Magazine. As a USAF spouse, she has moved extensively with her family, but would've stayed in the UK (the island love of her life), forever. She uses words & running to keep her grounded. Her boy crew is an inspiration on how to live fully. Currently stationed in SATX, her family is her complete heart. Favorite Restaurant: La Fonda on Main. Favorite Landmark: The Pearl. Favorite San Antonio Tradition: Battle of FlowersParade.