Our Favorite Things in San Antonio 2021

Better than raindrops on roses or whiskers on kittens and definitely better than warm woolen mittens (sorry, Bernie) – it’s our 2021 Favorite Things lineup! We’re excited to share the small and San Antonio local businesses with you. One lucky reader will win a bundle of our Favorite Things and details on the giveaway are at the bottom of this post! Check out #acmfavoritethings on Instagram or Facebook and add it to your posts if you visit or order from one of our partners.

The businesses included in this list gifted us with their products but were hand-picked and solicited by the ACM Team. Information about each business was submitted by the business itself.

Andalusia Whiskey

Enjoy an in-depth tour of our production area and bottling room with a member of the Andalusia Team. Tours include a tasting of 3 of our whiskeys or a cocktail of your choice. Tours are $15/ person and are 21 and up. All Tours are available by reservation. Please Email [email protected] to schedule a date and time.

Our “grain to glass” creations begin with a mash of the finest grains. All made deep in the Texas Hill Country, just north of San Antonio our handcrafted malt distillery lies. Each whiskey is double distilled in our copper pot still and then patiently aged.

Artsy SATX

Favorite Thing

Assorted San Antonio themed 50 sheet notepads. $8 each.


Artsy is an online shop featuring handmade and laser cut goods collaboratively designed by Suzan Browning and her daughters Taylor Bates and Jamie Hill. Artsy was founded in 2020 in San Antonio, Texas with a focus on creating limited edition and locally inspired products.

BK Designs

The glitter pens from BK Designs are a new and fun product that contains gel ink that writes oh-so-smoothly! These will sure to brighten your day or bring a smile to someone else’s face every time they use it! They contain refillable ink also, so you can keep using these beautiful pens over and over, however, you will still want one in every color and design for sure!

 

 

BK Designs is a handmade boutique run by a school nurse, mom, and wife. It specializes in gifts for teachers, nurses, moms, and pretty much anyone that needs to be spoiled in your life! BK Designs is best known for their glitter tumblers & pens that can be customized and personalized however you like! It is truly the gift that keeps on giving!

Boujee Bonbon

Favorite Thing is

Boujee Signature Chocolate Assortment. Four of our gourmet handcrafted artisan chocolates perfect for a thank you treat, hostess gift, or a Boujee bite simply made for you. Assortment varies by box, and a flavor guide is included in each.

At Boujee Bonbon, we are a maker of artisan bonbons located in San Antonio, Texas. Our specialty is hand-made bonbons, chocolates and fine confections. These amazing creations are exclusively available in our online shop and at select locations. We also offer limited delivery for our local customers in San Antonio.

Author Christie Cuthbert

Favorite Thing is

The Mischief Makers” is a newly released children’s book designed for preK-second grade. It focuses on the real-life stories of Cuthbert’s boys but includes storylines that outline character building and honesty. Kids will laugh out loud and learn valuable life lessons at the same time.

A former Alamo City Moms contributor, Christie Cuthbert is a mom of four boys; triplets, Tommy, Teddy and Nate, and their big brother, John. In 2020 she published “Mom! I Farted in Church” One Type A Mama’s Journey Learning to Laugh and Let Go, and this month she’s released her first children’s book in a series called “The Mischief Makers” A Series of Shenanigans and Brotherly Love.

Ever Clay

Favorite Thing is

I love pairing polymer clay with different materials! It adds a uniqueness to otherwise popular shapes and styles. This acrylic style is a bestseller because it’s lightweight, makes a statement, and pairs with so much. You’ll love the ease of throwing on Ever Clay Shop’s accessories.

 

 

Ever Clay Shop is a local gem of a jewelry and small treasures shop. All products are made with polymer clay and some are clay combined with brass, wood, acrylic, and crystal. Erin is a mom to three kids, wife to a busy husband, and has always been into crafting and creating. Ever Clay Shop’s goal is to provide simply classic pieces that are easy to wear and add a little brightness to your day!

From Scratch Farm

Our soothing lavender tub tea! A moisturizing, relaxing, hydrating, luxurious, loose-leaf botanical, milk bath. For the ultimate in self-care. (A tea ball will be included, to contain and steep the tea bath in)

 

 

Natural/non-toxic home, bath, and body products | For your home, for your health, for your family, for our planet.

Lost Buddy Spices

Lost Buddy Original Dry Rub in a 16 oz shaker is the perfect size to keep in the kitchen to season any protein or veggie you can find! Retails online for $15.95.

 

The Only Rub You’ll Ever Need

Our dry rub recipe was crafted and perfected over four generations of family and friends gathered around the BBQ pit sharing food, fun, music, and laughter. Lost Buddy Spices is family owned, small batch production located in Boerne. We are so pleased that the Lost Buddy Original Dry Rub we have enjoyed all these years is now being shared with you.

Lost Buddy Original Rub can be used on any grilled, roasted, or sautéed meats or vegetables. Sprinkle liberally over heartier cuts of meat (pork shoulder, steaks, chicken, loins, etc) and let sit for about 45 minutes at room temperature before cooking.

For more delicate meat, such as shrimp, fish or beef filets, sprinkle liberally but only let sit for about 10 minutes. This works especially well with steelhead trout or salmon. For vegetables, use just like you would salt and pepper, and enjoy the nuanced flavor of Lost Buddy that you would otherwise be missing.

Our dry rub can also be used to make delicious quick pickles, top your popcorn, kick up your Bloody Mary, or even add a savory bite to fruit, especially watermelon. It’s normal for Lost Buddy Rub to clump up a bit in the bottle, just make sure you give it a good shake before use!

Margrit Co.

The trifecta collection! Margrit Co. newest addition to their jewelry line, a beautiful neutral trio set that will go with absolutely everything! Retail $60


Margrít Co. is a designer jewelry brand that focuses on creating unique, colorful and lightweight jewelry for women of all ages. We also give 15% of all retail sales to our Down with Business scholarship fund, which benefits ministries and businesses owned and operated by individuals with Down Syndrome.

Massage Movil

Massage with one of our talented therapists can help you to alleviate stress, reduce tension and pain. We will speak with you at the start of your session to understand what your particular needs are and then we will help to educate you after your massage so you feel empowered to maintain the effects of your session. Not only can you choose a session in the comfort of your home, but if you need a moment away from the your littles, you have the option of booking a session at our office. Price ranges from $70-$150, and is based on length of session and location (in-home vs in-office). For more information on rates, add on services and/or lengths of session please visit our website.

Massage Móvil is a mostly mobile massage therapy practice in San Antonio. We offer in home massage or you can visit us at our office. We also offer Yomassage which is a relaxing blend of stretch, breath, mindfulness and massage in a small group setting aimed to help alleviate stress and anxiety. We have a passion for helping the families of San Antonio thrive through their wellness journey and can’t wait for the opportunity to work with you.

Narwhal Sensory Box

Favorite Thing

Our “Favorite Thing” from Narwhal Sensory Box are the regular size boxes. With a great variety of themes you can find something for everyone! All boxes include three jars of homemade play dough scented with essential oils. We also make sure each box contains a variety of textures to assure an awesome sensory experience for little ones.

Regular Size Narwhal Sensory Boxes are $38.00 (any theme)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mom-owned local business that curates sensory boxes for little ones (3+ yo). Our inventory includes fun and cute themes. Narwhal Sensory Box promotes kid’s creativity, imagination and exploration. The variety of objects and materials, including homemade scented play dough, are ideal to encourage free and imaginary play.

Paisley Charm Creations

My badge reels are not only my favorite thing to make, but also my best seller! They are the perfect (and cutest!) way to dress up your scrubs or work attire. The possibilities are endless with over 200 different shapes and hundreds of glitter colors. At only $12 each, it’s easy to have one for every season or month of the year! Custom orders are always welcomed and personalization is always free.

Paisley Charm Creations is your one stop shop for all things glittery and special! I offer personalized and customized badge reels, keychains, straw toppers, bookmarks, ornaments, and so much more. 

Pops of Whimsey

Favorite Thing

Every doll is custom made in my little hill country studio with 100% soft cotton flannel, alpaca blended yarn, and cotton patterns for clothing. Each one is carefully patterned, cut, and adorned as they are produced. The fabric guides me, but thinking of my customers is what helps me to put on the finishing touches! With that said, we do accept custom requests (please see frequently asked questions for more), and are always willing to work with you to create the perfect gift for your little loved one!

We are an all handmade children’s shop that’s specializes in handcrafted, affordable & sturdy sewn heirlooms for you and your special little one. Each and every doll we make is meant to last through your child’s grandest adventures to nightly snuggles, while still retaining their handcrafted beauty. I make each one of our products start to finish in the Texas hill country.

Resinista Artista

Favorite Thing


The coaster sets are by far my favorite. I love creating these small little pieces of art that not only brighten up your home but are functional for daily living. Even my 4 and 8-year-old kids use coasters now!

Resinista Artista was founded in 2020 by Alexandriah Alas, a native Texan. As an artist, I describe myself as a free spirited crafting goddess inspired by the colors and beauty of nature. I specialize in handmade functional art including coasters, cheeseboards, clocks, vanity trays and wall art. All items are handmade and one of a kind which makes them perfect gifts for birthdays, weddings, hostess gifts or any special occasion. In addition, I can customize any item to match your style and home decor. I would love to create a custom piece of art just for you! Check out Resinista Artista’s Instagram feed and Etsy shop for options.

Rico's Products

Favorite Thing

15oz Ricos Queso Pronto Dip $2.98
14oz Ricos Nacho Chips $1.98
4.4oz Ricos Stadium Pickle Popcorn $2.28

 

 

 

 

Ricos Products is a family owned business that has been providing Fun Foods since 1909. We are known for being the originators of the Concession Nacho making it’s debut in Arlington Stadium in 1976 but can also be found at movie theaters and retail stores around the world. We have a wide variety of products such as our delicious popcorn, Nacho Chips, zesty Jalapeños, tangy Pickles and an entire line up of cheese sauces.
We make Fun Foods for a Fun World! ™

Rodkeys CBD Products

Favorite Thing

Rodkeys BALANCE 500mg tincture was formulated as a flagship product to be used by all. Boasting a light, refreshing citrus flavor, this product is a great way to incorporate a moderate dose of CBD into your daily routine for overall wellness.

 

 

 

Rodkeys CBD is a plant-based health and wellness company based in San Antonio, Texas.
We are focused on promoting balance and vitality through the use of phytocannabinoid (CBD) products. Founded around the principles of personalized medicine, we have become a leader in Pure, Potent, and Proven CBD formulations. Our healthcare based/consultative approach is based on over 20 years in the healthcare industry and over 4 years in the Hemp wellness sector. As true plant advocates, we are honored and thrilled to guide you on this journey toward better living through cannabinoids.
Out of deep appreciation for those who help build our community, Rodkeys also offers everyday discounts to Teachers, Military (Former and Current), and First Responders.

Simply Tiff's

Favorite Thing

Simply Tiff’s Daily Moisturizing Body Lotion is formulated in small batches with the highest quality all-natural ingredients including goats milk, vitamin e, pomegranate oil and other nourishing essential oils; making it the perfect daily moisturizing body lotion for all skin types and ages.

8oz amber glass jar with lotion pump retail price $25.00

Simply Tiff’s provides handmade, natural and effective skincare and wellness products using natures own treasures and remedies to support your body’s natural healing ability.

So Dang Good Bakery

Favorite Thing

Our Favorite Thing is  delicious and beautiful custom sugar cookies in varying themes. Custom Cookies start at $3.50 each.

So Dang Good Bakery is a home based bakery located in northeast San Antonio. We specialize in custom sugar cookies for every occasion!

The Cheerful Roost

Favorite Thing

Coffee is my favorite thing so I’m sharing my favorite coffee accessory, the iced coffee sleeve. This sleeve is the perfect addition to your iced coffee as it eliminates the sweaty cup problem and keeps your coffee cold longer. Not to mention, you look so stylish using it. It’s a must have for the cold drink lover.

The Cheerful Roost is a handmade home goods business located in San Antonio, TX. The Cheerful Roost specializes in fun, cheerful, items including coffee sleeves, mug rugs, and bowl buddies. During the Christmas season, The Cheerful Roost is busy making beautiful ornaments for families.

Tipsy Barrel

Favorite Thing

Charcuterie + upcycling = winning.

At Tipsy Barrel we take old whiskey barrels and turn them into jewelry and fun stuff for your home but we accidentally got known for our beautiful live edge, salvaged tree trunk charcuterie, and serving boards. Filled and finished, they’re ready to make your kitchen pretty and your food look tasty. 

We upcycle old wood to create beautiful serving boards and jewelry.

Waxing the City

Favorite Thing

Waxing the City is excited to bring the art of waxing to San Antonio La Cantera Heights! From brows to Brazilians, we offer a full range of professional facial and body waxing services for women and men, in a friendly, comfortable studio environment. Try us and find out why our clients keep coming back!

Wildflower Caramels

Favorite Thing

One dozen of our classic salted caramels, retails for $15.

We are a family owned, small batch, artisan caramel company. We use sustainably sourced and organic ingredients and many local when they are available. Many of our unique flavors, change seasonally.

Favorite Things Giveaway

We love sharing these Favorites with our team and we’re delighted to get to share with you, too! Want to win one of each of our favorite things? Enter below! Winner must be available to pick up their prize at the ACM office during the week of March 1.

 

Favorite Things

Amanda
A fifth-generation San Antonionian - who happened to spend her formative years in Austin - Amanda loves the SAT from the confetti in her hair to the bluebonnets under her feet. Never one to miss a reason to host a party or decorate for a theme, Amanda revels in the 'mas Fiesta' attitude of the city. She's mom to Vivi (2012) aka #HurricaneVivi, Mac (2020) and wife to Francois, whom she met at Texas A&M (FTAC '05). She has a Masters in Early Childhood Education and a Doctorate in Making it Up As She Goes - which means she's a sometimes-fun-mom. You can find her on Instagram . She loves confetti, croissants, and a cold Ranch Water. Favorite Restaurant: Piatti's Favorite Landmark: Johnson Street footbridge in King William Favorite San Antonio Tradition: Fiesta Medals

21 COMMENTS

  1. Who can pick a favorite? But I’m thinking some self care might be necessary like Waxing in city.

  2. Love finding out more about these local and hidden gems. Thanks for the great list!!

  3. Wow!!! So many awesome local businesses!!! I would love to win this bundle to try them all!!!

  4. Way to highlight so many amazing products and businesses! I am excited to explore these shops and share with friends!

  5. Thank you for sharing, I love shopping and hearing about new small businesses in the area to support!

  6. Just added a bunch of new local businesses to my IG feed! Already planning gift for my spring time crowd
    Thanks!!

  7. What great finds for this year’s Favorite Things list! I’ve only heard of a couple of the brands listed before. I’m excited to learn about so many local businesses that we can go out and support.

  8. I love supporting local businesses! More now than ever and with social media, I have found so many great businesses to support who do amazing work! I am excited to learn more about these featured on your Favorite Things list – thank you for sharing!

  9. I look forward to the FAVORITE THINGS list every year!!! So many great businesses and new products to try. Thanks ACMB

  10. What a great assortment of Companies. Will definitely try these out and excited to explore. Thanks for gathering this list. Always love the information you put together.

  11. Love supporting local businesses and so many of these are mom-owned/founded. Thank you ACM for sharing and supporting them!!

  12. I knew of some of these business but am very excited to get to know some of the others. I love supporting local and am excited to support those on this list!

Comments are closed.