Some people are great gift-givers, others need a nudge – and known spots they can shop for great finds. Lucky for both, there’s an array of options to choose San Antonio gifts for mom, or really, anyone on your gift list. And by shopping local, you’re supporting fellow San Antonio families.
Why shop local? First, it helps our local economy – the money you spend locally usually stays here and is recirculated, meaning that those local businesses then re-spend that money in San Antonio. So you’re helping local businesses – and their employees.
Second, we have some amazing options to choose from, so you just can’t go wrong. Check out these never-fail favorites and know that you’ll land just the right San Antonio gift for mom, your favorite friend or even yourself:
Books, Décor and More
A San Antonio institution since 1972, stepping inside this magical shop is enough to make any book lover’s heart swoon. Brimming with best sellers and indie titles, the children’s selection is unmatched, ranging from fabric books that are destined to be gnawed by teethers to a wonderful young adult section. The store boasts more than just books, with delightful and unique gift finds like fantastic puppets and stuffed animals, making it fun to browse and discover new treasures.
Feliz Modern, Feliz Modern Pop, Rancho Diaz
The world of Feliz Modern is packed full of happy, colorful, funny, irreverent and unique finds. From the original Feliz Modern to Feliz Modern Pop and the amazing home items in Rancho Diaz, you can gift smiles galore with the colorful, amazing, beautiful, functional and funny items you’ll find. No one will blame you if you pick up something for yourself. It’s impossible to resist, so just do it. (And you can shop online!)
No. 9 Floral Chocolates & Gifts
The name says it all; you’ll find a great mix of all of the above when you pop into No. 9. You can shop online to send puro San Antonio goodies further afield, including the most beautiful jigsaw puzzles around; but be sure to stop by the shop to enjoy the amazing array they offer. And if you haven’t seen their floral arrangements – GO. It’s how they started and everything they design will make you swoon.
In the Weeds Natural Skin Care
Locally made and all natural— and another ACM Favorite —In the Weeds is known for its fabulous scrubs and skincare. Trust us and gift Dollface Scrub & Mask to anyone who needs some pampering on the regular! Their Mint Condition Salt & Herb Body Scrub is like a spa treatment, and all the candles are amazing! If you want to shop them in person, check out their market schedule which is regularly posted online, or stop into Painted Tree Boutiques to find In the Weeds and other local sellers in one place.
Whether you want something personalized – from a crowd pleasing Stanley cup to a mahjong reader for an avid player – or to pick from an array of non-personalized party favors, wreath charms that will make a door pop, spirit earrings, cute keychains, dog tags and more, check out Soiree Swag’s fantastic array of options. I gifted custom 30 oz. travel mugs personalized by Soiree Swag to some school mom friends and they still thank me every time I see them. Check them out on Instagram to keep up with all the latest products.
Yes, we live here and we shop La Villita. How can you not? Every shop is locally owned and you’ll find an array of handmade goods and a mix of options you won’t find anywhere else in San Antonio. Somewhere that has something for EVERY occasion is Bird and Pear, brimming with color, candles, jewelry, home décor and more. Trust us and go!
Stroll the tree-lined walks and hit up Capistrano Soap Company for San Antonio-inspired scents in the most amazing candles, soaps, and skincare. You can also pick up art from local artists at River Art Group.
If you’re buying for a plant lover or someone who needs the perfect outdoor pick-me-up for their patio, hit up Chica Verde. You’re sure to walk away with a new favorite planter, plant, windchimes … just don’t wait and wonder if it’s right for you: their vintage stuff is one-of-a-kind, so someone else will snap it up before you can go back!
Handmade and locally made? Yes please! This wonderful collection of local makers is just up the road in Boerne, where you can shop on Main Street and score gifts while actually enjoying yourself. It’s worth the drive for finds from ACM Favorites like From Scratch Farm, Bear & Roo Candle Company and Pops of Whimsy (Trust us—you’ll want one of these amazing dolls or blankets for yourself. Our team has been known to fight over them!)
Sing it loud with us: “I can buy myself flowers …”! You deserve it! While you’re at it, you can also buy them for someone who deserves AMAZING bouquets that last, all crafted with care by a local mom. Get a subscription – selecting the size and frequency of the deliveries – and the recipient is sure to swoon on a regular basis. And it’s even environmentally friendly: they will gather and re-use the vases, or you can buy the ones you like and add them to your home décor.
I have sensitive skin and am scent-sensitive, so finding local makers that offer all-natural options makes my heart – and my skin – happy. Another local, natural option with products that work for sensitive skin because they are all natural (same for In the Weeds and From Scratch Farm), Carmel has products for men, women and babies, including hair care. And they often hold workshops where you can make your soap, scrubs and more, which makes a great gift.
Art-FULL Shopping
Nestled in a bright little historic home in La Villita, River Art Group features more than 200 member artists that work in a variety of media. You can find paintings, prints, jewelry, sculpture, stained glass, pastels, photography and mixed media, all at varying price points.
San Antonio Artists Collective
Shop more than 3,000 hand-painted originals online and in a gallery at North Star Mall! You’re sure to find the perfect gift or addition to your home.
A mix of museum and gallery, the San Antonio Art League and Museum is an all volunteer, nonprofit organization of local artists that includes gallery shows (including its annual Juried Artists Exhibition, open this year through June 7) and a Members’ Gallery that includes the opportunity to view and purchase works from the league members. It’s a fun stop in King William and a great spot to shop.
Locally made by local artists? Yes, please. Blue Star offers a variety of events for shopping (including the First Friday Art Walk) and there are some great shops where you can always find something creative. Mockingbird Handprints features an array of local artists and events – as well as a centrally located storefront in Olmos Park – so you can pop by for pottery, textiles, jewelry, cards and art that make wonderful gifts.
Where Shopping is Historic and Art-FULL: Museum Shopping
Our go-to secret source of gifts you can’t find anywhere else? San Antonio’s fantastic museums. Yes, we love museum shops, and you should too! Did you know that you don’t have to pay to browse and buy at the San Antonio Museum of Art, the Briscoe Western Art Museum or the Witte? Find globally-inspired gifts at the SAMA Shop, or land the perfect gift with a bit of Western flair at the Hendler Family Museum Store at Briscoe Western Art Museum (fantastic jewerly, decor and books, as well as toys) and The Witte’s Bolner Family Museum Store has a range of books, jewelry, art and décor.
Gift a Fun Time
If you’d like to gift memories – and a great time – consider gifting tickets, classes, season passes or museum memberships. Make it extra special by booking for two so you can enjoy some time with your recipient. Learn how to make mozzarella (and have the most amazing lavender lemonade!) at Gourmage in New Braunfels, or book a class at the CIA (Culinary Institute of America, located at the Pearl). How about a custom, glass-blown creation and memories that will last a lifetime? Or learn – and create – with local artists through evening programs hosted by the Briscoe Western Art Museum, including pinata-making (May 19), drawing, painting and more?
Did we miss your favorite local spot to shop for San Antonio gifts? Let us know! We’re always looking for new finds, whatever occasion we are buying for.
