2024 Coastal Virginia Holiday Gift Guide
Happy Holidays!
I had so much fun putting together this Coastal Virginia small business gift guide, filled with noteworthy stocking stuffers, delicious treats, unique finds, and memorable experiences. There are so many amazing local small businesses and makers who make it easy—and delightful—to shop locally!
If your business isn’t listed, please know it’s not because I don’t love what you offer! With limited space, I like to rotate through different businesses each year. Be sure to check out my local shopping directory for even more wonderful local options.
Cheers,
Emily
STOCKING STUFFERS
BATH BOMB
from Rambling Caravan
Toss a Rambling Caravan Bath Bomb into your tub and make it the best bath ever! Made without parabens or phthalates, it’s the perfect way to indulge in self-care naturally.
WHIPPED TALLOW SUGAR SCRUB
from Grass Fed Soaps
Treat your skin to the gentle, nourishing care of this Vanilla Lavender Tallow Sugar Scrub. Ideal for face and body, it's crafted with sensitive skin in mind, using nutrient-rich, grass-fed beef tallow to leave you deeply moisturized and radiant.
ALL NATURAL HYDRATING BODY OIL W/ 24K GOLD FLAKES (NUT OIL FREE)
from Wow Just Wow Candle Company
Give your skin the ultimate glow with this lightweight, non-greasy body oil infused with 24K gold flakes. Crafted from organic jojoba and sunflower oils, it provides deep hydration and nourishment, making it perfect for all skin types—especially dry, itchy, or eczema-prone skin. A luxurious touch for everyday skincare!
NIGHTSTICK-NATURAL SLEEP AID WITH CBD
from Guerilla Holistic
Say goodbye to restless nights with the Nightstick, your go-to natural sleep solution. This calming blend of lavender and vetiver essential oils, soothing CBD, and muscle-relaxing magnesium helps you drift off faster and enjoy deep, uninterrupted sleep. Simply roll it onto the bottoms of your feet before bedtime for a serene night’s rest.
AIRPLANE POUCH
from Sprinkles Bag Company
Stylish and practical, this mini travel pouch features a chic 3D pearl patch at its center. Though compact, it's designed to fit all your essentials—phone charger, AirPods, lip gloss, keys, cash, chapstick, and more—keeping everything organized and easy to find in your bag. Small but mighty! A cute stocking stuffer idea for any gal.
Photo by Brand Gloss
VIRGINIA LANDMARK TUMBLER
from Thirteen Winks
Enjoy your favorite hot or cold beverage on the go with this durable, leak-proof thermal tumbler. Adorned with a vibrant, hand-drawn design of iconic Virginia landmarks, this tumbler is as stylish as it is practical—perfect for showcasing VA state pride wherever you are!
HAND-PAINTED HEIRLOOM ORNAMENT
from Coleman Senecal Art
This exquisite, one-of-a-kind ornament is a true heirloom. Featuring an oil landscape painted on fine art canvas paper, it’s framed in a beautiful handmade silver or gold frame and finished with a jewel-toned velvet ribbon. More than a holiday decoration, it’s a tiny piece of original art to display all year round—perfect to be treasured and passed down for generations.
FESTIVE PINE HOLIDAY CANDLE
from Pretty Palm Candle Co.
Every Pretty Palm candle is hand-poured in small batches, crafted with a unique blend of coconut and plant-based wax, cotton-braided wicks, and all-natural deliciously scented oils. With over 60 hours of burn time, these candles are free from dyes, phthalates, and paraffin, making them a clean and cozy addition to any home. The warm wax even has moisturizing benefits when applied to the skin—a perfect gift for the holiday season!
CUSTOM PORTRAIT ORNAMENT
from J. Bordi Art
Give a truly memorable gift with a hand-painted, custom portrait ornament by J. Bordi Art. Simply send Jessica a photo, and she’ll create a beautiful, bespoke keepsake on wood. A thoughtful and unique treasure that loved ones will cherish year after year!
HONEY LIP BALM
from Beach Bee Candle Company
Soothe and protect your lips with this natural honey lip balm, crafted with only six pure ingredients. Free from phthalates, toxins, carcinogens, and artificial additives, it combines mango butter, shea butter, beeswax, raw honey, sweet almond oil, and vitamin E for soft, hydrated lips. Perfect for nourishing dry, cracked lips naturally!
DEEP SLEEP BATH SALTS - MAGNESIUM
from Glow Apothecary
Saint Jane Beauty brings you the ultimate relaxation gift with these luxurious bath salts. Infused with magnesium, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and evening primrose, they soothe and soften skin while helping you unwind. Perfect as a thoughtful gift for someone in need of a calming nightly ritual.
BAR BUDDY
from Hill Woodworking
These charming 6x6" cutting boards are as practical as they are beautiful. Handmade from a unique blend of reclaimed American hardwoods, they’re ultra-portable and perfect for small spaces. They're a stylish and eco-friendly addition to any kitchen or bar!
TASTY TREATS & DRINKS
SEA SALT CARAMELS
from Barrier Island Salt Co.
Indulge in the creamy sweetness of homemade caramel, enhanced by a touch of Barrier Islands Flake Sea Salt for a perfect balance of flavors. Each bag contains five jumbo pieces, making them an irresistible treat or a thoughtful gift for someone special!
NUT BUTTER
from Elizabeth Eats
Indulgent, delicious, and surprisingly good for you! This Cinnamon Spice Nut Butter is made with coconut sugar and a blend of warming spices, creating the perfect cozy treat. It's my personal favorite—sweet, spicy, and utterly irresistible!
MACARONS
from Café Geneviève
Transport yourself to Paris with every bite of Café Geneviève’s award-winning macarons. Winter flavors include egg nog, chocolate truffle, chocolate peppermint, candy cane, nonna’s almond coffee cake, and hot chocolate. The perfect sweet gift!
BOURBON BARREL COFFEE
from Vessel Craft Coffee
Vessel Craft Coffee takes bourbon barrel aging to the next level. Instead of using unroasted beans, they fill the barrel with freshly roasted espresso, allowing the coffee to absorb the rich flavor of bourbon without over-saturating. The result is a perfectly balanced coffee with subtle bourbon notes, showcasing the artistry and precision of barrel aging. The perfect gift for any coffee lover!
CANDIED ALMONDS - MOCHA & BEANS
from Lexi.Berlin
A joyful, bittersweet twist on the classic German Christmas Market snack! Whole almonds and real espresso beans are candied in rich chocolate espresso, handmade in small batches with a fresh shot of local Mello Beans espresso. So delicious!
HOT TODDY INFUSION KIT
from BRBN Co.
Elevate your cocktail game with the Hot Toddy Infusion Kit—a perfect gift for Bourbon enthusiasts. This thoughtfully crafted kit combines convenience, portability, and exceptional flavor, offering an elevated craft cocktail experience wherever you go. The ideal treat for any Bourbon lover!
ORGANIC VODKA
from Waterman Spirits
Crafted in the heart of Virginia Beach, Waterman Spirits' Organic Vodka is gluten-free, organic, and coral-filtered for exceptional purity and taste. This award-winning vodka—honored with four medals from the American Distilling Institute in 2023—is a fantastic choice for the cocktail lover on your list or as a unique addition to any holiday gathering.
HOT SAUCE & SPICES
from VA Goods
Discover the best selection of locally-made hot sauces and spices at VA Goods! Perfect for host gifts, stocking stuffers, or something special for him or her. Mention Emily Benson at their shop in Selden Market to enjoy three hot sauces for $21 or 10% off spices. Spice up your gifts with these flavorful treats!
WINE SUBSCRIPTION
from Vino Culture
Give the gift of global exploration through the world of wine. Each month, Vino Culture’s wine subscription introduces you to eclectic wines, regions, and producers, bringing the adventure of world travel straight to your glass. A unique gift for wine lovers!
UNIQUE FINDS
BLUEJAY RING
from Jessica C Folck
Inspired by a found bluejay feather, this stunning ring features a clear blue topaz cabochon with a piece of the feather set in silver. It’s beautifully surrounded by a repoussé silver feather, making it a truly unique piece. There’s only one of these available, but be sure to explore the rest of Jessica’s shop for more beautifully handcrafted jewelry.
TOOL BAG WEEKENDER
from Werther Leather Goods
Handcrafted in Norfolk, VA, this weekender bag is inspired by an old tool bag Derek discovered in his parent's shed. The perfect size for a weekend getaway, it’s made from heavy-duty canvas with hand-stitched leather handles and a sturdy, hand-stitched shoulder strap. Crafted in-house from start to finish, this durable, stylish bag combines timeless design with exceptional craftsmanship.
MOURNING DOVE - ARCHIVAL PRINT
from Split Rock Art & Design
This stunning Giclée print on acid-free Japanese fine art paper features rich colors and a smooth matte finish. Created using a unique technique blending fire soot, gouache, and tea, the piece was inspired by the artist’s love for birds, fire, and tea. The mourning dove symbolizes resilience and hope, as it was created during a difficult time for the artist’s wife. A beautiful and meaningful addition to any space.
PINK CANDY CANE EARRINGS
from The Fancy Society
Add a playful and festive touch to your holiday ensemble with these exclusive Pink Candy Cane Earrings. Handmade with cheerful accents, they’re designed to brighten your day and bring a smile to your face—perfect for spreading seasonal joy!
NUTCRACKER PAJAMAS
from Lemon Cabana
Experience ultimate comfort with these cozy pajamas made from a modal and cotton fabric blend. Featuring classic piping detail, an elastic waist, and an adjustable ribbon tie, this set offers a flattering fit for all body types. Light and airy, it’s perfect for lounging or sleeping in style—combining comfort and elegance for a peaceful night’s rest.
FRANCES BRACELET IN GREEN AVENTURINE
from B. Rowe & Co.
Inspired by the Carolinas, the Frances Bracelet is a stunning new design from B. Rowe & Co. in Virginia. It features 10mm polished green aventurine stone beads paired with 10mm vermeil brushed gold ball beads. Tarnish- and water-resistant, this bracelet stretches slightly for a comfortable fit, making it both a stylish and practical gift.
2025 DESK CALENDAR
from Anne Temple Studio
Designed by artist Anne Temple, this 6x6 inch desk calendar brings vibrant, joyful hues to your workspace. Each month celebrates beauty, freshness, and cheer, with artwork that elevates your mood and environment. The calendar comes with an acrylic stand for easy display and is wrapped, ready for gifting. A perfect way to add a splash of color and positivity to any desk!
HANDMADE POTTERY MUG
from Pine Ridge Pottery
These beautiful, nature-inspired mugs are part of a seasonal collection that makes the perfect cozy gift. Each mug is handcrafted with care, offering a unique, earthy charm that adds warmth to your favorite beverages. A perfect addition to any kitchen or a thoughtful gift for someone special!
OPAL INLAY TURQUOISE PENDANT
from Loose Roots Jewelry
This stunning Baja Turquoise pendant features opal inlay, set in .925 sterling silver. Handcrafted with care in Chesapeake, VA, each piece in the collection is made using stones sourced from small lapidary businesses across the USA. A beautiful, one-of-a-kind piece that combines timeless craftsmanship with vibrant natural stones.
ITALIAN SCARF
from French Twist Boutique
This soft and beautiful blend of silk and cotton makes these scarves a perfect, versatile addition to any wardrobe, year-round. Handcrafted in Italy, they add a touch of elegance and creativity to any outfit. The perfect gift for the classy women in your life!
CUSTOM PET COLLAGE
from Fiona Twose Art
Give the gift of a personalized, vibrant pet portrait! Fiona Twose creates unique dog portraits by combining acrylic painting with layers of recycled paper, capturing each pet’s personality. Whether it's a playful expression or the twinkle in their eye, Fiona’s collage technique adds depth, texture, and a burst of color. Her goal is to bring joy with artwork that's uplifting and full of energy.
HOLIDAY FLORAL ARRANGEMENT OR FESTIVE HOME DECOR
from The Wandering Petal
A stunning holiday arrangement from The Wandering Petal is the perfect gift for a host, a loved one who “has everything,” or anyone who appreciates beautiful flowers. Thoughtfully designed with seasonal blooms, it brings a festive touch to any space. The Wandering Petal also offers topiaries and unique home gifts, making it the ideal shop for thoughtful, memorable holiday gifts.
LONG SUNCATCHER CHAINS
from So Many Flowers
These beautiful chains are crafted from solid or beveled glass pieces alternated with glass containing pressed flowers inside. Whether hung on a wall or in a window, they catch the light beautifully, adding a touch of nature and elegance to any space. Perfect for brightening up your home with a delicate, floral charm!
LIVING CHRISTMAS TREE
from Southern Branch Nursery
Spread holiday cheer with a live Christmas tree from Southern Branch Nursery! Located in Chesapeake, VA, this nursery specializes in native plants and eco-friendly landscape designs. A living tree makes for a meaningful, sustainable holiday centerpiece that can continue to grow and thrive for years to come. Perfect for those looking to celebrate the season in an environmentally conscious way.
HEAVY DUTY DESK MAT
from Wharton Leather
Crafted from premium vegetable-tanned leather, the Heavy Duty Desk Mat is built to endure daily use in any environment. Available in black or brown, this spacious mat adds both function and style to your workspace. Not only does it provide ample room for all your essentials, but it also brings a natural, pleasant scent to your office or home.
ORIGINAL MODERN ART
from Amy Miller Art & Design
This vibrant piece captures the awe-inspiring beauty of the Northern Lights, inspired by a scene just blocks from Amy Miller’s home in Virginia Beach. A stunning example of contemporary art, it brings color and energy to any space. Check out this piece and many others on Amy’s website and give the gift of original modern art!
FIELDBAR DRINKS BOX
from Banks & Beach
The Fieldbar Drinks Box is a high-performance hardcase cooler designed for superior thermal insulation. Crafted with precision and built to last, this cooler is the perfect balance of durability, versatility, and style. With its well-proportioned design and comfortable carry features, it keeps your beverages cold while on the go. A must-have for outdoor adventures or any event that demands a reliable, modern cooler.
COPPER WATER BOTTLE
from Vesla Copper
These stunning copper water bottles not only offer a sleek design but also provide health benefits and antimicrobial properties. The best part? You won’t need to clean them often! Perfect for those who appreciate both style and function. Use code EmilyBenson for 10% off your order.
HAND-CARVED LINOCUT PRINT
from The Osprey Wing
A miniature assortment of nature-inspired original works by The Osprey Wing. Each print is hand-carved and carefully placed inside a gilded, red oak frame with a velvet ribbon. These prints make a unique and beautiful addition to any space—perfect for gift-giving or personal enjoyment. They will be available for sale in the middle of November!
Experiences
WATERCOLOR ART CLASSES & WORKSHOPS
from Kate Thomas Art
Treat someone to a watercolor workshop at Kate Thomas Art Studio! Whether they're a beginner or looking to refine their skills, Kate’s workshops offer a relaxed and fun environment to learn and explore watercolor painting. These sessions are perfect for a solo artistic escape or a creative outing with a friend.
ORGANIZATION & STYLING SERVICES
from CarMELLA Design Studio
CarMELLA Design Studio brings calm and order to any space, making a gift card for services a thoughtful and impactful gift. Carly’s tailored solutions help declutter homes, streamline business systems, and bring lasting peace to everyday life. For anyone needing a fresh start, this gift can transform their space—and their mindset—into one that’s focused, calm, and ready to take on the day.
SEWING WORKSHOP FOR KIDS
from Little Stitch Studio
Little Stitch Studio offers fun sewing and fashion workshops for kids, whether they're new to sewing or looking to tackle a specific project. These workshops are the perfect introduction to the world of sewing, with hands-on guidance for all skill levels.
MEDSPA FACE & BODY SERVICES
from Emily Anne Esthetics
Emily Anne Esthetics offers transformative treatments like Morpheus8, IPL Laser, laser hair removal, and microneedling. A gift card for these services makes the perfect gift for anyone looking to rejuvenate their skin and enhance their natural beauty!
PRE-NATAL, POST-NATAL, & MOTHERHOOD YOGA & COUNSELING
from pear
Pear Maternal Mind & Body offers holistic counseling, therapy, and yoga services tailored to the needs of mothers and parents. Their prenatal and postpartum support is designed to nurture mental and physical well-being. Gift a Yoga & Coaching Bundle, which includes two private prenatal yoga classes and a mental health coaching session for just $125. Gift cards are available for mailing or studio pick-up.
MASSAGE
from Balance and Bliss
Relax and unwind this holiday season with a soothing massage from Kristin, a skilled licensed massage therapist at Balance and Bliss. Perfect for easing stress and rejuvenating the body and mind — a gift all of us could use! You can click the link below and message her on Instagram to schedule.
LUNCH FOR TWO
from Graze Kitchen
Give the gift of delicious food and quality time for two at Graze Kitchen, a hidden gem in Virginia Beach’s North End. It’s the perfect soothing spot for a healthy, flavorful meal with gluten-free and vegetarian options.
HOME CLEANING
from Marily Cleaning Service
Give the gift of a spotless home with Marily Cleaning Service, offering premier cleaning services in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and Chesapeake. With unparalleled excellence and devoted service, their team will ensure your home is immaculately clean. Perfect for busy individuals or anyone in need of a little extra help around the house.
*Photo by Zoë Grant
COOKING CLASS
from Untamed Chef
Give the gift of a fun, hands-on cooking experience with Untamed Chef! Their classes are perfect for home chefs looking to learn new skills, cook delicious meals, and enjoy great company. Ideal for couples or friends, it’s a perfect way to bond while discovering new culinary techniques.
PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION
from Cilla Tuckson Creative
Capture authentic, fun-loving moments with a photography session from Cilla Tuckson Creative! Whether it’s a family portrait or a special event, Cilla specializes in rich, heartfelt imagery. Book a 2025 family portrait and mention this guide to receive 15% off. You can also purchase her stunning 2025 Landscape Calendar for a beautiful addition to any home!
POTTERY CLASS
from VB Pottery Studio
Give the gift of creativity with a pottery class at VB Pottery Studio! Angie offers private, semi-private, and group lessons in both hand-building and wheel-throwing. Perfect for beginners or those looking to improve their skills. Treat someone special to a fun, hands-on experience they’ll never forget!
BED AND BREAKFAST OVERNIGHT
from The Pinner House
Treat someone to a relaxing getaway with an overnight stay at The Pinner House, a charming boutique bed and breakfast in Historic Downtown Suffolk. Enjoy a cozy stay and wake up to a delicious breakfast and coffee at their in-house Café Davina. Ideal for a peaceful retreat or a special occasion!
Looking for more local shopping inspiration? Check out my shopping directory!
Happy shopping!