Shop Local, South Tampa!
Small businesses give a community its character and individuality. They represent neighbors helping neighbors and friends helping friends. Internet shopping has its appeal, but because of the supply-chain crisis, perhaps not as much this year. What could be worse than learning that the gifts you ordered online weeks ago won’t actually arrive in time—or maybe not at all. Another incentive to shop local? For every $100 spent in a small business, almost $70 stays in the local economy. Now that’s a reason to be merry!
A LITTLE SOMETHING SWEET
MARIA@SOUTHTAMPASUGARMAMA.COM | 813-765-3587
In her home-based bakery for custom, homemade sugar cookies, Maria Xenick handcrafts decadently decorated sugar cookies that are ohhhh so delicious. She has large cookies, petites and Mama’s Minis. Go for adorably wrapped individual sweets, precious custom boxes or make-your-own decorating kits!
DAVIS ISLANDS 213 E DAVIS BLVD | ARMATURE WORKS 1910 N OLA AVE
The home of the internet-famous Freak Shake gives you ridiculous ways to satisfy even the most demanding sweet tooth. Established in 2013, Julie Curry’s bakery uses locally-sourced, preservative-free ingredients for its amazing concoctions. Hey, if it’s good enough for Lizzo, it’s good enough for us!
3251 W BAY TO BAY BLVD
Named one of Oprah’s Favorite Things, Jim and Lisa Schalk’s rich, buttery toffee is to die for! Choose from milk chocolate almond, dark chocolate pecan, white chocolate macadamia or an assortment of all three. The toffee comes perfectly wrapped in a festive box, making gift-giving a cinch.
A LITTLE SOMETHING TO KEEP
420 W KENNEDY BLVD
The chic holiday shop in the gift boutique at Oxford Exchange offers an array of ways to create a winter wonderland in your own home. It’s the perfect stop for checking lots of names off your list―from your best friend who has it all to that sweet little newborn baby. Love their old Tampa-themed glass ornaments!
4246 W BAY TO BAY BLVD
Owner Sharon Yerrid calls her boutique Tampa’s cutest gift shop, and I totally agree. Give your eyes plenty of time to wander around this quaint little home filled with goodies galore. Home décor, bath and beauty, clothing and Tampa-local accessories―you name it, she has it, and it’s all under one roof.
A LITTLE SOMETHING TO SAVOR
3204 W BAY TO BAY BLVD | CARROLLWOOD 11616 N DALE MABRY HWY
The Ybor City grocery established in 1938 by Sicilian-born Giuseppe “Joe” Favata is now run by Joe’s great-granddaughter, Andrea Messina. Joe’s is THE place for infused olive oils, aged balsamic vinegars, mustard, tapenades and so much more. Be sure to grab a jar of their savory Bacon & Hot Pepper Jam!
2506 S MACDILL AVE | ARMATURE WORKS 1910 N OLA AVE | WESTSHORE MARINA 5232 BRIDGE ST
When you think Cru Cellars, you think wine, right? And you’d be right about that. But nothing goes better with a great wine than a salty, spicy, piquant charcuterie. Jennifer Bingham’s immensely popular shop offers this mouthwatering Grazing Box along with gift bags featuring two bottles from a curated collection.
A LITTLE WELL-BEING
3312 W BAY TO BAY BLVD
This quaint little cottage is home to talented aestheticians who will help you look your best. Facials, dermaplaning, eyebrow and lash care, meditation services, products, gifts, it’s all here. Amanda even hand-designs custom eyebrow stencils for each of her clients. Looking for the gift that’ll keep on giving? This is it.
2406 S MACDILL AVE
Unplug for a while! Hidden behind the red door on MacDill, you’ll find Edyta Chylinski’s zen-like studio. Sudeva’s holistic services always include the healing benefits of crystal and gem therapy. Edyta has wonderful massage, facial and spa packages for giving someone special the gift of peace and relaxation.
What are your favorite local shops, those wonderful little places where you always find just what you need? The comments section is open!
Carrie Rowland is an Accredited Buyer’s Representative,® Certified Probate Real Estate Specialist,® Military Relocation Professional,® Graduate of the Realtor Institute® and a Realtor-Associate at RE/MAX Alliance Group in South Tampa
