This month, with holiday shopping and gift-giving on so many people’s minds, DT Supports Small is highlighting some of our favorite gift stores, galleries and boutiques. Whether you’re shopping for family, friends, neighbors, coworkers or yourself, we think these small, locally owned businesses just might have the perfect treasures for everyone on your list!
Wilderhouse
wilderhouse.com | 1339 N Damen Ave, Chicago
Drawing inspiration from the wonder and grandeur of the American West, this delightful Wicker Park boutique offers a curated collection of useful and beautiful items for the home. Partnering with independent artists and designers, Wilderhouse seeks to empower women, celebrate culture and embrace diversity.
The Book Stall
thebookstall.com | 811 Elm Street, Winnetka
Locally owned since 1940, this book lover’s emporium is one of Chicagoland’s busiest independent bookstores – with over 68,000 titles and a friendly, knowledgeable staff that’s always ready to help with recommendations, special orders, and gift wrapping.
Art Effect
shoparteffect.com | 934 W Armitage, Chicago
Known for its inviting ambiance and an expansive space that’s perfect for browsing, this Lincoln Park landmark has a modern-day general store vibe and a chic high-low mix. You’ll find handcrafted jewelry, stylish clothing, decadent body & bath products, and a dazzling variety of fun and irresistible items for the home
Alley Gallery
thealleygallery.com | 1712 Sherman Ave, #2, Evanston
Artist-owned and operated, their experienced top-notch staff will collaborate closely with you and use the finest museum-quality materials to frame your artwork, photos or treasured family heirlooms – a perfect gift for the holidays! Or come in to browse their impressive collection of posters, prints and one-of-a-kind gifts.
City Olive
cityolive.com | 5644 N Clark St, Chicago
Believing that good food is good for the soul, Karen Rose opened this gourmet food boutique to bring fine artisan-made and responsibly-sourced specialty foods to Chicago. Shop for the perfect host/hostess gift, stocking stuffers for the home chef, or everything you need to assemble an amazing epicurean gift basket.
The Coffee & Tea Exchange
coffeeandtea.com | 3311 N Broadway, Chicago
Founded in 1975 by two college roommates, this Lakeview favorite offers a wide variety of fresh, locally roasted coffees – enticingly displayed in wooden barrels so you can see and smell the beans for yourself. Along with fine coffees and teas, the Exchange offers herbs, spices, and everything you need to brew the perfect cup.
P.O.S.H
poshchicago.com | 613 N State St, Chicago
Located in the historic Tree Studio building in River North, this extraordinary and singular emporium offers an eclectic assortment of vintage Hotel & Estate Silver, Restaurant China, Dinnerware and an ever-changing mix of unique Flea Market Finds from their favorite places in Europe.
Cat & Mouse
cat-n-mouse.com | 1112 W Madison, Chicago
Encompassing 2,500 square feet of pure fun and joy, this family-owned store in the heart of the West Loop offers everything for anyone who loves to play. You’ll find hundreds of educational toys, squishy things, children’s books, arts & crafts, science kits, puzzles, games for all ages, and trucks, cars and things that go.
Moondance
moondancechicago.com | 2010 W Roscoe, Chicago
Opened by a former special services educator and named for her favorite song, this wonderful boutique is set in an erstwhile Roscoe Village apartment! With an eye toward the stylish, price-conscious shopper, you’ll discover fashion-forward women’s clothing, jewelry, accessories, and unique items for every room in your home.
A Look Back at 2021
Just in time for the Holiday Season! Whether you’re looking for a meaningful gift, a festive dining experience or maybe someplace to give-back and volunteer your time, here are some Dream Town Supports Small favorites from the past year.
The Silver Room
thesilverroom.com | 1506 E 53rd St, Chicago
Featured in February for Black History Month, this local institution seeks to create a global community through art and culture. In a curated showroom experience that combines goods, sound and events, you’ll find a variety of fashion accessories, jewelry, apparel, gifts and more—sourced from both local and global artisans.
4Legs Pet Products
4legspet.com | 4725 N Damen Ave, Chicago
For Women’s History Month in March, we included this incredible boutique for the pet-obsessed! Pamper your furry friends this holiday season with some healthy treats, high-quality kibble, or eco-friendly supplies including leashes, collars, beds and toys.
Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly Chicago Chapter
lbfechicago.org |355 N Ashland Ave, Chicago
From National Volunteer Month in April… This organization offers critical social interaction and important services to alleviate loneliness among our most vulnerable elders. The holidays can be so difficult for those who are isolated or homebound, so now is the perfect opportunity to volunteer your time or make a donation.
The Golden Triangle
goldentriangle.biz | 2035 W Grand Ave, Chicago
In May for Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we showcased this local icon of furniture and design. Choose an elegant home decor gift from their one-of-a-kind artifacts or restyle your home for the holidays with their refined collection of Asian antiques, British Colonial furniture, and European Art Deco pieces.
Sawbridge Studios
sawbridge.com | 1804 Johns Dr, Glenview
For Pride Month, we included this showroom known for its fine furniture, home accessories and unique gifts. Representing some of the most skilled and innovative artisans in America, everything in the Sawbridge collection has been carefully selected for its timeless beauty, purity of design, and excellent craftsmanship.
Diver
diverchicago.com | 601 N Wells St, Chicago
Take a break from your city shopping adventure at this unique River North restaurant and cocktail lounge – featured this fall for National Hispanic Heritage Month. With a cool tropical vibe inspired by Latin America’s seaside towns, chef Sergio Sanchez offers a unique menu where fresh seafood takes center stage.
Mitchell Museum of the American Indian
mitchellmuseum.org | 3001 Central St, Evanston
Focusing on the history, art and culture of Native American and First Nation peoples, the Mitchell Museum promotes greater understanding of cultural diversity through important first-voice perspectives. Featured in November for Native American Heritage Month, this museum promises an enriching outing for the whole family.
