The Saturday after Thanksgiving – November 25 this year – has come to be known as Small Business Saturday. Holiday hustle and bustle has officially settled across Omaha, and our thriving community of small businesses are ready to handle all your gifting needs.
Why shop small?
Because small businesses are the lifeblood of our local economy. In fact, analysts from the Greater Omaha Chamber show for every $100 spent at a local retail business, $48 stays in the local economy, compared to only $14 for a retail chain.
Plus, not only can you find unique, one-of-a-kind small business shops throughout the metro, but the owners can provide more personable, hands-on customer service – the type of service that will leave you feeling joyful and triumphant.
To help put you in the holiday gifting spirit, here are a few shops to keep on your radar:
Artwork created at the Hot Shops ranges from drawings, paintings, and photography to sculptures, pottery, glass art, weaving, quilts, jewelry, and architectural pieces. Credit: Eric Francis
Hot Shops: Home to over 90 local artisans who both have unique items as well as an array of educational classes perfect for gift giving. Their Annual Winter Open House, on Dec. 2 and 3, is a great opportunity to meet artists, learn more about their tools and processes, see demonstrations and purchase original artwork.
Flowerama on Pacific: Family-owned and operated, this full-service local florist also offers online shopping experience with secure 24-hour ordering so you can shop with ease.
Elisa Ilana: Over the past two decades, our Omaha-based jewelry business has built a worldwide following in affordable luxurious handmade jewelry. Our collections are designed and made in our studio here in Omaha.
Goldsmith Silversmith: a custom jewelry store located in the heart of Omaha’s Old Market District. Dwaine Ferguson opened the shop in 1974, and continues to own and operate the business today.
Made in Omaha: Opened in October of 2018, they offer space to artists and makers throughout Omaha and the surrounding area to sell art, apparel, candles, drinkware, and more.
A variety of Gelato flavors at the eCreamery in Benson. Credit: Omaha World-Herald.
eCreamery Ice Cream: Find the gift of custom-churned ice cream, packaged in personalized pints. And don’t forget to grab some for yourself.
Vic’s Popcorn has been an Omaha favorite for generation after generation. Credit: Vic’s Popcorn
Vic’s Corn Popper: Created in 1980 by Vic Larson and his wife Ruth, Vic’s Corn Popper has only used its own hybrid white popping corn, grown on farms in the Platte River Valley of Nebraska. Each batch is cooked at the same temperature, with oil and salt to give it Vic’s unique “cooked in kernel” flavor, texture and crunch.
A wide range of apparel options is available at BelAir Fashions Credit: BelAir Fashions
BelAir Fashions: Founded in downtown Omaha by Max Lerner as the Oxford Clothing Company, it’s one of Omaha’s oldest family-owned clothiers. From professional outfits to the latest in athleisure, you’re sure to find just what you need at BelAir Fashions.
Lawlor’s Custom Sportswear: Opening in 1896, Lawlor’s family retail business offers local fan gear, plus custom, screen printed & embroidered apparel.
LeFlore’s New Look Fashions: Serving the Omaha community for over 20 years, they specialize in men’s suits, slacks, shirts, a wide selection of shoes, a variety hats and Kangol caps, sportswear and more.
Jerry Ryan: For over 40 years, this family-owned store has offered an exquisite range of men’s clothing and accessories. They deliver high quality garments and exceptional customer service to the Midwest and customers around the globe.
Regency Shopping Center: Experience upscale shopping and dinning with the 18 shops and restaurants that call Regency Shopping Center home.
Urban Abbey: Whether you are craving a latte, looking for a quiet place to chat with a friend, or seeking an opportunity to break bread in worship, their coffee shop/bookstore/church might be just what you need.
Fuel your shopping trip or find a perfect gift for the tea lover in your life. Credit: Artemis Teas
Artemis Teas: Hand-crafted, small-batch blends are created with mindful precision to arouse the senses, stimulate the imagination, and to support vibrant well-being. Their commitment to total wellness means the teas are good for you, and good for the plants.
These are just a few of our favorite things here in Omaha. Want to browse more Chamber-member small businesses for your shopping needs? Make sure to check out our Omaha Chamber Member Directory to find more.