As classes wind down and transition into winter break, check out some of Eugene’s local businesses to get a head start on this year’s holiday shopping. Local, handmade gifts can not only be more exciting to receive but also help support artists and small businesses in the community.
Moon Rock Records
For music-loving friends, stop by Moon Rock Records located on West 11th Avenue. Nothing says thoughtful like handpicking an album for a close friend, family member or significant other. From nostalgic ‘70s classics to funky world music, Moon Rock Records boasts an eclectic selection of vinyl, cassettes, reading material and merchandise. For the more literary inclined friend, grab a book on music from the stacks. The curated selection includes works by Lester Bangs, Michael Azerrad and many others. Lastly, for the fashion forward friend, help them add to their graphic tee collection with a custom Moon Rock Records baseball tee.
Luxe
Located in the Oakway Center shopping mall, Luxe is “your one-stop gift shop.” Pick up a quirky board game or a thought-provoking card game such as the “How Am I Feeling? Conversation Cards.” Luxe also has a large collection of silver and gold jewelry for a low price. Pick up a pair of Lucky Horseshoe Earrings for your western-loving friends. Luxe also carries cards, books, candles, bacon bandages and more. There’s a little something for everyone.
Passionflower
Aside from its beautiful bouquets, Passionflower is an essential stop on the Eugene holiday gift hunt. Looking for a thoughtful, affordable present for your over-caffeinated roommate? Head to 128 East Broadway and pick up a bag of Farewell Coffee, which is roasted nearby in Bend. For your friends who have made it through college without a caffeine addiction, Passionflower has other gift options as well. To get into the holiday spirit grab a balsam and cedar candle or a cozy winter scarf. For those shopping on a budget this year, Passionflower stocks Pendleton socks, the perfect stocking stuffer or present for someone you don’t know very well. After all, everyone loves a good pair of socks.
Mosaic Fair Trade Collection
At Mosaic Fair Trade Collection on 28 East Broadway you can find gifts for the whole family, even that one aunt who is notoriously hard to shop for. For the animal lover, grab a dog printed oven mitt or cat-shaped salt and pepper shakers. Looking for an impractical gift? The bicycle pizza cutter is your best bet. Mosaic Fair Trade Collection carries a multitude of gift items, ranging from safe bets like coffee and tea to more personal gift options like jewelry, journals and knit winter wear. The Mosaic Fair Trade Collection is a hard place to leave empty handed.
Tsunami Books
Nothing says thoughtful like gifting a hand-picked book to your close friends. Not only is Tsunami Books affordable, but it has a huge selection of new, used and rare literature. From classics to biographies to science fiction, there is a little something for everyone. For avid readers, or loved ones who are a bit harder to shop for, you can opt for a gift certificate instead. Located on Willamette Street, Tsunami Books is a short distance from campus and a great place to kick off your holiday shopping. Treat yourself to a winter break read and grab a gift for your friend while you’re at it.
Support Eugene’s small business owners and shop local this holiday season.