Thankful & Giving

By Ariniko O'Meara   |   Posted November 29, 2013   |   Previous Entry   |   Next Entry

It seems there are a few strong opinions about the days or even hours after the meal is devoured. Some feel that this time should be used to enjoy the company of friends and family. However others feel that now that the carb-loading has been completed it's time to shop! I've never been one to rush out and shop, even on non busy days. I most certainly don't enjoy crowds especially crowds full of people willing to camp out in front of a store to get a discount. I don't judge, but it's just not my thing. In recent years there has been another interesting push for shopping on the days after Thanksgiving. This movement urges folks to buy local or buy green. Might I suggest some of my favorite small boutique, #lovelansing businesses.

1. Lansing City Market – I was once paid for a photography job in Market cash. At first I wasn't too impressed, but then as I strolled through all the vendors I realized there were some incredible options. My favorite was Hickory Corners Greenhouse and Garden where I picked out some very comparably priced vegetables. Aggie Mae's Bakery and Deli is located at the Market and in Old Town. My husband loves Hills Home Cured Cheese area. If you like delicious cheeses in multiple varieties this is the place to go! Sweet Seasons Orchard has a plethora of grains, honeys, salsa and other items that would fit perfectly into a stocking. These are just some of my favorite stops. There are quite a few other shops to choose from. If you haven't stopped into the Lansing City Market lately, you should!

2. Old Town – The quaintest part of Lansing is promoting a "Shop Small, Shop Old Town" media blitz. From Cravings Gourmet Popcorn, to Grace Boutique, to October Moon there are adorable shops after adorable shops. Here you will find unique gift options and even though there might not be a "clearance" aisle it was posted on Grace Boutique's recent Facebook post describing their Black Friday Specials as;

... calm, kindness, good service, and the best shopping experience that we can provide. We (and all of Old Town Lansing) are your port in the storm of black friday. Take a break from the chaos, and a deep breath and join us here to enjoy your day. We can help you find anything you need, or just offer you a cup of tea to calm your nerves a bit.

3. Monticello's Market – This was a recent re-addition to the Haslett area. It was once a Save-A-Lot but was redesigned over the last year. Inside you will find some local Mid-Michigan favorites like Mooville products and Uncle John's hard cider. It's not as big as Horrocks but it's worth a visit.

4. Horrock's – This is a west side gem! Set up like a meandering warehouse each aisle lays out product type after product type, including specialty cheese, quick freeze meats and fish, wine and beer and produce. With the complimentary coffee bar it's sure to become your favorite too.

5. Soulful Earth Herbals – When I first set up my gallery inside 1133 South Washington I had expected my entrance into the turn of the century building to be filled with dank smells and oldness. I was overjoyed that it was, instead, eucalyptus! I quickly found that in the other side of the brick wall that held my photographs a wonderful woman was hand creating organic products. As the weeks went by I became accustom to the sound of mortar and pestle and hand whipping as she created her odiferous lotions, soaps, body scrubs and natural deodorants. She has limited office hours (check the website) but she also sells online.

6. Ariniko Artistry – Finally I would like to share my buy local (buy green) opportunity. On Friday November 29 and Saturday November 30 you can buy ahead gift certificates. You will get $20 off of every $100 spent.

Whatever shopping method you decide to partake in I hope you find it enjoyable and rewarding.

Sincerely,
Ariniko