Madison, WI Area Shop Local Holiday Gift Guide | Deals & Steals

 

This year, as you’re making your list and checking it twice, we want to encourage you to THINK LOCAL.

We’re thrilled to bring you our 7th annual holiday gift guide, featuring gift items and experiences from some of our favorite local businesses.

Our guide is packed full of mom-approved, curated gift ideas to provide you with ideas for everyone on your list. Don’t forget to check for special discounts – many are offering promotions JUST for Madison Mom readers.

This guide reaches over 10,000 local families every holiday season!

Milwaukee Pretzel Company

Handmade authentic Bavarian soft pretzels baked fresh right here in Milwaukee using a traditional recipe. We ship nationwide and have a variety of holiday themed soft pretzel gift boxes available including our famous 1lb soft pretzel wreath!

Fromagination

Wisconsin Cheese for Giving, the perfect gift to showcase Wisconsin Greatest treasure. Filled with cheese and paired with the perfect companions to create a beautiful Holiday Cheese Board. Fromagination works with small Wisconsin cheesemakers and food artisans, and is located on the Capitol Square downtown Madison, WI. 

Kendra Scott

It’s the season to shine! Embrace the spirit of the holidays with our newest collection full of glam statements, rich jewel-tone colors, and opulent sparkle.

From everyday essentials to luxe accessories, we’ve got the perfect gift at the perfect price for everyone on your list.

Gift Ideas:

Emilie Multi-Strand Necklace and Earrings Set

Addison Stretch Bracelet

Gold Disc Pendant Necklace

Blue Mercury

Bluemercury was created as a neighborhood store where clients could find high-quality, innovative beauty products with honest, expert advice. One of the hallmarks of the Bluemercury experience is access—access to their highly-curated product assortment of the best in beauty and wellness, access to unparalleled beauty advice, and access to experiences unavailable anywhere else.

Bluemercury has everything you need to make your holiday season a success.  Head to your local Hilldale store or check out bluemercury.com to receive personalized advice from their Beauty Experts on how to restock your beauty bag with the latest trends for winter including value sets, luxurious packaging, haircare travel sets, candles, personal fragrance and beyond.

Mouse Magic Travel, LLC

Mouse Magic Travel, LLC plans amazing vacations for families and couples looking for their next getaway. Our friendly travel planners specialize in theme park destinations, major cruise lines, all-inclusive resorts, and more. Best of all, our travel planning services are complimentary when you book your vacation package with us! We also help you discover additional ways to save if you are on a budget, or find special upgrades if you are seeking a premier vacation experience. This holiday season give the gift of family travel and make memories to last a lifetime!

SwimWest Swim School

SwimWest curriculum teaches developmentally-appropriate learn- to- swim and safety skills at every age and ability level. This creates more confident swimmers and parents, allowing families to enjoy the water together.

SwimWest knows learning happens best when a student is having fun. That’s why we seize the opportunity during swim classes to make learning playful and exciting. Before the student knows it, they’ve learned stroke fundamentals and how to be safer in and around the water all while having a great time.

CEOs of Tomorrow

CEOs of Tomorrow inspires youth to unlock their entrepreneurial gifts and use them to make the world a better place. Our imPACTful Creations are entrepreneurship kits designed for children ages 8-14 and are packed with everything your kidpreneur needs to launch their very own fun business from home! Available business kits include: Homemade Gummy Animal Business; Homemade Lotion Business; Homemade Candle Business; Homemade Soap Balm Business

Quotebook Journal

Quotebook is for recording your family’s most memorable moments in a keepsake journal that will stand the test of time. Quotebook was born from a local Middleton couple’s 20-year habit of writing down all the hilarious things they would say to each other. As they had kids, the Quotebook got even better by recording all the hilarity of 3 boys in the family. It became a family ritual to read it before bed to guarantee laughter. In 2021, they decided to build a product they could share with the rest of the world!

City Tins

This annual foodie favorite gift is back—perfect for even the hardest to shop for family, friends and co-workers! Inside every tin are 20+ coaster gift cards, each worth $5 – $10 off your $25 tab at the featured locally-owned venue. That’s up to a $200 value in every clever little tin for only $30. This go-to gift item is perfect for all hostess gifts, teacher appreciation, welcoming new neighbors and newlyweds alike. Choose from Limited Editions in seven different markets in Wisconsin and neighboring states

Tru Madison West

When visiting Madison, stay with the best. You’ll be close to local restaurants and shops and the University of Wisconsin-Madison. You’ll get free WiFi, build-your-own breakfast and parking, plus easy access to downtown Madison.

Plus, we love dogs as much as you do! We offer pet-friendly staycation options so families can travel with their four-legged companions.

Share your adventures with the entire family, and leave no one behind with our Doggie Care Pet Package, which includes: water bowl, dog toys and treats! Plus, a portion of your pet fee will be donated to the Humane Society of Dane County.

Figgy

Fort. Rocketship. Treehouse. Boat.

Figgy is anything and everything.

Meet the home-adventure kit that’s taking every kid to the farthest reaches of their imaginations. Our play couch is expertly crafted to keep kids (and adults!) creating.

Our choice:

Figgy – $375 includes waterproof liners! 

Little Monsters

We are a children’s boutique that carries clothing (sizes infant-10), toys, accessories, and so much more! We try to offer a little something for everyone and love to do what we do. (Please refer to our website or Instagram as a reference!) In addition we offer complimentary gift wrap and are happy to ship if you’re unable to visit us in person. Gift ideas: Meri Meri Advent Calendars, wooden toys (we carry Grimms, Le Toy Van, Tenderleaf Toys, Plan Toys and Djeco), Jellycat stuffies, Picasso Tiles and so much more!

Storybook Ballet

At Storybook Ballet, your child’s spirit comes alive through music and dance, while the magic of children’s stories inspires their imagination. Specializing in children’s classical ballet for ages 3-9.

Pair a dance class with one of our special gift items:

(1) Storybook Ballet canvas dance bag

(2) Our original fairytale book, “Willow Rose Learns Honesty” ($20.00)

Goldfish Swim School

Teaching kids how to swim is our passion! At Goldfish Swim School Fitchburg we make learning to swim fun and safe for children ages 4 months to 12 years. Our group lessons are small – no more than 4:1 student to teacher ratio – so your child gets all the care and attention they need. And our 90° pool is the perfect tropical escape and way to keep kids moving during Wisconsin winters. We offer gift certificates and limited-time holiday gift packages for all the little fish on your holiday list. Kids learn safety skills while having fun, making friends, building confidence and learning life lessons with swim lessons at Goldfish Swim School. Limited-time holiday packages available. Shop our online store today while supplies last!

Kneaded Relief

Overlooking a restored prairie and waterfall ponds you’ll feel like you’re a world away, yet only steps outside of Madison. Voted Best of Madison, Madison Favorite Spa, Dane County Best in Business as well as many other awards.

Great gift ideas for the holidays include Spa items such as our Heated Therapy Wraps, Essential oils, Body Polish, Hand Poured Candles & more! As well as our highly coveted Spa Gift Cards packaged in our distinctive gold boxes. You can even shop online from the convenience of your computer for retail or gift cards and either email the gift card to the recipient or print one off yourself!

Sundara Inn & Spa

Sundara Inn & Spa was just voted one of the “Top 15 Spa Resorts in the U.S.” in the 2021 “Readers’ Choice Awards” from Condé Nast Traveler magazine and was ranked one of the “Top 10 Resort Hotels in the Midwest” in this year’s Travel + Leisure magazine’s “World’s Best Awards.” Closer to home, Sundara was declared the #1 Spa in Madison Magazine’s “Best of Madison” awards as voted on by readers. This sanctuary from stress and oasis of wellness features 80 woodland acres for snowshoeing, heated outdoor and indoor pools, spacious suites, 26 spa treatment rooms, restaurant, fitness studio, nail salon, and a full calendar of complimentary wellness classes including yoga and meditation. Escape the real world and energize your soul at Sundara. Adult-only and electronics-free in the common areas for tranquility.

Baby Jack

Sensory tag toys that teach, designed by two Wisconsin kids – great gift for kids and pets. Helps develop the five senses, a fun fidget – non tech toy – that can grow with each child! Small Wisconsin family business that gives back! Here are a few of our favorite gift ideas: Wisconsin 8×8 Crinkle Travel Toy that Teaches State Facts $15.95; Football 10×10 Stroller Tag Toy that teaches basics about the game $19.95; Farm Learning Lovey Tag Toy Security Blanket – $13.95 – $24.95

Satara Home and Baby

Satara Home and Baby is a high end boutique for all thing natural and organic Baby products. We carry brands like, Kickee Pants, Kyte Baby, Little Sleepies, Naturepedic, nunababy, Uppababy, Veer, Wounderfold and many more.

We offer high quality gift ideas including natural and organic baby clothes from Kickee Pants, Kyte Baby and Little Sleepies.

Evie & Co Boutique

Women’s Clothing & Accessory Boutique featuring on trend, affordable women’s apparel and gifts. Here are a few of our favorite gift ideas: Jen & Co Bags!; Cozy Wisconsin Sweatshirts; Seasonal Candles 

Twigs

We feature a curated collection of designer clothing, handbags, and jewelry. We’re here to help you find the perfect pair of denim, or complete your holiday gift list! Shop in store or online 24-7. Gift ideas: New initial necklaces by Marit Rae; Candles from Boy Smells or Brooklyn Candle Studio; Luxe new pj’s

Mystery to Me Books

Mystery to Me is a general bookstore with a very specific name! Of course we curate a wide selection of mystery (a broad genre) as well as a general and literary fiction, non-fiction, science fiction, fantasy, graphic novels, young adult titles, and a delightful children’s section. If you’re not sure what you’re looking for, our booksellers can help find the perfect book for anyone!

We have a wide range of children’s books, graphic novels, and games/puzzles that would be great for any kid! Start your shopping here: Children’s Books; Graphic Novels; Games & Puzzles

Noble Knight Games

The world’s largest selection of tabletop games is right here in Fitchburg! Visit the castle or shop online for board games, RPGs, card games, miniatures, dice, hobby supplies and collectibles for all ages! 

Here are some great gift ideas:

The Oilerie Sun Prairie

The Oilerie Sun Prairie, est. 2016, is a woman-owned and operated small business near Costco & Cabela’s in Sun Prairie. We offer extra virgin olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars direct from our 4th generation producer in Italy. Come in for free tastings daily. Gourmet food products and unique gifts.

Gift Ideas:

“Santa Pants” will be the talk of the holidays! $58.00
Bread Dipping Gift — perfect for anyone on your list! $27.00
25 Year Aged Balsamic Vinegar. 12.7 oz bottle with built-in pour spout. $24.00

Hazel General Store

Hazel General Store specializes in unique gifts from small-batch vendors based in the United States. Local on a larger scale is our motto! Located in the Willy Street neighborhood, we share our storefront with our sister shop Hatch Art House where you can find the work of over 60 Wisconsin based artists. Stop in soon! We have gifts for all ages including jewelry, home goods, t-shirts, and more, which makes it easy to find something for everyone on your list.

Here are some of our favorite gift items: Bamboo Nesting Snail ($33); Retro Sunrise Wisconsin Sweatshirt ($58); Mini Beach Necklace ($74)

UW Bookstore

The University Book Store is your Wisconsin Badgers Headquarters! We have a great selection of collegiate clothing and gifts, art/school/office supplies, unique Madison gifts, Tech Center (Authorized Apple Store), and much more. The gift ideas are endless – or you could always get a gift card!

Ideas for your Badger Fan:

Wisconsin Game Day Teddy Bear

Wisconsin Footballs Shake n’ Score Dice Game

3-D Camp Randall Stadium Ornament 

Dune Gift & Home

Modern Bohemian gift and home decor shop specializing in curated vintage goods, handmade, eco friendly and clean beauty products.

We love:

Coconut Oil Spray Moisturizer from $17
With over 20 uses, we call it the Swiss army knife of beauty products!

Sea salt Hair Texturing Spray $26
A super easy styling tool for the mom in the go, smells amazing and will keep your hair looking perfectly tousled.

Tradition Market (Women's)

Located next door to their flagship Children’s Boutique, Tradition Women’s Market offers a curated selection of classic women’s styles, hand selected from collections based all over the world. With high quality garments, knowledgable staff and a variety of price points, Tradition Women’s Market is the perfect place to shop for your bestie, teacher or mom. Locally owned and ready to help you in-store or virtually. Check out their website for current shopping conditions.

Tradition Market (Children's)

With imagination, innovation & nostalgia at our core, we feature a curated assortment of apparel, accessories and toys for children ages 0-10 for any occasion. With a full assortment of pajamas, rain boots, backpacks, baby gifts, holiday outfits and play clothes, Tradition Children’s Market can take care of all of your gifting needs. Check out their website for their current in-store and virtual shopping options.

Wisconsin Clothing Company

“Clothing For Wisconsinites Made By Wisconsinites”

Gift ideas:

Wisconsin Favorite Buff Check Hoodie 

Our Candles 

Our Fall Line

A New Day Boutique

A New Day Boutique is a modern and chic women’s clothing boutique with a boho interior design. This one-stop shop has a great mix of clothing, jewelry, shoes, and accessories with up-to-date trends. We provide affordable, versatile quality clothing that you can dress up or dress down for a night on the town or just running errands on you day off. We also carry an array of great gift ideas, stocking stuffers and local products/Artwork. 

Gift ideas: Amuse Society Faux fur Woven Jacket – $120.00; Mono B high waist snakeskin leggings – $40.00; Blowfish White Sand Leopard Boot – $70.00

MADTOWN Soap Co

Elevate your shower routine with a seasonally scented bar soap subscription from MADTOWN Soap Co. With wall-mounted soap dishes and functional soaps that scrub, shave and smooth, we take the sus out of sustainability. Soaps with names like Pine Trail and Harvest Moon put you in the mood to roam, rinse and repeat.

Gift Ideas: Build-a-Box; Prepaid Year-Long Seasonal Soap Subscription; Winter Seasonal Box + Wall Mounted Soap Dishes (available Nov 11)

Wildewood

We are a boutique houseplant and home goods shop specializing in high quality and unique indoor plants, botanical wares, and gifts.

Choose from a variety of planters and we’ll pot your plant for you before you leave – makes a great gift for a host or the plant lover in your life. Also shop our selection of grow kits, books, tea, candles, and more. See you at Hilldale!

Good Day Shop

We are a home, lifestyle and gift shop in Madison, Wisconsin featuring a curated selection of mindfully-made goods from makers, artists and indie brands we believe in. Find us on Monroe Street to find the perfect gift for someone you love (like you!). This season we’re featuring a special holiday collection and in-store popup series.

Gift Ideas: BToast Slice Boards, Alaia Robes, Tartan Blankets, Mini soap set

Present Not Perfect

Present Not Perfect is a local small business co-founded by a teacher and a therapist.  They make art and sensory play kits with handmade all-natural play dough or sensory sand and themed small pieces for creative and open-ended play.  Each kit’s theme is connected to an emotional skill and includes a mini resource guide with intentional extension prompts and activities that are meant to support family mental health and support kids’ early emotional learning.

 


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108 COMMENTS

  1. I would choose WiscoBoxes because my parents aren’t able to come back to WI due to Covid and that would be a great gift to send them!

  2. I would choose WiscoBoxes because my parents aren’t able to come back to WI due to Covid and that would be a great gift to send them!

  3. I would love to check out Tradition Womens Market and their kids market too. Oh, and I can’t forget the Gail Ambrosia chocolates 😋

  4. I would choose Tradition Market and Gail Ambrosia! Tradition has the cutest and best quality clothes around for my kids and me too. And that chocolate from Gail Ambrosia….yummmmmm

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