Shop Small and Local, Make a Big Impact

December 5, 2019

Shopping small can make a big impact. Whether you’re in search of one-of-a-kind holiday gifts or a souvenir from your Wine Country vacation, Lake County’s independent boutiques are full of surprises. Discovery is half the fun, so take a stroll through our shopping districts to find what inspires you.

Antiquing in Wine Country is legendary, and if you’re looking for untapped treasures, be sure to check out Lake County’s many purveyors.  Hit several shops by foot on Lakeport’s Main Street; swing by Middletown Antiques or Zephyr Zen if you’re coming from Up Valley, and check out Dusty’s Top Drawer in Kelseyville while you shop the small town’s burgeoning retail scene.
Within just a few blocks, Kelseyville offers up cute home and culinary gifts at A+H General Store, apparel and accessories at Oak, handcrafted fine jewelry at Fritz & Mischell, and a hip, curated offering of locally made goods at maker (sic).

A+H General Store
A+H General Store

For ceramic pots, kinetic lawn art, and gifts for your favorite green thumb, check out Star Gardens in Middletown.   If you’re in the market for Western wear, silver jewelry, equine accessories, and practical gifts for do-it-yourselfers, visit Rainbow, a classic country store in Lakeport.

Upper Lake Mercantile
Upper Lake Mercantile

Stop by Upper Lake Mercantile for thoughtful regional gifts, books, bath products, and rustic kitchen decor.  For eclectic lawn art, outdoor furniture, and oddities explore The Back Yard just around the corner (open seasonally).  If you haven’t got your fill of Wine Country antiquing yet, you’ll be pleased to find a few more vintage and antique dealers on Upper Lake’s Main Street as well.

The Back Yard
The Back Yard

Still stumped on what to get that person who has (almost) everything?  Commission a totally unique gift that makes a big impact from one of Lake County’s talented makers.  Win big points with the musician in your life by commissioning a custom guitar by local luthier Michael Dolan; or have The Rusted Roan upholstery refurbish a family heirloom that’s a little worse for the wear.

If your trip brings you here during the holiday shopping season – or any time of year – we invite you to shop small, shop local, and support our vibrant community businesses.  Visit Lake County for antiques, gifts, and welcoming personalities that you can’t find anywhere else.