I’m a huge supporter of small businesses! With Christmas right around the corner I wanted to make sure that a lot of my purchases were from the businesses around town in order to support the local community. With so many unique offerings to be had at small shops in your neighborhood, there is no better time to check them out than now during the holiday season.

For small business owners themselves, Kabbage (an online provider of small business loans) can act as a resource for you to thrive in your local community during this busy shopping season!

Here are 4 great places that I love to shop at in the Northern Virginia and Maryland area:

Lou Lou
Old Town Alexandria
132 King Street
Alexandria, VA 22314

This family owned boutique is located in Old Town Alexandria, VA (in addition to other stores in the DC metro area & Massachusetts). Here you can find unique accessories, handbags, jewelry, and so much more, that any girl will love! They also have an online shop that can be found here: loulouboutiques.com Shop away!

Pink & Brown Boutique
1212 King Street
Alexandria, VA 22314

While you’re in Old Town Alexandria, also be sure to check out this shop for any gifts you may need for the little ones on your list. This boutique sells organic clothing, unique toys, books, and even hand-knitted outfits. I recently gave this shop a visit and fell in love with all of their products. They just opened up a new store in the Springfield, VA mall too, if that happens to be closer to you. Take a look at their website here: pinkandbrownboutique.com

Happy Hound Co.
19352 Promenade Drive
Leesburg, VA 20176

In what describes itself as a “dog lifestyle company”, Happy Hound sells many great gifts for the pet lover on your list. You can find healthy treats, unique toys, and even give your pet a bath; I myself love visiting and picking up natural treats and dog toys for Portia. Be sure to visit their website here: happyhoundco.com

The Muse
19 N. Market Street
Frederick, MD 21701

At The Muse, the store showcases the work of many local artists ranging from pottery to greeting cards to jewelry and linens. I love visiting this store in Downtown Frederick! You will never find the same thing twice, making everything you purchase unique. You can find out more about The Muse here: shopthemuse.com

Hopefully you all will check out the local businesses around your area, or perhaps these if you’re in town! If you’re a small business owner, also be sure to check out Kabbage’s Holiday Planning page, where they share holiday season tips just for you!

Do you have any small businesses that you love? Show them your support this holiday season. Now lets all get to shopping!