Buying gifts can be stressful, especially as Christmas quickly approaches. And finding that uniquely Austin gift may seem even more difficult. That’s what we’re here for. Of course, you can always hit up a Christmas market or fair to find all things local (check out our list here). But if that sounds like more than you’re looking for, try checking out one of the shops or items in our Austin gift giving guide. Some can even be ordered online!
Customizable Gifts
We all have that one someone who has everything. If that’s the case, here are some customizable gifts that are one-of-a-kind!
Sock Club
Established in Austin in 2012, Sock Club has plenty of gift options. You can give the gift of a sock subscription or make a custom pair. You can even put your face on a pair as a gag gift. Plus, first timers get 20% off your purchase AND for every pair purchased one gets donated. It’s the gift that just keeps on giving.
Watercolor ATX
Know someone who prefers thoughtful gifts over materialistic ones? This is the perfect combination of art and thoughtfulness. You can shop Anna Muniz already created stunning watercolor prints or order one custom. You’ll probably have to give an IOU card though because orders placed after December 1 are not guaranteed to be fulfilled by Christmas.
Heather Kilgore Art
Austinite Heather Kilgore specializes in custom designed denim, and more recently she’s branched out to create bags and smaller sized pouches. You can currently find her pre-made items in Hemline on 2nd Street or DM her on Instagram about a custom order.
Jewelry
We’ve all seen the over the top TV commercials from jewelry stores telling you (generic) diamonds will be the perfect gift. Diamonds aren’t every girls best friend. Luckily there are plenty of local designers to choose from so there will be nothing generic or bland about your gift.
Kendra Scott
The local jewelry designer’s flagship store and studio headquarters have remained in Austin since she’s started her company in 2012. Swing by the South Congress shop (1701 South Congress Avenue) this holiday season and you can sip on a frosé and snap a picture with their holiday mural. Kendra Scott has plenty of unique pieces to choose from. There’s even a color bar where you can customize certain pieces and charms. Check out their #1 gift pick here.
Amanda Deer
Amanda started her company because she was always on the look out for minimalist jewelry that was made of good materials but not overpriced. When she couldn’t find any she took matters into her own hands. You can swing by her shop on the East side (501 N. IH 35, Suite 115) or order online.
Nina Berenato
This is the perfect gift for anyone who is into being eco friendly. All of Nina’s jewelry is made of recycled materials. If that isn’t enough to win you over, she’s also a designer to the stars. Her jewelry has been spotted on superstars like Beyonce, Lizzo, Billie Eilish, and more.
Food
It’s hard to not be a foodie in Austin. There are so many delicious options, no matter what your preference. It’s almost guaranteed that you can never go wrong gifting food. If the options below don’t tickle your fancy, there’s always the ever reliable gift card to P. Terry’s.
Antonelli’s Cheese Shop
Their website says it all: “Nothing says I love you like a box of cheese.” They sell over a 100 kinds of cheese and have a gift box for almost every occasion (discount on bulk orders). They also offer classes, most of which include a farm tour. That sure sounds like a lot of perfectly cheesy gifts to choose from. Items are available online and in their three locations.
Salt and Time
A full service butcher shop, salumeria, and restaurant serving meats from sustainable Texas ranches, one might think it couldn’t get any better. But it can! Salt and Time offers classes as gifts – butchering classes. That’s a gift your loved one won’t soon forget. Shop online or in their 7th Street shop.
Steamm Espresso
At Steamm Espresso, they hand pull and bottle artisan espresso and deliver it to your door. With adorable packaging, any coffee lover is going to love this one. With many different options, including a variety pack, the coffee enthusiast in your life will thank you for this gift. Made in Austin, shipped everywhere. More info here.
Beauty
Local beauty products have become a big trend as of late and with the products we’ve seen coming through Austin, we can understand why.
Milk + Honey
With three locations to choose from, the Austin based spa offers luxurious treatments, healing therapies, and multiple other services. You can never go wrong by giving the gift of wellness! In addition to services, they also have a line of their own products featured in this holiday gift guide.
Olive + M
Pure ingredients a modest price points, Olive + M is the perfect give for your loved one and your wallet. Plus, it’s perfect for both men and women at every age and stage of life. Now available at some Targets, you can locate where to purchase here. Or simply order online.
Austin Natural Soap
Offering a variety of soaps, balms, oils, and so much more, Austin Natural Soap is #SoAustin. Their natural soaps have names like Hill Country Lavender, Barton Springs Eternal, Texas Bluebonnet, Hippie Hollow, and more. They event have a body/ room spray called 78704. What’s it smell like? You’ll have to swing by the South First store (1801 South First) or swing by the Blue Genie Art Bazaar to find out.
Books
Looking for a gift for the bookworm in your life? Help them get their read on with a book penned by an author right here in Austin!
El Arroyo’s Book of Signs by S. Arroyo
Who wouldn’t enjoy this book of the hilariously relatable El Arroyo signs? Not anyone we know! Available at various stores around Austin or online here.
Koko’s Guide to Austin by Jane Ko
The well known Austin foodie, who goes by @ATasteOfKoko, wrote a guide that helps you eat and drink you way through Austin. It’s a great gift for the foodie in your life! Pick up a copy at Book People or on Amazon.
Bread on the Table by David Norman (Owner of Easy Tiger Bake Shop and Beer Garden)
If you’ve ever had Easy Tiger, this gift is self explanatory. Perfect for the baker in your life, don’t forget to remind them to send you a thank you gift in the form of bread. Purchase on Amazon.
Austin to ATX: The Hippies, Pickers, Slackers, and Geeks Who Transformed the Capital of Texas by Joe Nick Patoski
The written history of how Austin got weird. A great read for a transplant or even a local looking to learn more about their hometown. Also available on Amazon.
Looking for gifts ideas for your friends who love to drink? Check out our Drink Like an Austinite gift guide here.
