Local Retailers Urge Holiday Shoppers to Stay Local for Gift Ideas

DULUTH, Minn. —

This is the last week to finish shopping for the Christmas holidays and many shoppers in the Twin Ports are looking to stay local for their gift ideas.

Shop owners we spoke to say when people spend their money at independent retail stores most of that money stays in the local economy.

Waters of Superior curates items from artists and artisans from all over, and many of them are from right here in Duluth!

Those at the gallery say they specialize in many items that invoke the spirit of the North Woods.

“[We are] a lifestyle store that really showcases all of the elements of our area,” said Gallery Manager Aubrey Danielson.  “You get wonderful arts that are made in the area, jewelry, clothing, bath and gifts.  It’s like an all-inclusive store.”

Danielson is also one of the buyers at Water of Superior; she says they feature the work of more than 100 local and regional artists.

There are many shops right here in town featuring the work of local artists and makers.

Lake Superior Art Glass is a studio that will teach you the basics of blowing glass.

But on display here are a number of gift ideas from hand-blown Christmas tree ornaments to the ever-popular Lake Superior necklace pendants.

Shop owner and featured artist Dan Neff says more and more of what they have to offer is made right in their shop in Duluth.

“We as makers really appreciate the support we have here in Duluth from the community,” Neff said. “We encourage folks to shop small, shop local, and support makers.”

Waters of Superior is located at 395 S Lake Avenue in Canal Park.

They’ll keep their normal daily hours of 10:00am – 7:00pm through the end of the week and they will be closing at 3:00pm on Christmas Eve.

Lake Superior Art Glass has a storefront at 202 East Superior Street in Downtown Duluth; they will remain open until Christmas Eve as well, closing at 4:00pm on that day.