SPREAD THE LOVE. We always encourage folks to shop small, especially during the holiday season. While we've all got our favorites, here are some shops that opened at the end of 2023 and during 2024 that can add to your must-shop list. (Picture here is El Camino Skate Shop, 1901 Brackett Ave., Eau Claire.)

Locals tend to have their favorites: favorite place to dine, drink, and shop. We’re pretty lucky to have a bustling small business community, and while they need our support year-round, the holiday season is time to kick that support up a notch if you’re able. Since the end of 2023, quite a few entrepreneurs have opened up shop in the Chippewa Valley. Here are some of those retailers to add to your holiday shopping must-stops:

Eau Claire:

• Picture This Scrapbooking & More (2235 N. Clairemont Ave.) – craft supplies
• Lily Beez (303 Main St.) – florals, sweets, cigars
• Mr. Kitty’s Cat Cafe (502 S. Farwell St.) – cat-related art, goods
• El Camino Skate Shop (1901 Brackett Ave.) – skateboarding goods
• The Beyond (218 N. Dewey St.) – vintage books +VHS, art
• Decadent Gifts & Gallery (329 Water St.) – local art
• Verdant Curiosities (320 Graham Ave.) – plants
• Amanita Bookshop (1500 S. Hastings Way) – books

Amanita Bookshop.

Menomonie:

• The Creamery Boutique (E4616 County Road C) – women’s + kids clothing, accessories, body care
• UpCreek Vintage (632 S. Broadway St.) – vintage wares
• Artisan Alley & Gifts (226 Main St. E, Suite A) – local art
• The Gilded Faun (110 Main St. W, Suite 1A) – home goods + florals