Tis the season to stand in line and curse yourself for failing to get a jump-start on your Christmas shopping — yet again. That is, unless you decide to bypass overcrowded malls altogether and shop small this year. Read on for some of our favorite local gift shops, chock full of treasures to delight everyone on your list.
Maven
Founded in 2012 by design enthusiast Kellye Hunt Raughton, this 4,000-square-foot Cultural District find features a curated assortment of colorful, eclectic pieces for the home. Offerings include splurge-worthy upholstered furniture, luxury linens, whimsical décor, and knickknacks to please any design snob. Born from Raughton’s “fascination with beautiful things” and entrepreneurial spirit, Maven also offers bespoke pieces and interior decorating services.
Parkhill’s Jewelry & Gifts
For unparalleled customer service and small-town vibes, this 32-year-old boutique is your go-to. Fine jewelry and home goods are sold along with children’s toys and books, creating a one-stop shop. Delivery is available to select ZIP codes, and gift-wrapping is always an option. Located near the Fort Worth Zoo, Parkhill’s touts itself as “Fort Worth’s most unique boutique.” Stop by to see for yourself.
P.S. the Letter
Originally opened as The Letter, a stationery store, in 1986, P.S. the Letter was sold to Linda Motley in 1997. Motley left an 11-year career at American Airlines to spend more time with her family and “fulfill her lifelong dream of owning a business.” Now, the boutique is a virtual Fort Worth landmark, beloved for its wide selection of linens, home décor, and, its specialty, stationery. Adding to the merry: The store offers personalization, monogramming, and engraving services. Big things are in store for 2017; there are plans to move to a new space.
Scentimentals
For myriad home fragrances, look no further. Born from a “family’s love of home fragrance,” Scentimentals started more than two decades ago when Fort Worthian Irene Duncan and her granddaughter Rani Grandstuff, who now runs the business, began making candles in their garage and selling them at small craft shows. The store has since expanded to two locations — Fort Worth and Weatherford — and is best-known for its triple-scented, handcrafted candles. Also look for apparel, jewelry, and skincare gifts galore.
Sur La Table
Shopping for a home chef or the host with the most? This Seattle-based brand recently opened a new Fort Worth location, where in addition to a treasure trove of culinary tools, you'll find gourmet treats, stocking stuffers, and even cooking classes — our top pick for a fun and unexpected gift. From handcrafted Japanese cutlery to kitchen gadgets you didn’t know existed and never knew you needed, it’s a certified foodie haven. (Think of it as the hardware store for cooks.)
Toy Works
When shopping for littles, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more unique selection of toys than at this local gem. Around since 1983, it stocks plush animals, books, toys, action figures, dolls, and so much more for a wide range of ages. Gift wrap is complimentary and the knowledgeable staff is more than happy to guide you in selecting the perfect toys for the kiddos on your list.
Z Gallerie
Looking to impress a chic friend or design-savvy coworker? Z Gallerie has so much more than fashion-forward furniture. The recently opened Southlake location carries an ever-changing assortment of giftable books, games, tableware, and objets d’art in the store’s modern aesthetic. A love for art is what drives the shop, which was founded in Sherman Oaks, California, in 1979 by the Zeidan siblings (hence the name). Budget-friendly finds include holiday ornaments, home fragrances, and stationery.
In addition to its signature handcrafted candles, Scentimentals offers apparel, jewelry, and skincare gifts.
Corduroy dresses from Jac & Juju.Facebook/Jac & Juju
Kemo Sabe is popping up in the Stockyards for the holidays.Facebook/Kemo Sabe
The newly refreshed relaxation lounge at Woodhouse Spa.Photo courtesy of Woodhouse Spa