The holiday shopping season is officially upon us. Our advice for finding some semblance of calm in the chaos? Skip the Black Friday sales and do your holiday shopping on Small Business Saturday. Chances are you’ll find more personal and unique gifts than in department stores, plus you’ll be supporting the Mile High economy. Here are a few suggestions for where to spend your greenbacks this weekend:


Naturally Loved: This children’s boutique will be opening at 10 a.m. on Saturday to offer discounts on items to keep little ones (and parents) happy. Expect to find BOGO deals on toys and clothes, as well as reduced prices on carriers, wraps, and slings. They’ll close their doors at 6 p.m. that evening, but don’t worry—the deals run through December 1st. 2895A Fairfax St.

The River Power Vinyasa Yoga: Stop in for a midday Namaste at this Golden Triangle yoga studio. With deals on classes and up to 40 percent off select retail (made mostly by local vendors), you really can give the gift of peace this year. Not sure what your yogi prefers? Purchase a gift card and receive a special bonus deal. The River will be open from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. 1212 Delaware St.

Tennyson Street Small Business Passport Crawl: Eighteen businesses—from pet boutiques to tea shops to fitness studios—along North Denver’s Tennyson Street will be offering custom discounts. Make an afternoon of it: Start by dropping into one of the participating businesses to grab your passport. Each time you make a purchase, you’ll receive a stamp from that shop. For every stamp you acquire, you’ll be entered into a raffle to win gift baskets featuring products from all the Passport Crawl businesses. Tennyson St., between 38th and 46th Avenues

Artisan’s Market at Wazee Union: In its second year, the Artisan’s market is a gathering of more than 40 local shops and vendors, making Small Business Saturday a one-stop shop. Whether your loved ones prefer home decor, jewelry, fine art, or food, you can find the perfect handcrafted gift. Wander through the market between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. 3501 Wazee St.

Bonus: Some of these businesses participate in American Express’s Small Business Saturday rewards program. To find out if your favorite local shop works with AMEX, search for them on the website.

Don’t Miss: No time to go shopping this Saturday? Mark your calendars for the Knotty List Mini Holiday Market on Friday, December 5th from 6 to 10 p.m. The Knotty Tie Company is inviting eight local vendors and craftsmen to join the holiday party and sale, taking place at Knotty’s headquarters in the Arts District on Santa Fe. To fuel your shopping frenzy, Sons of Scullery BBQ and Renegade Brewing Co. will be on-hand to keep your bellies satisfied. 855 Inca St.

(Learn how to host the perfect holiday brunch)