Inspired by the lovely Amelia, I’ve been trying to buy as many of my Christmas gifts within the 216 as I can this season. Now, I won’t be able to buy every last one locally, but a decent amount. It’s a good challenge. Not just now – but always. I go out of my way to eat local (dining out and dining in) and will always support the mom and pop shop over a chain any day. I get a better product for my money and am keeping my dollars in our community. It’s a beautiful thing.

If you’re free this weekend, check out Bazaar Bizarre. I’ve never been, but have heard a lot of good things about past events. It’s an indie craft fair (think Etsy) with all sorts of goodies – for the people on your list, as well as yourself.

There are so many wonderful shops throughout Cleveland, many of which I still need to get to. Here are some of those shops that I like to frequent and always come home with fun finds.

Offspring. Amy has the cutest collection of baby and toddler finds. Natalie is the envy of all her friends with her seriously cute bibs, socks, tees and her first pair of Mary Jane’s (best diaper bags, too),

After visiting with Amy, head up the street to Stash Style. A fun boutique with lots of trendy finds, vintage items and Parisan-inspired goods. We found  a great mirror for the nursery, birthday gift for my teenage niece and various items for myself.

I have a lot of nieces and nephews. A lot. Toys, crafts, books – you name and I’ve bought it for them, most of which has come from Playmatters. Great staff  – they’ll help you find the perfect gift for the kids in your life.

I heart Tremont for many (obvious) reasons. But also because of Banyan Tree. I first discovered this store 6 or so years ago and have loved it since. I always find something there – always. Purses, jewelry, sunglasses, baby items (awesome baby goods), clothes, housewarming gifts – you name it. Just a great store. Period. Speaking of purses (my personal obsession), check out Pinky’s Daily Planner, too.

Another one of my favorite stores is Room Service. Danielle is just great – really great. And she’s a friend. I love her taste, her commitment to the city and just about everything in her store. Be sure to check out DueHome next door, as well.

A more recent discover is Powder Room. Make up, bath and body goodies plus facials. Some of the items I do think are more versus comparable places, but it’s a total girly girl shop and they get me every time.

Two areas I always have fun shopping (window or for real) are Coventry and Little Italy. Coventry itself is filled with lots of eclectic shops and quirky finds. I love this street and still miss living there. As for Little Italy, Murray Hill School House is a must-see, plus all the other galleries and specialty shops that line the streets.

Tees on the list? CLE Clothing Co is an easy favorite. Really great Cleveland-pride shirts. And a newer kid on the block is Stove Monkeys  from chef Matt Mytro. He’s offering free shipping and most chef-inspired shirts are just $20.

As you prepare your holiday feast, consider Mr. Brisket - because he’s good and is doing good. They are doing something unique to support troops in Afghanistan: salamis to the troops! Inspired by the son of a customer who is serving, Mr. Brisket is sending salamis plus Stadium Mustard. And for just $20, we can send some, too. Love this idea.

Interested in a shopping spree? I admit, when it comes to my wardrobe I’m pretty partial to J. Crew and Banana Republic. Obviously, not local (I never claimed to be perfect). I had the opportunity tonight to shop at Next at Beachwood Place, a locally owned store with another location on Coventry. It was my first trip and I was surprised that it wasn’t what I perceived it to be (it’s changed from its urban wear days). Contemporary street clothes, yes – but several items I’d wear (a lot actually, and great jewelry, tees and boots, too). And a lot of brands not carried elsewhere in town. I was also surprised by how reasonable most items were – not my perception going in. Want to see for yourself? Next gave me a $200 gift card to giveaway to one lucky reader. And for everyone else, how about 20% off the rest of the month? Just mention Cleveland Foodie. The winner will be randomly chose on Dec 18. You can enter as much as you’d like, and the more you enter, the more chances you have to win. Just leave a comment – any comment – or enter via Twitter, just be sure to include a link to this post and #shoplocalinCLE to be counted.

And finally, don’t forget your local restaurants. When in doubt, a gift certificate for dinner out always makes a great gift (in lieu of gifts, my siblings and I are planning a dinner out for us all to The Greenhouse Tavern in January).

I hope everyone is enjoying the holiday season, whatever you celebrate. There’s nothing like it. And if you still haven’t put up your tree, consider Whispering Pines Tree Farm in Middlefield. We’ve been going there for the past 4 yrs and this Griswold-esque tradition gets better each year.