It’s been a year, hasn’t it? 2020 has affected all of us. What’s troubling to me is how it’s impacted small businesses and artists, though. So this year, I’m challenging myself and my friends to shop local and support local. With that in mind, I’ve found some Nebraska artists and locally-owned stores that will help get you into the holiday spirit this year.
Nebraska-made holiday decor
There are many makers, artists and crafters in Nebraska creating home decor in a variety of styles. Here are a few Nebraska artisans’ works on Etsy that have caught my eye:
1. Rustic Barn Wood Christmas Trees by Bialas Crafted in Omaha
2. 2020 Christmas Ornament “We Stayed Home” by Bleacher Spirit in Omaha
3. “A Christmas Story” Leg Lamp Door Hanger by Peppered Wood in Omaha
4. Holiday Hoobie Whatty Wood Sign by Rusticly Inspired in Scottsbluff
5. Christmas Tree Doormat by Black & Wheat Co. in North Platte
6. Fused Glass Christmas Present Ornament by Flat Rock Glass in Sutherland
7. Plaid and Burlap Christmas Stockings by Prairie Burlap Living in Juniata
8. Oh Fudge Circle Doorhang by Knock Knocks Door Hangs in Lincoln
Locally-owned shops in Nebraska where you can find cute holiday decor
If you prefer your shopping in person (please follow local ordinances on social distancing and/or mask-wearing), here are a few great shops in Nebraska to start browsing:
1. Tannenbaum Christmas Shop
Where: 1007 Howard St., Omaha
It’s Christmas year-round at Tannenbaum. This charming shop in the Old Market is packed with decorations, ornaments, and holiday inspiration.
The Old Market is a wonderland at Christmastime, with twinkling trees and, sometimes, strolling carolers. Plan to stay a while and visit a restaurant while you’re in the neighborhood.
2. Village Pomegranate
Where: 8724 Pacific St., Omaha
You’ll find seasonal home decor ranging from whimsical serving dishes to witty holiday napkins. I found some truly unique Halloween decorations at the Village Pomegranate this year so I’m excited to see what they have in stock for Christmas.
3. Mulhall’s
Where: 3615 N. 120th St., Omaha
You might think Mulhall’s is just for gardening and plants, but that’s only half of it. Mulhall’s is quickly becoming a hip place to shop for home decor, as well. They’ve already started teasing some of the holiday decorations they’ll have on their social media platforms.
4. Mangelsen’s
Where: 3457 S. 84th St., Omaha
Sure, Mangelsen’s is the place to go for all-things-crafty, and you’re likely to find everything you need to create your own custom holiday decorations. But, Mangelsen’s also has Christmas decorations and lots of them.
You’ll find more traditional and folksy decor options there.
5. Earl & Gray
Where: 15416 Second St., Bennington, Neb.
From the gang that brought the beautiful Found shop in the Benson neighborhood of Omaha, there’s Earl & Gray. They’re planning a holiday kick-off event in mid-November so I anticipate finding some darling decorations in the shop all season long.
6. Salt Creek Mercantile
Where: 1502 Silver St., Ashland, Neb.
One of the most beautiful stores in the entire state is found in the little town of Ashland. I only just discovered Salt Creek Mercantile this summer, so I can’t 100% promise you that they’ll have some swoon-worthy, Farmhouse-style Christmas decorations, but I’m hopeful just by the looks of their fall decorations found in their Insta feed.
Shop for locally-made gifts!
Support small businesses and local artisans this year. Here are a few of my favorite things that are made locally and/or sold locally. These guides go live on October 22!
