Although this is the San Francisco edition, it's important to recognize companies "home grown" all over the country. In the spotlight today are a few companies working locally in sunny San Diego who deserve some recognition for their hard work and unique products.
Now that Black Friday and Cyber Monday over, some of the over achievers have a good portion of their holiday shopping complete. For the rest of us still looking for unique gifts, check out this list of locally “grown” companies. The following products make for awesome holiday gifts for friends, family, and even the family pet. Plus by shopping locally, you’re given the opportunity to help support San Diego companies! Sounds like a win-win.
RunningSkirts, the company that created the original Running Skirt, is located in Carlsbad. With their flagship store in Downtown Encinitas, their line of athletic skirts makes for the perfect gift for the woman in your life! My pick is the classic Black Athletic Skirt, which serves as the perfect workout gear staple item because it pairs well with anything.
Photo Creatures offers photography workshops that are perfect for the new photographer! Located in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, their workshops give photographers the chance to learn and practice in a beautiful, fun, and local environment! The perfect holiday gift would be their 3.5-hour ‘Photos in a Snap’ photography workshop, which is offered both in the Hotel Circle area, as well as Cardiff. The ‘Photos in a Snap’ Workshop will expose your loved one to basic techniques for using their digital SLR, something they will surely enjoy. And remember, the gift of learning is always appreciated!
INT Softboards is located in Carlsbad and has been recognized as company that has revolutionized the softboard surfboard industry. Their boards are perfect for the new and even the advanced surfer, and although they are foam, they turn just like regular surfboards. Their 4’11” Black Ball Beater is the classic board that made the company the brand it is today - making it my pick as the go-to gift for the pro or novice surfer in your family. If you're located in San Diego (San Francisco area also with a wetsuit), you can even use the board the next day to hit the waves!
4. Prana
Prana, a Vista-based company, creates apparel perfect for the yogi in your life. While they also make clothing for the active lifestyle, their yoga apparel is hard to match. While they don’t have a storefront in San Diego, you can always shop their products online. For women, I suggest the Lolita pant, which is ideal for barre, yoga, Pilates, and even a quick jog or gym workout. For men, I suggest the Mojo short for their next work out.
5. Petco
One of the larger companies in San Diego, Petco has made itself a household name with the opening of Petco Park in Downtown San Diego. Aside from the baseball park and locations across the nation, Petco’s headquarters are located in San Diego. You can’t forget the animal in your family during the holidays! I suggest the dog training by Unleashed by Petco, a newer boutique-like addition to Petco. They offer potty training, socializing, and basic training. If you’re looking for something less intense, an updated ID tag would work just fine!
With this San Diego-based gift guide, you don't have any excuses to not give great gifts this season. Enjoy your shopping and happy holidays!
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