The unique character of Austin is defined in large part by the many small businesses that reside here. This year, we thought it would be fun to ask some of your favorite KMFA Classical 89.5 on-air personalities along with some of the behind-the-scenes staff to share their favorite things to give as gifts. The only rule we gave them is that it had to be locally owned or made, or be a company that gives back to causes worth supporting.
We've bundled these options up for you so you can do all your holiday shopping right here with KMFA's Favorite Things Gift Guide.
Support for KMFA's Favorite Things Gift Guide comes from Terry McDaniel & Company Investment Counsel.
SPOTLIGHT BUSINESS
FAIR MARKET GIFT SHOP
Small World Goods (originally Gadabout Goods) was founded by Bibi, a life long gadabout. Traveling and living abroad since childhood, she dreamed of creating a business with people and crafts around the world, and working to provide opportunities for those with few. Moving to Austin, she bought Sheila, the Truck, and started this website, now she's got a brick-and-mortar ship in the heart of East Austin. When you shop Small World Goods, you are supporting a network of artists and entrepreneurs around the world living their dreams of artistic freedom and financial independence!
Shop online, or visit their shop for their complete collection of ethically sourced treasures.
A couple of Bibi's favorites include:
Handmade of vintage, washed burlap in Kolkata, India. Finished with leather and metal, lined in drilled canvas. The Minx is a modern take on the classic round sling bag: subtle, timeless and chic.
Small World Goods’ distinctive Karen Hill Tribe Jewelry collection is handmade by silversmiths in South East Asia and prized for its shine and craftsmanship.
Hand thrown and carved match holders with bundles of matches to be lit by striking them along the bottom. Handmade by Renee in small batches here in Austin. Using only small batch clay and artisanal cork, all Renee's work is made to be loved, intentional pieces that last a lifetime.
Colorful, handmade, 2 pocket purses from vintage Hmong Tribe textiles. Small enough to fit in a larger bag, and large enough to hold all your bits and bobs. Each one-of-a-kind, handmade by Na and Pha in northern Thailand.
Packed with cards about their origin, Small World Goods Goods’ pieces make thoughtful gifts for any season.
Shop in person at 1630 East 6th St, Unit 1101, Austin, TX 78702 (in the Sentral Building)
Open Wednesday-Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Closed on Christmas Day.
Shop online anytime at smallworldgoods.com
SPOTLIGHT PRODUCT
SIGNATURE KMFA HOLIDAY COFFEE BLENDS
Mozart's Coffee Roasters is more than just a groovy coffee shop on Lake Austin, they have everything from campfire mugs to masks in addition to locally roasted coffee blends and a full service bakery!
Back by popular demand this year are the two Signature KMFA Holiday Blends were created exclusively for KMFA Classical 89.5 last year. They were so popular Mozart's has brought them back for a limited time this holiday! A portion of the proceeds from every bag sold goes to KMFA to support the music you love. You can drink great coffee and support KMFA Classical 89.5 at the same time!
Choose from the Classical Christmas Medium Roast or the more robust Sleigh Ride Dark Viennese Roast - the first ever interactive roasted bean multi-sensory coffee experience! Each bag of Sleigh Ride includes a label you can scan to listen to "Sleigh Ride" by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart!
Visit their new gift shop in person at 3825 Lake Austin Boulevard, Austin, TX 78703
Shop online at mozartscoffee.com
SHOP LOCAL SPOTLIGHT
Whether you call yourself a book lover or a bibliophile, Malvern Books is the perfect local spot to find rare gems and local authors. Our friends at Malvern are celebrating the season with assorted special offers. For every $50.00 you spend leading up to Christmas, you'll get a $10.00 gift card for your next trip!
Don't miss Malvern's 12 Days of Christmas with oustanding daily deals beginning Sunday, December 12th! Visit malvernbooks.com for more details!
If you are looking to give the gift of literature this holiday here are some of their favorite picks:
Local Austin Authors
Loving Local! Malvern Books has a wide range of wonderful books by local writers, including memoirs, fiction, and poetry. Share your love of all things Austin with one of these Bat City faves.
NYRB Classics Series
The NYRB Classics series is dedicated to publishing a fascinating mix of fiction and nonfiction from different eras, times, and places—and our selection of these eclectic titles is unmatched!
Books make great gifts—but so do journals, planners, cards, mugs, and t-shirts! We also have a wide range of greeting cards, so you’re sure to find something for everyone, from Great Aunt Gertrude to your cat-loving cousin Steve.
Shop in person at 613 W 29th St, Austin, TX 78705
Open Tuesday-Sunday from Noon to 5:00 p.m.
CLICK HERE to make a private shopping appointment.
To arrange for curbside pick-up, call 512.332.2097.
Shop anytime online at malvernbooks.com
EMILIO'S FAVORITE
KMFA Breakfast Blend host Emilio Alvarez gets up early so its no surprise he went right to pastries for his favorite! His top pick is Conmadre Panadería. Emilio says owner Mariela Camacho makes the most beautiful and delicious traditional, yet innovative Mexican patries. They are so good, he swears your abuelita will enjoy them!
Comadre Panadería is inspired by founder Mariela Camacho’s experience of growing up Xicana in America. Their work is rooted in social and environmental stewardship and mentorship of women and people of color. Their mission is to create high-quality breads and pastries, grounded in technique, that use responsibly grown and sourced (local when possible) ingredients to sustain our community. They use whole grains, stone-milled flours and natural fermentation whenever possible. Their ingredients are whole, flavorful, and authentic.
Comadre Panadería is a pop up with events in and around Austin. Visit them online for more details on upcoming events at comadrepanaderia.com.
SARA'S FAVORITE
KMFA Rideshare host Sara Schneider (and the rest of the KMFA staff) received a nice gesture of kindness from management earlier this year - a small gift set from Activated Faith.
Activated Faith is a woman-owned business in Marble Falls that makes hand crafted and hand poured products using time-honored botanical production practices. Each of the candle products have a surprise treasure crystal inside. As your candle burns, the crystal is continuously warmed and activated and once your candle is complete - you get to remove your crystal and breathe your dreams to life activated by your faith in the intention you cultivate. Sara admits, she's not typically a scented candle person, but she loved her candle from Activated Faith and it was perfect for her sporadic meditation sessions.
Shop Activated Faith online at activatedfaithproducts.com.
ANN'S FAVORITE
KMFA President & General Manager Ann Hume-Wilson has impeccable style. She wanted to share one of her favorite Texas-based clothing lines and a small local boutique that carries it!
Niche Clothing Co at Wear Art Thou
The Niche Clothing Co line offers a selection of wearable art pieces: separates, dresses, jackets and coats, and all incredibly comfortable -- not surprising, because Niche is woman-owned! Founded in San Antonio, with most pieces manufactured in Central Texas, Niche pieces can be found in Austin at my truly favorite place to shop, Wear Art Thou, 4518 Burnet Road. While you are there, check out the fantastic jewelry designed by The Redheaded Goddess (who also happens to own the shop)!
Shop in person at Wear Art Thou at 4518 Burnet Road Austin, Texas 78756.
Just two doors North from Upper Crust Bakery.
Open Wednesday-Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Shop Niche Clothing Co. online at nicheatpearl.com or visit their store in San Anonio.
JUDLYNE'S FAVORITE
KMFA Staccato host Judlyne Lilly-Gibson loves the wine and the story behind the McBride Sisters Collection.
The largest Black-owned wine company in the United States, McBride Sisters Collection is proof that a bond can form over a bottle of wine. The company is owned by two half-sisters, both fathered by the same man, who didn't know each other existed until they were nearly grown women. Robin and Andréa's love affair with wine was planted within them from an early age. Each was raised among the vines across the world from one another, one in Monterey, California and the other in Marlbourough, New Zealand. Fueled by their shared passion for all things wine, wine-making and a desire to shake up the industry with a blend of old-world elegance and new-world finesse - McBride Sisters Collection was born.
Find McBride Sisters Collection at a local retailer here.
Shop McBride Sisters Collection online at mcbridesisters.com.
VIRGINIA'S FAVORITE
If you are a cherished donor to KMFA, you no doubt know our Director of Individual Giving, Virginia Alvarez. She is a self-professed michelada fiend and is adamant that Momo's Michelada Mix is the best she's ever had. Ever!
Founded by Austin couple KC Hensley and Marisa "Momo" Williams after they fell in love with micheladas on a trip to Nicaragua. In every sip you can taste the adventure and authentic Cetnral American spirit (along with the lemon, spices, and peppers) that they found in Nicaragua. They sell a "one size fits all" serving bottle as well as being featured in a handful of local bars and restaurants.
Click HERE to find a local bar or restaurant that sells Momo's.
Order your own bottle online at momosmicheladamix.com.
TODD'S FAVORITES
Todd Hogan-Sanchez manages KMFA's digital assets and local partnerships. This was his idea, so he's sharing THREE of his favorites!
100% Natural Soy Candles Hand-poured in Manor, Texas
The folks at Flame Candle Co. believe scents can truly transform any environment into a calming sanctuary, evoke memories from the past, create a cozy environment for a gathering of friends and family, or set the mood for a quiet night in. The only problem is most candles contain plastics, chemicals, and harsh products. That's when they decided to make candles with all the "good," without all the "bad." This passion led to researching fragrance and essential oils, and making candles in their kitchen in Manor, TX. Then, with the support of friends and family, they put themselves, and their candles, out into the world because they wanted to give everyone the opportunity to enjoy these candles. Now, you have the chance experience this joy, as well.
Two of Todd's favorite holiday scents include:
It’s Christmas Morning! This classic holiday scent tells the story of a cozy holiday sipping drinks in front of the fireplace. Notes of orange spice, fir, and earthy embers make this the perfect classic scent to be enjoyed by all.
Merry Mistletoe is a perfect festive holiday candle with invigorating eucalyptus, notes of fir, and spiced clove. Cedarwood and patchouli round out this perfect holiday scent to bring the essence of the holiday season to any room in your house.
Shop in person at The Little Gay Shop and other local gift shops.
Shop online at flamecandlecompanytx.com
Flame Candle Co. also offers local delivery!
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Milam & Greene was created by founder Marsha Milam, whiskey expert and Master Blender Heather Greene, Kentucky veteran Master Distiller Marlene Holmes and Chief Brewer Jordan Osborne. Their charming distillery sits in the lush, Texas Hill Country where the hot summers, mild winters, and wild temperature variances add spark and personality to their spirit. To achieve excellence, they bring in grains, yeast, barrels and experience from all across America to create our award-winning whiskies.
Todd doesn't even drink that often, and he has dreams about this bourbon!
These exquisite spirits make a great gift for the whiskey connoisseur on your list. Find them locally at Twin Liquors, The Austin Shaker, and other fine liquor stores. You can also set up curbside pickup at their Blanco, Texas distillery, or order online. They are currently offering free shipping on orders of $75.00 or more.
Shop online at milamandgreenewhiskey.com.
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Artisan Chocolates by Krystal Craig
You know what goes good with bourbon (among other things)? Chocolate. Todd's absolute favorite are artisan chocolates from Krystal Craig at Intero Restaurant.
Krystal Craig, co-owner of Intero Restaurant in East Austin, has put together a plethora of delectable hand crafted chocoates for the holiday. Her chocolates have graced the pillows of The Four Seasons and other boutique hotels in Austin, and have been a favorite for shoppers at the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar for years.
Individual holiday treats and gift boxes are available now online or at Intero. And a quick suggestion from us, you'll want to get some for yourself as well as some for the chocolate lovers on your Christmas list!
Gift sets available from $10 and up.
Shop online or visit Intero at 2612 E Cesar Chavez St Suite 105, Austin, TX 78702
STACEY'S FAVORITE
KMFA Director of Events Stacey Hoyt likes to send hand written notes to freinds, family and clients. One of her favorite collections of notecards is the Shimmer & Ink series from award-winning Austin photographer Theresa DiMenno.
Theresa DiMenno's Shimmer & Ink Notecards
Theresa's photos have been featured in museums and publications around the country. Spring in Texas, a bundle of 6.5"x7" blank note cards printed on cardstock are great for sending a note of gratitude or just to say "hi" to an old (or new) friend. They are also suitable for framing!
Theresa DiMenno's Spring in Texas note cards are currently available online through Texas Highways Merchantile Shop.
See more of Theresa's award-winning photography online at theresadimenno.com.
MELISSA'S FAVORITE
KMFA's Membership Director, Melissa David, is tireless in her efforts to run our on-air fund drives among many other things with regards to our generous members. When she celebrates the end of a successful KMFA Fund Drive, she treats herself to the Funfetti Triple Berry Cubpcake from Sugar Mama's Bakeshop. She likes to pretend she's a judge on a baking competittion when tasting every last delectable morsal.
Sugar Mama's Funfetti Triple Berry Cupcake
Sugar Mama's Bakeshop is grateful to bring Austin the sweetest baked goods around. Every purchase allows them to retain an incredibly talented and diverse staff. If Melissa's Funfetti fave isn't your cup of tea, you will no doubt find a flavor that is. You can also check out their cookes, dessert bars, patries, pies, or even something savory!
Order online for curbside pickup or delivery via Grubhub at sugarmamasbakeshop.com.
PURCHASES WITH A PURPOSE
If you want to spread twice the holiday cheer you might consider purchasing one of our picks from this section. You get a gift to give, and they give a gift to a worthy cause.
Do you have someone on your list that literally has everything?! Or maybe you are looking for a unique way to give a gift while supporting a local nonprofit. I Live Here I Give Here has the perfect solution with their Giving eCards. Make a donation to the person's favorite I Live Here I Give Here nonprofit in her/his/their name! It's teh gift that gives back!
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The Happy NPO is proud to say that 100% of their profits go to their non-profit. They directly manage and assist a home reconstruction program in Puerto Rico, a children's home in Peru, as well as partnering with organizations supporting migrants in Tijuana... plus, they do creative relief work when there are natural disasters (in the US and the Caribbean).
One of our faves is their "Be Kind" line of products:
FYI. Your shopping is kindness here as 100% of the profits support their non-profit work in Puerto Rico, Peru, Tijuana, and Ethiopia.
Be Kind Unisex Heavy Blend Sweatshirt - $38.00
Shop The Happy Givers NPO online at thehappygivers.com
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Livari Matte Ballet Flat - $60.00
A pair of black flats is definitely a closet staple for most women. $5 from every purchase is given to Still She Rises, Tulsa—a public defenders’ office focused on representing mothers in the criminal justice system.
Shop online at oka-b.com
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Lola the Llama Doll - Reg $75.00 | Little $55.00
Hand knit with premium 100% cotton yarn and for every doll purchased ten meals go to children in need.
Shop online at cuddleandkind.com
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Jewel Garden - $38.00
For the person that has a green thumb (or aspires to) this hand-planted succulent garden makes a great gift. Plus, for every purchase made, a portion of the proceeds go to organizations that provide access to safe water, like water.org.
Shop online at lulasgarden.com
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Is your Favorite Thing missing? Email us and let us know and we might add it to the list!
Keep checking back as we'll be adding more of our Favorite Things throughout the holiday shopping season!