’Tis the season of holiday fun, end-of-semester chaos and gift giving galore! Thanksgiving has passed, and winter break inches closer and closer, so you’re probably starting to wonder what to get your friends and family — both here and home — this holiday season. From overwhelming TikTok gift guides to Pinterest wishlists to the all-too-familiar “I’d be happy with anything!” sentiment, choosing a thoughtful gift can feel impossible. But fear not! I am here to help.
I, personally, pride myself on my gift-giving abilities. If gift shopping counts as a hobby, I’m basically a professional. So as an early holiday present, I give you the ultimate Berkeley gift guide — a curated list of local small businesses and Bay Area experiences that will help you shop sustainably, support your community and find special gifts like none other.
Koraa: for smaller, meaningful tokens
Right across from Baker & Commons is Koraa on College Avenue. Koraa is a sustainable small business that boasts goods from over 20 countries. It’s the perfect stop for intentional gifters and recipients, offering unique knick knacks from across the globe. Its fabric-covered notebooks and resin earrings make thoughtful, travel-friendly presents — easy to slip into an already overstuffed suitcase or tuck into a smaller mailer for loved ones back home.
Alameda Point Antiques Faire: for unique pieces you can’t find anywhere else
I’m constantly recommending the Alameda Point Antiques Faire to my friends, so it had to make this list. It’s one of the best places in the Bay to score truly one-of-a-kind finds, from vintage clothing to quirky accessories to home decor. Check out the faire for your friend who loves pieces as unique as they are. The faire happens on the first Sunday of every month at 2900 Navy Way, Alameda, providing the pristine opportunity to hunt for the perfect gift.
Sleepy Cat Books: for the pet lover
Last year, I visited Sleepy Cat Books on Telegraph Avenue to shop for my cat-loving best friend. After 30 minutes, I walked out with a book and a ton of postcards featuring cats in Victorian-styled clothing and poses. Sleepy Cat Books is full of fun literature, cat stationery, tote bags and a real cat who sits at the cashier. Stop in to purchase the purr-fect postcard to accompany your gift — or just to say hi to the cat. Her name is Lila.
Elmwood Stationers: for the stationery of everyone’s dreams
I often joke that Elmwood Stationers is my favorite store in Berkeley, but honestly, I’m not joking at all. The night before my 19th birthday last year, I bought myself a very fancy Pilot pen there — arguably one of the best presents I’ve ever given and received. I shop at Elmwood Stationers at least once a month for birthdays and thank-you cards for friends and family all over the country. For your mother who collects stationery, your high-tech-writing-utensil-obsessed friend or your grandpa who just wants to hear from his grandchild in writing, this shop is a goldmine. From beautifully designed cards of all styles to canisters of authentic Japanese pens, Elmwood Stationers has something for every kind of paper and pen lover in your life. And while you’re already on College Avenue, don’t forget to grab a sheet of stamps from the USPS branch just further down the street.
Rialto Cinemas Elmwood: for your nonmaterialistic friends
This is for the gift of an experience. Rialto Cinemas offers tickets, gift cards and the quintessential cozy movie night vibe. Head down College Avenue to the Rialto Cinemas Elmwood for the perfect dead week escape, a post-finals celebration or a fun outing with your family when they visit. Rialto Cinemas has you covered.
While I hope you go check out and support all of the above recommendations, sometimes, the best gifts aren’t always things you can wrap. Your presence is a wonderful present. Show up, spend time with your friends and family, and make memories together — whether that’s sharing a meal, going on a walk or just hanging out. Happy holidays, and ’tis the season!