This month is full of annual sales, including the Nordstrom sale, which will be the major topic of conversation on the Internet and social media for the remainder of this month. Now, listen, there is not anything wrong with that! In all fairness, it is an important time for writers and influencers to make money from their affiliate links. I have also picked up some great staple pieces for my closet during the previous NSales. So, please know that this post means no disrespect to any of that.
A few years ago, I realized some pieces I would recommend are the same, hence the closet staples. That being said, I also recognize that local businesses, a favorite of mine to highlight, are constantly getting new pieces in to keep up with trends and demand, which is where this idea was born from! Here are local businesses that I, and readers of mine, recommend shopping during the NSale and any time!
Local Businesses to Support during the NSale
My Picks for Local Businesses to Support
Aillea – Raleigh & Charlotte
Aillea is a fantastic shop for all things clean beauty and I absolutely adore their spa services, including their facials and their make-up application. Be sure to check out their deals and their special bags! I find the majority of my travel skincare items in those bonus bags.
Edge of Urge – Raleigh & Wilmington
One of my absolute favorite spots for a unique gifts, home office goods, great jewelry, locally made products, skincare, and fun holiday ornaments is Edge of Urge! With locations in Raleigh and Wilmington, it is such a fun spot! Their Instagram account is such a fun follow as well!
Fairview Garden Center – Raleigh
Fairview Garden Center isn’t just for the best plants around, they also have a great gift shop with candles, gifts, and home decor.
Fishs Eddy – NYC
No trip to New York City is complete without a trip to Fishs Eddy in the Flatiron District. I love their dishware and glassware, their dish towels, and their cheeky gift ideas (um, hullo, they have Abraham Lincoln bust candles)!
Furbish Studio – Raleigh
One of my absolute favorite online shops is based out of Raleigh and that is Furbish Studio. Their needlepoint pillows make the best gift ideas, I am obsessed with the matchbook prints, and they have the prettiest table linens, candlesticks, and more.
Gold Leaf Collective – Fuquay-Varina
Looking for corporate gifts, curated gift boxes, or locally-made housewarming or hostess gifts? Pop into Gold Leaf Collective in Fuquay-Varina! Made up of 6 long-time community members, this shop is so fun and they are so kind!
Humanité Boutique – Bryson City
I have long followed Humanité Boutique in Bryson City on Instagram and I love their mission and styles so much! Check them out for your seasonal fashion finds!
McIntyre’s Books – Pittsboro
Y’all know I love a good bookstore and McIntyre’s Books in Fearrington Village has long been one of my very favorites. They have a great selection of coffee table books and cookbooks, candles, and other home gift ideas!
Monkee’s of Greenville – Greenville
One of my all-time favorite boutiques is Monkee’s of Greenville! I started shopping here when I was a junior in college and no trip to Greenville is ever complete without a stop here for the latest in women’s fashion plus delicious candles for the home.
Monkee’s of Raleigh – Raleigh
The Monkee’s location in Raleigh also offers a delightful selection of women’s clothing and accessories in a beautiful shopping setting. They post great content on social media making it easy to shop that way if you are not local.
Rose & Lee Collective – Apex
Rose & Lee Collective is the cutest boutique offering affordable, stylish, and ethical fashion and accessories located in quaint downtown Apex. Check out their website and social media for options to shop online as well!
Stylish Living – Apex
Some of my favorite home items, including candles, throw blankets and pillows, and more have come from Stylish Living, many of which can also be found at Nordstrom. Located right in historic downtown Apex, it is the cutest shop with the nicest owners!
Whilden – Chapel Hill
Whilden is a new-to-me boutique and I cannot wait to make a stop in this Chapel Hill boutique soon! There are so many great pieces being styled and shared on their Instagram stories.
Reader Picks for Local Businesses to Support
I put an all-call out to friends and followers for their favorite local businesses to support that sell items that would rival the NSale. Here are some of their submissions!
Black Cat Shoppe – Wilmington
submitted by @kbb1010
Calista Floral – Banner Elk
submitted by @gentryc52
Charlotte’s – Manteo
shared by a friend
Green Monkey – Raleigh
submitted by @ilinap
Island Passage – Wilmington
submitted by @kbb1010
SallyMack – Chapel Hill
submitted by @happyjpr
Sam & Winston – Manteo
shared by a friend
Smitten Boutique – Durham
submitted by @happyjpr
So and So Books – Raleigh
submitted by @feed.me.raleigh
Voda Boutique – Raleigh
submitted by @allielou2