If I Were Looking to Buy Someone a Gift

Last week I wrote about where I’d go if I were craving something sweet. This week, my mind wandered to gifts, the kind you pick up while strolling through town when something catches your eye, and you immediately think, oh, so-and-so would love this.

One of the things I adore about living along this stretch of the coast is how many locally owned shops there are. You can find gifts here that feel thoughtful and personal, not just something tossed in a box from the internet. Whether you’re shopping in Southport, Wilmington, or out toward Holden Beach, there’s always something that catches your eye and makes you smile.

If I were looking for a gift this week, here’s where I’d go.

Favorite Southport Shops for Gifts

If I’m starting in Southport, my first stop is usually The Fresh Cottage. Honestly, this place has it all. Everything that smells good, makes you feel good, makes you look good, and even capsule wardrobe staples that are meant to last. They carry Le Bon Shoppe, which means the socks and tees are next-level. I’m a total sucker for an elevated basic. Whether it’s a thoughtful book, a piece of jewelry, or a beautiful fragrance, you’ll find something for the person you’re shopping for and probably something for yourself, too.

Next, I’d wander into Mad River Boutique, which works for just about anyone on your list. Gifts for men, women, and kids, big ones, small ones, all carefully chosen and eclectic. They also carry MERSEA, a wonderful line, plus gorgeous puzzles and cutting boards that make any gift feel

special.

If I’m putting together a more curated gift, I’ll usually stop by Southport Market. This is a spot where you can find all the brands people love, like Yeti, Sand Cloud, and Native, and pull together a thoughtful basket that feels local and intentional.

For the food lovers, I love stopping by Southport Sourdough. Bread, cheese, jams, and maple syrup, the kind of gift that turns into a really good evening the moment it hits the table.

Finally, for something living and beautiful, Wild by Nature has plants and bouquets that brighten any space. These are the gifts that make people smile before they even unwrap them.

Favorite Holden Beach Shops for Gifts

Out toward Holden Beach, I always make a stop at Sugarbritches. Everything in this store feels chosen with care. Nothing is accidental or an afterthought. I especially love the Kantha quilts. They also carry Brackish, one of my favorite lines out of Charleston, and my feather earrings from there are so special to me.

And if your gift recipient loves the beach lifestyle, Cape Fear Surf Shop is always a fun stop. There’s plenty of personality in this shop, and you’ll find gifts that really capture that laid-back coastal vibe. 

Favorite Shops in Wilmington for Gifts

When I’m in Wilmington, there are a few shops I make a point to visit. Jess James + Co. is a vintage lover’s dream. Everything is impeccably curated, and each piece feels selected with genuine love for things from the past.

I also love Swahili Coast, where the globally sourced pieces are beautiful, unique, and meaningful. Gifts that people actually treasure. I scored my very favorite beach towel here, which is both unique and durable, and I also have a cuff bracelet from this shop that I just adore. 

For classic coastal apparel or timeless pieces, Island Passage never disappoints. Of course, you can’t skip Old Wilmington City Market. Vintage tees, nuts and spices, hot sauces, and incredible handmade woodworking. There’s something for everyone here.

And for the edgy person in your life, Edge of Urge is the stop. You’ll find Baggu, Brixton, and a ton of fun, unexpected pieces that make gifting exciting.

The truth is, the best gifts almost always come from wandering into a place you love and letting your eye catch something that makes you think of someone else. Around here, we’re lucky to have plenty of places like that, each with its own personality, charm, and surprises.

Message me on IG if I missed any of your favorite spots! Next week, I might write about where I’d go if I needed the perfect cup of coffee or where I’d go for a walk when I just need to reset.