#SmallBusinessCity (Shop Small Business Saturday)

The longer I live in Minneapolis, the smaller it feels -- in a good way! The community grows closer, I find more unique hot spots (coffee shops, breweries, boutiques, antique stores, yoga studios, the list goes on), and I find myself supporting more small local businesses. One of my absolute favorite things to do in Minneapolis is take the day to "walk the city" - explore retail on foot, maybe stumble into a coffee shop along the way or try a new restaurant for lunch. I love spending a whole day spontaneously venturing the city with no plans and seeing where it takes me. I'll share a few of my favorite retail spots that I'm proud to support (and can't stop buying from!) As you start your holiday shopping, don't forget to check out the cool independent shops this city has to offer. #SmallBusinessSaturday #ShopSmall

Roe Wolfe

This place has been a favorite for a long time. Not only is it close to home but always has the greatest selection of items. I don't think I've ever walked in here and not found something that I want, and I usually walk out with something... My current favorites at Roe Wolfe right now are all the cozy oversized sweaters and classic "boyfriend" flannels. The small, white-filled space really makes the retail the focal point of this quaint boutique. Filled with jewelry from local vendors, apothecary and the unique, thoughtfully selected clothing, this one is a winner! Side note, get in on their coat drive, winner for a $100 gift card will be announced on Dec. 1st! www.facebook.com/RoeWolfe

Atmosfere

Ok, I'll admit, I can't resist this place. Years ago, Atmosfere started in the heart of Calhoun Square and only carried men's clothing. I remember the first time my husband stumbled upon the store in Uptown; he loved the selection of unique, trendy, high quality men's clothes and outerwear. Since then, they have opened a second location in the North Loop on Washington Ave and we have been supporters from the start. Upon opening, a small women's line was added to the North Loop store and seems to be expanding by the day – I can't get enough! This is a great place to shop for men and women; I really enjoy the brands they carry here; every time I stop it in it seems that there are new items out, I can't keep up - and that's a good thing! There are some really unique and even "limited-number" styles to be snagged from here. The women's dresses are definitely a favorite but I can find just about anything here - and I love that I am expanding my style by trying on or buying items that I normally wouldn't. My favorite most recent find is an amazing blanket scarf; I was on the hunt for one for months and after seeing this one I couldn't stop thinking about it. For guys, you can get some locally handmade bow ties, how cool! I myself am always drawn to the men's jacket and sweater selection. I'll speak on behalf of my husband and say that he loves this shop as well, he always finds something that catches his eye here, and he's a fashiony dude if I do say so myself. I love the independent local brands carried within this store, it makes for a very personal experience. Watch their Facebook page for upcoming events - they throw some fun in-store shopping parties. Right now they have a coat drive going on too - Bring in a jacket to donate through the end of November and receive 25% off an entire purchase. Do some good, get some shopping done and maybe a little something for yourself all in one trip! www.facebook.com/Atmosfere

Parc Boutique

I adore the simple sophisticated curated collection at this Northeast boutique. "Less is more" at this shop, and it's just my style, filled with black, white and blush-colored palettes in fabrics, beauty products and jewelry. For me, this is a "favorite things" store - I've bought or been gifted some beloved items from here that are staples to my wardrobe; an oh-so-soft oversized hoodie, my patina leather "The Horse" watch, a knit infinity scarf, a well-made black t-shirt... Apothecary, candles, jewelry, designer magazines and some local art prints are some fun designer-y goodies that set the tone for the clean, artsy feeling of this place; it always inspires me to only purchase and surround myself with things that I love. They often do special collections or collaborations in store and throw an opening party for them - a fun way to introduce new pieces. For some simple classic pieces you'll wear to the ground, check out Parc in Northeast (or their Edina location on France). www.parcboutique.com

Flirt Boutique

A new addition to the North Loop, this is the sister store to the St Paul Flirt Boutique (open for 7 years now). What a charming, intimate space full of character - it truly makes for a unique lingerie shopping experience and sure beats heading to the mall - it's located in the historic Colonial Warehouse in North Loop, amongst other small shops such as Martin Patrick, DNolo, Statement Boutique – Look hard, it's tucked around the corner! Ladies, here you'll find the softest nightgowns and lacy lingerie pieces and even travel bags. They have a warm, welcoming atmosphere, great variety of unique, high quality pieces and their inventory is constantly changing. Not only a great place to find a few things for yourself but many pieces make great gifts as well - beyond lingerie and sleep sets they have jewelry, bubble bath, smell-goods, books and other fun items, swing in and see for yourself. www.flirt-boutique.com

Kit and Ace

Another fairly new neighbor of the North Loop, Kit and Ace sits right above Roe Wolfe. The ambiguous sign outside marks the spot. After walking up a wide wooden staircase hall, you're lead to the store up top that opens up to a beautiful open space full of neutral tones and contrast. If you haven't heard, their thing is "technical cashmere" - it's washable, wearable cashmere! Their clothing just cries to be touched - everything in here is so ridiculously soft. You may just see a basic t-shirt, but after you touch it and try it on, you'll most likely conclude that it's the softest, most comfortable thing you've ever worn - and it's practical. They have a small collection of men's and women's basics - I bet after purchasing one thing, it won't be the last. Congrats to these guys for also just opening a store at Mall of America! www.kitandace.com