INSPIRATION FOR LOCAL HOLIDAY SHOPPING

The holiday shopping season officially kicks off this week with Black Friday and Small Business Saturday, and there's never been a more critical year to keep your dollars local. That's no sacrifice at all with Charlottesville's amazing array of locally owned stores where you'll find great gifts from original art to beautiful clothing and elegant home decor. And if you prefer to do your shopping online this year, most of these places have that base covered, too. What are you waiting for?

Bittersweet - You'll find jewelry, shoes and women's clothes with a boho vibe at this popular boutique on the Downtown Mall. This weekend, you'll get 20 percent off your whole purchase in-store and online! Use the code SHOPSMALL online Nov. 27-29.

Mincer's - 'Hoos across the land know Mincer's on the Corner as the go-to spot for all things UVA. You'll find orange and blue shirts, ball caps, gloves and much more. In fact, if you can put a UVA logo on it, Mincer's probably has it!

Folly - Sometimes you spot something you didn't even know you wanted. That's how we feel about these gorgeous wastepaper baskets at Folly, an eclectic home decor store in the North Wing of Barracks Road Shopping Center. Working from home never looked so good! 

Finch - Cozy sweaters, hip t-shirts, jewelry and home accessories like pretty bath balls make Finch a must-stop-to-shop on the Corner. And take a minute to say hello to the real birds that keep the store vibe alive with their cheerful chirping. Bonus for holiday shoppers: 20 percent off through Dec. 6.

C'ville Arts - The Charlottesville area is home to gifted artists and makers whose works make perfect gifts. From original photography and art to handmade jewelry and home goods, more than 50 artists display in this cooperative gallery on the Downtown Mall. We stopped to gawk at these handmade clocks by Allan Young.

Green Bean Baby Boutique - Soft organic clothing and other eco-conscious baby products make this boutique in the North Wing of Barracks Road Shopping Center. And some of their bib messaging is pretty fierce too!

Pawprints - In all the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping, don't forget the four-legged family members! From collars with panache to cozy sweaters for your pup, Pawprints boutique in Central Place on the Downtown Mall has the perfect gift for dogs, cats and the humans who love them.