‘Tis the season and with so many gifts to get and so little time to get them, we’re here to help with the Ultimate Gift Guide to Shopping In Portland, Maine and beyond. All items are Maine made and/or available for purchase in Maine-owned shops, so you can feel good about shopping locally and supporting Maine this holiday season.
CHART Metalworks
Perfect For: Everyone and Anyone On Your List
If you haven’t seen CHART Metalworks, or haven’t seen them lately, now is the time! CHART Metalworks has the perfect gifts for everyone on your list – siblings, spouse, parents, neighbors, teacher- we mean everyone!
CHART creates custom, one-of-a-kind keepsakes for your cherished memories ranging from jewelry and barware, to Treasure Boxes and Cribbage Boards. Their team will create your made-to-order piece with custom maps, nautical CHARTs, custom graphics, standard CHART graphics or you can even send them a photo to put in your piece; you’re a part of the final product, every step of the way!
CHART works in Pewter, Bronze and Sterling Silver with most products available in all 3 metals. They use boater’s resin to seal in your personalized graphic which is clear, beautiful and extremely durable. All their products can be additionally personalized by adding your custom engraving to the back.
Some of our favorites gifts from CHART include their Women’s 3-Charm Necklace, and Sterling Small Necklace, and Bronze Hook Bracelet, all of which featured beautiful, custom pendants.
For the guys on your list, give them something they’ll use everyday. Some of our favorites include their Pewter Cufflinks and their Customized Belt Buckles.
For those a little harder to shop for, CHART has a ton of great, everyday items like Bronze Key Rings, Wood Cutting Boards, and Wine Bottle Coasters. Don’t forget to check out their Collections section too, like Ski Mountain, Valerie Paul and their Nautical Signal Flags.
CHART Metalworks retail showroom and workshop are located at 1 Pleasant St, Portland on the Third Floor. They are open Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm (even a little after if you ask nicely – give em’ a call) and weekends during the Holiday season. You can also visit them online at www.CHARTmetalworks.com.
In need of a last-minute holiday gift for your four-legged pals? Look no further than Exchange Street, where Uncommon Paws awaits!
For those in search of a distinctive holiday gift for their cherished pets, a visit to Uncommon Paws on Exchange Street is highly recommended. This locally owned and operated boutique pet store boasts an impressive selection of meticulously crafted products. Notably, a significant portion of their inventory is sourced or crafted within the community, emphasizing a commitment to supporting local artisans and businesses, particularly those in the state of Maine.
Uncommon Paws provides an opportunity for pet owners to indulge in unique, high-quality items, fostering a sense of community connection and celebrating local craftsmanship. Take a moment to explore the store; your pets are sure to appreciate the thoughtfulness behind each carefully curated offering.
You can shop Uncommon Paws online or visit their store at 21 Exchange, Portland, Monday – Sunday starting at 10 AM.
Terrarium
Perfect For: The Plant Guru
Terrarium, an urban garden center nestled in the heart of the Old Port, is a place to shop for house plants, to imbibe, to connect with plant loving folks, and to be creative.
Offering an expansive variety of common and rare houseplants, terrarium building workshops, small bites, beer, wine and more, a gift card is the perfect gift for the creatives or plant loving pals on your shopping list. Have a friend that just moved into a new home? Give their home a welcoming touch with a brand new terrarium or shop their wonderful selection of houseplants in-store!
You can visit Terrarium at 98 Cross St N in Portland, Maine, Wednesday – Thursday 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Friday 12:00PM – 8:00PM, Saturday 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM and Sunday 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Loquat Shop
Perfect For: The On the Go Trendsetter
Loquat Shop
Located in the heart of the Old Port, Loquat Shop offers a selection of collaborations and contributions that directly benefit and empower marginalized people, causes and aesthetics.
For that trendsetting friend seemingly always on the go, Loquat has a selection of handbags and purses, such as the Fresh Cut All Day Purse inspired by classic barbershop posters and hand-painted barber shop signs, and/or the Upcycled Leather Wallet, a 100% cowhide recycled wallet made in Portland, Maine with help from their friends over at 33 By Hand. Wallets range in color from white, green, black, yellow, and more. For the return of fanny pack phase sweeping the younger generation, Loquat Shop has Pineapple Fanny Packs in a variety of colors and made entirely out of pineapple leaves.
You can shop Loquat online or visit the shop at 58 Exchange Street, Portland daily from 10 AM – 6 PM.
Designs by CC
Perfect For: The Jewelry Lover
Designs by CC has proudly thrived in the business for three decades, establishing its roots in the charming Old Port Historical Arts district of picturesque Portland, Maine, for an impressive 24 years. At the helm is Cheryl Cook, the accomplished owner, designer, and jeweler of Designs by CC. With an extensive 30-year portfolio, Cheryl has consistently crafted exquisite and one-of-a-kind jewelry for the loyal clientele of Designs by CC. Beyond the realm of custom creations, the establishment also offers skilled services in repairing cherished family heirlooms, preserving the sentimental value they hold for you.
You can shop online or visit Designs by CC at 7 Pleasant Street, Portland Monday – Saturday from 10 AM – 5 PM.
Maine Day Ventures
Perfect For: The Adventurer
For the adventurer on your list, purchase a Maine Day Ventures Gift Card. All activities are fun adventures- highly interactive and authentic. Activities highlight Maine’s culinary scene and colorful history both on land in in the water. Gift cards are available in any dollar amount. Culinary tours are currently $130 and history tours are currently $42. Gift cards never expire or depreciate, and can be redeemed towards any adventure in all of our locations: Portland (year round), Bar Harbor, Boothbay Harbor and Kennebunkport (seasonally).
Purchase gift cards online here.
Health Resonates
Perfect For: The Workaholic Who Deserves to “Treat Themself”
Discover serenity at Health Resonates, a charming escape catering to all your wellness and beauty needs. Nestled in Portland’s West End, this Boutique Wellness Spa stands out as a unique haven in the city. Our commitment is to provide unparalleled, results-driven services, assisting the community on their healing journeys and beyond.
Health Resonates is proudly women-owned, a collaborative effort led by Tara Evelyn, a licensed Massage Therapist, Energy Healer, Aesthetician, and the visionary founder of Health Resonates, along with Anna Flaherty, an experienced licensed Massage Therapist and Aesthetician. Together, as co-owners, they have created a sanctuary dedicated to relaxation and well-being.
The spa, located at 773 Congress Street is by appointment only. They’ll be having an open house on Wednesday, December 20th from 4:30 PM – 7:30 PM. They also offer gift cards online.
Buzz Coffee
Perfect For: The Coffee Aficionado
Nestled in the heart of the Old Port, discover Buzz Coffee an underground coffee haven that beckons you into the warmth of the holiday season. This cozy coffee shop, hidden away from the bustling streets, proudly features a selection of carefully brewed coffees crafted from Little Wolf beans, along with drip coffee, cold brew, a variety of teas, and an enticing array of espresso-based drinks.
Indulge in the festive spirit as you savor each sip of our meticulously prepared holiday-themed beverages. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting cup of drip coffee or a refreshing cold brew, our menu offers something delightful for every palate.
This holiday season, elevate your gift-giving experience with our special touch—gift cards that capture the essence of our hidden gem. Share the joy of exceptional coffee and the coziness of the season with your loved ones. Treat them to the gift of warmth and flavor, tucked away in the heart of the Old Port.
Order Buzz Coffee online here or purchase gift cards in-person at 19 Exchange Street, Portland Wednesday – Sunday starting at 9 AM.
X Golf
Perfect For: The Avid Golfer
The perfect, unique gift for dad and/or mom this year is a gift card to X Golf Portland on York Street. With state-of-the-art golf simulators, this is the perfect spot for the golfer in your family to stay loose during the cold months.
X Golf offers private simulator rooms, so no one will see you when you’re working on that slice, and a full bar and food service, so you can make the most of your afternoon on the indoor links. Rental golf clubs are available for anyone that hasn’t fully committed to the golf life yet, and for the golfer who really wants to perfect their game, X Golf offers lessons with actual professional golfers.
You can stop in for a round, or to purchase your gift card with X Golf at 101 York St B, Portland.
Man & Oak
Perfect For: The Spirit Sipper
For the imbibers on your gift list: Man and Oak, the largest bottle club in New England, located in downtown Portland, offers a unique experience. Whether you desire a quiet space to catch up on work, a relaxed, ambient atmosphere to bring friends together, or a hub for spirits education, Man and Oak has you covered.
Man and Oak has over 300 private bottle lockers. Memberships start at $45.00 per month for a small locker (2-4 bottles). Members can access their lockers to pour their own liquor, or make their own cocktails to enjoy while in the club. While sipping your cocktail, you can embark on a variety of educational endeavors as Spirit Suppliers, Brand Ambassadors, and Bartenders offer a variety of classes for members to build their dram knowledge. Recent classes include a Manhattan Class, a Whiskey Blending Workshop, and Amaro World. A monthly membership just might be the perfect, out of the box gift for your cocktail connoisseur friends and family.
Man and Oak is located at 44 Oak St, Portland, Maine. Visit them online to learn about upcoming classes and to reserve a locker for your loved one.
The Post Supply
Perfect For: The Home/Interior Designer
Here in Portland, Maine, we love backing small local businesses. At The Post Supply, you’ll find a neat collection of stuff to jazz up any home.
Discover a diverse range of home goods at The Post Supply, including ceramic bowls, textiles, kitchenware, candles, and more. The store serves as a tangible platform for makers, artisans, and brands personally connected to or admired by the owners. The emphasis on nurturing relationships with those behind the products they offer is a defining feature. This commitment is the primary motivation behind establishing a physical brick-and-mortar location, providing a space for people to explore and connect with the stories behind the objects they carry.
You can shop The Post Supply online or visit their store at 65 Washington Avenue, Portland, Monday – Sunday starting at 10 AM. Closed Tuesday.
Bella Funk
Perfect For: The Fashionista
Bella Funk, a brand situated in both the mountainous landscapes of Littleton, NH, and the coastal charm of Portland, ME, is the brainchild of two sisters united by a shared passion for exquisitely crafted products and a common goal to empower women through an inspired lifestyle. Meticulously sourced and impeccably made, their products embody a commitment to quality and consciousness.
With a keen emphasis on small batch makers, Bella Funk values the intricacies of the handmade process and the narratives that accompany each creation. Their ethos revolves around cherishing the artistry involved in crafting products, appreciating the individual stories woven into each piece. Explore the curated world of Bella Funk, where craftsmanship meets mindful sourcing, and where each product is a testament to the dedication of its creators.
You can shop Bella Funk online or visit them at 43 Exchange Street daily; Monday – Sunday starting at 10 AM.
Toad&Co Maine
Perfect For: The Outdoorsy Type
Explore a diverse array of both contemporary and pre-loved treasures, all conveniently housed in one location. Situated in Bayside, the store not only offers the latest Toad&Co styles for the season but also serves as the headquarters for ToadAgain, their innovative circular clothing solution.
Whether you’re seeking the newest Toad&Co fashions or a distinctive resale or vintage piece, this space has it all. Additionally, the premises house the ToadAgain facility, dedicated to the meticulous processing and renewal of all pre-loved garments received through the ToadAgain initiative. It’s a unique destination where fashion choices meet eco-conscious practices, creating a harmonious blend of style and sustainability.
You can shop Toad&Co online or visit them at 31 Diamond Street daily; Monday – Sunday starting at 12 PM.
Jar Co.
Perfect For: The Stoner
Step into the world of Jar Cannabis Co, a trailblazer in Maine’s regulated cannabis scene since its inception. With a legacy built on experience, quality is not just a commitment – it’s second nature. Run by a tight-knit group of lifelong friends who hold family, health, and the great outdoors in the highest regard, Jar Cannabis Co is more than a storefront; it’s an invitation to explore a lifestyle where cannabis is seamlessly woven into a tapestry of balance, adventure, and well-being. Get ready to embark on a journey where every visit is a chance to discover and elevate your cannabis experience, guided by those who truly understand the essence of living life to the fullest.
You can shop Jar Co. in store at 9 Exchange Street, Portland, daily at 10 AM.
Strata
Perfect For: The One Who Has Watched Too Many Episodes of ‘The Bear’ (AKA The Professional Chef)
Chef, please! A city full of restaurants means a city full of chefs. This holiday season sharpen up your gift giving skills with a visit to Washington Avenue’s Strata, a sharpening service and culinary knife and kitchenwares shop resides.
You’ll find a handpicked selection of their favorite culinary knives from around the world, including brand/maker Hitohira, their main Japanese supplier. Strata focuses on sourcing quality steels produced on a small scale, and carrying knives for all skill levels and budgets. They work with craftspeople all over the world to feature the highest quality kitchen tools and accessories they can find. In addition to knives, you can shop sharpening stones and plates, belt knife pouches/sheaths, axes and hatchets, cookware and more.
You can shop Strata online or visit their store at 67 Washington Avenue, Portland, Wednesday – Sunday starting at 10 AM.
Little
Perfect For: The New Parent
Honoring the magic of childhood, Little offers high-quality, beautifully made children’s ware that inspires joy for the whole family.
Encouraging individuality in even the littlest of tots, Little’s premium children’s brands and clothing, toys, and furniture are playful, timeless, and unique. For example, this season, gift the expecting family Oeuf Knitwear’s Everyday Pants or the Collégien Socks to keep their tiny toes safe and warm all winter long. For bedtime, the cozy crew stuffed animals from Jellycat feature a soft, cozy exterior that will send their bundle of joy off to sleep with the sweetest of dreams.
You can visit Little at 38 Exchange Street, Portland Monday – Saturday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Sunday 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM or you can visit their online shop.
Eunoia
Perfect For: The One with Beautiful Hair
For the friend or loved one who never has a hair out of place, Eunoia hair salon offers a mindful approach to beauty.
When your friend and/or loved one visits the welcoming and relaxed atmosphere of Eunoia, they will know that they are among friends. The knowledgable and experienced team of stylists are passionate about enhancing women’s natural features to help them look and feel their best, while going beyond exterior, they focus on nourishing the mind and body with an exceptional client experience, which is at the heart of everything they do.
Services available at Eunoia include blowouts (Brazilian included), color retouch, color, all over glaze, event hair, and more.
You can book an appointment here or visit Eunoia’s location at 4 1/2 Milk Street the Old Port Tuesday – Saturday starting at 10 AM.
ViA VECCHiA
Perfect For: The Foodie
Whether it be for date night or a little G.N.O. a gift card to one of Portland’s beloved Italian eateries, ViA VECCHiA, is sure to fare well under the tree this holiday season.
Italian for “The Old Way,” ViA VECCHiA is a chic and authentic small plates Italian-inspired restaurant situated within the heart of the Old Port in a historic brick and ivy-covered building overlooking cobblestone streets. Surrounded by velvet booths in a warm, energetic atmosphere, ViA VECCHiA is home to an exceptional cocktail program combining old world sophistication and new world technique.
You can purchase a gift card online here or make a reservation online with Resy here. ViA VECCHiA is open daily at 4:00 PM.
We hope this gift guide finds you well this holiday season! Please continue to support Maine businesses year-round and as often as possible. Happy holidays, from Portland Old Port!