The Best Small Businesses to Support Right Now (+ A Resource You Can Shop Anytime!)
ONE PIECE SWIMSUIT (2X) | CAKES NIPPLE COVERS (DDD+)
let’s shop
THE BEST SMALL BUSINESSES
Lately, I’ve been getting a lot of messages about shopping small and moving away from big-box retailers. While I completely understand and appreciate that sentiment, I also believe both can coexist. We can prioritize supporting small businesses while also recognizing the convenience that larger retailers offer—because at the end of the day, shopping is personal, and everyone has different needs, budgets, and lifestyles.
As someone with a large platform catering to a diverse audience, I’ve always made it a priority to share a mix of high and low price points, across both large and small retailers. And in case you didn’t know—I, too, am a small business. I employ a team, provide benefits, and pour so much into this space, so supporting other small businesses has always been at the core of what I do.
That’s why today, I wanted to take a moment to reshare some of my favorite small businesses—brands I’ve featured before that you may not have realized are small! Plus, a friendly reminder that I have a dedicated small business storefront, The Solution Shop, which is always available on the Shop tab of my blog. It’s an easy, always accessible way to discover and support amazing small brands.
Let’s dive in!
the best small businesses for:
beauty, home finds & more
There’s just something about shopping small, knowing that every purchase supports someone’s dream, their family, and the passion they’ve poured into their business. Some of my absolute favorite beauty and home finds come from small brands that put so much care into what they create. Whether it’s a hand-poured candle that makes my space feel cozy, a skincare gem that feels like a treat, or a unique home accent that sparks joy every time I see it—these pieces just hit differently. Here are some of my go-to small businesses that bring a little extra magic to my everyday life!
EVEN MORE SMALL BUSINESSES I’M LOVING LATELY
CREATED COLORFUL (use caralyn)| dear Annabelle | fishwife | LOVING TAN |
maya fragrances | rifle paper co. | SAIL TO SABLE | slate flosser | tucky
LIP BLISS DUO (USE CARALYN20)
3 STEP BROWS (USE CARALYN20)
The Best Small Businesses for
Kids’ Clothes, Toys & Essentials
One of the most fun parts of shopping small has been discovering incredible brands through Conrad—there are so many amazing small businesses creating unique, high-quality, and thoughtful products for kids. From adorable clothing and accessories to toys and essentials that make life easier, I’ve loved finding (and sharing!) these gems. Honestly, this could be a whole blog post in itself, but for now, I just want to give a special shoutout to a few of my favorite small businesses for kid stuff that we’ve been loving lately!
Your Go-To Small Business Resource
THE SOLUTION SHOP
I created The Solution Shop as a dedicated space to highlight and support incredible small businesses, making it easy for you to discover brands that align with your values. It’s a curated collection of women-owned, minority-owned, and independently-run brands across fashion, beauty, home, and more—many of which I personally use and love. Whether you’re looking for a new favorite brand or simply want to be more intentional with your shopping, The Solution Shop is always available on the Shop tab of my blog, ready for you to explore anytime!
The Solution Shop brands I love
AM.NICCOLI | EVELYN & BOBBIE | fishwife | MATCH SOUTH | maya fragrances | MENTIONABLES | MIXHERS | rifle paper co. | ROCK & RUDDLE | slate flosser | THE HERBAL TEA CO. | tucky
My Go-To Small Businesses in Buffalo:
Beauty, Shopping & More
One of the best parts about living in Buffalo is the incredible small businesses that make this community so special. From the places I trust for my hair, nails, and bra fittings to my favorite gift shops and boutiques. these are the local spots I frequent and love. Whether you’re a fellow Buffalonian looking for new go-tos or just visiting and wanting to support small businesses, these businesses are truly the best at what they do!
Planning a trip or local and want to see more recommendations? Check out my recent Buffalo, NY travel guide here!
Eyebrows: Crista @ The Village Browery
Waxing: Kelly @ Your Face And Place
Hair Cuts: Maggie @ Saranac Salon
Mens Hair Cuts: Crockett & Co.
Hair Coloring: Michele @ Studio 1404
Nails: Deluxe Nails and Spa
Spray Tans: Buffalo Skin Boutique
Massage: Woodhouse Spa - locally owned by two moms
Med Spa Facials & Injectables: Laura & Jenna @ JLG Medspa
Acupuncture & Pelvic Floor Therapy: Toni & Dr. Kathleen Ross @ Buffalo Pelvic Health & Acupuncture Clinic
Chiropractor: Dr. Patrick O’Neill @ O’Neill Chiropractic
Interior Design: Michael P. Design & The Monocle
Gifts & Things: Spruce On Main
Bra Fitting: Lace & Day
Pilates: Pilates Art Studio
Kids Gym: Rolly Pollies - where I take Conrad
Little Finch Party Styling - what I used for Conrad’s 1st birthday
Thanks for reading!
hope this list helps you discover some new favorites to love. If there’s a small business you swear by or always recommend, drop it in the comments! I’d love to hear about it and continue supporting even more incredible brands. Let’s keep the small biz love going!
xx CMK