Manhattan may have the Macy’s Parade and Fifth Ave., but Brooklyn is where we head in New York City when looking for some of the best places anywhere to shop local for the holidays–or anytime of year. We reached out to someone we know has a keen eye for what’s always awesome, Brooklynite (and Nashville native) Julie Schneider to share with us some of her favorite Brooklyn spots to find one-of-a-kind, locally sourced gifts. (By the way, Julie’s Etsy shop, YourSecretAdmiral, is truly worth a visit.)

Here are some of her amazing suggestions.:

1. Catbird

(Image: catbird via facebook)

Located in the heart of Williamsburg, Catbird is full of gifts and jewelry perfect for everyone you might be shopping for this holiday season. Their inventory is a collection of New York’s most talented designers, and their in-house jewelry line provides another great option as far as gifts go. Their children’s gifts are also incredible–a box for a first tooth, a miniature tea set or a onesie with a hand drawn map of Brooklyn.

2. Twig Terrariums

(Image: Twig Terrariums via facebook)

Twig Terrariums started off as a booth at the Brooklyn Flea (another Brooklyn original we love), but has since expanded into its boutique on 3rd Avenue and Carroll to meet the growing demand for their unique terrariums. Buy a DIY kit or a readymade terrarium–both will delight all on your gift list. They are self-proclaimed masters of terrarium shipping, so don’t shy away from them if you’re not a Brooklyn native. (Their kits and terrariums are all available on their website.)

3. The Brooklyn Kitchen

(Image: The Brooklyn Kitchen)

A Williamsburg kitchen supply store, The Brooklyn Kitchen is located in Williamsburg’s North Side. The store contains a grocery area, a meat market, kitchen gadgets and supplies, in addition to a space for classes. The classes make fabulous gifts (plus you get a 10 percent discount on purchases after your class), but we would gladly settle for a gift card to the store if a preferred class (including Hands-on-Sushi, Fresh Pasta Making, French Baguette Making, Home brewing, and Homemade Pizza with Roberta’s) is full. Is your mouth watering yet?

4. Thistle & Clover

(Image: Thistle & Clover via facebook)

Thistle & Clover is a great pick for gifts of women’s clothes, jewelry, and accessories. Located in Fort Greene, their collection is carefully curated from up and coming designers. (They know the best of the best thanks to their quarterly Open Call to support upcoming talent.) Check out their gift guides, which come in every price range, with items sure to delight everyone on your list.

5. Book Court

(Image: BookCourt via facebook)

Since 1981, BookCourt has been Brooklyn’s staple neighborhood bookstore. Their collection is impressive, and so is their events calendar and schedule of book clubs. Their knowledgable staff will help you find the perfect gift for anyone on your list, or simply a gift certificate if you’d like to leave the picking up to your loved ones. They’re family-owned (another reason we love them) ,and they’re open 365 days per year until 10 PM–perfect for your last-minute holiday needs.

6. Steven Alan

(Image: Steven Alan)

In Steven Alan’s carefully curated world, clothes aren’t just gifts for women. The men’s section rivals the incredible woman’s one, with staples like the reverse seam shirt and raw denim jeans (a worthy investment for any guy on your list). Their gift and home section is perfect if you don’t know someone’s size (or are looking for a fabulous cutting board or tote bag). The staff is incredibly helpful, and you’ll leave with unique classics for everyone on your list.

7. Layla

(Image: Layla)

Layla, a home and body store located in Boerum Hill, will light up your holiday shopping with colorful accessories for home and body. Owner Alayne Patrick works with craftsmen in India to create the one-of-a-kind merchandise, ranging from fine jewelry, pashminas, handbags, towels, linens and throw pillows.

8. Brooklyn General Store

(Image: Brooklyn General Store)

A mecca for your inner crafter, Brooklyn General Store is the perfect stop for a gift for the DIY god/goddess on your holiday list. From textiles to yarn, from crochet hooks to sewing patterns, you’ll find something perfect for everyone with an inclination to craft. Ready-made goods are also available, ranging from bags to overalls to ornaments. We’d love a gift card to this oasis of inspiration–it can be used for classes, too.

9. MODULE R

(Image: MODULE R via facebook)

MODULE R is a Brooklyn-based company that draws its inspiration from architecture. Started as a pop-up shop to showcase the fusion of art and design, MODULE R is between a toy store and an art gallery, with the most unique gifts you’ll find anywhere. We love it for children’s gifts–any child with a vivid imagination will love a gift from MODULE R (especially the lunchboxes. We love the lunchboxes).

10. Bird

(Image: Bird via facebook)

With Brooklyn locations in Williamsburg, Cobble Hill and Park Slope, your Brooklyn fashion needs are easily met by Bird. It’s the first LEED-certified retailer in New York City, but that’s not the only reason we love them. Their candles and bags make great gifts, and their stocking stuffer sized items are not to be overlooked either. Lipsticks, soaps, even coin purses–Bird has gifts to meet all your needs.

(Featured Image: Wikimedia Commons)