Nicknamed the “Star City,” Lincoln, Nebraska, is home to the University of Nebraska. And in 2013, Lincoln ranked No. 4 on Forbes’ list of “Best Places for Businesses and Careers.” Lincoln’s also the home of many great places to shop local for the holidays—and throughout the year. Here are just a few examples of the great places you’ll find.
Cause for Paws
On the web: CauseForPawsLincoln.org
In their own words: Cause For Paws is a non-profit boutique whose proceeds help support animal charities and rescue organizations. We are an unique establishment that opened its doors in December 2008. We accept new and gently used donations of women’s clothes, shoes, purses, housewares, jewelry, furniture, seasonal and pet items, and we turn these items into cash to help animals. Through the support of donations and customers, Cause for Paws has donated more than $300,000 to charities like: Hearts United for Animals, Lincoln Animal Ambassadors, The Capital Humane Society of Lincoln, The Cat House and Nebraska No Kill.
KD Designs Jewelry
On the web: KDDesignsJewelry.com
In their own words: KD Designs Jewelry is a mother/daughter team out of Lincoln, Nebraska. Danielle (the daughter) began making jewelry as a hobby in the 6th grade when she wanted to raise money for a production of Annie she was a part of at the Lincoln Community Playhouse. From there, a hobby turned into a family business. From craft fairs to farmers markets, Kara (the mom) decided to jump on board. Years later, Kara runs KD Designs’ retail location in Lincoln and facilitates our wholesale business—where KD Designs is carried in stores all across the country. Meanwhile, Danielle is a full-time student at Loyola University Chicago majoring in accounting. She assists in making the jewelry and is in charge of anything design or web related. We pride ourselves on being a family run, handmade business. All of our products are wrapped/crimped/strung by us, our family, and our friends here in Nebraska. Our customer service reflects this.
omt!
On the web: OMTDivineResale.com
In their own words: Lincoln’s longest-running consignment shop, omt! has been bringing personal service to fashion resale since Jan Gauger first opened the doors in 1978. Today, daughters Sarah and Kate share her passion for fashion, fun and outstanding customer service—and you’ll often find Jan in the store, too (making sure we uphold her high standards)!
Roots Music Shop
On the web: RootsMusicShop.com/
In their own words: Roots Music Shop was founded in 2012 in by Ryan Larsen, a life-long Lincoln resident with 25 years experience as a musician. This long-time dream was inspired by Ryan’s passion for music. “To me, you can’t have superior customer service without listening. Our staff is made up of musicians who care about helping others. We’re all about building community—long term relationships to grow the musical culture here in Lincoln.”
TSURU
On the web: TsuruShop.com
In their own words: A great boutique in downtown Lincoln. Great fashion, locally made jewelry and much more!
Suggestions?
Do you have suggestions for more independently-owned shops in Lincoln that are great for holiday shopping? Or, would you like to create a list like this for your hometown? (Be sure to check the list at the top of the page to see what other cities we’ve featured.) If so, contact us at Tips@SmallBusiness.com with your ideas. We’ll give you a shout-out link if we use your suggestion.