🎁 The 2025 Messy Jesi Holiday Gift Guide

HolidayGift Guideatlanta small businesses
Written By Jesi Hooper

Cozy, Creative, & Curated with Chaos (& Love Duh)

Welcome to the 2025 Messy Jesi aka Nerdy Retreat Gift Guide — where every pick is curated with good vibes, real-life use, & a little ATL flavor.

From feel-good finds by local makers to Amazon favorites I use daily, this guide is your one-stop scroll for thoughtful, fun, & cozy gifts. Whether you’re shopping for your dog, your DIY bestie, or that cousin you barely know but still want to impress, I got you.

🛍️ Some are local or small businesses I truly love, no sponsorship, just vibes.

📦 Some links are affiliate (mainly Amazon). Thank you for supporting this chaotic corner of the internet!

Giving Season: Support That Feels Like a Hug

✨

Giving Season: Support That Feels Like a Hug ✨

Let’s kick off this guide with gifts that give twice — once to someone you love, & again to the community.

Whether you're grabbing a tree or showing up, volunteering for a local event, this season is all about meaningful moments + mindful support.

🌲 Tree’s for Tuition: Christmas trees, wreaths, & seasonal magic — all for a cause. 100% of profits are donated back to local Atlanta communities. Whether you're decking your halls or gifting greenery to a friend, this one supports more than just your holiday decor.

🎁 P.S. Don’t miss our Holiday giveaway dropping Friday, November 20th, 2025.

💛 Other Ways to Give Back

🗓 Take a peep → A full Holiday Events Round-Up

But First Coffee

☕️

But First Coffee ☕️

For your early-rising partner or that friend who always knows the best oat milk latte in town. These picks are steeped in comfort (& caffeine). Think cozy mugs, locally roasted beans, & gadgets that make slow mornings feel romantic.

🛍️ Small Biz Picks

Atlanta Roasters & Cafes: Support your fav coffee snob & your city at the same time. Grab a bag of beans from these ATL roasters, or better yet, pair it with a cozy mug for a local-themed gift set.

  • My Top 3 Picks: Portrait Coffee, Ash Coffee, & Radio Roasters.

Explore my full recs on the blog → From Workdays to Weekends: My ATL Coffee Go-To

Follower Picks: Herbal Health 360, Lil Matcha ATL, Oohmami Matcha, Happily Coffee, Get Frothy.

  • Open Hands Goods: Handmade ceramics. My go-to’s are the checkered & smiley face mugs.

  • Cash Ceramics: Handmade ceramic plates, bowls, mugs, & so much more. Display-worthy shelves. My faves are the snakes which you often see in Little Bear.

🛒 Amazon Favorites (affiliate)

Pinky Out

🥂

Pinky Out 🥂

Follower Picks: Brown Girl Mixers, Get Fizzy ATL.

For the Dog Parents

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For the Dog Parents 🐾

This one's for your pup-obsessed bestie (or let’s be honest — you). Whether it’s spa day essentials, handmade treats, or ATL-based accessories, these picks say: YES, the dog deserves a gift bag too.

🛍️ Small Biz Picks

  • Pittie & Pom: Handcrafted pet swag made with love. Think reversible bandanas, the kind of style your dog knows they look good in.

  • Le Woof Bakery: Cute, clean, & baked with love — these ATL-made treat boxes are the kind of gifts your dog will actually lose their mind over. Chic snacks for fancy pups. 🐾💛

    🎁 P.S. Don’t miss our upcoming giveaway collab. You can catch them IRL at these upcoming Holiday markets: 12/13 WinterFest in Va-Hi, 12/14 in Summerhill, 12/20 the Shed at Ponce City Market.

  • It’s Laura Boisson: Custom paracord collars & leashes that are as sturdy as they are stylish. 10/10 recommend.

  • Zoomin Groomin Decatur: Mobile grooming service for that fresh-cut glow-up — ideal for gifting a “spa day” to fellow dog parents.

  • Park Pet Supply: An East Atlanta staple for ALL things pets. They’re running in-store small-business deals for the holidays, & your pup can literally taste-test the treats. Bonus: They donate proceeds throughout the year to local orgs, so your shopping does good, too.

Follower Picks: Blue Grass Shopper Creations.

🛒 Amazon Favorites (affiliate) → Tap here for rescue pups essentials

  • Cute Dog Bed: Waterproof, funky designs, & washable covers for quick clean-ups.

  • TropiClean Grooming Wipes: Great for muddy paws & post-park cleanups.

  • Eqyss Avocado Mist: My go-to for a shiny, hydrated coat (Ozzy-approved).

  • Dog nail trimmers with safety guard: Essential (& anxiety-reducing).

  • Interactive dog toys: Mental stimulation = calm, happy pup.

  • Slow feeder bowls or puzzle toys: For enrichment that doesn’t involve shoes.

  • Buddy Budder Pancakes: A weekend tradition in my pittie house.

For the Book Lover: Curl Up + Get Lost

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For the Book Lover: Curl Up + Get Lost 📚

This one’s for your friend who always has a tote full of paperbacks, smells every candle before buying it, & has strong opinions about dog-earing pages. Whether they’re into indie bookstores, comics, or just love a good cozy reading setup, these gifts say: "go ahead & romanticize your life bby."

🛍️ Small Biz Picks

Support your local shelves this season & grab a gift card, tote, or stack of recs from these ATL gems.

  • My Top 3 Picks: Bookish, Atlanta Vintage Books, & All the Tropes Bookstore.

Snag your next read → Must-Visit Bookstores & Comic Shops

Follower Picks: Kristens Creations.

For the Homebody Who Loves a Good Glow-Up

🛋️

For the Homebody Who Loves a Good Glow-Up 🛋️

This one’s for the friend whose perfect night includes a cozy robe, soft lighting, & rearranging their living room for the third time this week. Whether they’re a self-care Queen, a dopamine decor devotee, or just love making their space feel extra lived-in, these finds bring the cozy + the cute.

🛍️ Small Biz Picks

  • Tinned Candle: The original tinned fish candle hand-poured in small batches.

Follower Picks: Lilit, Bode & EV, Little Bird Apothecary, Candleporium Frangerence House, House of Nambili, Boddo Studio, Reporter Design.

👛 Laney Space Funky Fun Rugs (affiliate)

I’ve raved about these before — they’re different, super cozy underfoot, & way cuter than your average rugs.

  • Tomato rug runner: This viral, irregular-shaped runner is instant dopamine decor. It's the perfect way to add a bold, non-committal pop of color to your kitchen. My new obsession. It’s functional & highly photographable.

  • Ticket abstract rug: This feels like walking on a memory. The unique abstract design looks exactly like a giant, event stub. Perfect for the sentimental homebody who loves a stylish conversation piece.

🛒 Amazon Favorites (affiliate) → Browse my interior home products

💛 Messy Jesi Tip: Pair a diffuser, oil set, & candle into a little “glow-up kit” basket. Add matches & a handwritten note for an extra warm touch.

For the DIYer + Design Lover

🛠️

For the DIYer + Design Lover 🛠️

This one’s for the friend who has a paint sample stash, talks about “accent walls” like they’re people. Whether they rent or own, this list is packed with renter-friendly upgrades, stylish tools, & design-forward finds that fuel the glow-up.

🛍️ Small Biz Picks

  • Rustic Roots Reclaimed: Custom reclaimed wood shelves. Functional & feel-good, especially when sourced from local makers.

  • I’ll Be Seeing You: A moody, ethereal curation of vintage pieces that feel like a portal. Think rich textures, romantic silhouettes, & timeless pieces for your inner old soul.

Follower Picks: Abena Designs, Reflektion Design.

🛒 Amazon Favorites (affiliate) → Browse my store front

  • DIY products & tools: Beginner friendly.

  • Peel-&-stick wallpaper: For bold accent walls without commitment. Great for renters or indecisive decorators.

  • LED picture light: Gallery wall glow-up for under $30.

  • Gold hardware upgrade kits: Transform cabinets, dressers, or old Ikea furniture.

For the Creative or Sentimental Type

🖼️

For the Creative or Sentimental Type 🖼️

The one who still sends postcards, has a camera roll full of murals, & makes birthday cards from scratch. Whether they’re into funky prints, memory-making gifts, or filling their walls with stories, this section is all heart + a little sparkle.

🛍️ Small Biz Picks

  • Gabeaux: One of my favorite Atlanta artists. Their work makes a statement every time.

  • Prfenstein: Mixed-media magic. From journals to home decor, everything here feels handcrafted & intentional.

  • Tommy Bronx: Pure color and ATL pride. Whether it’s a print, mural, or painting, it brings joy.

  • Veazey Studio: The Atlanta rap map you didn’t know you needed.

  • A Shop Downtown (Poorly Drawn Pets): $5 ugly custom pet portraits.

Follower Picks: Stiber Art & Design, Sunday In Bloom, Jaeson Not Jason, ELM Art, Pointless Scre8s.

🛒 Amazon Favorites (affiliate) → Browse my store front

  • Vintage vibes only: My frame faves.

For the Foodie (or Takeout Queen) in Your Life

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For the Foodie (or Takeout Queen) in Your Life 🍴

You know the one. Their fridge is always stocked with something marinating, or they have the best frozen meal recs. Whether they’re in their home-cooking era or just vibing with beautifully plated takeout, these picks are equal parts practical + indulgent.

🛍️ Small Biz Picks

  • La Bodega ATL: Frozen pupusas made with love. Easy to gift, easier to eat. Noms.

  • Viennoiseries After Dark: French pastries with a decadent, late-night twist. Think flaky croissants, savory surprises, and viral-worthy bites. A moody, indulgent add-on for any foodie gift set.

  • Bob’s Boards: Custom wood cutting boards that double as kitchen decor. Perfect for charcuterie spreads, foodie gifts, or making leftovers look fancy AF.

Follower Picks: Casseroles ATL, Savage Pizza L5P.

🧺 Bonus: Shop Atlanta’s Local Markets

From heirloom produce to handmade pantry goods, these Atlanta farmers markets, butchers, & mini markets are bursting with giftable finds for the foodie in your life.

Discover → Atlanta’s Best Farmers Markets, Butchers, & Mini Markets

💛 Messy Jesi Tip: Build a gift basket from Grant Park Farmers Market vendors.

  • Grab fresh pasta

  • Include local jam, pickles, or sauce from a mini market

  • Slip in a cute reusable market tote 😉

Follower Picks: June Dragon Fly Box.

🛒 Amazon Favorites (affiliate) → Browse my store front

  • Baking Must-Haves: Silicone mats, cookie scoops, & measuring sets for the one who’s elbows deep in flour by mid-December. It’s me… = chaos-controlled baking.

  • Le Creuset: For the one who bakes like it’s a love language. It’s a splurge — but well worth it.

  • My Go-To Knives: Sharp, reliable, & cute enough for an open shelf.

  • Charcuterie Board Tools: Little cheese knives, ramekins, & labels = party-ready.

💛 Messy Jesi Tip: Bundle a jar of local honey, some Bob’s Board flair, & a cozy baking dish for the ultimate foodie love language starter pack.

For the Creator, Hustler, or Your Work-From-Couch Bestie

💻

For the Creator, Hustler, or Your Work-From-Couch Bestie 💻

They’ve got five tabs open, three side hustles in progress, & still manage to color-code their calendar. Whether they’re editing videos, managing emails from a blanket fort, or launching their next idea — these cozy-meets-productive picks are for your favorite overachiever with a soft life soul.

🛍️ Small Biz Picks

  • Atlanta coffee shop swag: Branded merch: A cozy crewneck or hat with a travel tumbler.

💛 Messy Jesi Tip: Pair these with a gift card to a coffee shop they can use as their second office.

🛒 Amazon Favorites (affiliate) → Browse my store front

Plant Parents Who’s Basically a Jungle Curator

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Plant Parents Who’s Basically a Jungle Curator 🪴

They talk to their plants. They name them. They’ve got a propagation jar in every window. Welcome to Jumanji. Whether they’re a seasoned green thumb or just got their first pothos, these gifts help them grow their own little indoor jungle — with love, light, & a little extra misting.

Small Biz Picks (non-affiliate):

  • Nourish in Botanica: Gem for gorgeous greenery, thoughtful vibes, & wellness-forward plant energy. Bonus: Dried florals for decorating.

  • Bed Head Plants: Uniquely potted, often funky, always fabulous. Check her out t farmers markets & her posted workshops.

  • Pink Pothos ATL: A Pittsburgh Yard gem. Super fun ATL-based biz known for bright, planty setups & pop-ups in the container yard. Great for rare finds + custom plant moments.

🪴 Notes: All of these small biz picks are Black-owned & ATL-based. Support the plant lovers + the community!

Follower Picks: Abundance Landscapes + Gardens, The Moss Doctor.

🛒 Amazon Favorites (affiliate)

For the One Who’s Deep in Their Clean Era (But Actually Cares About Ingredients)

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For the One Who’s Deep in Their Clean Era (But Actually Cares About Ingredients) 🛁

They’re the friend who reads every label, loves a product haul, & won’t settle for anything less than nourishing. These gifts support their soft skin, glowy self-care routine, & ingredient-conscious lifestyle — no sketchy chemicals here.

🛍️ Small Biz Picks

  • Refij Aesthetics: A holistic esthetician offering sensitive-skin-friendly facials, waxing, & true glow-ups. Your skin will thank you.

  • Kastone Natural Beauty: Ingredient-conscious. Think lush body butters, oils, & everything your skin craves.

  • 68th & Monroe: A luxe take on clean body care & fragrance — perfect for gifting or keeping (because, same).

Notes: 💛 All of these small biz picks are Black-owned & ATL-based. Support the glow-up + the community!

Follower Picks: Kraftz by Kadin, Smokestack Wax, Hey Butterfly Studio, The Rosefinch Spa & Store, Becalm Botanicals.

🛒 Amazon Favorites (affiliate) → Browse my store front

For the Jewelry Lovers

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For the Jewelry Lovers ✨

For the ones who love to stack, sparkle, & make a statement. Whether their vibe is maximalist or minimalist, these ATL makers + chic accessories bring main character energy to any outfit.

🛍️ Small Biz Picks

  • Duality Clique: Pieces with meaning, made to layer. For the ones who balance soft + strong.

  • Sincerely Fearless: Loud, proud, & unapologetically fierce. This ATL-based brand serves bold earrings, hoops, & empowering accessories for baddies.

Notes: 💛 Black-Owned, Atlanta-based.

  • Quirky Bird: The kind of small maker where every piece feels personal — handmade quirky earrings that are a must-have.

Follower Picks: Agape Gems, Oh So Fitting, Erica Frances Art, Heather Greenway Jewelry, Palettes & Petals, Southern Oak Trading, Ed Fountain, Shop Kamawe, Steve West, Tt’s Trinkets, Artisan Samira, Bellalu Jewelry, ULC.

🛒 Amazon Favorites (affiliate)

For the Artsy Ones

🎨

For the Artsy Ones 🎨

They’re the friend who owns four glue guns, has a washi tape collection, & somehow makes crafting look cool. Whether they’re painting, sewing, or DIY-ing their way through the holidays, this section is packed with thoughtful, creative gifts.

🛍️ Small Biz Picks

  • Have Some More ATL: Bright, bold, & bursting with nostalgia. This glass artist serves up colorful pieces that’ll make your inner child do cartwheels.

  • Beanie Made It: Whimsical, handmade, & full of charm. Their art feels like a cozy craft night with your coolest friend.

Get crafty→ ATL Creatives Guide

Follower Picks: Swilly Bug.

For the One Who’d Rather Thrift It Than Click It

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For the One Who’d Rather Thrift It Than Click It 🪩

From fringe jackets to upcycled plates, this section is for the vintage lover who finds magic in the pre-loved & personality in the perfectly worn-in. These ATL vintage curators serve looks, vibes, & heirloom energy.

🛍️ Small Biz Picks

  • Lights Camera Vintage: Vintage for the main character. Statement pieces, bold styling, & cinematic flair. Whether it’s 80s drama or Y2K realness, LCV delivers wearable nostalgia with an edge.

Follower Picks: Disco UFO, Table for Two Vintage, 4 The Luc of Unicornz, Bella Beautiful Boutique.

🧵 Bonus: Want more Atlanta spots to thrift, swap, or score secondhand home goods? → Where ATL Creators Shop Vintage

Follower Picks: The Hotspot Sugarhill.

Unique Shops & More

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Unique Shops & More 👛

Follower Picks: Swan Space, Wander State Co., Maelu Designs.

BONUS: Stocking Stuffers

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BONUS: Stocking Stuffers ✨

🛍️ Small Biz Picks

  • Powerful Pepper Co: Flavor with a kick & ATL soul. These small-batch hot sauces, jams, & spices are handmade with fresh, local ingredients — & make the perfect gift for your spice-loving bestie or that uncle who thinks he can handle heat.

More Stocking-Friendly Picks (from other sections):

  • Stickers or keychains from ATL artists

  • Gift cards to small businesses

  • Dog treats by Le Woof Bakery

  • Mini candles from Tinned

  • Bandanas from Pittie & Pom

  • Jewelry add-ons or essential oil rollers

🛒 Amazon Favorites (affiliate)

Jesi Hooper
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