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Local businesses offer one-of-a-kind holiday shopping in New Braunfels

Published Wednesday, November 23, 2022 3:00pm

From boutiques to hand-made pottery, city shops offer unique gift ideas

Whether you’re looking for unique gifts, the perfect holiday party outfit, or even festive décor to deck your halls, New Braunfels has exclusive shopping that will help you check everything off your list.

With its roots as a German settlement dating back to 1845, this central Texas city combines a Hill Country vibe with a European accent.

That eclectic mix carries over into the town’s shopping opportunities. While New Braunfels has the national retailers you might expect and outlet shopping a short 10-minute drive to neighboring town San Marcos, it’s also home to a wealth of locally-owned stores that offer a unique mix of shopping experiences, all with personal service, fun atmospheres and distinctive items. It’s the perfect place to find holiday treasures on Small Business Saturday, Nov. 26, the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

So as the gift-giving season kicks off, head to New Braunfels. From boutique apparel to hand-made pottery, here are some great places to start your holiday shopping adventures.

The LOCAL & Lot 59

At these locally-owned shops, the owners believe that every item has a story waiting to be shared. Discover an eclectic mix of local artisan-made goods, apparel, books, art and great vibes at these two quaint shops, both nestled in beautiful downtown New Braunfels.

Dancing Pony

Located in the city’s historic downtown, this trendy boutique offers styles suited for women of all ages, making it perfect for both mothers and daughters. Stop by to peruse a great selection of clothing, accessories, and all kinds of gifts.

Frog Hollar Outdoor  

This husband-and-wife-owned business is inspired by country back roads, small towns and outdoor adventures. You’ll find outdoor apparel and accessories for hunting, fishing, boating, hiking or just unplugging with nature.

The Downtown Antique Mall and Gruene Antique Company

New Braunfels takes its history seriously, and that’s evident in its fabulous antique shops. Step back in time and peruse two expansive vintage antique malls that have been impressing visitors and locals for more than 50 years with a wide variety of antique furnishings and home goods.   

Retro Ranch

This fun antique shop specializes in unique finds from deep in the heart of Texas. They carry home décor and other treasures in mid-century, rustic and vintage styles.

What Once Was Old Vintage

Add beauty and personality to your home with restored furnishings, home décor and antiques at What Once Was Old Vintage, specializing in repurposed, upcycled vintage items and furniture. 

The Barn Pottery

Find handmade works of ceramic art at The Barn, a pottery shop in historic Gruene featuring the works of local artisans. Many of the ceramics are made on-site, with a working studio connected to the gallery so you can check out the work in progress.

Gruene With Envy

This shop offers the latest in spirited, fun women’s fashions. Located just down the street from the famous Gruene Hall, this boutique carries apparel, boots, shoes, jewelry and more.

The Gruene Olive Tasting Room

For the foodies on your list, you’ll find specialty olive oils and vinegars, gourmet chocolates, pastas, pesto, sauces and more.

A Shop Around the Corner Boutique & Gifts

This shop carries a wide variety of fun gifts and seasonal must-haves, including Christmas jammies for the whole family, RADKO Christmas ornaments, and of course, lots of fun clothes, shoes and purses for women.

KC Luxe Life

From dazzling holiday dresses to Jessica Simpson shoes and Paris Hilton tracksuits, KC Luxe Life is a women’s boutique that invites shoppers to shimmer, sparkle and shine.

Shop Shane & Co. Boutique

Created by a local mom who wants to feel great but look even better, this shop carries a wide range of finds, from night-on-the-town outfits to whimsical holiday tees, women’s shoes, toddler shoes and apparel, drinkware and home goods.

Nelson’s Millinery & Mercantile

Nelson is an artisan that produces custom, hand-made hats and leather goods, produced one at a time. After learning his trade from some of the best milliners in Texas, he now creates hats and goods that are truly works of art.  

New Braunfels Candle Company

This family-owned business produces quality, handmade soy candles, made with all-natural soy wax, phthalate-free fragrance oils, and lead-free cotton wicks. They also stock homemade bath & body products including bath bombs, beard oils, shower steamers and soaps.

Otto’s Cheese Shop

Celebrate the season with cut-to-order cheese, charcuterie, pantry items, beer and wines. This shop carries everything you need for a gift basket that will thrill the foodies on your list, including gourmet chutneys, mustards, jams, chocolates, cheese knives and wooden boards, along with cheeses from all over Texas, the United States and around the world.

The Wildflower Barn

This quaint little shop packed full with unique items is at the edge of downtown New Braunfels. You’ll find treasures from rustic pine furniture to art, scarves, jewelry and vintage signs.

 

With over 50 exclusive, local retailers, create a weekend adventure and fulfill your holiday gift list in style with unique gifts that will wow even those with the most particular of taste. Plan now for unforgettable holiday fun #InNewBraunfels. Visit https://www.playinnewbraunfels.com/ to find lodging, restaurants and other amenities to complete your holiday shopping adventure!