We all know that buying local and supporting independent retailers can help boost our state and city economies, support downtown retail districts and encourage more entrepreneurs to step out on their own.
But sometimes during the holidays, it can be tempting to avoid the search for the perfect present, and instead settle for a gift card. Or to order everything from an online supermerchant. Hey, no judgment. We've been there, too.
So for this year's holiday gift guide, we looked for gifts that represented the best of Michiganders' craftsmanship and originality; either from companies based in-state or available at independent Metro Detroit stores.
We're delighted to point out that buying Michigan-made doesn't mean settling for a funny t-shirt or tchotchkes shaped like mittens -- although we love those too! These local picks will satisfy every entry on your list: from the denim snob to the bar sports champ, the vinyl collector and maybe even the future Berry Gordy or Diana Ross.
The best part: almost all of them are available online.
For more Mitten-made holiday shopping ideas, head over to Buy Michigan Now, which supports independent products and producers keeping Michigan retail alive. You can even take a pledge to support more of our state's local businesses. And really, why wouldn't you?
As you're doing your last-minute holiday shopping, it's also a good moment to think about the needy individuals who could really use gifts this season -- gifts of time and money. Check out the HuffPost Detroit list of charities deserving of your donations.
Happy, happy holidays!
HuffPost Detroit Holiday Gift Guide
CORRECTION: A previous version of this article incorrectly identified a Tigers baseball wreath as being made in Michigan. The wreath is made in Boston, Mass. by Baby Toes.