If you Love the Twin Cities, Shop Local

This past weekend was a hot one for Minnesota, but I kept it cool by heading to the twin cities hippest neighborhood: Northeast Minneapolis. I decided to check out the Bauhaus brewery for the Northeast Night Market, celebrating local artists, businesses, and food vendors throughout the twin cities. Not only did I leave with a bag full of goodies, I directly supported the community that I’ve grown to love so much.

Believe it or not, your purchasing power can go a long way. By paying the same price or even a little bit more, you’re directly supporting local innovations and keeping your community unique. Shopping local not only generates employment, it is also estimated that, on average, $68 stays within your community for every $100 spent. So if you love the Twin Cities, give back by shopping local.

Check out these local shops in Minneapolis:

Elixery Cosmetic House

These vibrant lipsticks and cosmetics are beautiful on the inside and out. Exilery is an artisan cosmetic house selling vegan, paraben and cruelty-free cosmetics, straight out of Minneapolis. 100 percent of the proceeds go to the Leaping Bunny, which fights to end animal testing. I bought one lipstick for $22 and the color lasted all night.

Worker B

In case you weren’t aware, we currently have a massive bee crisis on our hands, and bees need all the help they can get! Worker B combines a group of local beekeepers and artisan skincare formulators to create a BEEutiful skincare line, including lotions, facewashes, creams, and balms. All products are made from a combination of beeswax and honey while also supporting local, non-migratory bee-keeping. I bought a small lotion and face wash, and even after a few days my skin feels softer and rejuvenated.

 Wagon Art Gallery

As you can see, the van itself is a work of art. The traveling vendor sells visual art and knick-knacks throughout the twin cities. They also specialize in event photography and interior design. I loved that they turned the inside of the van into a pop-up shop, selling eye-grabbing photos around Minneapolis

Lion Heart Girl

Lion Heart Girl is a Minneapolis-based accessory and apparel company that supports artisans in Ecuador. All of their products are boho-chic in design while supporting responsible fashion. I fell in love with this blue fringe purse, though it was a bit out of my budget. How gorgeous is this though?

Double Dip Design

This company shows us how up-cycling is done; they take interesting patterns from old t-shirts and sweaters and make them into skirts! I loved seeing all the different combinations of patterns, and my mom ended up buying a Rolling Stones skirt!

And of course, don’t forget to support Bauhaus Brew Lab! 

What are some other twin cities-based businesses or vendors that you love? What do you think about the ones mentioned above? Comment below!