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!
Check out mirasol farm organics! It’s an amazing lotion and soap company made in small batches on a hobby farm in the st croix river valley. They use all organic ingredients and essential oils.
Laura, thank you so much for the recommendation! Sounds awesome I will look into their products! -Alex
Great post! I love all your recommendations and will def keep them in mind when I’m in Minneapolis
http://www.pennyanddash.com
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