If you want to spend less than a fortune and cut out the possibility of space travel this year, turn your eyes upon your own retail backyard.

I think we can all agree on this: Gift-giving should be original and representative of the receivers’ likes and interests. That means you need a locale that houses a variety of items for your gift-buying needs.

Your first stop should be Dulaney’s Urban Flowers & Home (7660 N. Western; 607-8880). Among the array of wonderful options you’ll be presented with, some of the more interesting and unique choices are art glass pieces (Jim Loewer, Pean Doubulyu and Kosta Boda all in-store) or an unexpected yet traditional bouquet of flowers. Consider a potted orchid as well, not only distinctive and thoughtful, but something that can be utilized year-round. 

For the fashionista and trend-savvy, try out On a Whim (5850 N. Classen Blvd.; 848-3488). Even if you aren’t up on currents, a few minutes in-shop and you’ll be caught up. Large, flat-screen TVs on the wall show runway coverage, and the overall atmosphere is notably high-end and a bit fancy.

right, The Spero Project at Shop Good

From Essie nail polish to J Brand corduroys to Michel Design Works — Flora Exotica Squares, this shop will fill any chic family or friend’s desires.

For the philanthropic-minded, check out the inventory at Shop Good (3 N.W. Ninth; 702-0517). Every purchase you make directly supports local and global communities in need. You’ll find bags and hats, as well as Warby Parker frames. This awesome cause gives a pair of glasses every time you buy one of your own. Shop Good is one of the only eight stores in the nation to have Warby Parker frames in store to try on.

Don’t forget to check out the kids’ stuff, along with the Whiskey Aftershave and other grooming products. A unique and beautiful gift idea I found here was an Oklahoma Canvas by The Spero Project. The emblem of the Oklahoma flag appears, but each design is different, carefully pieced together with diverse fabrics. All are handmade with love by local refugee women from Burma.

Another charitable holiday shopping choice is the PAMBE Ghana’s Fair Trade Global Market at Nichols Hills Plaza (6446 Avondale; 840-3717). The market boasts fair-trade goodies like textiles, food, scarves, toys, books and more. For more information, visit pambeghana.org.

This year, support local and make your family and friends happy with off-the-beaten-path gifts. Let’s shop, OKC!

Photo by Mark Hancock

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