One of my all-time fave local designers and shop owners, Laura Buzard of Laura Bee Designs in Ballard, is celebrating her Lucky Seven anniversary on Nov. 7 from 4 to 8 p.m.

Throw some dice and win prizes, peruse new merchandise by other crafty geniuses, start your holiday shopping early and snap up Glam for Good handbags made from vintage findings, with proceeds benefiting local charities.

Book a custom bag appointment while at the party and save 10 percent on future orders.

Shops like Laura Bee are gems for shoppers who like to support small designers. Not only can you work directly with Buzard to create your own custom bag, but she in turn supports other small designers by bringing their lines to her store.

My goal for holiday coverage this year is to highlight stores, small and large, that make the effort to carry gift items that are meaningful and memorable, regardless of the price. I'd like to think that this year, what matters most is that we make well-informed, conscious decisions about where we spend our money, whether it's on a $400 piece of jewelry or a $28 custom-designed wristlet.

What are some of your favorite stores that fit that bill?

Hit me with your best shop: alisonbrownrigg@gmail.com

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