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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UCF chapter.

‘Tis the season to start giving back and paying it forward. The holidays have a way of making us all feel extra grateful and appreciative of those around us, which is why supporting small businesses is so important during this holiday season. This has been the year for small businesses to pop off on Instagram, and I know I’ve spent way too much time scrolling through their feeds trying to find new things to try out.

So, here are some of my favorite small businesses that will be making their way underneath my Christmas tree this year!

Formula Z

I tried Formula Z and haven’t stopped raving about them since. One of my best finds was their Luxe Diamond Gloss and 4EVER Lip kit. They’re vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free and gluten-free, which gives me peace of mind knowing that what I’m putting on my face is a high-quality product.

False Digits

Press on nails became my new BFFs this year. Since going to a nail salon wasn’t an option anymore, press-on nails were the one thing that kept me feeling like I had my life in order. When my nails are done, nothing can stop me. These are reusable, customizable, and so stinking cute — the perfect stocking stuffer!

Not Just Vintage

Thrifting is such a great way to help reduce your carbon footprint, but at times it can get very overwhelming. Not Just Vintage is a curated vintage shop on the go. They have extremely unique pieces ranging in all sizes, making this the perfect gift for anyone in your life.

Zoe All Over

Considering I’m from Florida, bikinis in the winter is nothing out of the ordinary. Finding bathing suits that are high quality, affordable and flattering can get difficult, but Zoe All Over checks all of those boxes for me. A new bathing suit is always on my Christmas wish list, and I’ve found just the place to get them.

Shop Solis

There’s something about handmade jewelry that just makes it that much more beautiful. Shop Solis is a Florida based shop, and each piece is uniquely made out of clay and easily customizable to your liking. There are dozens of designs and color combinations to choose from, so you’re sure to find the right set for you or a loved one.

Poiema Creative

Poiema Creative provides embroidery on paper, shoes, and just about anything else you could want. A business started by a college student earlier in 2020, Poiema Creative has the perfect gift for anyone. Each piece crafted is unique in itself and unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. They’re beautiful art pieces that will spice up any room instantly.

Shopping from small or local businesses this holiday season is such a great way to help up-and-coming creators and artists. Each and every piece is created and sold with care and love, which is what makes small businesses so great. It feels so personal and you know that each piece is unique within itself. My Christmas tree will be filled with items from these shops that I know my friends and family will absolutely love. Happy holidays, and happy shopping!

Stephanie was born in Venezuela and is currently a junior at UCF majoring in radio and television on a media management and operations track and minoring in sports business management. If you ever need to get a hold of her, odds are she is somewhere swimming around in a pool or in the ocean. She loves all things fitness and self care and is always up for a good day in watching movies all day long if she was able to. If you want to keep up with what she's up to, you can follow her instagram @stephsequera.
UCF Contributor