By Megan Barber, Grocery and Merchandising Manager, Wellness Buyer, Co-op Owner
The winter holiday season brings with it a sense of coziness and encourages the giving spirit! Whether you are short on time or have the desire to craft handmade items, you are sure to find good-for-you (and good for the environment) local, delicious ingredients, and special gifts right here at the Co-op!
bee-licious!
If you’re feeling like sweets are the way to go, you cannot go wrong with our selection of locally produced honey. It comes in an assortment of types and sizes too! Our selection of Fair Trade and organic chocolate bars also come in a massive variety of flavors and textures – though everyone knows caramel crunch is the best. (Editor’s note: While the author is entitled to her opinion, dark chocolate with sea salt is clearly superior.) Locally produced jams and ice cream toppings are guaranteed to hit the spot with anyone looking for that sweet sweet sugar rush! Our bulk section also offers the chance to try a little bit of everything and includes tasty treats like chocolate covered nuts, peanut butter cups, and agave gummy bears just to name a few. Package up a yummy assortment to compile a unique party spread!
If sweet stuff isn’t quite your cup of cocoa, we offer a savory selection as well! From garlic and cheddar sesame sticks to a variety of sustainable meat jerky options, to locally produced hot sauces of all heat indexes – we have you covered! Try out my personal favorite section of pickled produce – including asparagus, carrots, beets, and more – it’s sure to put a smile on anyone’s face!
Still looking for more? Pair it all with a trip to our beer and wine section! We carry multiple Michigan brands from Chateau Grand Traverse winery to Mountain Town Brewery. Our Fair Trade organic Riojana wine is sure to be a hit at any party! Whether you want to try a new sweet or dry wine or a hoppy ale or smooth lager we have you covered!
Looking to gift some unique sustainably made items? We can help! We have large displays of handcrafted sustainable jewelry from South America, fantastic locally-made lip balms, and Fair Trade and handmade cozy cold-weather gear from the Andes Mountains are sure to keep you warm through Michigan’s winters!
Creating a personalized gift basket for family or businesses is a breeze with our handmade African market baskets. These come in all sizes, shapes, and colors and can be used time and time again even after the treats are gone! Chocolate bars, a selection of festive teas, Fair Trade hot cocoa, a nice selection of bulk confections, locally produced honey, mustard, jams, nut butters, and so much more can round out a delicious spread of amazing foods sure to please anyone – especially those who are hard to buy for (I’m looking at you dad).
If you’re looking to try your hand at making some holiday DIY goodies this season, you’ve come to the right place! We have an excellent selection of ingredients, including locally produced beeswax, Fair Trade cocoa and shea butter, carrier oils, and essential oils for all the lotions, creams, lip balms, and scrubs you could want! Feeling spicy? Try your hand at making a personalized spice rub or marinade mix from our bulk herbs and spices section – this way you can create the perfect flavor while only buying exactly what you need!
Whichever delicious items you choose, we are always happy to help you craft a happy holiday season! Stop in to your friendly neighborhood Co-op today!
