#local-shopping

#local-shopping

Perhaps the best thing about holiday shopping is getting it done, but the process can be much more satisfying if you're supporting Oakland and Bay businesses and entrepreneurs along the way. Look no further than this roundup featuring over 20 holiday markets from Friday, Dec. 5, to Saturday, Dec. 20. Whether you are looking for artwork for your walls, handmade items for your kitchen, niche jewelry, rare plants, ceramics or other handmade gifts, these markets will have everything you need to complete your holiday wish list.

Retail and technology consulting company Coresight Research estimates that back-to-school spending from June through August will reach $33.3 billion in the U.S., a 3.3% increase from the same three-month period a year ago.

Staten Island's inaugural BJ's Wholesale Club is set to open, providing a new shopping destination for residents in a space previously used by Christmas Tree Shops and Bed Bath & Beyond.

"It was striking to me how similar our vision was," says Keiner. "When I talked to Agnes, I was like, 'Wouldn't it be great if we could have a first floor boutique, and it could be really integrated, plants and books?' And then I would talk to Heather and we would have the same conversation: 'Wouldn't it be great if we could do the vintage and the books?'".