The holidays have officially come to town. People are snuggled around warm fires, hands are wrapped around hot, rich cocoa, and we are all spending money on trinkets and gifts for our friends and family. This holiday, put your money into your community by shopping at small businesses in your own backyard.

Here are ten small businesses in Charlotte, NC that you can spend your money at while simultaneously advancing the local economy.

1. Amélie's French Bakery

Location: 2424 N. Davidson Street, Suite 102

What does it sell? Amélie’s is a French bakery and café with multiple locations in Charlotte and a new location in Atlanta, GA. Along with award-winning pastries and desserts, the bakery offers soups, tartines and sandwiches. It is open 24 hours, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Website: http://www.ameliesfrenchbakery.com/

2. Wine Vault

Location: Shoppes At University Place, 9009 J M Keynes Dr #1

What does it sell? This wine bar and store began as a wine and cheese shop. Now you can stop by and enjoy rich wine from around the world, socialize and enjoy live music.

Website: http://www.headwino.com/

3. Pura Vida Worldy Art!

Location: 3202a North Davidson Street

What does it sell? Pura Vida Worldy Art! is a gift store and art gallery that promotes fair trade, international art and cultures.

Website:http://www.puravidaart.com

4. Not Just Coffee

Location: 224 East 7th Street

What does it sell? Not Just Coffee is dedicated to cultivating a community supportive of ethical and locally-driven business. The coffee shop offers a full spectrum of brewing opportunities – from pour overs to syphon pots to finely executed espresso beverages. Through cuppings, classes, and interactive brewing, their baristas bring the moving, breathing craft of coffee to customers in full color.

Website:http://www.notjust.coffee/

5. Magnolia Emporium

Location: 307 Lincoln Street

What does it sell? A curated home decor and gift shop located at the heart of The Gold District inside of Historic Southend.

Website: www.magnoliaemporium.com

6. Blue Hem

Location: 1750 Camden Road

What does it sell? Blue Hem offers exclusive brands, the latest styles, and a pair of jeans for any occasion.

Website:http://www.blue-hem.com/

7. Pets Want Charlotte

Location: 2324 B Distribution Street

What does it sell? Pets Want Charlotte offers pet lovers all-natural pet food that is made fresh once a month.

Website: www.PetWantsCLT.com/

8. Savory Spice

Location: 2000 South Blvd.

What does it sell? Savory Spice Shop offers high-quality herbs, spices, and seasonings at a fair price in customer-friendly quantities for spice lovers.

Website:http://www.savoryspiceshop.com/

9. Main Street Books

Location: 126 S. Main Street (Davidson, NC)

What does it sell? Main Street Books has a wonderful selection of cards, journals, books and gifts.

Website: http://www.mainstreetbooksdavidson.com/

10. Berrybrook Farm Natural Food Pantry

Location: 1257 East Blvd.

What does it sell? Berrybrook Farm Natural Food Pantry offers a wide selection of nutritional vitamins and supplements, groceries and cruelty-free health and beauty aids.

Website: http://www.berrybrookfarm.com/