If the young ones in your life are looking forward to the upcoming arrival of a special basket from the Easter bunny, you may be starting to ponder what you can purchase that goes beyond the traditional choices of jellybeans and chocolate rabbits. Check out some local options for little gifts that are sure to please!
At Hopscotch Children's Store, shoppers could find a multitude of options kids will love, including lots of locally made and wooden toys, in addition to eco-friendly and educational options.
"We specialize in toys, games, books, and gifts for babies, toddlers and kids," said Emily Tobin, Co-Owner of Hopscotch. "We also have a whole bunch of ideas on our website!"
According to Tobin, some popular items for this year include Jellycat plush bunnies, Hape Nature Fun items, some Easter Jixelz puzzles, magnetic dress up sets, a Green Toys watering can, and more.
For all things games, head to Blue Bridge Games, where analog entertainment reigns supreme. It's here that shoppers could find items for all ages on their list, from board games and jigsaw puzzles to role-playing games, Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon and more.
"Games make great gifts and we have fun ones available for those as young as two, as well as an entire section of small games perfect for those Easter baskets!" said Owner, Margaret Kleist. "Come visit our storefront on East Fulton in Grand Rapids or shop our selection online."
Next, venture into Rebel, home to all things giftable—think cards, plants, jewelry, books, kitchenware, and more. The store works with a lot of small brands and makers, emphasizing a fun and colorful lifestyle.
"For the littles, we've got a great selection of books, toys, stuffies, and games," said Lindsay Bruce of Rebel. "Fill their Easter baskets with candy, but make sure there's something lasting to carry along the memories! I'd recommend a stuffie that looks like their favorite pet or a book about community."
Speaking of candy, head over to Sticky Fingers on Lake Drive, a new (and seriously sweet) venture from the same people behind Rebel.
Sticky Fingers is a colorful wonderland that is primarily a candy store loaded with lots of staples and vintage candies, along with the strange and wonderful. In addition to candy, the store also boasts an awesome collection of niche-specific stationery, stickers, toys and stuffed animals.
With locations in East Grand Rapids, Grand Haven and Kalamazoo, Pink Lemonade is a visual dream. Head to this can't miss storefront for infant and kids' clothes, toys, accessories, gifts for women and more.
Even cooler? They also offer custom curated Easter baskets which often include a stuffed animal, book, toy and hair accessory or hat. Popular items also include crayons/gel pens and dinosaur goodies.
Whichever route you choose to take for your Easter baskets this year, there are plenty of stellar local options to choose from!
Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for West Michigan Woman.
