It’s official. For once, the internet is of no use to me. Every year I say I’m going to get all my shopping done in the first two weeks of the holiday season and here we are, with 72 hours to go and I haven’t checked everyone off my Christmas list. Whomp. And we’re officially out of time for online purhcases to arrive before Christmas. But thankfully there are a bevy of amazing brick & mortar stores in the Bay Area, filled with treasures that my peeps will love.

Yes, I actually have to get dressed and leave my house – gasp. But seeing the smiles on my family member’s faces will make it all worth it. Here are some of my favorite gems with all you fellow last minute shoppers out there. And if you’re not in San Francisco you should bookmark these for your next visit to this fair city!

My first stop actually requires a jaunt over the Bay Bridge. Temescal Alley, literally tucked behind the main drag of Temescal Ave, has a treasure trove of more than half a dozen shops, guaranteed to have something for virtually everyone on your list. Take Crimson for example. A plant lover’s dream, obviously, but they also carry gorgeous ceramics, books, and cool bits and bobs. I got many a stocking stuffer here.

Then there’s Esqueleto, a must stop for all things McQuan, a great collection of jewelry, art and table top accessories. Serious cool girl vibes abound.

Ali Golden has a collection of sweaters, coats, and super cool tops. I had to leave quickly lest I start buying myself gifts.

Marisa Mason Jewelry is made before your very eyes at the back of this cutie shop. Cuffs, necklaces, rings – someone on your gift list will come out beautifully adorned.

Temescal Alley
486 49th Street, Oakland (between Telegraph Avenue and Clarke Street)
Open: Generally 10am – 6pm check specific shop hours

Standard and Strange is a killer spot for the guys in your life. Amazing American-made shirts, denim, custom leather, shoes. If your guy appreciates a little craftsmanship then they’ll really love something from here.

Standard and Strange
5010 Telegraph Ave, Oakland, CA 94609
Open 11am – 5pm

Then back in San Francisco, here are a few of my favorites:

March is your mecca for stunning kitchen accessories, tabletop, servingware and simply all things stunning. Just shopping in their gorgeous shop is a gift.

March
3075 Sacramento St, San Francisco, CA 94115
Open 10am – 6pm

For the homebodies you must pop into the new Parachute store in Hayes Valley. Grab a cozy throw, maybe a new set of sheets or lovely towels for the bathroom.

Parachute San Francisco
445 Hayes St, San Francisco, CA 94102
Open 11am – 7pm

If you have a jewelry lover on your list Metier is another must-stop. This little jewel box of shop specializes in vintage jewelry with truly unique pieces from around the world. They also offer super cool contemporary designs like the bejeweled daggers by Louison Fine or Annie Costello earrings.

Metier
546 Laguna St, San Francisco, CA 94102
Open: 12pm – 6pm

Finally for the health conscious beauty lover, get thyself to the new True Botanicals boutique. A long time fan of this skincare line, their nontoxic cleansers, face oils and masks are truly remarkable. And now they’ve dipped into aromatherapy with a custom scent bar. But the best part? Their new shop, designed be the uber-chic Jeremiah Brent doubles as a spa – so if you don’t know what product to get, simply give a gift certificate for a custom facial instead! Trust me, your recipient will be very very thankful.

Here are a few more San Francisco favorites.

The Human Condition
A stellar home goods store in the heart of the Mission.
3148 22nd St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Open: 11am – 6pm

General Store Home
Ceramics, weavings and textiles, oh my!
3928 Irving St, San Francisco, CA 94122
Open: 11am – 7pm

Yonder Shop
A lovely gift store with in-house made pottery, home accessories, books, cards, candles and more
701 11th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94118
Open: 10am – 6pm

And be sure to check out our Retail Therapy archives RIGHT HERE.

images via apartment 34 / metier / true botanicals