Downtown is twinkling, the Christmas playlists are back on loop, and the holiday season has officially entered the chat. But if your gift budgets are less than merry, Provo has some fun and creative gifts that don't require a holiday miracle to afford.
While the holiday spirit is high, many student budgets are running low. The good news? Local shops are serving up plenty of affordable finds that still feel special.
"We found this place and we were like, 'I love the vibe, I love the look of it,' and they offer plants and books! What could be better," said Este Braiden.
"We have all of these classics that we get in from the UK and they range from ten to fifteen dollars, super cute options but really budget friendly," said Tayler McCrary.
"We also have pens, bookmarks, chocolate, stickers throughout the store.. But we also offer gift cards. We sell plants for everybody. As far as size, as far as easiness, as far as light. A lot of these four inch plants start at six dollars and ten cents," said Smith.
"I like all the plants and I like that they have my kind of books so I can explore different journeys," said Braiden.
"We like to support local businesses and we wanted to support this place. The owners are great and they're just really sweet people," said Braiden.
In the heart of downtown Provo you'll find The Collective Underground... Provo's artsy, offbeat hub featuring handmade gifts and quirky finds from local artists and creators. It's filled with a curated mix of finds you won't see in big-box stores.
"Unfortunately, my love language is giving gifts. But I like to find things that match people. So this sort of environment is just perfect. I can find something that is actually tailored to a person," said Miller.
"I like to find things to DIY, but if I find something cute in a shop I'll grab it. Honestly, I think it's just a lot more meaningful when you're like 'I made this with things that reminded me of you'," said Lydia Shaw.
"Indy Clover is another one I go to, it's very similar to this, but it's more of a thrift shop. Instead of people creating things, they donate things. It's like a personalized thrift shop," said Miller.
So whether you're shopping on a budget or just love a good local find, Provo's small businesses prove that holiday magic comes in all sizes… including affordable.