Shop Local This Holiday Season in Alpharetta, Milton and Beyond

There’s just something about the holidays in North Atlanta. The streets are strung with lights, the coffee shops smell like cinnamon, and the small businesses that anchor our communities seem to shine a little brighter. Milton, Alpharetta, and Roswell all have their own rhythm and charm — and come December, they’re full of great spots to find gifts with a little extra meaning behind them.

In Milton, it’s easy to get caught up in the holiday spirit. Scottsdale Farms feels like the North Pole with a Southern accent — overflowing with wreaths, ornaments, poinsettias, and twinkle lights. It’s part garden center, part gift shop, and totally worth a visit, even if you’re just grabbing a hot chocolate and wandering the aisles. Nearby, The Ginger Room, tucked inside a historic farmhouse, is one of those hidden gems that locals love to show off. Stop in for afternoon tea, grab a holiday candle or two from their boutique, and soak up that cozy, festive atmosphere.

A short drive away, Alpharetta makes holiday shopping feel like a celebration. Downtown Alpharetta is especially charming this time of year, with its shop windows decked out and lights twinkling overhead. You can’t go wrong popping into La Bella Maison for timeless home accents, or Magnolia Moon for nailing that effortless “Southern chic” style.

And then there’s Roswell — where shopping local feels a little like stepping back in time. Canton Street is at its best during the holidays, with every storefront glowing and every restaurant patio buzzing. Duck into The Cottage Door Interiors for beautiful home décor, or wander into Raiford Gallery, a Roswell institution filled with handcrafted art and jewelry by local makers. If you need a shopping break, grab a latte at Crazy Love Coffee House and warm up by the firepit before diving back in.

Just down the road, Downtown Crabapple offers a slower pace that’s perfect for an afternoon stroll. Lily Sage Apothecary is a local favorite for small-batch skincare, candles, and herbal goods — all made with intention. If you're looking to cozy up with a good book this season, Poe and Company Bookstore offers just that, plus many community events.

Shopping local isn’t just about finding something unique — it’s about supporting the neighbors, families, and entrepreneurs who make these communities feel like home. This season, skip the big-box rush and celebrate Small Business Saturday, November 29, and wander through the shops of Milton, Alpharetta, and Roswell. You’ll leave with more than great gifts — you’ll walk away with a little more holiday spirit, too.