Gift Ideas from Local Makers in Montana’s Yellowstone Country

Finding unique gifts this holiday season doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, shopping in Montana’s Yellowstone Country is an experience in and of itself. Purveyors of hand-crafted and high-quality goods line the streets of our downtown areas. You’ll find western wear, outdoor gear, boutique clothing, shoes, gifts, jewelry, and home goods. Make a day of it and enjoy delicious food and libations from one of the many restaurants. Chefs from around the world flock here for the lifestyle, and the resulting cuisine is spectacular.

We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite gift ideas and stores in each area, but don’t stop there; exploring is half the fun!

 

Red Lodge

 

Earlywood

Earlywood has built a following by creating hardwood, hand-crafted kitchen utensils and wooden spoons that stand the test of time. With carefully selected woods such as jatoba, Mexican ebony, hard maple, and bloodwood and proper care, these utensils are destined to become family heirlooms.

 

Red Lodge Clay Center

A center for artists to work, learn, teach, and share, Red Lodge Clay Center also has an extensive pottery collection for sale from its residents. Additionally, they do exhibitions, residencies, workshops, and even private lessons for aspiring artists to explore ceramics.

 

Other shops to explore in Red Lodge:

Coleman Gallery and Studio, Back Alley Metals, Southern Dish, Sisters on Broadway, Paris Montana, Beartooth Books, Hometown Sisters, Montana Candy Emporium.

 

Livingston

 

Custom hats are all the rage, and we have several hat makers in the region, Yellowstone Hat Co. and Cofer Hat Co. in Livingston, who craft custom hats that stand the test of time. They are both open by appointment, so call ahead if you’re visiting!

 

Other shops to explore in Livingston:

Bitterroot Records and Goods, Boheme Apotheca, Cactus Blossom Collective, Dan Bailey’s, Elk River Books, High Trash Boutique, The Kitchen Shop, The Livingston Kite Company, Ladysmith Boutique, Montana Watch Company.

Bozeman

 

Waffles the Adventure Cat children’s books by Nick Mask

Originally hailing from Georgia, author and illustrator Nick Mask now resides in Bozeman, where he continues to create adventures of the well-loved Waffles the Cat. It is an excellent series for young readers and a collection you’ll want to keep and pass down.

 

White Bear Moccasins

Owner and designer Shauna White Bear has created a thriving business making custom moccasins you help design! Bring your ideas to life in these high-quality, comfortable, and authentic moccasins. White Bear seeks to hire Indigenous female college students to teach them a lifelong skill important to their heritage.

 

Fisher Blacksmithing

The gardener in your life will love these hand-forged tools with walnut handles. Created using traditional blacksmithing methods, these tools are extra sturdy, don’t bend, and feel great in your hands.

Other shops to explore in Bozeman:

HeyDay, Montana Gift Corral, Cello Gallery, Head West, Schnees Boots and Shoes, Country Bookshelf, and The Spice and Tea Exchange.

 

Columbus

 

Montana Silversmiths

Montana Silversmiths has been designing and engraving sterling silver jewelry, belt buckles, and accessories for over fifty years. You can find their work in their storefront on Main Street in Bozeman, but for a real treat, visit their Outlet Store in Columbus, Montana.

 

Other shops to explore in Columbus:

Farmhouse General Store, Montana Rustic Accents, Maude West Company, Royal Z Threads, and Mountain Girl.