I’ve heard from a few readers and friends that they want to participate in the Conscientious Christmas Challenge, but they don’t really know of many independently-owned businesses in Connecticut. So, I’ve put together a list of places to shop, categorized by who might be on your list. Happy Holidays!

For the bookworm: Atticus Bookstore & Cafe (New Haven), The Book Barn (Niantic), The Book Rack (Vernon), R.J. Julia (Madison). If you can’t find books you’re looking for at any of these stores, skip Amazon and buy from Better World Books. They ship worldwide for free and, with every purchase, they donate a book to a child literacy program. Win-win!

For the chocolate connoisseur: Divine Treasures (Manchester), Knipschildt Chocolatier (Norwalk).

For the cupcake enthusiast: Bolo Bakery (Plainville), Sugarbelle (Glastonbury and West Hartford), Truffles Bakery and Kitchen (Farmington).

For the kiddies/kids at heart: Amato’s Toy and Hobby (Middletown and New Britain), Kiddly Winks (Canton), Once Upon a Child (Bristol, Danbury, Hamden, Manchester… they’re everywhere!), Toy Chest (West Hartford),

For the one that needs pampering/beauty queen: Apricot Blossom Therapeutic Massage (West Hartford), By the Sea (Branford, CT), Elle Nails & Spa (Middletown), envee salon & spa (Southington), Jennie Fresa makeup and skincare boutiquerie.

For the tea lover: The Green Teahouse (specializing in Chinese Tea Ceremonies, West Hartford) Simpson & Vale (Brookfield), Tisane (Hartford).

Got other ideas? Leave a comment! And don’t forget to submit your order to the Poor & Pretty Etsy shop by Friday, December 16th, to have it delivered in time for the holidays!