The holidays are a time to celebrate, connect and give with purpose. What better way to do that than by supporting Spartan-owned businesses that bring creativity and community to life?
This year’s gift guide is packed with meaningful finds for everyone on your list: tasty treats for the foodie, cozy comforts for the home, stylish picks for the fashionista, and relaxing essentials for the wellness guru.
Whether you’re shopping local in Michigan or ordering from afar, each gift tells a story of Spartan spirit and the power of giving green.
Baking by Jade: Custom cookies
Try Baking by Jade, the perfect way to add some sweetness to your holiday season. Founded by Jade McLellan, management junior, Baking by Jade specializes in custom cookies that taste as amazing as they look.
What began as a creative outlet in Jade’s home kittens quickly turned into a thriving business driven by her passion for design, flavor, and bringing joy to every occasion. From themed cookies to personalized holiday orders each batch is made from scratch with care and attention to detail
Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering, searching for a thoughtful gift, or just craving something homemade, Baking by Jade delivers treats that make every celebration a little sweeter
Macaronza!: Fresh made-to-order macarons
Macaronza!, a small batch, fresh, made to order macarons company, founded by Yuktha Pulavarathi, marketing senior, is perfect for any occasion, but especially the sweet treat of the holiday season.
Beyond the flavor, Macaronza! stands for thoughtful celebration: sustainable packaging and community focused partnerships, and custom flavors for special moments.
Perfect for holiday gifting or dessert tables, these macarons add sweetness, style, and a dash of Spartan creativity to every occasion
The Feel Bar: Protein bars with adaptogens
After working for a Fortune 500 food company, Mike Trupiano (B.A. Packaging Engineering ’18) decided to strike out on his own to develop a snack that was nutrient-dense and developed using whole foods and adaptogens.
He spent three years recipe testing in his mom’s kitchen to develop a snack for a “healthy brain, happy stomach”. The Feel Bar uses organic ingredients with functional benefits, like chaga mushroom, organic turmeric and lion’s mane mushroom, to create a bar that fuels both the mind and the body without compromise.
With seven different flavors to choose from, and over 1 million sold, The Feel Bar is a great gift for the foodie in your life who cares about taste and nutrition.
Traverse City Whiskey Co.: Artisanal liquors and cocktails
Traverse City Whiskey Co. was born from a rediscovered piece of family history. Co-founder Chris Fredrickson (B.A. Advertising ’07) found his great-grandfather’s patent for distilling whiskey and the discovery sparked a modern craft movement. Along with friends Moti Goldring (J.D. ’07) and Jared Rapp (B.A. General Business Administration ’05), a distillery celebrating the flavor, craftsmanship and easygoing charm of “Up North” was born in Traverse City, Michigan.
You and the people on your holiday shopping list will find something to love, from smooth Straight Bourbon and the iconic Cherry Edition to ready-to-mix cocktail kits that make entertaining effortless. For those who prefer a different kind of indulgence, Traverse City Whiskey also offers locally made maple syrup and whiskey-scented candles that capture the cozy essence of their barrels.
Stop by their Stillhouse in Traverse City for a tasting or pick up a bottle (or candle) closer to home to take to your holiday party. This Michigan-made favorite brings a sip of northern hospitality to any celebration.
Blackrocks Brewery: Craft beers and cozy apparel
For the beer fan on your list, Blackrocks Brewery is a Michigan must-try. What began as a home-brewing hobby for co-founders David Manson (B.A. Social Science ’93) and Andy Langlois in Marquette has grown into one of the state’s most beloved craft-beer destinations. Launched in 2010 and named after the iconic Blackrocks overlook on Lake Superior, the brewery captures the spirit of adventure and community that defines life in the Upper Peninsula
Even non-beer drinkers can join the fun with branded merch, cozy apparel and the gift of a visit to the Marquette taproom complete with live music, fire pits and a welcoming local crowd.
You can stop by the brewery in Marquette to enjoy a pint where it all began, or find Blackrocks’ signature beers at retail locations throughout Michigan, making it easy to share a taste of the U.P. wherever you are this season.
Two K Farms: Wines and ciders
For the cider lover or wine enthusiast on your list, Two K Farms brings a true taste of Northern Michigan. Brothers Max (B.S. Agribusiness Management ’15) and George (Agricultural Industries ATCT1 ’14) Koskela turned their shared passion for agriculture into a thriving farm and cidery in Suttons Bay, MI.
What started as a small orchard has grown into a destination for crisp, small-batch ciders and wines made from fruit grown right on their property.
Explore their mix-and-match cider packs, bold red and white wines, or a visit to the farm’s scenic tasting room overlooking the bay. Whether you stop by in person or order a few bottles to share, Two K Farms is a great way to incorporate Michigan flavors into your holiday season.
Stuuffy Home: 3-D printed home accessories
Add a unique touch to your holiday gifting with Stuuffy Home, a 3-D printing business, by student Christopher Manwaring, mechanical engineering sophomore. He designs keychains, pencil holders and coasters that bring creativity and personality to any space. Perfect for gift friends, family, or even treating yourself, each piece is made with care and attention to detail.
Awkward Games: Card games designed for connection
What started during lockdown in New York as a way to turn awkward moments into connection, Brittane Rowe (BFA Theatre ’11) created a card game that invites deeper conversation and laughter. The game’s bold energy recently caught national attention when it was featured on ABC’s Shark Tank.
Hosting friends or family this holiday season? Awkward Games is the perfect addition to any gathering, making game night more memorable and fun. It is guaranteed to get people talking and laughing all season long.
Boppn’: Scavenger hunts in your favorite cities
Skip the same old gift this year and give the gift of adventure with Boppn', founded by Belle Zelazny (B.A. Advertising Creative ’22). This interactive platform uses an app to run live scavenger-style hunts where teams explore cities, complete fun tasks, and build lasting memories along the way.
Perfect for friends and family, or anyone who values experience over things, Boppn brings people together in a playful, meaningful way. Whether you book a hunt in your city or send it as a surprise gift for someone else’s celebration, you’ll be handing off laughter, connection, and stories – not just another boxed present.
J. Margaret Jewelry: Modern gold-filled jewelry
J. Margaret Jewelry, founded by Jillian Whitley, marketing senior, was inspired by her mom and grandma’s love for timeless jewelry. Frustrated by pieces that tarnished too soon or felt out of reach. Jillian set out to create modern, gold-filled designs that are both meaningful and accessible.
Each piece combines classic style with a contemporary twist, made to spark confidence and connection without breaking the bank. Whether you’re shopping for a thoughtful gift or treating yourself, J. Margaret Jewelry brings everyday elegance to the holiday season.
Designs by Erika: Custom crafts
Add a pop of creativity to your holiday season with Designs by Erika, founded by Erika Truelove, an advertising creative sophomore. From hand-drawn stickers and crochet pieces to custom pins, Erika’s creations are all about spreading joy through art and color.
Each piece is crafted with care – perfect for stocking stuffers, gift exchanges or adding a little extra cheer to your own collection.
Spartan Ribbons: Festive Spartan spirit items
Add some Spartan cheer to your holiday season with Spartan Ribbons, founded by Anna Wiltzer, a kinesiology sophomore. From handcrafted hair bows to festive keychains, each piece is designed to bring Spartan spirit to everyday life.
Every item is made with care, perfect for gifting or adding a personal touch to your holiday celebrations.
Whether you’re surprising a fellow Spartan, stocking your own holiday accessories or looking for a small but meaningful gift, Spartan Ribbons make every moment a little brighter.
Cherry Loops: Handmade plush accessories
Looking to add a little color and creativity to your holiday gifting? Cherry Loops, owner Katelyn Coles, communication sophomore, has you covered. What started as a creative hobby has grown into a vibrant small business featuring handmade crochet plushies, beaded necklaces, and earrings. Each item is crafted with care making it easy to find something unique. From stocking stuffers to statement pieces, Cherry Loops adds a little handmade magic to your gift list.
NC Jewelry: High-quality permanent jewelry
Give a gift that lasts with NC Jewelry, a permanent jewelry experience created by student entrepreneur Nora Cunningham, public relations junior. NC Jewelry elevates the everyday choice of high quality chains – gold-filled, sterling silver, and curated finishes. Available online by appointment, it’s an excellent pick for holiday gifting.
Bluthreads & Co: Embroidered apparel
Bring a personal touch to your gifting with Bluthreads & Co. Inspired by her time at MSU, Megan Timmerman (MSW ’24), specializes in embroidered apparel and small accessories that blend style and comfort. From cozy sweatshirts to curated keychains each item is crafted to feel unique and meaningful. Ordering online makes it convenient and easy to shop Bluthreads & Co. this holiday season.
BC Cosmetics: Conscious cosmetics
BC Cosmetics, founded by Katyra Waller, advertising creative junior, brings you a vibrant line of beauty products designed for every skin tone and style celebrating individuality and helping everyone feel confident in their own skin.
Their full collection is available online, making it easy to send a thoughtful gift this season.
Skin Studio 211: Skincare services
With 4 locations across Michigan, Skin Studio 211 has been helping clients look and feel their best with expertly crafted skincare services and high-quality products. Founded by Lorin Cumberbatch, psychology senior, the studio offered a curated selection of skincare essentials designed to nourish, protect, and pamper every skin type
Can’t make it to one of their locations? Many products are available online and gift cards for their services – like facials, waxing, or lashes – can also be purchased, making it easy to treat someone special or yourself this holiday season.
Beekman 1802: Goat milk beauty products
Beekman 1802 offers beautifully crafted skincare and bodycare that bring purity, comfort and a little farm-fresh charm to self-care routines. The brand was born on a 219-year-old farm in Sharon Springs, New York, when co-founders Brent Ridge and Josh Kilmer-Purcell (B.A. English ’91) discovered the power of goat-milk for soothing sensitive skin and built their business one bar of soap at a time.
Gift-ready sets of goat-milk body bars, travel-sized face-care kits and deeply hydrating creams are perfect for holiday stockings or a treat-yourself moment.
P.S. If you have a book lover on your list, gift them a copy of “G.O.A.T. Wisdom: How to Build a Truly Great Business from the Founders of Beekman 1802,” which was recently featured in our list of top business books.
ForHerCosmetics: Vegan, cruelty-free cosmetics
For the wellness guru who loves clean beauty, ForHerCosmetics blends science, self-care and purpose. Founded in Detroit by chemist Alyssa Space (B.S. Chemistry ’16) , the vegan, cruelty-free line features lipsticks, glosses, and body shimmers made with skin-friendly ingredients and sustainable practices. Beyond beauty, ForHer empowers women in STEM through its nonprofit innovation arm, MySpaceLaboratories — a hands-on learning space that inspires young women and underrepresented communities to explore science, creativity and entrepreneurship.
North Coast Golf Company: Accessories for the golfer in your life
For the golfer on your list, North Coast Golf Co. brings together style, function and a love for “Up North” Michigan summers. Founded by Matt Fernandez (B.A. Marketing ’18), the brand set out to craft modern, premium golf gloves and accessories that perform as well as they look.
Browse their collections, from the Lake Life line featuring designs inspired by Michigan’s most iconic lakes to the Bogey the Bear series, which plants a tree for every item sold through a partnership with One Tree Planted. You’ll find head covers, towels, socks, ball markers and more, all available in thoughtful colorways and customizable options.
Whether you’re shopping for a dedicated golfer or someone who simply appreciates well-made gear, North Coast delivers quality with heart and a touch of Michigan pride.
These are just a small collection of organizations founded and led by many talented MSU alumni and student entrepreneurs. We hope this guide, along with our previous gift guides, inspire you to seek out and support Spartans each holiday season!
- 2024 Holiday Gift Guide
- 2023 Holiday Gift Guide
- 2022 Spartan Nonprofit Guide
- 2021 Holiday Gift Guide
- 2020 Holiday Gift Guide
If you are a Spartan entrepreneur or know someone who would be a fit for next year’s guide, drop us a line at news@broad.msu.edu.
This content originally appeared on broad.msu.edu