Springfield, Missouri Shopping Guide: Small Businesses to Support this Holiday Season!
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The holiday season is one time of year that people make an effort to spend time with their loved ones and show them how much they care. One way that we show people we are thinking of them is the act of gift giving!
A gift does not have to be elaborate or expensive to show someone you care about them. Sometimes a simple card or a small, unique gift can mean much more than something from a big box store. Shopping your small, local businesses can be a wonderful way to get meaningful and unique gifts with the added bonus of supporting your local economy!
For the past 5 years, I have made an effort to shop 100% small or local for my holiday shopping. Not only has it made for some really memorable gifts for my loved ones, but believe me, it means the world to our Springfield business owner neighbors when you choose to shop with them for your holiday shopping! With all of this being said, I have put together a holiday shopping guide with numerous local small businesses and gift ideas for all!
Local Clothing Boutiques
We all know someone who loves the latest fashion trends! Ditch the busy mall and find some unique finds at the many local boutiques in the Springfield area!
5 Pound Apparel: 5 Pound has men’s and women’s clothing as well as unique gift options throughout the store! Added bonus: every purchaase gives back to numerous charities! Located Downtown Springfield. 412 South Ave, Springfield, MO 65806
Clothe Boutique: Trendy young women’s clothing and accessories. Located in the Brentwood shopping center. 2644 S Glenstone Ave, Springfield, MO 65804.
Downtown Boutique: Women’s clothing and lots of stocking stuffer options, located just a short distance outside of Springfield in Republic, MO. 224 N Main St, Republic, MO 65738.
Modern Society Apparel: Modern apparel for women - also located in the Brentwood shopping center. 2652 S. Glenstone, Springfield, MO 65804
Bree’s Little Closet: Bree’s has women’s apparel and is located off of Republic Road in south Springfield! 1607 W Republic Rd, Springfield, MO 65807
Staxx: Upscale women’s clothing in the Brentwood shopping center - Bonus, their sister store, Jellybeans has a variety of goodies for the kiddos on your list! 2630 Glenstone Ave, Springfield, MO 65804
Home Goods & More
These shops have something for everyone! Each of these options have several home decor and gift options in their store!
The Market: This is my go-to stop for home goods during the holiday season! Walking into this shop is like walking into a winter wonderland during the holiday season - They also have so many fun smaller gift options! This shop is also located in the Brentwood shopping center. 2628 S Glenstone Ave, Springfield, MO 65804
Sunset: This store offers beautiful, artisan home decor! They just opened here on C-street in 2023! 303 E Commercial St Springfield, MO
House Counsel: If you want refined home goods, house counsel is a beautifully curated home store! 1961 S Glenstone Ave, Springfield, MO 65804
Harrison House Market: Located just next door to House Counsel, Harrison House is also a place that just gives you a warm and fuzzy feeling walking through their doors! I’ve purchased candles, ornaments, books and more from their store! 1717 E Cherokee St #103, Springfield, MO 65804
Unique Finds
Hakaar’s Bazaar: If you have a vintage lover on your list, Hakaar’s Bazaar is one of our neighbors here on Commercial Street. They have a variety of vintage clothing and home items. Definitely a fun and unique place to peruse! 217 W Commercial St, Springfield, MO 65803
Pagination Book Shop: This little book shop is perfect for the avid readers! It is located in a historic Walnut Street home and each room is packed full of unique reads! 1150 E Walnut St, Springfield, MO 65806
Serendipity: Another Commercial Street neighbor of ours! They have small gift options and items perfect for stocking stuffers - Bonus, they also offer custom balloon creations and party decor. The perfect place to get your holiday decor! 215 W Commercial St, Springfield, MO 65803
Culture Flock: I stop in this store every holiday season! They have custom clothing designs and so many fun stickers, pins, patches, and so many other fun items! 607 S Pickwick Ave Suite A, Springfield, MO 65802
The Local Bevy: This store is a dreammm - they have artisan jewelry and pottery stickers, cards, and so many other unique finds! 617 S Pickwick Ave, Springfield, MO 65802
Little Bluebird: If you want to knock out a lot of shopping at once, try a curated flea market boutique like Little Bluebird! Located just a short distance outside of Springfield in Ozark, this shop has booths stuffed full of unique goodies for every type of person! 2004 W Evangel St, Ozark, MO 65721
Gift an Experience!
Another way to gift while supporting your local economy is to pick up a gift certificate from a local service provider, restaurant or business in the area or a fun experience! Here are just a few ideas:
Gift a spa treatment from a local esthetician or masseuse, try Grove Spa or Acacia Spa!
Gift a fun night out! You can pour your own candles at Heirloom Candle Bar, attend a mixology class put on by 417 Cocktails, go mini golfing at Getaway Golf, or throw some axes at Craft Axe Throwing.
Buy dinner or coffee for your friends or family, Springfield has SO many amazing local restaurants and coffee shops, but some of our favorites are:
Lastly, We may be biased as a photo studio, but grab your loved one a gift certificate from your favorite local photographer! Updating those family photos is something that can go overlooked! Photos are something that you get to enjoy for the rest of your life - and if you have a photographer to buy a gift for this Christmas, you can always surprise them with a studio rental here at Lightbox!
There you have it! Our 2023 shopping guide for the holidays - We hope this will serve as a useful tool for the 417 community! Now, who did we miss? Comment your favorite small business below!
2023 Holiday Photo Wardrobe Inspiration
When deciding on attire for your holiday photoshoot, neutrals are always a safe choice. However, it can be fun to switch things up! If you are wanting to shake up your holiday photos with some festive flare, but aren’t sure where to start, no worries! We’ve got you covered. Keep reading for some fun wardrobe tips and tricks!
Keeping Your Wooden Backdrop Clean Between Paint Jobs
Painting is a process that can take quite a bit of time. (It can also be expensive!) To help your backdrop last longer between paint jobs, we have a few tips and tricks up our sleeves. Okay, well we have one trick in particular that hasn’t failed us yet… Magic erasers! Curious? Keep reading!
A Day on Historic Commercial Street in Springfield, MO
With everything Historic C-Street has to offer, why not make a day of your photoshoot? If you’re unsure of where to start, keep reading! We’ve done our research and have designed the perfect day, built around your next session at Lightbox!
First, take a trip to Hakaar’s Bazaar! Whether you seek a vintage outfit or a funky knick-knack to showcase in your photoshoot, this is the place for you! Even if you’re not looking to change up your wardrobe, swing in to Hakaar’s Bazaar for a fun, unique experience. As a business that specializes in items from the 1950s-1970s, Hakaar’s Bazaar offers an eclectic assemblage of retro finds. There is something for everyone, and the storefront encapsulates only a fraction of the shop’s character. Go see it for yourself!
Next, mosey over to Serendipity. Fortunately, it’s next-door neighbors with Hakaar’s Bazaar! Inside, you’ll be greeted by a colorful collection of balloons, followed by a wall embellished in florals. The colors, scents, and artistry will quickly immerse you in good vibes and fun energy! Needless to say, you are sure to be inspired. Before you head out, grab some balloons or flowers (or both!) to use in your photoshoot - you’ll be glad you did!
When planning a photoshoot, you have enough on your plate. Treat yourself to a good hair day at Coven Collective! Book an appointment for a styling service, and let the staff work their magic. Not only will you be able to unwind and relax, but you’ll leave your appointment looking and feeling your best! What more could you want before your photoshoot!?
After your ultra-relaxing appointment at the Coven Collective, you might need to re-energize before heading to Lightbox. Good thing Eurasia Coffee Co is on your way! When you step inside, you’ll be met with the aroma of great coffee (among other delicious, non-caffeinated beverages). Eurasia also has a food menu, in case you need a bite to eat before your session. (Pro-tip: The homemade rice crispy treats are life-changing!) Grab a cup of joe to go, or hang out in the cozy and inviting atmosphere for a while - you’re in for a treat either way!
It’s time! You’ve reached Lightbox, and are officially ready for your photoshoot! At the time of your appointment, head inside and start setting up! Staff will be there to greet you, and help with whatever you may need. After an eventful day on Commercial Street, feel free to freshen up, pick out your props, and make yourself at home. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for; now, let’s bring your vision to life!
Bonus - Cafe Cusco:
Bummed that your day on Commercial Street is coming to a close? Feeling a bit peckish after your photoshoot? Well, we have great news for you! Your day of exploring C-Street does not have to end; hop on over to Cafe Cusco! Boasting an ornately-decorated and enchanting atmosphere, Cafe Cusco is sure to astound in its charm alone. Additionally, the menu features traditional Peruvian food and cocktails, so there are options aplenty for those with dietary restrictions. Make sure to end your day the right way at this Commercial Street staple!
How To Use the Ring Light for Your Rental!
Let’s start with the basics!
With the ring light you have the ability to control the look and lighting of your photos! It can be added to any rental for just $15 and you can add it the day of your rental! This is a great option if your rental happens to be on a cloudy day and you want a little extra light for your photos!
There are two sliders on the ring light, one that controls temperature and one that controls brightness. Since it is a slide and not a switch, you have complete control over how bright you want the light and whether you want cool tones, warm tones, or somewhere in the middle!
The ring light is super user friendly, so you totally don’t have to be a professional photographer to utilize it for your rental! It also comes with a tripod to hold a cell phone!
Our rolling white backdrop, the ring light and some banners or props make the perfect setup for a do-it-yourself photo booth during your next party!
Below are some examples of how I used the ring light during my photo session with Jacob!
All of these photos were taken with the same camera settings and all of them were taken about 30 minutes before sunset when natural light was starting to fade!
The only difference between them is the light temperature and brightness settings I had on the ring light!
Here are some bonus pictures that were taken with the ring light when it was pitch black outside!
Are you ready to get creative? Book and add the ring light here!
Blog and photos by Bekah Schooler, Studio Assistant at Lightbox & Owner of Illuminate Photography.
Q & A with a Photographer - Sierra Eckert of Ozark Mountain Images
Welcome to the second edition of our Q & A with a photographer series! We love to feature the different photographers that use our space and see the creativity and individuality they bring to Lightbox!
Today it is my pleasure to introduce you to Sierra of Ozark Mountain Images!
How long have you been a photographer?
Full time for one year and a hobbyist for 6 years!
How would you describe your photography style?
Warm, romantic and genuine.
What is the most rewarding thing about being a photographer?
Meeting people and getting to create. It’s such a relaxing outlet for me. I pour into the creative process and it is so rewarding!
What is the best thing about your clients?
Their kindness and appreciation for what I do. I can’t thank them enough for sharing my name and giving gratitude where it’s due.
What is your favorite thing to photograph?
Portraits!
If you could give one piece of advice to yourself when you first started as a photographer, what would it be?
Shoot, shoot, shoot! Practice makes perfect!
If you could give one piece of advice to your clients what would it be?
Relax and love on your partner. The best photos are the genuine ones.
What would your ultimate, dream photo shoot be?
Either a mountainous elopement or something on the water.
What was your favorite thing about Lightbox and what did you use it for?
I did a styled portrait session of sisters and the lighting was SO BOMB!
How would you like to use the studios at Lightbox in the future?
More styled shoots!
My Personal Experience Using the Lightbox Loft
I recently had the opportunity to photograph a pet calendar with 22 (Yes, TWENTY-TWO) dogs and 2 cats and I jumped at the chance to use The Loft for this project. I had super consistant lighting throughout the whole session! Having this large of a project in a controlled environment really helped keep the pups more calm! The rolling white backdrop was the perfect tool to style for the different months and I was able to use several decor items available in The Loft and combine it with items brought from home to make this project come to life! If you would like a calendar to support Rescue One, please click here.
Photographing portraits is one of my favorite parts about my job! I love being able to capture what makes a person uniquely themselves! I took some pictures of Sarah on her lunch break from her job during spirit week. It was 80’s day and how can you not get some photos when your outfit is this good??
I’ll let you in on a little secret; It was SO overcast and gloomy this day but we were still able to get some gorgeous and bright photos with only the light coming through the abundance of windows in the Loft! As a natural light photographer, it is HUGE for me to be able to stay consistant with the photos I do outdoors at an indoor location! There is no shortage of soft, beautful, natural light at Lightbox!
One of the really cool things I love about the Loft is that it gets styled differently seasonally so you have the opportunity to create unique photos for your clients every time you use the space!
I am just as excited about this space (if not more!) after using it as I was from the moment I first heard of it! It really is an asset that Springfield has needed for a long time and I am so looking forward to using The Loft for many, many more photo sessions in the future!