As the holidays encroach upon us, it can be tempting to heed the call of chain-store plastic goodies (so quick … so easy … so cheap … right there on the end of the aisle!), but, fear not, PDX parents: you have lots of local shopping options – many with Chinook Book coupons to lessen the credit card burden, no less.
 
One of the newest additions to the Portland baby-and-child scene is St. Johns-based Lily Toad, a Chinook Book member ($5 off $25) whose wares I had the pleasure of viewing at the Green Sprouts Fest earlier this fall. Hip clothes (including consignment), safer plastic toys, and gorgeous, locally-made wooden play kitchens were just a smattering of the goodies they had on offer.
 
Another Chinook Book newcomer favorite is SpielWerk Toys (20% off $20) in Sellwood, which offers wooden toys and dolls with a Waldorf-y feel, along with cleverly-named WerkShops, at which kids can learn everything from lantern-making to knitting.
 
And lest we forget the new mama or mama-to-be, Chinook Book merchant Zenana Spa and Wellness Center ($5 off $25) offers absolutely stunning nursing wear, skin care products, and diaper bags at their SE Clinton location. Gift certificates are available for pursuits both practical (classes and lactation consultations) and pampering (all-organic facials and nail treatments sans nasty chemicals).
 
For even more local goods (and services, too), have a look at the member directory of Portland Mamas, Inc. This fabulous group is a consortium of local mama entrepreneurs (yours truly included), who offer everything from web design to handmade children’s clothing – quite literally one-stop-shopping for folks committed to supporting family-oriented, family-run businesses in the area.
 
Happy holidays, and happy shopping!