Best of the Berkshires: 6 Ways to Shop Local This Holiday Season

Are you stumped by trying to please a loved one with impeccable taste who seems to have everything? Forgo the ubiquitous gift card and, instead, browse these offerings from some of the most unique entrepreneurs to be found on the East Coast.

Chocolate Springs Caf�
Chocolatier Joshua Needleman celebrates 15 years as one of the country's top chocolate makers. A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, Needleman's Lenox caf� is a quaint spot to drop in for an indulgence. Better yet, order a Berkshire collection box, which includes seasonal favorites such as Berkshire Bourbon, All-Niter, Caf� au Lait, and more. ($8.25-$99 depending on the number of pieces.)

No. Six Depot
This roastery, caf� and gallery is a must-see if you're visiting the Berkshires, but even if you can't make it to this small-batch coffee roaster, you and your loved ones can appreciate their delicious brews by ordering beans online. No. Six Depot scrupulously sources coffee from the top 10 percent of the Arabica species from growers who use organic and sustainable methods. They also sell the highest quality whole leaf teas from reputable tea growers from around the world as well as natural, unprocessed sea salts.

Our favorite pick is the Bali Blue Moon Organic, sourced from the Kintamani Highlands of Bali, Indonesia. The complex bean delivers notes of chocolate and strawberries and comes from a large volcanic plateau. $16/pound.

Hotchkiss Mobiles Gallery
What goes around comes around, right? In this case, that's a good thing thanks to the creative designs of West Stockbridge mobile artist Joel Hotchkiss. His works have been featured at the Guggenheim Museum Store in New York City, the National Gallery Of Art Museum in Washington DC, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and more.

There are plenty of options to choose from, such as the Lumen Nova, featuring hand colored circular vanes ($225) or the Retro Desk Top, which harkens back to the mid-century styles of the 50s and 60s ($285).

Andrew Devries Figurative Bronze Sculpture and Painting
An award winning master sculptor, Andrew casts his own work in bronze at his atelier in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts. His work is in private and public installations spanning six continents. From dance and figurative sculptures to jesters and musicians, Devries' work transcends trends and is truly a collector's item. One of our favorites is "Giovane," a captivating bust in bronze. ($1,300)

Annie Selke
Anyone who follows home design trends knows that Annie Selke offers impeccable soft furnishings, accessories, rugs, bedding, and more. She's also been an industry leader in developing unique textiles perfect for any d�cor.

Whether you're looking for something budget-friendly like an Ibiza French blue throw blanket ($74) or want to splurge on a luxe tobacco leather tote ($256), your recipient will squeal with joy at your good taste and their good fortune.

One Mercantile
If you have a passion for functional, well-made and unique items for home, kids, accessories, or one-of-a-kind gifts, this Great Barrington store is packed with unique items made by artisans from around the world and also boasts a robust online site.

Top picks include the Matt & Nat vegan weekender bag ($160) and turned bowls from Aubry Woodworks in nearby Lenox. ($125-$130)