Ways to Shop Local This Holiday Season

With Small Business Saturday on the way tomorrow, Imperial Beach Patch compiled a list of holiday gift ideas nearby.

We can't assume we caught everything here, so if you have any good ideas, please add them to the story comments or email the site's editor at khari.johnson@patch.com

For a complete list of local businesses, check out the Imperial Beach Patch directory.

CHOCOLATE CHRISTMAS

Try some luxurious treats from So Cal Sweet Chocolate, whose owners are from Imperial Beach. The company sells gourmet chocolate, peanut brittle and more made by Southern California choloatiers like Chuao, Eclipse, Jer's  and The Chocolate Soldier.

Still want to spoil someone's sweet tooth?

Try some tasty holiday goods from Jack Fisher.

The dynamic Fisher has held positions of authority in the mormon church and is the executive executive pastry chef at NINE-TEN in La Jolla.

In 2010 Fisher but was also named one of San Diego's top chefs by San Diego Reader and San Diego's best chocolatier by San Diego Magazine.


SPORTS AND GEAR

and always have cool skate and surf clothing or equipment. has loads of bikes and bike equipment. All three of these stores are on the same block.

You can buy or make a t-shirt at on Palm Avenue.

91932 and IB logo shirts, hoodies and stickers can be purchased from on Seacoast Drive.

IB Divers is an option if you know avid divers or purchase Zumba classes at Nohemi's Studio on Imperial Beach Boulevard.

You can get surf lessons for someone taught by Kat Slatinsky and Kristy Murphy who run the IB School of Surf. Or kick butt with lessons at or .


PAMPERING TOUCH

as they  for the next three months as the hotel makes renovations.

has lots of massage and spa treatment options that can make a great end of the year gift after a stressful 2011.

Buy someone a few tai chi classes at or acupuncture at the .

Schedule hair or nail appointments at , or other beauty businesses.

Got a hot date this holiday season? Take a walk out to the end of the pier to or try new restaurants in the area like , or .


STOCKING STUFFERS

 Also relatively new to IB, Divine Renewal has a collection of crosses, rosaries, novenas, prayer boxes and other beautiful Christian items for sale at reasonable prices, some of it handmade.

has an interesting array of items for sale ranging from Imperial Beach postcards to presidential collectors items. could be a great option too.

You can get thoughtful crafts, hand woven beanies, lavender home and beauty products, jewelry, posters, photography and more at the , open Fridays 2-6 p.m. The market will be open Dec. 2, 9 and 16 so be sure not to wait until the last minute.