By Kirsten Aiello, Licensed Real Estate Salesperson
It’s the holiday season, that time of year to search for the perfect gifts for the loved ones on your list. I believe there is no better place anywhere than the Union Square Holiday Market. This vibrant, bustling destination, in the heart of Manhattan, offers an array of artisanal goods and unique gift items from over 150 vendors.
“Union Square Holiday Market was recently named by Yelp as the #1 Holiday Market in America!” -- Kirsten Aiello
Whether you shop during the day or at night, the Union Square Market offers an exciting experience. From live entertainment, food from award-winning restaurants, and their very own interactive holiday map to help while you shop, this is a must-visit place this holiday season.
Here are some of my favorite brands to shop in the market booths:
The soaps, diffusers, lotions and candles are all made with essential oils and smell amazing. The owners are from NYC and are based in Brooklyn. The packaging is simple but beautiful and made with hand pressed flowers. (no wrapping required)! With scents like: Pom Pom Pear, Dark Honey Vanilla and Santal Leather, you really can’t go wrong.
NY State of Mind Co.
Everything NYC! Also based in Brooklyn, this brand has hats, t-shirts, and sweatshirts. Adored by skateboarders and rappers, all their apparel make for the perfect gifts for my out of town, nieces and nephews. These gifts enable me to keep my title as a “cool aunt.”
Cantina Royal Hot Sauce
My kids love spicy food, especially my son. It’s now become a quest to find the most delicious and spicy of sauces for gifts. Owners Diana Beshera and her partner Julio started Cantina Royal out of a restaurant in Williamsburg, but now make their sauces in Long Island City and distribute them everywhere! They’ve been featured on the popular YouTube show Hot Ones and yes, Will Ferrell survived their sauce but my personal favorite is the Tamaulipeka. Just like Diana described it to me, “It’s like a roller coaster in your mouth.”
Click here to connect with Kirsten and view her current listings