Bring joy to family, friends, and everyone else on your Christmas list by shopping local this season! Buying and supporting local is something that we believe should be done year-round, but it makes it a little sweeter during the holidays when heartfelt gifts are given. We’ve curated a Gift Guide featuring our wonderful collection of Phoenix & Scottsdale businesses, artisans, and entrepreneurs to help check everyone off of your list (including yourself!). Cheers and happy gifting!
A Guide to Shopping Small This Season
Photography by Brian Hudson.
‘Tis the season to shop local! And we’re gearing up to cross everyone off our list courtesy of the many fabulous local businesses in Phoenix & Scottsdale. Not only can everything we need to gift well be found right here in the Valley, the holiday season is one of the most important times of the year to support small businesses. Not only are you more likely to find a truly personal and unique gift when shopping locally, you’re contributing to the economic prosperity of your neighbors. For every $1 spent locally, 80¢ remains in the community.
And whether you’ll be using the upcoming sales as an opportunity to start your holiday shopping or find the last few gifts for those on your list, we encourage you to do so locally. Big box stores aren’t the only ones hosting sales, after all.
To help you make the most of small business sales hosted throughout the Thanksgiving season (think pre-Thanksgiving all the way through Giving Tuesday), we’ve rounded up all the deals and discount codes. And we’ll be adding more as details are finalized, so keep checking back, and don’t forget to tell them Scout sent you! Last updated November 16th, 2022.
PRE-THANKSGIVING
Shop Barre3’s semi-annual class package sale November 23rd through November 29th. Learn more…
Beauty & Propaganda is offering 20% off their favorite products like RandCo and Deborah LIppman through Thanksgiving. Book a service and shop in-store…
Hydrate IV Bar is hosting a holiday gift card promotion through December 31st! Purchase a $100 gift card for just $80! Learn more…
Koko’s Candles will offer free shipping on orders over $100 and local pickup for Scottsdale and Phoenix residents. Shop online…
Olga Brow Studio is hosting Black Friday deals now through November 30th. Use code “november15off” to redeem. Book an appointment…
Keratin Lash Lift with Tint for $130 (reg. $145)
Special Lash Lift with Tint for $85 (reg. $95)
Brow Lamination with Tint for $95 (reg. $105)
DNA Priori Eye Recovery Creme for $70 (reg. $95), available in-store only.
Phoenix Comprehensive Dentistry will offer all new and existing patients a special on teeth straightening. Learn more…
BLACK FRIDAY
Barre3 will offer 50% off retail and 30% off class packages through Small Business Saturday. Purchase…
Beauty & Propaganda is offering a few fun specials through Sunday (11/28). Enjoy BOGO on blowouts; buy one product, get 50% off a second product; buy one spray tan, get 50% off a second spray tan, and 10% off gift cards. Book online…
Drybar Arizona is offering 20% off all products and tools in-store! Shop in-store…
Framed Ewe is offering up to 50% off select frames in-store and online from (Black Friday) (Friday, November 25th) through Cyber Monday (November 28th)! Shop online…
Koko’s Candles will offer 20% off candles Black Friday through Sunday. Use code CYBER to redeem (not applicable to “Design Your Own Lid” candles). Shop online…
Metalmark Fine Jewelry is hosting a Black Friday Piercing Party. Plus, make a purchase to be entered to win a gift card and other goodies from participating local businesses. Learn more…
urbAna will enter all in-store shoppers in a raffle for 15% - 30% discounts. This fun treat will be available at both Arcadia and Scottsdale Quarter Black Friday (11/25) and Small Business Saturday (11/26).
Zensken Medical Aesthetics is offering up to 50% off on Black Friday deals.
SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY
Cornelia Park is gifting a star for all seasons! Receive a free Mackenzie-Childs Royal Check Ceramic Star Plate with a $350+ Mackenzie-Childs purchase. Preview what’s in-store…
Framed Ewe invites you to spend Spend Small Business Saturday at The Colony with them, First Place Coffee, Bad Jimmys, Phoenix General, and more! This is the perfect opportunity to try on Framed Ewe’s fabulous (and on-sale) frames! Preview offerings online…
Metalmark Fine Jewelry is hosting a “Buy One, Get Some” day for Small Business Saturday. Shop in store…
Spend $500, get a $50 gift card
Spend $1,000, get a $100 gift card
Spend $2,500, get a $250 gift card
Spend $5,000, get a $500 gift card
Holiday Shopping Market at The Fred Shop local boutiques and vendors from 10am -3pm.
Don’t forget to visit our other Scouted boutiques… Garage Children’s Boutique (@garageboutiquearizona), Bronze Buddha Glow Organic Airbrush Tanning (@bronzebuddhaglow), The Sparkle Bar (@thesparklebar), and Valerianne of Scottsdale (@valerianneofscottsdale).
CYBER MONDAY
Personalized Solutions will offer discounts on podcasts to video package. Keep an eye out for more details…
GIVING TUESDAY
All donations made to PANDA on Giving Tuesday (11/29) will be will be *tripled* thanks to The T.W. Lewis Foundation and the Offield Family Foundation donors, who have each pledged a $25K match! That means $25 becomes $75… $150 turns into $450! Every dollar truly helps!
Koko Candle’s is increasing their donation percentage. On Giving Tuesday, 20% of all purchases will be donated to The Children’s Heart Foundation. Learn about their partnership…
All Saints Episcopal Day School is celebrating Giving Tuesday with Flat El Tigre! Be sure to check your child(ren)’s backpack for your very own Flat El Tigre that was sent home before break.
Support other local charities including Heart Ball, The Baller Dream Foundation, and Scottsdale Charros.
HOLIDAY SPECIAL
Optimyze is offering a New-Members Holiday Promotion until the end of the year:
Become a member of Optimyze and you receive 2 gifts. One for you and one to share with someone in your network.
A 4-pack of meditation and restorative sleep technology (BrainTap or Nucalm, your choice). $150 value.
Receive a 7 day week pass that includes red light therapy, you can give to someone you care about. $200 value.
Keep checking back, we’ll updating as we learn of more sales and specials! To have your sale or special scouted, please email phoenix@thescoutguide.com with your details.
Don’t forget to tell them Scout sent you!
celebrate the holidays locally | festive events in the Valley & Arizona
We’re eager to celebrate locally - and help you do the same. From holiday teas to transporting experiences, the Valley has so much to offer. And whether you’re experiencing the magic of the season with littles or recreating the cheer of seasons past, everything you need for magical memories can be found right here in Phoenix and Scottsdale. To inspire your holiday plans, we’ve scouted a few o the many local offerings. Enjoy, happy holidays, and don’t forget to tell them Scout sent you! And keep checking back! We’ll be sharing more holiday happenings, seasonal sights, and ways to spread cheer as they develop!
HOLIDAY MARKETS & SANTA SIGHTINGS
The Santa Social at The Scottsdale Quarter (November 26th) will feature a full day of holiday cheer, including entertainment for littles, photos with Santa, caricature artists, puppy adoptions, special Christmas character appearances, the annual tree lighting celebration, and a holiday feature film! Learn more…
Paws & Claus (December 5th) at The Scottsdale Quarter is a special photo session for your furrier children. No matter if they’ve been naughty or nice, bring your pups for their very own portrait with Santa Paws. Learn more…
Phoestivus (December 14th - December 15th) is back for its thirteenth year in support of the DPTHX Farmers Market! Knock out your holiday shopping with over 200 small local vendors and enjoy food, drinks, music, and live art. Learn more...
Photos with Santa at The Quarter (November 18th - December 25th) is a holiday favorite - even if Santa isn’t your little’s favorite. Reservations are recommended. Learn more…
HOLIDAY LIGHTS
Las Noches de la Luminarias (December 1st - December 31st) at The Desert Botanical Garden has been a seasonal must for 45 years and this year is no exception. In addition to yearly favorites - sparkling luminarias, entertainment, twinkling lights, and holiday delights - the Garden’s iconic trails will offer new experiences. This season, enjoy the bold and lyrical large scale sculptures of Playing with Stars by Rotraut and an interactive enchanted winter village building experience. Learn more...
ZooLights (November 23rd - January 15th) is another Valley favorite. Walk or drive the trail of lights and enjoy a new light show designed to take you around the world. Refuel on kettle corn and hot cocoa, then head to take a picture with Santa. Purchase tickets…
Holiday Lights McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park (November 25th - December 30th) Hop on board the Paradise & Pacific Railroad and experience a winter wonderland of holiday lights and displays. No trip to the park is complete without a spin on the historic Charros Carousel or a cup of hot cocoa from Hartley’s General Store. Santa will also be at the park on select evenings. Purchase tickets…
World of Illumination (November 20th - January 2nd) is the country’s largest drive-through animated holiday light show experience. Learn more…
Enchant Scottsdale (November 25th - January 1st) at Salt River Fields Let Enchant light up your holiday season. Bring your friends and family for a magical evening with over 4 million sparkling lights, our story-themed walk thru light maze, Ice Skating, and so much more Learn more…
HOLIDAY EXPERIENCES
The North Pole Experience (November 12th - December 24th) is a critically acclaimed Santa Experience located in the idyllic and breath-taking resort ski/summer destination of Flagstaff, AZ. North Pole Experience starts by taking families on a trolley ride through the magic portal to Santa’s massive workshop to experience Santa’s main factory floor, “Area 47” Sleigh Hangar, Elf University, and a visit with Mrs. Claus. Purchase tickets…
Christmas at the Princess (November 18th - January 2nd) see the Fairmont Scottsdale transformed into a snow-laden winter wonderland. From Chateau Champagne to Twinkle Town, the beloved tradition delivers joy and jubilee across its stunning 65 acres. Learn more…
Christmas at Schnepf Farms (November 25th - December 24th) Experience a winter wonderland with seasonal food, fun, and festivities for the whole family. Catch a ride on the World of Illumination Express, hop on a hayride (with snow!) to visit Rudolph, or journey through Santa’s magic workshop. Purchase tickets…
Scottsdazzle (November 26th - December 31st) transforms Old Town for the holidays. From the kickoff Sing-Along and Tree Lighting Ceremony to Scottsdazle Stroll, Scottsdazle anchors Old Town in the spirit of the season. Learn more…
CitySkate at CityScape (November 28th – January 1st) is a quintessential holiday experience. Enjoy outdoor skating under the stars throughout the season, including Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day. Learn more…
Holiday Par(tea) at Arcadia Farms (December 18th - December 22nd) is a seasonal favorite perfect for gathering with girlfriends. Indulge in housemade pastries, petite sandwiches, English teas, and other holiday fare and catch-up before the end of the year. Tickets required. Purchase tickets…
HOLIDAY ENTERTAINMENT
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer the Musical (November 19th - November 24th) at The Herberger Theatre Center is a musical adaptation of the beloved television special. Filled with holiday hits like "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" and "Holly Jolly Christmas," Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer™ features all of your favorite characters including Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius and, of course, Rudolph. Purchase tickets…
Holiday Pops (December 2nd - December 4th) is The Phoenix Symphony’s most festive production of the year. Enjoy the season’s sounds - from carols to favorite secular songs - for a merry and bright evening. Purchase Tickets…
Ballet Arizona’s The Nutcracker (December 9th - December 24th) returns to Symphony Hall this season. Celebrate the joy and wonder of the season with Ib Andersen’s The Nutcracker as Tchaikovsky’s cherished score is masterfully performed by The Phoenix Symphony. Learn more…
SEASON OF GIVING
Scottsdale Quarter Holiday Toy Drive (December 5th - December 21st) benefitting Arizona Helping Hands will accent new toys and clothing for babies, children, and teens. Stop by Santa City in The Quad and look for the donation bin in the cabin. Thanks to the generosity of the community, Arizona Helping Hands has made the holidays joyful for children throughout the state since 1998. View the wishlist…
Enjoy and don’t forget to tell them Scout sent you!
Home for the Holidays: Entertaining with Leslie Lehr
‘Tis (almost) the season to celebrate the holidays, and entertaining from home always feels the most festive. To help you prepare to host holiday gatherings our Lifestyle Contributor, Leslie Lehr of the eponymous Leslie Lehr Living shared her expertise.
Like her approach to life, Leslie’s entertaining style is informed by a “live more with less” mentality. And her tips for hosting a merry and bright gathering reflect that ethos. Expect thoughtful selections to elevate your go-to tabletop pieces for festive flair, helpful hints, and insider information on entertaining like a pro in the Valley.
Hester & Cook Gray + Gold Marbled Placemats from urbAna pair well with heirloom china while keeping the setting approachable and family-friendly. The Hester & Cook Banner Place Cards add a touch of whimsy while allowing you to arrange your guests intentionally.
Live more with less by utilizing your existing collection of existing collection of china, flatware, and glassware and adding pizazz through thoughtfully selected seasonal additions. This allows you to maximize the mileage on your investment pieces, while indulging in holiday decor. If you’re ready to upgrade your china or invest in an heirloom-quality set, Valerianne’s is a must visit. With a selection of the world’s most beautiful serve ware, fine linens, silver, crystal, decor, and more, Valerianne’s is the discerning host’s secret weapon. Not sure where to start? Leslie recommends the following to start or add to your collection: Simon Pearce for glassware and pottery; Vista Alegre for porcelain, china, glass, and crystal goods; Vietre for dinnerware; Mattock for napkins and table linens.
Mixing and matching timeless entertaining pieces with pops of paper pizazz is a simple yet gorgeous way to keep entertaining stress free. urbAna has an extensive selection of beautiful paper options from Hester & Cook, Sophistiplate, VIETRI, SWISS design, and LUXE PARTY including elements like table runners, place cards, disposable table linens, plates, and more. Expertly curated, urbAna’s selection of paper goods work beautifully on their and play well with fine china, and this playful strategy will elevate your entertaining heirlooms while ensuring little ones and clumsy family members feel at ease. Bonus points for stress-free al fresco dining!
Above, Leslie used the following, which are available in-store…. Hester & Cook Gray + Gold Marbled Placemats, Hester & Cook Banner Place Cards, Hester & Cook Striped Table Runner, Sophistiplate Blue & White Collection.
Tap local experts. From wine and spirits to world class catering, the Valley offers a wealth of entertaining pro’s that will make your evening feel effortless. And before any party, a visit to The Wine Store at Tarbell’s is a must. With an incredible selection of stunning wines and knowledgable and friendly staff, you'll find the perfect pairings for your meal, whether you’ve chosen to cook or cater with Tarbell’s catering service. For extra ease, Tarbell’s offers wine, beer, and spirits for pick-up and delivery.
On that note, Tarbell’s Catering is a truly memorable experience for holiday entertaining. For elegant affairs, enjoy a seated, coursed dinner prepared by their world-class chefs and served by a butler in the comfort of your own home. For a more casual evening Tarbell's buffet style service is a delightful way to experience their award-winning cuisine and hospitality. Your guests will rave about the meal, and you’ll be pleased with cleanup - or lack thereof!
Talent as a chef is no prerequisite for entertaining. For those who prefer to leave the cooking to the experts, Benedict’s Catering & Events for Thanksgiving is a must. One of the catering services in Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, and the Phoenix metropolitan area, Benedict’s is tapped by corporate and private clients alike. They’re known for exquisite ability to mix the art of presentation, delicious food, and discerning details to help you execute an effortless evening. And Benedict’s “Thanksgiving Made Simple” is back by popular demand for another year. All sides are prepped and available for pick-up in aluminum foil pans (no pots or pans to wash!) and need only be warmed. Turkeys are are also prepped in disposable aluminum foil pans, rubbed with herb butter, and ready to be popped into the oven!
Benedict’s Thanksgiving offerings are as prolific as they are delicious. To help you narrow down your selections, Leslie shared her favorites…. P.S. You can also order delicious cocktail mixers for pick-up!
Herb Rubbed Turkey | Spiral Cut Glazed Ham | Winter Salad | Nine Grain Stuffing | Mushroom Herb Risotto | Cranberry Sauce | Turkey Gravy | Tarragon Biscuits | Cornbread | Whipped Herb Butter | Seasonal Pies | Flourless Chocolate Cake | Salted Chocolate Crumble Cookies
Pick up your fully prepped meal with heating instructions Wednesday, November 23rd from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm at Benedict’s Café (5555 E Bell Road, #6, Scottsdale, AZ).
Camelback Flowershop’s Cider Mason Jar.
Camelback Flowershop’s Sonoran Sunset.
Camelback Flowershop’s Desert Moon.
Zhush your home with the season’s bounty. Whether you opt for seasonal greens or autumn blooms, incorporating natural elements is an easy way to honor the season and elevate your home for the evening. Local favorites include Camelback Flowershop and Flowers By Mel. Both offer artful arrangements to satisfy any aesthetic and will bring seasonal cheer long after your guests have left. Leslie loves Camelback Flowershop for their inventive designs and Flowers By Mel for their approachable, fun ethos.
Camelback Flowershop creates the most stunning seasonal arrangements - and their Fall Flowers are no exception. To help you narrow down your tablescape selection from their truly exceptional lineup, Leslie recommends the following, which she’ll be ordering throughout the season:
Sonoran Sunset: A collection of sunflowers, burgundy dahlias, and seasonal blooms available in three sizes. It’s a happy, feminine arrangement perfect for the center of your table.
Desert Moon: A design inspired by crips days in the desert, featuring pops of peach roses balanced by soft pastels, white ranunculus, orange dahlias, and a mix of greenery. Available in two sizes, this is a whimsical option that will make a lovely statement on your table.
Cider Mason Jar: A petite arrangement featuring hydrangea, magnolia leaves, and a touch of unique parrot tulips that’s available in three sizes, making it a lovely choice for parsing across your table.
Seasonal florals make for a great hostess gift and it’s best never to arrive empty-handed. Leslie turns to her friend, Flowers by Mel, for unique florals that make delightful gifts and/or holiday arrangements. Camelback Flowershop is also an excellent choice for hostess gifts, as their Gift Box Collection is a darling way to say “thank you” for a special evening. Or a little treat-yourself moment.
Embrace the whimsy of holiday spirit with the help of Cornelia Park. The premier purveyor of Mackenzie-Childs, Cornelia Park is the destination for incorporating playful heirloom pieces. And the holidays are the perfect excuse to add to your collection - intentionally, of course. Leslie’s holiday favorites include the following: Juliska Bamboo Plates & Flatware, Lori Mitchell Hanukkah Figures, and The Mackenzie - Childs Royal Check Collection. Undoubtedly a visit to Cornelia Park will get you in the festive spirit essential for effortless entertaining!
For more effortless entertaining tips and tricks, follow along with Leslie Lehr on Instagram. There you’ll find additional inspiration hosting and living well, no matter the season. Don’t forget to tell her - and our Scouted hosting experts and resources - Scout sent you!