Holiday Shopping with Purpose: 5 Local Gift Ideas That Make a Difference

Local gifts with a cause around beaufort county

The holiday season is a time of joy and giving—and what better way to spread both than by choosing gifts that make a difference? At Paulick Law, LLC, we’ve researched and compiled a list of local businesses that donate a portion of their proceeds to charitable causes. Whether you’re shopping for family, friends, or coworkers, these thoughtful gift options let you bring joy to your loved ones while supporting those in need.

From unique handmade items to delicious holiday treats, every purchase helps make a positive impact. By choosing a gift from this list, you’re not only celebrating the season but also contributing to the well-being of the community.
If you know of any other businesses that should be included, we’d love to hear from you! Please email us at info@paulicklaw.com with your suggestions.

1. Fresh SC-Grown Mammoth Pecan Halves to Support the Local Alzheimer’s Association

For a delicious and meaningful gift, consider Fresh Shelled Mammoth Halves—locally grown pecans from South Carolina. Sold in generous 1lb bags, these pecans are perfect for baking, snacking, or sharing during the holiday season. What makes them even more special is that all proceeds benefit the Alzheimer Family Services of Greater Beaufort, supporting the local Alzheimer’s Association. By purchasing these pecans, you’re not only treating your loved ones to a high-quality, local product but also contributing to vital resources and support for families affected by Alzheimer’s. It’s a gift that brings warmth, flavor, and compassion to the holidays.

Pecans Beaufort Alzheimer's Association

You can purchase the pecans at several locations in Beaufort, Port Royal, and Lady’s Island: https://afsgb.org/latest-news/pecans-are-here.

Beaufort:

  • Alzheimer’s Family Services Office – 1500 King Street
  • Bliss Salon – 910 North St
  • Michaels Salon – 2121 Boundary Street Suite 107
  • Carteret St. United Methodist Church – 408 Carteret St.

Ladys Island:

  • Hometown Realty – 182 Sea Island Parkway Suite D
  • First Federal Bank – 36 Sea Island Parkway

Port Royal:

  • First Federal Bank – 1700 Ribaut Rd
  • Paulick Law – 917 12th Street

2. Aunt Laurie’s Unique Gift Baskets with a Mission

Aunt Laurie’s Unique Gift Baskets with a Mission

Aunt Laurie’s offers more than just gift baskets—it provides a lifeline for adults with disabilities by equipping them with essential job skills and a sense of purpose. Each high-quality, handwoven basket is crafted at the South Carolina Rehabilitation Center, offering an opportunity for individuals with disabilities to feel productive and valued. These unique gift baskets are filled with Southern favorites and local treasures, ranging from gourmet treats to personalized gifts perfect for any occasion.

Beyond supporting individuals with disabilities, Aunt Laurie’s also promotes local businesses and artisans, making their baskets a true celebration of the Lowcountry. Customers can choose pre-made gift baskets or create custom ones tailored to corporate events, family reunions, or special occasions. With impeccable customer service and the option for handwritten notecards, every basket delivers a personal touch. Whether you’re in Bluffton, Hilton Head, or beyond, Aunt Laurie’s ensures that your thoughtful gift also serves a greater mission.

Click here to shop for gift baskets online.

3. A Toast to the Lowcountry: Burnt Church Distillery’s Charitable Spirit

A Toast to the Lowcountry: Burnt Church Distillery’s Charitable Spirit

At Burnt Church Distillery, you can purchase a variety of local goods, including their craft spirits, apparel, accessories, barware, cocktail mixers, and repurposed items like smoker wood and barrel-aged coffee beans. These products not only highlight the Lowcountry’s rich culture but also contribute to the community.

A portion of proceeds from purchases, as well as revenue from tours and events, is donated to local charities, with a different organization selected each month. Notably, Burnt Church Distillery supports initiatives like the Lowcountry Legacy Fund, which promotes economic equity, education, and cultural heritage in Bluffton and beyond. They also prioritize sustainability, recycling spent grains to local farms and reusing materials in innovative ways.

By shopping at Burnt Church, you’re supporting local farmers, the environment, and impactful community programs.

4. Hilton Head Community Market: Handmade Gifts That Make a Difference

For a unique holiday gift, visit the Hilton Head Community Market, where local artisans showcase their craftsmanship every Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at 39 Shelter Cove Lane. You’ll find a variety of handmade goods, including woodworks, jewelry, soaps, candles, ornaments, clothes, and delicious treats—perfect for gifting something special and one-of-a-kind.

What makes shopping here even better is that half of the vendor fees are donated to a local nonprofit organization each month. By supporting this vibrant market, you’re not only finding memorable gifts but also giving back to the Hilton Head community in a meaningful way.

Follow their Facebook page, as they often post stories showcasing unique products sold at the market.

5. Bee Cause Honey

Give the gift of sweetness with Bee Cause Honey from Savannah Bee Company. This wildflower honey isn’t just a delicious treat—it also supports an important cause. For every jar purchased, Savannah Bee Company donates part of the proceeds to The Bee Cause Project, a non-profit dedicated to installing educational bee observation hives in schools across the U.S. and beyond.

Founded by lifelong beekeepers Ted Dennard and Tami Enright, The Bee Cause Project offers STEAM-based curricula and hands-on learning opportunities for students, inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards. With each purchase, $3 from every 12-oz. jar and $1 from every 3-oz. jar goes directly toward funding bee observation hives, helping children connect with nature and learn about the critical role bees play in our ecosystems. Not only are you giving a thoughtful, local gift, but you’re also supporting a global effort to protect pollinators for years to come.

Celebrate the Season by Shopping Local and Supporting Good Causes

This holiday season, give gifts that not only bring joy to your loved ones but also make a positive impact on the community. By choosing products from local businesses like Fresh SC-Grown Mammoth Pecan Halves, Aunt Laurie’s Gift Baskets, Burnt Church Distillery, Hilton Head Community Market, and Bee Cause Honey, you’re supporting charities and causes that enrich our community and beyond. These businesses exemplify the spirit of giving back, whether through donations, environmental stewardship, or providing job opportunities for those in need.

When you shop locally, you’re investing in the well-being of your neighbors, your community, and the world. Let’s make this holiday season one of giving and gratitude by shopping with purpose. Visit these businesses today and make a difference with every gift you give!