'Tis the season to shop local

This weekend the  parties roll on as Bay Area shoppers  plan their year end spending and gift-giving.  While many events kicking off throughout the area can be described as hit or miss, there are a few which promise to deliver unique pieces, locally produced designs, and prices that won't leave you feeling guilty come January 2011 including:

Wednesday through Friday:

The San Francisco Design Collective is hosting a blow out sample sale at  their 8th Street location featuring Bay Area  apparel labels: Loco Lindo, Two Dog Island, Lorian Lindsay Apparel, Weston Wear, Fluxus Apparel, Freedom of Choice denim and Three Ring Circus clothing in addition to accessories designers: Julie Tuton jewelry, John S. Brana jewelry, Arcadian jewelry, Reveal Handbags, and Zina Eva Handbags.  Shop 10-5PM all three days. To RSVP for the event visit the official Eventbrite page. 

Friday:

The holiday season wouldn't be the same without the Mission Block Party. In it's third year and going strong, this is one event that really captures the spirit of the neighborhood where it takes place.  Shop some of the city's best boutiques,  meander through art openings, and sip something festive while you do it.  5-10PM From Mission and 16th-Harrison and 24th in San Francisco. 

Saturday:

Music, snacks, beauty demos, fashion showcases, and tons of shopping can all be found at San Francisco Fashion and Merchant Alliance and SEEZEN's White Christmas Party.  5-8pm at Westfield center on the dome level. RSVP to attend this event at Eventbrite.

jewelry by John S. Brana/Image courtesy of OOMAHoliday Trunk Show at Oooma

Tucked away on Grant Avenue in North Beach, OOma has long since been a SW favorite for finding unique gifts. This saturday the store stays open late and serves of snacks and champagne for shoppers at their Holiday Trunk Show featuring  nature-inspired jewelry from John S. Brana, Eco-friendly accessories from Reveal, and reversible pieces by Revelation by M.E.  11AM-9PM. 1422 Grant Avenue .

Sculptured felt necklace by Emily GibsonCentered Body Holiday Trunk Show

Already well known in Bernal Heights for highly skilled instructors and a relaxing low-key environment, Center Body Pilates, is pitching in to support local artists with a holiday trunk show this Saturday. From whimsical sculptured necklaces by local artist Emily Gibson, to unusual ceramics by Lisa Bailybowls there is sure to be something for everyone at this event.  1-4pm  648 Chenery street in Bernal Heights. 

 Saturday and Sunday:

Fort Mason once again will overflow with unique crafters, indie-designers and artists as the Bazaar Bizarre rolls in this weekend. Now in its 9th year, Bazaar Bizarre has set the standard for the modern craft fair, with nearly 200 carefully selected vendors offering a myriad of products,  DIY demonstrations, live entertainment and the first ever Bazaar Bizarre Cocktails and Crafts party. Admission is free, parking is $10. For more information visit the official event page.