Vermont-Made Stocking Stuffers: Small Gifts From Local Makers

One of my favorite parts of Christmas shopping is filling stockings. I love finding little gifts that someone might not think to buy themselves, particularly when they’re useful, edible or just a little indulgent.

And Vermont has no shortage of options.

I could easily fill an entire stocking with products made right here in the Green Mountain State. Maple candy, artisan chocolate, handmade soaps, skincare, wool socks and a few treats for the food lovers in your life.

I’ve always thought stocking stuffers should be a little more interesting than another gift card or package of batteries. And while there’s certainly nothing wrong with practical gifts, I love finding things that have a little personality.

Even better when they’re made by a Vermont business.

Here are some of my favorite Vermont-made stocking stuffers, including a few longtime favorites and some newer additions I’d happily find in my own stocking.

Vermont Smoke & Cure Meat Sticks

Growing up, my sister ate Slim Jims like they were going out of business. I never understood the appeal until I discovered Vermont Smoke & Cure’s meat sticks.

The company makes smoked meat snacks in a variety of flavors, including pepperoni, cracked pepper and other savory options. They’re easy to toss into a ski jacket pocket or hiking bag, and they make a practical stocking stuffer for anyone who spends time outdoors.

I’d put together a little assortment of flavors rather than choosing just one. And if you’re filling a stocking for someone who loves Vermont food products, these are an easy addition.

Vermont Marshmallow Company

Marshmallows might not be the first thing you think of when filling a Christmas stocking, but Vermont Marshmallow Company makes a pretty compelling case.

These aren’t the standard marshmallows you buy in a plastic bag at the grocery store. They’re soft, fluffy, handcrafted treats that make a cup of hot chocolate feel considerably more special.

I love the idea of pairing a package with a Vermont-made hot cocoa mix or a beautiful mug for someone who enjoys cozy winter evenings.

You could also tuck them into a stocking alongside a chocolate bar and graham crackers for an upgraded s’mores kit.

And if you’re shopping for someone with a sweet tooth, I’d be surprised if these lasted until New Year’s.

Farmhouse Pottery Match Striker

Farmhouse Pottery Local favorite: Farmhouse Pottery in Woodstock makes some of my favorite handmade gifts, and its little Milk Bottle Match Striker is a wonderful stocking-sized option.

The ceramic piece is designed to hold matches and has a textured surface for striking them. It’s functional, beautifully made and looks lovely sitting beside a fireplace or candle.

I love gifts that are practical but still feel special, particularly when they’re made by hand.

Farmhouse Pottery also offers smaller kitchen accessories, candles and other home goods that would make thoughtful stocking stuffers.

If you’re visiting Woodstock, stop into the store and browse. I rarely leave without finding something I want to bring home.

Ursa Major Skincare

Skincare is one of those gifts I love giving because it’s something people use every day, but they might not splurge on a higher-quality product themselves.

Ursa Major, made in Waterbury, Vermont, makes plant-based skincare products with a straightforward approach to ingredients and packaging.

Their Fantastic Face Wash and Fortifying Face Balm are popular choices, and the company also offers lip balm, body care and smaller travel-sized products.

I’d look for a lip balm, cleanser or mini skincare set that fits easily into a stocking.

And during Vermont’s long winters, when cold air and indoor heat can be rough on your skin, a good moisturizer is always welcome.

Elmore Mountain Farm Goat’s Milk Soap

I’ve been a fan of Elmore Mountain Farm‘s handmade soaps for years.

Made with goat’s milk, the soaps come in beautiful scents like Cedarwood Spruce, Lavender, Lemongrass and Bergamot Rosewood.

They’re simple gifts, but the quality and fragrances make them feel much more special than an ordinary bar of soap. I love tucking a few into stockings, particularly for people who enjoy natural bath and body products.

And the seasonal Christmas soaps are a fun option during the holidays.

Darn Tough Vermont Socks

I know. Socks for Christmas. But hear me out.

Darn Tough socks are made in Vermont, they’re incredibly comfortable, and the company backs them with a lifetime guarantee.

I’ve worn them for years, particularly during winter, and they’re one of the few sock brands I’d happily give as a gift.

The cushioned hiking socks are great for anyone who spends time outdoors, while the lighter everyday styles are perfect for work or casual wear.

And if you’re buying for someone who is notoriously difficult to shop for, a good pair of socks is rarely a bad idea.

Lake Champlain Chocolates

Every Christmas stocking needs something sweet, and Lake Champlain Chocolates Local favorite: Lake Champlain Chocolates has plenty of options.

The Burlington-based chocolatier makes chocolate bars, truffles, chocolate coins and seasonal treats. I love the signature chocolate bars, particularly the filled varieties and darker chocolate options.

They’re beautifully packaged, easy to fit into a stocking and a little more special than the usual grocery store candy.

I’d also consider adding a few Vermont maple candies or maple cream chocolates for someone who loves maple.

Way Out Wax Candles

Way Out Wax is another longtime Vermont favorite, known for its aromatherapy candles and nature-inspired fragrances.

The company’s smaller travel tins are ideal for stockings, particularly for someone who enjoys candles but doesn’t need another oversized jar.

I’ve always liked the cozy, woodsy fragrances, especially during winter when the house is closed up and a good candle makes everything feel a little warmer.

Look for scents inspired by Vermont’s forests and seasonal botanicals.

A Few More Vermont Stocking Stuffer Ideas

If you still have room in the stocking, there are plenty of smaller Vermont products I’d consider adding.

Vermont maple candy: A classic for a reason. I love the little maple leaf candies made from pure maple syrup.

Runamok Maple: A small bottle of infused maple syrup is a fun gift for someone who enjoys cooking or making cocktails.

Barr Hill Honey

A jar of Vermont honey makes a lovely addition to a food-themed stocking.

Castleton Crackers

The Salted Maple crackers are a personal favorite, particularly paired with Vermont cheese.

Vermont Creamery

A little cheese-themed gift card or specialty food pairing would be fun for someone who loves entertaining.

Elli Parr Jewelry

Small earrings or bracelets from this Vermont jewelry brand make a more personal stocking gift.

Ursa Major Lip Balm

Small enough for any stocking and useful throughout the winter.

Where to Shop for Vermont Stocking Stuffers

You don’t have to order everything online. I love browsing Vermont general stores and specialty shops during the holidays, particularly when they carry products from several local makers.

The Warren Store in Warren, Woodstock Farmers’ Market, Dakin Farm in Ferrisburgh and many of Vermont’s food co-ops are great places to start.

Holiday craft fairs and makers markets are another option, particularly if you’re looking for handmade gifts that aren’t widely distributed.

And if you’re buying from a small Vermont maker, order early. Some products are made in limited batches, and holiday shipping deadlines can arrive sooner than expected.

My Favorite Stocking Stuffers Are the Ones People Use

I love finding little gifts that make someone’s day a bit better, even if they’re inexpensive.

A really good chocolate bar, a handmade soap, a pair of warm socks or a package of marshmallows for hot cocoa can be just as thoughtful as something much more expensive.

And shopping from Vermont makers means you’re supporting the people and businesses that contribute so much to our communities.

I’d happily find any of these in my own stocking.

What are your favorite Vermont-made stocking stuffers? I’m always looking for a few more ideas to add to my Christmas shopping list.