Every year we promise to start Christmas shopping early, and every year it's Dec. 22 before we know it. This year, start in October and start local. Here are 10 Baton Rouge shops to cover the whole list.

1. Red Stick Spice Co. — For the cook in the family. Spice blends, teas and cooking oils, and you can gift a cooking class instead of a thing.

2. Mimosa Handcrafted — Bronze, sterling silver and 14k gold jewelry made in Baton Rouge, with Louisiana-inspired collections. Find it at 541 S. Eugene Street.

3. Red Stick Reads — A boutique bookstore with books for every age, plus puzzles, board games, notecards and totes.

4. The Royal Standard — Home goods, cozy pajamas, bath products and hosting essentials, with a location on Perkins Road.

5. Baton Rouge Succulent Co. — For the plant person. Arrangements, classes and a monthly plant subscription box. It's at 7276 Highland Road.

6. The Red Onion — Houseplants, décor and garden goods, with locations on Perkins Road and Lobdell Avenue.

7. The Pink Elephant Antiques — Rotating antiques from Louisiana dealers, for the person who has everything.

8. Bengals & Bandits — LSU and Saints gear, including licensed items from local artists and small companies.

9. Anthony Lawrence Collection — NCAA-licensed collegiate apparel for the stylish sports fan.

10. Emerald Layne — A Perkins Road gift shop with home décor, clothing and gifts, including locally made goods.

Why start now

Shopping in October means better selection, calmer stores and fewer shipping worries. It also means your money stays with Baton Rouge businesses heading into their busiest season.

Make a list, pick a Saturday and knock out a few names early. Future you will thank you in December.

Photo courtesy of Red Stick Spice Co.