Here’s a novel idea: stop occupying and start creating. Our hats off to the people putting ideas into action. Almost everyone starts small (see stories of Google’s and Apple’s humble garage beginnings for any needed inspiration) and an idea is just an opportunity wasted until you execute.

Below is our effort to spread the word and prop up the little guys, a list of our favorite small online brands that can hang with, and often beat, the big guys. Support them by shopping it up this Christmas season. Next year we want your startup on the list!

For a list of the finest retail locations in San Diego visit retail on our site.

Marta Klinker
You know a style baby who thinks they have it all? Chances are they don’t have a Marta Klinker original. Join a small group of indie fans before she sells out and goes all Target on us.

DePalma Leather
By far the finest most indestructible handmade leather products we’ve seen. I’ve been a proud DePalma wallet owner for over three years and it’s still aging like a fine wine.

SweetBands
Putting the sweet into sweatbands. Original designs by our friend Toby, a pioneer in the sweatband industry. The images on the Sweetbands site are worth the visit.

Holiday Matinee
Dave Brown and company are devoted to positive creativity. They have an awesome blog along with a wide range of original products, including their newly released iPhone App. Love your work. Work your love. Buy Holiday Matinee.

Butcher Press
From Pennsylvania to Florence to Scotland to San Diego, Katy Yeaw has been screen printing her way around the world. Pick up a limited edition print for the wall, a onesie for the baby or a t-shirt for your sister. The Butcher Press has it all.

Korduroy.tv
Producing and distributing movies has never been easier. The hard part: doing it well. Cyrus Sutton and the Korduroy crew are doing it better than anyone. Our favorites: Stoked and Broke and Under the Sun.

Woodshed Films
OK so maybe these guys are doing it as well as Korduroy. Do not miss 180 Degrees South (one of my all time favorites) and Come Hell or High Water.

Walden Surf
Steve Walden – surf legend. Enough said.

URT
The watermen of URT have a fine line up of surf apparel, including the original one and only handy tide shirt. Guaranteed to satisfy the water people in your life.

Noon Designs
Shopping for the wife, mom and sister? Kill three birds with one stone. Unique limited run stationery and jewelry handcrafted by our pals at Noon.