Gift guides. I hate them. And I love them. (Also hiiiii, it's been a long time!)
I hate them because... They often include things no one actually needs or uses. Are tchotchkes my personal version of hell? Yes, yes they are. Also, everyone seems to make so many of them this time of year, and the over-encouragement of consumption makes me a bit uncomfortable.
I love them because... They're fun to perusal. Through gift guides, I often discover new makers, small businesses & independent brands, and that makes me happy. Buying things is inevitable, so mindful shopping is an important thing to practice.
To marry my hatred and my love, I curated nine useful items I already own and love that I think would make great gifts—for you, friends, partners, family, whomever. Each of these has brought a slice of joy into my life, so if they can do the same for you, all the better.
Scarf Shop socks (Starting from $7.50): I own too many of these socks to count. They're cozy, come in the best colors, and hand-dyed in small batches here in Minnesota. Made in USA, Eco-Friendly
Susanne Kaufmann Soothing Tonic (Starting from $46): I'm, by nature, a hyperbolic person, but I'm not lying when I say I'll never again live without this product in my daily skincare life. The smell (the smell!) is so fresh & botanical, and it's super hydrating (as opposed to that Neutrogena dry-ass toner we all used in the early oughts). Woman-Owned, Sustainable
Annie Costello Brown earrings ($248): I bought these earrings almost five years ago, and still get complimented every.single.time I wear them. These are mine. Woman-Owned, Made in USA
Milk & Honey Charcoal Masque ($44): Again, I'm not being hyperbolic when I say this is the *best* face mask I've used in my 36 years of earthly existence. Your skin feels squeaky clean and is visibly brighter & tighter immediately after use. Woman-Founded, Cruelty-Free
Fellow Corvo EKG Electric Kettle ($159): I couldn't survive without my beloved electric kettle (and this tea). Because this one is so gorgeously designed, I keep it out on my counter for everyone to admire.
Striped Taper Candle ($8): A mismatching pair of these winsome candles sit in a candle holder in my living room but have never been lit because they're honestly just too cute. Fair Trade, Eco-Friendly
Angelo Negro's Unfiltered Rosso Wine ($20.99): Sometimes, the best gift is a good bottle of red. I just discovered this Italian Brachetto, and am happily imbibing its light, bright, tart taste. Organic
Blockshop Textiles bandanas ($35): I love a scarf moment, and these block-printed beauties from the L.A.-based sister team are a perfect gift however you use them—around the neck, tied on your purse, knotted into a headband, hung on the wall. I've done them all. Woman-Owned, Conscious
Good Day Shop's Curated-For-You Gift Box ($47): This has been my go-to gift for the past few years—holidays, birthdays, babies, you name it, this box. My friend Sarah owns this design-minded shop, and has an impeccable knack for knowing exactly what you want. Woman-Owned
I didn't include any gift items for kids because every year, my nieces and nephews receive money in their college savings account and a book. They get enough toys as is, and my hope is they will buy their crazy auntie booze with that money in about 14 years.
If you're lucky enough not to need anything this holiday season, may I suggest donating to your favorite charity? I love this one for women, this one for the environment, and this one for social justice.
