Happy gift guide season. They aren’t my favorite posts because I like to hear what people actually used. There are a few bloggers that I know only share things they swear by, but most of them are just a collection of things that are on a wish list.
I have been really working hard at changing my views on gifting in the last few years. We have cut out gifts for adult family members and we do “experiences” with all the nieces and nephews. I love giving gifts. I love shopping for people and wrapping gifts. I love the whole process, so we will probably pick up a couple small things this holiday season for people. It’s more fun when it isn’t required for every single family member including the people who have everything and you know whatever you pick out is getting returned.
Now the fun part.
If you do have some shopping to do (hopefully the fun kind), I’m going to share a couple of places I like to spend my money because it supports people or things that kick ass. These are all things that I have in my home and I love so much that I would give other people.
Embroiderie_MN
This Etsy shop is run by one of my best friends. She does amazing dish towels, fun wall art (shown above) and pillow cases. We have the “dis towel and dat towel” set and I love them. Plus, she’s wonderful and you should support her.
Like her on Facebook here and find her Etsy shop here.
Taylor Wolfe Shop
This shop is run by the hilarious writer behind The Daily Tay. I have purchased a few different shirts from her over the last few years, including my Stay Merry sweatshirt that I wear the entire month of December. She gives a lot of money back to shelters and animal rescues which is awesome. She is also running a sale right now to get 25% off everything using the code STAYMERRY if you’re ready to jump in and start shopping now.
TOMS
Most people have heard of this company, especially if you know me. I wear these shoes 75% of the time. I love that they give back. They just announced last night that they are expanding their model and made a $5 million contribution to organizations that are fighting to end gun violence. PLUS they added a feature to their website where you just enter your information and it will automatically send a postcard to your representative in congress. I love that they are making waves and I’m on board to support it.
Check out their website here to shop OR send a postcard.
Frostbeard Studios
If you have a book lover on your list (or maybe just want to treat yourself), Frostbeard Studios makes the best candles. They are local here in Minneapolis, but you can even find them on Amazon. They have scents from your favorite literacy places. We have The Shire and Winterfell in our house right now and I love them. The options are awesome. They have a subscription box if you can’t decide on one and want surprises all year long.
Better World Books
Speaking of books, I just learned about this website recently from my friend, Clara. They are an online bookstore that takes used books as donations and then sells them and uses the money made to fund literacy programs and save those books from the landfills. Their website has a great history on it so you can learn more, but this would be a great place to shop for some of the book lovers on your list this year.
Beautycounter
I’m not going to post this without sharing Beautycounter. As many of you know, I’m a consultant for Beautycounter and love their mission. I love the idea of safer, cleaner beauty products that actually work. I love working with a B Corp that is helping to educate people. I also love that they are offering 15% off for Black Friday, but it starts today!! There are only a couple exclusions on the huge collections, but everything else is 15% off plus free shipping on purchases over $50.00. If you have been wanting to try it out or know someone who could use something safe and beautiful for the holidays, now is the best time.
You can also read up on my past posts about Beautycounter if you’re curious:
Favorites from the Holiday Collection
My First Post about Beautycounter
If you are interested in B Corps, check out the website to get a full directory and try and support these brands.
To Summarize: Create moments with the people you love & spend quality time together. And if you want to get them a little something, make it count. Find something that gives back or supports a small business. Find something to upcycle or DIY. Enjoy the process.
I hope this is helpful as you dive into the holiday season. If you’re already feeling overwhelmed by the shopping and madness, talk to your family. Come up with a game plan that takes the stress out of the experience and brings some fun back in. Adopt a family that needs more than yours. Find things to do together instead of just gift opening. Visit your local holiday markets and meet the makers in your community.
And finally, treat yourself to something fun because you have survived this year and you deserve it.
