This year has been financially hard on all of us. Small businesses are suffering. And when holiday stress sets in, it’s easy to opt for the gifts you see on billboards. But we want to remind you about all of the gifts in shop windows.
So, we put together a list of some of our favorite gift ideas — all under $50 — to help with holiday hang-ups. We think you can shop small without breaking the bank. That’s why all these products are sourced from small businesses or independent designers.
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Sophie Lou Jacobsen | Ripple Cups ($25 - $50)
Lend a hand to your friend’s kitchen remodel this holiday with these fun cups by one of our favorite designers. We guarantee your friend will be smiling every time they reach for a glass of water.
Haus | Aperitif Sample Pack ($40)
Haus is a California-based brand bringing back aperitif culture. A personalized sample of 4 warm flavors (we love Bitter Clove) is sure to say “I wish you happy sipping, and I’m expecting an invite to your next get together.”
Comme Si | Agnelli Sock ($28)
Who doesn’t love a new pair of socks? Comme Si uses high quality Italian materials and sustainable manufacturing for a stocking stuffer that sets apart. No need to worry about your gift going unused with this upgrade from the boring 6-pack.
Susan Alexandra | Bag Charms ($55)
Okay so it’s $55. Sue us. But we couldn’t resist letting you in on this gifting gem. Nothing beats accessories that double as art. Especially food art. We can’t get enough of this line, and neither will your friends.
Activist | Manuka Honey ($32)
For the foodie friend who’s a fan of products with good intentions. This honey is born and bred in New Zealand and you can bet it’s about as pure as honey gets with zero dilution. And its packaging ensures a place on the counter, not in the pantry.
McNally Jackson | Gift Voucher (You pick the $)
We love a thoughtful gift card. McNally Jackson has been hit hard due to COVID. Purchasing a voucher is a great way to help a struggling business while boosting your friend’s book shelf. The code works online too, so no need to stress about in-store shopping. And if there’s no McNally Jackson where you are, you know what to do: support your closest independent bookstore.
Esh | Meyer Lemon and Lime Candle Set (￡17)
Esh, a south-London based small business specializing in ornamental candles made from natural ingredients, always makes a unique gift. We love this pair in particular because, well, do we need to explain ourselves? They look like food. Citrusy food.
Yowie | Gingham Card Set ($18)
Or literally anything else from Yowie. The black-owned, Philadelphia-based small business is making waves for its uniquely curated selection of home and life goods. We love these gingham cards and given that ‘thank you’ note season is fast approaching, this may be the most useful gift on our list.
INKA | Silverware – 2 Sets ($28)
Allow us to humble brag for a sec. We’ve got a range of sustainable products under $50, including this classy set of silverware that works for at-home or on-the-go! People gotta eat. Give them the gift of doing it with style.
Well, that's it folks! Remember, shop small, support BIPOC owned business and have a happy holiday.
Words by Emilie Swan
