photo credit: Thrive Market
The holidays are just around the corner, which means gifting is on the brain. Since our household maintains a very minimalist lifestyle, I don't believe in spending money just because. Our gift guide is filled with eco-conscious and intentional gifts that will bring joy well after the holidays are over.
OUR TRADITION
Our boys each get one gift from us, and their stockings (filled with goodies like healthy and fun snacks, stickers, and coloring books) are from Santa. Cory and I stopped giving each other material gifts years ago. We choose an experience to enjoy together instead of presents under the tree, like a special date night or small getaway together without the kids. We've even gotten our extended families on board - we'll adopt a less fortunate family and shop for them instead, or take a big family trip in lieu of more clutter or unwanted objects. While this tradition isn't for everyone, we've noticed a positive shift in our lives since becoming more intentional and minimal with our spending and gifting habits.
FOR LITTLES
Only the best for your littles, Eco-Dough is made from natural ingredients without artificial dyes or harsh chemicals. Even the containers are made from cornstarch and are 100% compostable. Eco-Dough won’t dry out overnight and is easy to clean up, even after being smashed into the carpet. Made in the USA. Earth Easy, $16.95
Made from natural hardwoods in the heart of Iowa, this heirloom-quality set of blocks are a great educational tool for learning letters, spelling, motor skills, colors, counting, patterns, and more. Each toy set from Bannor Toys is created with the intention of letting imagination and creativity thrive in children. And best of all, no plastic! Bannor Toys, $49.99
PERSONALIZED WOODEN NAME PUZZLE
This beautiful handmade puzzle is the perfect gift for a new babe! The letters are thick enough to stand up in a nursery. As baby grows, the wood letters and base are great for sensory development and name recognition. Manzanita Kids, from $26.
Hands-on science and art projects delivered to your door - every month! This kid’s subscription box is filled with creative materials that make learning fun. Chose from one of seven specially-curated boxes depending on the child’s age, 0-16 years. Best of all, you can pause or cancel your subscription easily at any time. KiwiCo, $19.95/month
(save $10 on your first crate using our link)
PERSONALIZED DRESS-UP DISH SET
We absolutely love this family business that specializes in personalized gifts. Our boys love the “dress up” plates. Yes, it encourages playing with their food - but it makes eating fun! Dylbug, $8-80 (wide range of products and sets)
Our baby care set is ready to gift in a drawstring bag - includes our Baby Butter, Baby Oil, and Baby Shampoo & Wash. Packaged in recyclable/reusable glass containers. 100% natural. 100% safe. Because we know that your sweet baby deserves nothing but the best. Urban Oreganics, $38
Use code HAPPYBABY at checkout for 15% off this set.
EXPERIENCES
The gift of an experience is one of the best gifts a child can receive. They may not remember specific toys, but they will have fond memories of their experiences! We recommend checking your city’s local children’s museums, water parks, and camps for fun experience ideas.
FOR HIM
The reviews are in! We debuted our beard oil last year and it’s been a hit with the guys. Our beard oil is formulated to soften and strengthen any beard while moisturizing and healing the skin underneath! A perfect stocking stuffer for that amazing man in your life. Urban Oreganics, $22
These unique clay mugs are made using a proprietary clay and sand blend, finished in an ivory glaze. Raw, minimalist, and absolutely beautiful. Available in two sizes. Convivial, from $18
Give the gift of coffee this season, sans the plastic and toxic chemicals. This CHEMEX glass pour-over coffee maker delivers the purest flavor because it’s not brewed through plastic. Brews and holds up to six cups of the best coffee. CHEMEX, $43.50
Made from nature’s finest materials, Canby Wood Sunglasses mix timeless style with the luxuriousness of domestic hardwoods. Comfortable, effective, and eco-friendly. SH Wood, $149
EXPERIENCES
Give him a membership to his favorite gym or a gift certificate for a round of golf at his favorite club! Although a physical gift or experience is something that can be cherished, there are a few ways you can gift in honor of someone - find out his favorite charity and make a donation in his name.
FOR HER
Give the gift of… practically anything! Using therapeutic-grade essential oils and the power of gemstones, you can create an incredible roller that will help just about any ailment.
Our fave recommendations are below:
Glowing Skin: Melaleuca Essential Oil with Green Jade Chips + Rose Quartz Roller
Keep Calm: Lavender Essential Oil with Aquamarine Chips + Howlite Crystal Roller
Spark Creativity: Frankincense Essential Oil (plus a citrus of your choice) with Pyrite Chips + Labradorite Crystal Roller
Shop doTERRA essential oils here.
Shop all Whimsy & Wellness Crystal Rollers and Gemstones here.
5-YEAR JOURNAL AND MEMORY BOOK
With our busy lives, it’s nearly impossible to keep up with daily journaling. With this journal, you will be able to track one line - one thought - each day for five years. Each year you can go back and review previous entries and get a snippet into your memories. Such an incredible gift for yourself or your bestie! Amazon, $10
Give the gift of plants! Succulents are great for anybody. They come in many varieties and are easy to care for! Each month, Succulent Studios delivers two succulents to your doorstep. Or, give as a gift in 3, 6, or 12-month increments. Succulent Studios, $10/month
Give the gift of self care. She can create the ultimate spa experience at home, in seconds! Our holiday spa set is the perfect gift for that special someone on your list this year. Just add water and let your skin transformation begin. Urban Oreganics, $98
Use code HOLIDAYCHEER for 15% off this set.
EXPERIENCES
As mothers (or women in general, really), it's so hard for us to take care of ourselves first. And we all know, you can't pour from an empty cup. A membership to a yoga studio or local gym would be so appreciated. Or give a local mama friend the gift of a “night out” with their significant other while you watch their precious little ones.
WRAP IT UP
Go green with the wrapping too! Get creative with fabric scraps you already have, or a fun tea towel that can be reused. If you like this idea, check out this awesome Etsy shop. Even inside-out paper grocery bags can be decorated and used as gift wrap. Best of all, it’s 100% recyclable/compostable!
Love the idea of giving “experiences”. I wish more people thought like this.
Thanks so much for the awesome list! I just grabbed a few of these for my girlfriends, mother in law, and my son’s teacher.