It’s time for an annual holiday gift guide!
This year’s guide is a lot lighter than previous years. I’ve really, really been focusing on anti-consumerism this year. Given *gestures wildly* all this, I’ve been back on my anti-capitalism bullshit this year more than most years, and my holiday shopping is going to reflect that quite a bit.
Also, I’ve been pretty frank about my employment lately. It’s absolutely terrifying to be a federal employee these days, and after the longest government shutdown in U.S. history — coupled with the threat of it happening again at the end of January — Ryan (also a fed, fun times) and I have been really cognizant about our spending habits.
Buuutttttt, I recognize that even though I’ve been avoiding Amazon like the plague, most people do still purchase stuff this time of year.
And, I mean, I’m not immune from holiday shopping! I do like to keep some fun gifts on-hand at this time of year, because I always seem to end up invited to something where I need a white elephant gift/ stocking stuffer/ host gift/ etc. last-minute.
So, here’s the same rant I give every holiday season: When it’s possible, shop local or buy secondhand. Prioritize consumables (candles, gift cards, wines and foods) and experiences (tickets, passes, classes, etc.) when giving gifts. Opt for something personalized to your recipient and when it doubt, it’s OK to ask. If you know it’s going to end up in a landfill within the next year… maybe reconsider!
So without further ado, a few small gift ideas, just in case you’re looking for a few things to keep in the back of your closet for your next random holiday party invite.
History Every Day Interactive QR Mug ($28) — This fun mug features a QR code that directs the user to new history trivia fact every day. (There are also movie trivia, general trivia, inspirational quote, sport trivia and more options!)
NFL Game Day Bingo – Set of 2 ($68) — Make game day a little more fun with this tiled bingo game.
Canned Goods Scented Candle ($26) — This adorable candle comes in a votive that can be reused for trinkets. I linked the vegetable version, but it’s also available in peach and soup versions.
Glass Lemons Suncatcher Hanging Decor ($34) — Add a fun splash of color to any kitchen with this hanging sun catcher.
Animal Icon Photo Holder: Dog Edition ($24) — This is such a cute alternative to a photo frame! It’s available in a variety of breeds (but, sadly, not a husky).
This Is Fine Talking Figurine Mini Kit ($14) — Because, again, *gestures wildly* all this.
Literary Clock ($209 to $369) — I absolutely love this clock, which search book passages to give you one for every minute of the day.
Hues & Cues Game ($25) — This fun board game has participants try to guess the very specific shade of color based on cues.
Rise and Shine Vase – Orange Juice ($26) — It also comes in a blue Oat Milk version.
Hyggelight- The Growing Candle Topo Candle – Chai Scent ($34) — This chai-scented candle comes in a fun topo-inspired votive that can be reused as a potter. (It even includes seeds!)
Acrylic Scalloped Picture Frame ($64) — This comes in a variety of colors.
The Original™ Williams Sonoma Peppermint Bark ($35 to $70) — I’m a slut for this stuff, every year.
Marshmallow Cloud Fleece Throw Blanket ($85) — This ridiculously puffy throw blanket looks cozy and cool.
Instant Holiday Latte Cubes ($30) — Full disclaimer: I haven’t tried these, but they look like a great white elephant gift or stocking stuffer.
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