Finding the perfect gift can take time and patience – which, for many of us, are in short supply after enduring almost two years of a global pandemic (and all that comes with it). That’s why I’m putting together a list of foolproof gifts for any occasion, for everyone on your list. All of them are gender-neutral, and most are sustainable. I own or have successfully gifted all but two of the suggestions below, so I feel confident in recommending them to you. Happy shopping!
For the shopper
I have been a loyal fan of FEED since the brand’s first bag debuted 14 years ago, modeled after the burlap sacks that the World Food Program used to deliver critical food supplies to communities in need all over the world. I recently purchased this packable zip tote that provides 25 school meals. It’s perfect because it zips up into a compact rectangular pouch your favorite traveler can take with them on the go.
For the tech nerd
A person who has everything or a teen who is really into technology will surely appreciate this personal cell phone solar charger which looks cool while doing good.
For the traveler
Earlier this year, I had the pleasure of interviewing Nina Karnikowski, a travel writer who champions responsible, regenerative travel in her new book, Go Lightly: How to Travel Without Hurting the Planet. Prior to the interview, I was lucky enough to receive an advanced copy of the book. I tore through it in a day; it is chock-full of easy to implement changes that can make a world of difference in the way we see and interact with our planet.
For the coffee lover
A bag of beans makes an excellent stocking stuffer, and nothing beats a subscription to Overview Coffee. By roasting regeneratively-farmed, Fair Trade Certified beans and packaging them in fully recyclable bags, the team at Overview Coffee is on a mission to change the world through coffee. My favorites are the Earthrise blend and Half-caf (as the website says, “for those times when you need a full cup of coffee, but only a half dose of caffeine.” Genius.) Full disclosure: I am so obsessed with this brand that I reached out to its founder on Instagram and offered to support their mission. I’m so proud to say that Overview Coffee is now a freelance client!
For the foodie
Nothing says “I care about you” like a home cooked meal. But if you don’t live close enough to your loved ones to bring one over, a gift certificate to Purple Carrot is a great option for a close friend or family member. Purple Carrot’s meal kits are easy to make, unique, and extremely flavorful. I’ve been incorporating more plant-based foods into my diet, and even Saul enjoys the dinner recipes we’ve been receiving weekly.
For the design lover
This stunning coffee table book from the team behind the popular @dailyoverview Instagram account is filled with high-quality satellite images showing human-caused changes to the Earth over time.
For the little one
With a variety of books for babies to 8-year-olds, one of my favorite shops for children’s gifts is Lil’ Libros. I love that the bilingual stories honor Latin culture! My go-to book for baby showers is about Ellen Ochoa, the first Latina to travel to space.
Treat yo’ self
I’ve long wanted to grow my own produce, but (1) I don’t have the greenest thumb and (2) our backyard enjoys visits from curious deer. The Lettuce Grow Farm Stand doesn’t come cheap, but with the option to add a “glow ring” for efficient, sustainable indoor farming, this hydroponic home garden could save you money in the long-term by growing your own food. At least that’s what Saul and I are telling ourselves.
For the oenephile
When one of our favorite restaurants started a Spanish wine club during quarantine last year, we signed up for a subscription immediately. Every month, we receive 3 bottles from a new region of Spain, alongside descriptions of their tastes and an explanation of their production.
For the spa lover
When Saul and I visited Merida, Mexico this past June, we stopped into a romantic perfumery whose scents evoke trips to exotic destinations. Just a few drops of this Coqui Coqui coconut bath oil will transport the recipient to a far-off reverie.
For the savvy home cook
These reusable, machine-washable silicone “food huggers” make it easy to eliminate food waste. Just fit the right sized piece onto the “exposed” end of a banana or avocado, or seal up the remnants of a can of diced tomatoes and pop it in the fridge!
For the clean beauty lover
You’ve heard of soap bars, probably shampoo bars… what about lotion bars? Kate McLeod’s environmentally-friendly body stones are luxurious solid “stones” that melt with your natural body heat as you glide them over your skin. I have the “naked stone,” a moisturizing blend of natural cocoa butter, sweet almond oil, apricot kernel oil, avocado oil, and coconut oil.
For literally anyone
A few years ago, a good friend’s boss got these shoes and raved about them. Then she bought the shoes. Another friend bought the shoes. I finally caved and bought the shoes, and immediately understood the hype. Now, I have three pairs, and I’ve given them as gifts to my husband, sister, and brother-in-law. Machine washable and made of renewable materials, Allbirds Tree Runners are the comfiest shoes for everyday wear!
For the bookworm
Every holiday season, Kindle e-readers go on major sale. That’s the time to buy one for any family member or close friend who devours books or is out of space on their bookshelf. I have the Paperwhite – a compact, waterproof version that holds a charge forever – ideal for throwing into a carry-on or beach bag.
*Note: I do not own the rights to any of these photos.