This time of year it’s easy to get swept away in the hustle + bustle of the season. We start our shopping early, and our lists even earlier; every friend and family member you can think of, and make sure to remember a gift for party hosts, your neighbor, the mail carrier… on and on until it becomes overwhelming. Before you know it, you’re picking up odds & ends for gifts at random shops, and the act of giving becomes a burden.
Let’s make a pact with each other, to embrace the act of gift giving with intention this year. There are simple ways to put this practice in place from the shops you frequent to the small, yet thoughtful details of each gift. Here we’ve put together a few tips to make your holiday a little brighter.
The One
The first practice we’ve been loving is to choose only one gift for each person on your list. It sounds easy, right? Less shopping, less wrapping, etc. But it’s a bit of a challenge limiting yourself to just the single present.
Without giving away the gifts we’ve gathered so far, we’ll let you in on where and how to find them.
First stop, all the local shops in your community. There’s nothing better than supporting the small business owners that put heart + soul into what they carry. Most of the time we find the best gifts at local markets.
But how do you choose the right gift? Start by having meaningful conversations with those you love. There is no better time to reconnect with people who have made the list than now. Because really, isn’t that what’s it’s all about? Showing the ones you love that you really care. This doesn’t need to involve money or purchases at all. Sometimes the show of support and love is a gift in itself.
But if you are spending money, it’s time to start shopping!
For the Avid Reader
Find a beautiful book that speaks to an interest in your giftee’s life. Personally, we could wander the corridors of bookshops for hours, (and often do).
Here are a few of the books we're loving right now...
Surf Shack
This is such a fresh addition to any collection. We love flipping through the pages and dreaming about our own surf styled abode.
Forest Feast
We love a great vegetarian cookbook, and this is the absolute prettiest one we’ve found. It is simple and understated but stunning. If a certain someone in my family is reading this… hope you love it!
Waves
This book is a really interesting collection of stories + the people who shaped the world of surfing. It’s a mix of incredible photography and a close-up into the life of surf culture.
For the Local Soul
We’ve had the honor of connecting with incredible local shops + makers. The collections are so thoughtfully curated and designed, that we can’t help but add it to our holiday guide.
If you are a San Diego local or traveling here before the holidays – add Native Poppy to your list of places to stop + smell the roses (seriously 🌹 ).
They have everything from Frosé candles to earthenware vases, botanic sprays and all the sunset-colored items you could ever want.
If you’re shopping for a wanderlust soul, then Indigenous by La Rue should be at the top of your list. The lovely owners travel all over the world sourcing from indigenous crafters in each region. It’s hard to walk out of this shop empty-handed, I’ve yet to do it!
We found this little shop, TaDah, wandering the design district, and fell in love. The blend of coastal with boho home items makes it perfect for anyone that loves vintage decor. Below are just a few corners of their adorable shop.
For the Handmade Type
One of the greatest gifts social media has given us is the discovery of amazing online creators. We love supporting these strong female entrepreneurs, and we know you’ll love them too.
This boss babe is major goals for anyone out there crafting a dream. We’ve watched her grow + sew the most creative coastal goods. After she gets her adorable girls off to school, she works full-time and still has time for this bustling hustle at night.
The Palm Print clutch has made it’s way to us, and we are obsessed. Definitely our most loved bag. If you are looking for a truly original gift, this girl delivers. Shop it here.
Now, if you’re shopping for something small (and easy to ship), these cuties are perfect. Who would’ve thought oyster shells could be so interesting? KCROOK has the coolest designs. Wait until you see how we style them in our upcoming project reveal. It’s even more fun when they are custom. Shop it here.
For the Mindful Ones
For those in your life that appreciate a little grounding + wellness, try these gems.
White Stone Diffuser
We love a good diffuser, and this one is beautiful. The best part is customizing your own blends each time you use it. Different days, different moods. Got to love it.
Practice You Journal
This guided journal will be loved by the creative writer. It’s filled with beautiful images, questions, and teachings to spark imagination.
Golden Coast
Our signature home scent, gifted to us by one of our dear friends. Now we’re addicted. P.F. Candle Co. is a great company to support, vegan + sustainable.
Hopefully one of these intentional gifts is perfect for someone on your list. Enjoy the season with all your friends + family, it seems to go faster with every passing year. If you find a way to slow it down, we’d love to hear it.
Much love,
Rachel + Lauren
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