The 2021 holiday season is well under way. And you’re probably busy playing jolly ol' St. Nick for those special peeps on your list. Aka furiously browsing online for the best gifts possible.
But this year, it’s extra important to support small businesses. Because they (and hi, all of us and the entire economy) are recovering from the pandemic. Plus, a lot of ‘em are still facing challenges. Like labor and inventory shortages.
So we partnered with Goldman Sachs to highlight great gifts from entrepreneurs that you may not have heard of. Who have all received access to education, support services, and pathways to capital through Goldman Sachs’ 10,000 Small Businesses and 10,000 Women programs. Pro tip: Find even more on their #MakeSmallBig Holiday Market. Ready, set, shop (small).
Want more holiday gifting ideas? Check out The Sleigh List — our guide to the perfect gifts for everyone on your A-list.
A choose-your-own-eatventure box of French macarons…
With fun flavor options, like red velvet, pumpkin pie, matcha, salted caramel, and s’mores. You can even select from a range of vegan options. They’re all handmade with love in a small batch, artisanal bakery in the city that never sleeps. Sweet. ($32)
A large toiletry bag that’ll help ‘em rep their fave city…
From Hong Kong to Houston, with lots of places in between. These handmade-in-Cleveland, vegan leather dopp kits are great for anyone with big travel plans for the year ahead. The large size can fit hairbrushes, electric toothbrush sets, mini hairspray cans, and anything else they might need. Hometown pride, let’s roll. ($35)
A one-of-a-kind glass bowl they’ll wanna show off…
For the foodies and host(esse)s in your life. This delicately tinted, hand-blown piece is made in artist Tracy Glover’s Rhode Island studio. And it’ll beautify any space your giftee puts it — though we’d rec the kitchen or their entry table. The best part? 10% of the sale will be donated to the local Community Food Bank. ($125)
A lined spiral notebook to keep you and your squad organized…
So everyone in your crew can stay on top of their work, appointments, and responsibilities. And be reminded that the future is indeed filled with strong females. It’s got 100 pages and the cover is made from heavy card-stock to prevent bending. You = totally on top of your game. ($16)
A special puzzle for the kiddos left on your list…
Once they’re done putting all 100 pieces together, they can use two ~magic~ decodor masks to uncover the hidden objects in the robot factory. Did we mention it’s made of recycled card and printed using vegetable inks? Perfect for any problem solvers above age 4. ($18)
A rain cape that’ll keep you dry on the wettest of days…
Whether you’re running out to grab groceries or commuting via bike. This cape features a hood, elastic thumb rings so it stays put during biking, and reflective accents to keep you safe after dark. Also 5% of sales goes toward the Cleverhood Fund, which works to achieve sustainable transportation. ($99)
Beautiful cheese boards you can customize…
Charcuterie lovers, assemble. Monogram lovers, you too. Choose from cherry and maple or maple and walnut wood blends. They’re all modeled after a historic steamboat that still travels up and down the Mississippi. All aboard for delicious apps... (Starting at $80)
A chai tea soap bar packed with an array of spices...
Like cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg. All bars are made in-house in California to support local suppliers. Plus, all packaging is made from recycled materials. So while you’re smelling fresh, you’re also keeping your carbon footprint at a minimum. Hooray for that. ($14)
PS: If something’s out of stock, oops, it was there (and all prices were accurate) when we published. And we apologize for any shipping delays due to COVID-19. Thanks.
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