The Ultimate Small-Business Gift Guide
2020 is… well you already know that part… so why not combine the opportunity to support small businesses with giving your loved one’s products and services to help make the very most of this year? By supporting thoughtfully made, women-founded and Black-owned brands we can help those working tirelessly on their dreams while caring for the ones we love the most. This carefully curated list of amazing products and services includes a little bit about who makes them, where they come from, and why they are loved. And maybe this list will make your gift decision-making just a little more inspired.
34 Small Businesses to Support Any Time of the Year
PRODUCTS
ALLSWELL by Laura Rubin
The Deck - For the one who needs time away from their phone and to promote creativity.
Developed by AllSwell creative journaling founder Laura Rubin in collaboration with psychiatrist Dr. Monisha Vasa, The Deck is a thought-provoking mix of daily creative prompts. Each card includes a “Write” and a “Draw” prompt allowing a place for creativity to thrive. These cards are designed to encourage trying something new, spending a little solo time, and tapping into one’s own creative voice. For your loved one who needs that time away from their phone, this tool is an opportunity to pick up a pen or pencil and see what transpires.
2. Wildling Beauty - by Britta Plug Jill Munson, and Gianna de la Torre
Wildling Beauty Gua Sha Empress Collection - For the one who wants their skin to glow, appear tight, and look refreshed.
The brainchild of 3 beauty experts - facialist Britta Plug, formulator Jill Munson, and plant alchemist and acupuncturist Gianna de la Torre - Wildling is a sustainable skincare brand designed to inspire modern self-care rituals based in Gua Sha. This Facial Gua Sha system is designed to lift, plump, tone, and brighten and this kit includes both a tonic and oil to use when sculpting and lifting with the Empress Stone. Made from sacred Bian, the stone contains over 40 trace minerals that emit negative ions that are known for their antioxidant and anti-aging effects on cells and DNA. This ritual provides a soothing facial massage that melts away tensions and leaves you with a radiant glow.
Ayla Sea Soak - For the one who loves baths and needs a good night’s rest
Ayla Beauty, Founded by Dara Kennedy, is a beauty shop that delivers effective nontoxic products combined with the most well-informed, personalized guidance — turning the simple search for a product into an enlightening journey. Dara curates a range of the most effective healthy beauty products from around the world. Dara worked in beauty product development and marketing for more than 10 years before starting Ayla. The Ayla Sea Soak is no ordinary bath. As MindBodyGreen’s Beauty & Lifestyle Editor put it, “It was like I had had a full-body massage, sauna visit, and weightlifting session in one pass: I was like jelly...this put me into such a deep sleep that the next thing I remember was daylight. I hadn't slept like that in years—and I haven't slept like that since.”
4. ONA ORGANICS by Amanda Arapoglou and Elizabeth Dorow
Radiance Face Oil - For the one who loves self-care rituals
Herbalist formulated, Ōna is a holistic self-care experience combining plant medicine and scent meditation to create moments of mindfulness and ritual while restoring radiance and balance to the skin. Created by Amanda Arapoglou and Elizabeth Dorow. Friends for over ten years, they became bonded on a path of mindfulness and self-healing. Out of a union of meditation and plant medicine, Ōna was born.
Elizabeth: Certified Herbalist with a background in USDA Certified Organic farming. After years of farming moringa and studying its significant healing powers, Elizabeth became passionate about harnessing and sharing the plant’s many gifts. Through her knowledge of herbalism and plant medicine, Elizabeth directed her focus to moringa's powerful capabilities of restoring and enhancing the natural radiance and vitality of the skin.
Amanda: A practice of Vedic meditation led to a passion for Ayurveda and holistic living where the seed of Ōna was planted. Becoming a mother ignited a desire to create a product that is not only pure and nourishing but one that celebrates the spirit and beauty of day to day rituals. Amanda's intention was to create a line that is not only effective but creates moments of mindfulness and meditation.
An antioxidant-rich, barrier supportive blend to hydrate, rejuvenate, and purify. Vitamins A, C, B, E, and Zinc + Omegas 3, 6, & 9.
Radiance Facial Oil is a dynamic combination of organic botanical oils designed to work in synergy with skin’s natural function and is easily incorporated into any existing skincare routine and can help to reduce the number of steps. Radiance Facial Oil moisturizes by replenishing epidermal lipids and supports the skin’s barrier function to do its job. A healthy, strong skin barrier is crucial for regulating skin’s water content and keeping inflammation at bay. Packed with antioxidants, fatty acids, and minerals this facial oil blend replaces the skincare steps of traditional moisturizers and antioxidant serums for a closer to nature, simpler, and more effective routine.
5. HENNÉ Organics by LAURA XIAO
LUXURY LIP TINT - BARE - For the one who loves to combine hygge with their day to day routine
“HENNE”, which means “HER” in Swedish, is a dedication to the modern woman while also paying homage to the brand’s Swedish roots. Founded in 2015, by Laura XIAO, HENNÉ'S vision was to introduce a splash of ecoluxury into the everyday. Curiosity and wanderlust took Laura around the globe to countries like Sweden, Denmark, New Zealand, Australia, and back again. Living abroad and moving frequently forced Laura to declutter and truly focus on the essentials.
The luxury lip tint in bare is a delicate nude that provides the perfect barely-there flush of color on the lips with a buttery and nourishing feel. *Leaping bunny certified cruelty-free.
6. Life Aromatherapy by Carrie Keller
Chakra Spray - For the one who loves integrative wellness
Founded by Carrie Keller, a natural product and perfume formulator, aromatherapist, and the creator of Life Aromatherapy, L.L.C. - a line of essential oil-based products, perfumes, and inspirational items based in Los Angeles, California. She is also an intuitive channel and dedicates her life to helping empower people on their journey through her healing sessions and high vibrational product line.
Chakra Spray is a highly charged universal sprays that evoke the body's innate healing - emotionally and physically. Each of the Life Aromatherapy Chakra sprays is intuitively formulated by Carrie A. Keller, made with a blend of essential oils specific for each chakra. Notice a chakra in your loved one’s life that needs attention and support?
7. I AM and CO. by Tarisha Clark
I AM Everything™ Affirmation Card Deck - for the one who wants to quiet the noise and focus on what makes them feel good. (also good for teenagers)
Created by Tarisha Clark, the 33 I AM Everything™ Affirmation Cards deck is a tool to remind you of all of your amazing qualities. You can shuffle the deck and draw one card and read it aloud to yourself every morning to start your day. Or, you can use them as needed by shuffling the deck and pulling a card at the moment. Made in the USA and designed in Kansas City, MO.
8. Kathamndu Boutique by Reena Gauchan
Tibetan Incense - for the one who loves the authentic treasures from Asia
Kathmandu boutique, located in Santa Monica, CA is your source for items from Nepal, India, Thailand, Asia, and good old fashion hippy stuff; pants, scarfs, tops, women’s pants, women’s scarfs, hippy tops, Ganesh statues, Buddha statues, Indian scarves, Indian jewelry, Tibetan incense, Buddha T-shirts, Ganesh t-shirts, women’s kurta, kurtas, kaftans and so much more. Owned by Reena Gauchan and run with her sister, this store is the real deal and brings some of the joys of Asia home to you. You can shop on their website or stop in their physical location where there is a wider selection of incense.
9. Maude by Éva Goicochea
The Vibe - For the one who loves pleasure
Founded by Éva Goicochea and launched in 2018 Maude is a modern sexual wellness company built on quality, simplicity, and inclusivity. They’re on a mission to change this outdated industry and make intimacy better for all people. Éva spent her early career as a legislative aide in healthcare and converged her experiences to create the next chapter in the sexual wellness industry—a modern company built on quality, simplicity, and inclusivity. In late 2020, Dakota joined the team as an investor and Co-Creative Director.
The Vibe is beautiful, discreet, and mighty. Once you get your hands on it, you’ll understand it’s power.
10. Hopper Reserve by Marin Hopper
*This product is not for use by or sale to persons under the age of 21
Cannabis Pre-Rolls - For the creative cannabis lover with a passion for reform.
Always the futurist, Hollywood icon Dennis Hopper was also an early advocate for the legalization of cannabis. Before he passed away in 2010, Dennis spoke at length with daughter Marin about building a cannabis company with a purpose. One that connected art and conversation with the power of the plant. A decade later, Hopper Reserve is now a reality. “Cannabis was something he could unwind with and enjoy in a very peaceful, fun-loving way.” - Hopper Reserve founder, Marin Hopper. Hopper Reserve is a meeting place for the canna-curious and aficionados, the creatively minded adventurers, students of wellness, and socially conscious advocates ready to have a new conversation about cannabis.
11. Juna by Jewel Zimmer and Taylor Lamb
*This product is not for use by or sale to persons under the age of 18
NIGHTCAP - for the busy mom, career woman, and CBD enthusiast
Founded by Jewel Zimmer and Taylor Lamb, Juna represents the growing wave of those who know: when you care for your mind, body, and mood - you bring your best self to the table and help others do the same. What’s more is that Juna is a member of Cannabis for Black Lives, a coalition of 50 + and growing cannabis and CBD companies working to support Black-led organizations and communities through a commitment to corporate hiring & company culture, amplification of Black voices, and financial support to make a greater impact together.
Nightcap Sleep Drops is a USDA certified organic CBD nightly drops with CBN, a non-intoxicating product designed to optimize your sleep cycles and help prolong Stage 3 sleep when your body, skin, and brain repair themselves.
3. Dare To Be Domestic by Derrick Johnson
Wall Calendar - for the one who loves beautiful design + organization
With a long list of Hollywood clients, Derrick Johnson is a Designer, Organizer and Estate Manager. Derrick is hired to help people keep their homes running smoothly and looking inspired. His passion is helping people help themselves through his techniques and the products he invents. If you know someone who needs their Christmas Tree installed and decorated, a home makeover or a useful tool for organization that’s also beautiful, Derrick’s services and products are for them.
14. mia + clay by Mia Bay Nelson
polymer clay earrings - for the one who loves creativity
mia + clay earrings are designed and handmade in the San Francisco bay area by mia bay. Mia has always been passionate about fashion, so when she started mia + clay as a creative outlet, it was her goal to create art that is functional, lightweight, and stylish. She is honored to be able to share her art with you and hopes you love these earrings as much as she loves making them! Feel free to follow her journey on Instagram (@mia.and.clay) or shop her collection on Etsy (miaandclay). Once you see her designs, they speak for themselves.
15. Little Baby Kitty by Erin Powell
Iconic Hollywood Banana Leaf Cotton Caftan Dress - for the travel lover
Erin Powell launched Little Baby Kitty in 2000 when her admiration of fashion and love of shopping resulted in an exciting collection of vintage textiles, handbags, jewelry, and art. She honed her design eye at Barney's New York and as a celebrity stylist assistant for Justin Timberlake and Madonna. Powell’s love of world travels fuel her carefully curated collection. Follow her travels on INSTAGRAM @little.baby.kitty
16. Create the Culture Embroidery by Krystle Collins
DIY Embroidery Kit or Sweatshirt - For the modern embroidery enthusiast
Featured on Etsy’s Black-owned Shops, Krystle is bringing you more than just embroidery. Her art is a total mood. Based in Brooklyn, NY Krystle is bringing you apparel, pouches, totes, DIY kits, and custom designs featuring her black girl magic. From Maya Angelou to Beyoncé and everything beautiful in between this is art you definitely want to wear and share.
17. Tanu by Taryn Slawson
Woven rug — For the one who loves a statement piece
Founded by Santa Fe based artist, Taryn Slawson, Tanu is so much more than hand-woven textiles. (Tanu is also the name she gave herself when she was little before she could pronounce Taryn. How clever?) Taryn’s creative work is led by her curiosity within the non-visible frequency spectrums of electromagnetic energy. She is interested in the visual translation of frequency patterns - in making the non-visible visible.
From rugs to pillows, hatbands, lamp shades, and more, Taryn’s talent is undeniable and coveted.
18. Stith Collection - by Percy Stith
Custom Hat - For the one who loves a wardrobe statement piece
One of a kind, dope, dripped in talent… just a few ways to describe the art that Percy creates with his hats. Once you check out Percy’s collection you won’t want to wear any other generic hat brand again. Percy describes himself as an Artist, Maker, Milliner, Designer and would like you to “Wear more hats please”.
For one of Percy’s distinct designs, check out Percy’s Hat Shop - 715 Canyon Road Santa Fe NM 87501 - By appointment - 857-498-1473 or hit him up on Instagram to see what he has in stock.
19. Forsake Co. by Jake Anderson and Sam Barstow
The Patch Boots - for the outdoor enthusiast
The Forsake story began in 2009 when Jake and Sam left the East Coast for new adventures in the Rockies. Jobs were secured, apartments were rented, and skiing powder became a daily pursuit. But life in the mountains puts a real strain on their footwear. They needed gear that could withstand the elements while effortlessly navigating between work and play. In 2012, they set about making them.
The Patch boots are waterproof, comfortable, and stylish. The perfect pair to add to a shoe collection and build to last.
20. Female Collective by Candace Reels
Holy Trinity Tee - for the feminist
Candace Reels has been described as “The Activist Muse Every Fashion Girl Is Following on Instagram”. Candace has created a stylish intersection of activism and fashion you want to wear. From apparel to hats and mugs, you and your loved one can support a Black-owned woman in business and spread the word of allyship and feminism everywhere y’all go.
21. Muse House Retreat by Ashlan Christoph
self love bundle - for the one who needs a little more nurture (and loves pretty things)
Ashlan Christoph brings 15 years of successful business-building and design experience, along with a keen attention to detail and passion for health and wellness, to Muse House Retreat. The Muse House Retreat in Studio City, CA crafts an idyllic environment for gathering, mindful relaxation, and deep inner healing. Their artfully curated collection, includes metaphysical elements, gifts, home goods, and teas designed to encourage holistic wellness and celebrate the spirit of community. In addition to the beautiful crafts they sell, readings are also available both remotely and in-store.
22. NicAllanShop by Nicola Allan
Greeting Card - for the one who loves Whimsy
Nicola Allan is a British freelance illustrator currently living in Mexico who has a passion for creating characters, making up stories and loves creating editorial pieces, illustrated maps, and greeting cards. In addition to the beautiful and thoughtful art she sells on her sites, she is also available to make custom prints.
23. Casa Dumetz by Sonja Magdevski
Feminist Party Wine - for the wine lover
Casa Dumetz estate was created in 2004 by Sonja Magdevski (a beautiful bad ass) with a focus on Rhône varieties. The wine she produces is sold through her tasting room in Los Alamos. A journalist by training and now a winemaker by passion, Sonja is “regularly inspired to never quit searching for that moment – the instant where it all makes sense.” Casa Dumetz is the overall umbrella for the three labels, which includes Clementine Carter and The Feminist Party. If you can’t take your loved one to the tasting room, place an order online, and celebrate wherever the moment takes you.
24. Knight Mills by Sacha Knight
Rug - For the one who needs a house warming
Sacha is a designer /maker /illustrator and interior designer who likes to create unique and detailed pieces of all descriptions; a piece of jewelry, a bag, a print, a rug, a lampshade… Sacha’s gorgeous rugs are featured in the rooms of El Rey Court in Santa Fe and you too can have one of your own.
SERVICES
Sometimes it can be challenging to find a gift for the person who seems like they have it all which is why having the option of gifting service is a stellar idea. If your gift recipient is a spirituality enthusiast, craves wellness, has a passion for creativity, or wants to get to know her body better, this list of service providers can do the trick. (for the holidays or any-time throughout the year)
1. Astrology + Tarot by Juanita Benedicto
Juanita Benedicto works full-time as a consulting astrologer and tarot reader in the picturesque town of San Miguel de Allende located in Central Mexico. Aside from astrology, she writes a bi-monthly newsletter, practices planetary magic, and enjoys the company of her rescue dog, a Red Heeler named Yara. She’s also collaborating on a tarot deck set to launch on Kickstarter in December 2020. You can find her at Juanita's Astrology & Tarot and on Instagram @juanitabenedicto
2. Aura-Soma by Victoria Silks
Victoria Silks is an Aura-Soma® teacher, color consultant and former silk painter with over 30 years of experience. She received her B. A. in art education, with a minor in dance from the University of Denver in 1967. She ran her own dance studio in Taos NM until 1976 when she formed her company, Victoria Silks Design Studio. Victoria’s Aura-Soma® training from Aura-Soma Academy, spanned 5 years and 4 countries taking her from the USA to England, Switzerland, and Spain, where she met many of her international colleagues.
Her work with color and fabric has been nationally recognized in Vogue and Harper's Bazaar magazines and she has given talks on color to numerous groups and national conferences. Currently, Victoria has retired from silk painting to focus on her work with Aura-Soma She is living, consulting, and teaching in Barra de Navidad, Mexico, offering courses internationally. She welcomes all students and inquiries into her work.
For more on Aura-Soma® and to book with Victoria, check out this article.
3. Akashic Records Reading by Akashic Insights
The Akashic Records is the mother-load of guidance to construct a life in support of our soul’s purpose.
We are constantly manifesting our reality whether we choose to be consciously aware of it or not. The Akashic Records have been in existence since the beginning of this time-space experience and have been referred to in every ancient spiritual teaching throughout history. When a soul makes the decision to experience life as an independent entity, there is a field of energy generated by that experience. That field of energy is impressed on a subtle substance called Akasha. There is a recording in the Records for virtually all creation, including every person, place, and event. Accessing information from the Akashic Records gives us, as the architects of our lives, useful guidance to construct a creation that supports our soul purpose. To schedule an Akashic Records reading, click here and tell her Taryn sent you! She is by referral only.
4. Intuitive Basic Training by Kathryn Schiff
In this Basic Intuitive Healing certification program, you will learn to tap into your own special gifts, which will change your life and alter your perspective in a positive way. You will get more of your energy back and be able to hear your inner voice. The Intuitive Healing Program helps you heal from past issues or experiences and better equips you to deal with day-to-day events. Using the energy tools of this program will enable you to find more harmony and ease in creating your goals and life aspirations. You will learn to protect your energetic space and how to release others from your energetic space. This program teaches energetic boundaries. So you can “give” without giving yourself away. It teaches the student awareness of what energy is yours within the body, versus what isn't, and that you can choose to sit with it or to move it out. At the end of the program, you will be certified as an Intuitive Healing Practitioner. You will be able to facilitate healing on yourself, others, and also to intuitively (psychically) read energy.
5. Intuitive Acupuncture by Gianna de la Torre
Gianna is an acupuncturist, intuitive healer, and co-founder of Wildling based in Los Angeles. Her unique approach to Acupuncture was born out of her desire to combine modalities that were extremely effective in her own healing journey. After losing a partner in an accident, these healing practices gave her grief a purpose and they changed her life. For the next ten years, she embarked on a journey studying alternative healing methods that brought her back to life and she wants to pay it forward by healing people.
6. Skateboard lesson by GRLSWIRL
If you’re not new to Her Travel Style, you’ve heard GRLSWIRL mentioned a few times both on the site and Instagram before. From the mission statement to the quality of products and services, this brand is impossible to ignore. Originated in February 2018, GRLSWIRL has grown from a small group of women into a global force of over 85K online members. If you have a lover of adventure and community to shop for, consider a skateboard lesson or any of their adorable apparel.
7. Xalted Body Energetic Adjustment by Lauren Haze
Lauren feels that everyone has the potential to live a richer, stronger, and more confident life by connecting with their body. Previously a professional dancer with the Alvin Ailey Repertory Ensemble, she has continued her passion for movement and energy flow as a healthcare practitioner. Her unique combination of training as a Certified Pilates Instructor, CranioSacral Therapist, Energy Balancing Bodyworker, & Natural Healing Technique practitioner, has been proven to help you feel lighter and in tune with yourself. The Energetic Adjustment session pinpoints misalignments within the physical, emotional, and spiritual body. Releasing blocks to help you feel better in your body on the planet. Schedule a session with Lauren HERE.
8. Her Aperture Photoshoot with me (Taryn)
Everyone needs content these days. Some people need a new headshot for their job search, lifestyle shots for their social media, or new content for their new and approved re-branded website. My unique approach to photography is all about storytelling and bringing forth the individuality and energy of the subject. Check out my expanded portfolio here.
9. Online Actor Coaching/Consulting Session with Sara Isaacson
Hailing from Chicago, Casting Director Sara Isaacson takes her ferocious love of theatre to New York, London, and The Oregon Shakespeare Festival to discover actors. Sara is passionate about working with actors and supporting their goals. If you have an actor in your life who can benefit from this type of service, for a 30 minute consulting/coaching session, starting in January 2021 click here to work with Sara.
10. Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Consultation with Jenn Malecha
Jenn is more than just a functional health coach. She is a thyroid, gut, and mold detective giving you access to the right lab tests/resources to feel like yourself. Based in Pebble Beach, CA Jenn works with clients to empower the whole body naturally. If you know anyone who wants a trimmer, more energetic, and vibrant version of themselves, schedule a complimentary consultation with Jenn today.
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