Let me start by saying this: I believe there is no one way or right way to practice self love and care. There is a heck of a lot more to loving ourselves than simply taking a bubble bath: holistic care involves the mind, body, soul and spirit – of that I am certain. That being said, I don’t think a bubble bath is a bad idea either! I’ve found that whatever helps me feel more connected to myself, more grounded and gives me comfort is what I lean on as self care, especially during a year like this.
Our society is one of fast paced living, immediate gratification, check lists, 15 second clips and business. My hope for this gift guide is that it inspires you to think outside of those social norms. These are gifts to help us slow down, lean in and understand ourselves better. Some more serious than others, but all focused on healing, comforting and simply being.
1. Chappy Wrap – Listen, I’ve been wanting to be #chappytrapped since I snuggled onto Claire’s couch in one of her many Chappy Wraps and found myself not wanting to get up. You simply cannot beat a snuggly blanket, and Chappy is a women owned and run business with a big heart and the softest blankets around! They have a variety of patterns, styles and sizes too! I love that you can sort by neutrals 😉 You could also get one for yourself and a pal and then do a virtual “snuggle” sesh via FaceTime! | $135 and 10% off this weekend
2. Blue Light Glasses – Do you wear blue light glasses yet? Cause ya should! Protecting those peepers is so important. As someone who sits in front of screens all day long I notice a significant difference in my eye fatigue and headaches when I wear my blue light blocking glasses. My favorites are from Warby and have a tortoise rim – plus I love that the company has great customer service and gives back! | starts at $95
3. Colored Pens – Hello most underrated accessory of 2020! The colored ball point pen, obviously. Muji makes my favorite pens (I like .38 but the .5 is good too) and I’ve had so much fun swapping out colors in my journal and planner. It’s the little things you know? These would be great stocking stuffers or gift toppers too! | $7.99
4. Washable Eye Mask – I do not have one of these but it is 100% on my list! I use and love the slip eye mask because it’s great for skin and sleep but this one is washable which means ya girl is on board. Such a thoughtful gift for those who appreciate a good nap, are into any and all accessories, and could use extra rest. | $48
5. Silk Pillowcase – Slip makes some of my favorite silk accessories and C and I both use and love this pillowcase! Silk is soft and easy on the skin, which helps with acne and wrinkle prevention. We hand wash ours or throw them in a laundry bag on gentle. Such a treat for the person who has everything and cares about their skin! | $89
6. At Home Pedi-Sytem – Raise your hand if your feets are in touuuughhhhh shape *raises hand*. Same same same. Which is why I was positively thrilled when Olive & June came out with their at home pedi set! I love that their polishes are 7-free (what should be the gold standard in clean nail polish), vegan and cruelty free to boot! TBH I’m not a big “nail” person, but I bought the Olive and June Mani Set and it gave me so much confidence! Perfect for anyone who is missing their salon or wants to learn a new skill!|$70
7. Heritage Apothecary Surrender Kit – I saw this on Tabitha Brown’s stories and was instantly intrigued! Heritage is a Black female owned shop that focuses on helping people become the fullest expressions of their highest selves. The Surrender kit contains all of the things needed to facilitate the daily practice of surrender and bring to fruition the daily manifestations of the heart. So many calming, encouraging and healing practices are a part of this kit, and it’s the most beautiful and authentic one I’ve seen. Perfect for your open-minded, self discovering human in your life. | $79, on sale this weekend
8. Weezie Washcloths – Gone are the days of stained washcloths! These adorable dark colored cloths by Weezie make a delightful house warming gift and are great for guests, too. I use them for myself and travel with them – they save me the stress of ruining other linens! They’re also great for double cleansing. Pricey, but super cute a fun treat for a friend! | $40 for 2
9. Beautycounter Charcoal Mask – My ultimate self care treat! This mask is the most healing and satisfying tool in my skincare arsenal. I use mine at least once a week (on Sundays!) and love how the charcoal and kaolin clay combo pulls all of the junk out of my pores, leaving it soft, supple and clear. The PERFECT gift for anyone who needs some help with congested skin, loves a good facemask or even as a funny joke for someone who deserves “coal” 😉 | $49 but 15% off through Sunday
10. Necessaire Body Serum – In the past two years I started using serums on my face – but my body? Never thought of it until now. I freaking love this hyaluronic acid serum. It’s like a moisture bath for my body but without any heavy, greasy feeling creams. It goes on like a gel and then I apply my daily lotion after – my skin always feels soft and smooth! This would be great for your skincare loving friends and fam who, like me, would appreicate this additional (but beneficial) step in their routine! | $45
11. Vertly CBD Bath Salts – Okay full disclosure: I am not actually a bath person. I KNOW. I just never got into them. That being said, lately I’ve been drawn to the idea of a relaxing soak, and with the right accessories I may even go through with it! These CBD infused bath salts are geared toward a tired, stressed-out body, which make them the perfect pairing for anyone who’s feeling all the feels these days. I love that I can snag them from Credo, one of my favorite clean beauty marketplaces. | $29
12. Personalized Backgrammon Set – C and I love board games – they are one of our favorite ways to spend time together! It’s nice to have something away from tech and screens where we can challenge ourselves and even compete! C taught be backgammon a few years back and it’s become one of our favorite go-to games. We were gifted a set similar to this one for our wedding, and I love the wooden details, monogram option and leather case (it also comes in navy). Makes for easy clean up and travel, too! | $169
13. Ice Roller | A sneaky self care staple! Have a headache? Need to unwind? Feeling sweaty? Have eye bags or circles? Drank one too many glasses last night? This ice roller will save the day! I store mine in the freezer and use it on my face and neck in the mornings while I sip my coffee and before I do my skincare routine. It’s truly such a treat and would be a great stocking stuffer or gift for friends! | $24.99 but on sale this weekend
14. Graphic Mug – I adore Jennifer from Sophie and Lili and love her timely pieces! Whether you love the UES (like moi) or Game of Thrones (also moi) or Friends (okay, still moi) there is a mug for everyone! A great way to support a small, women-owned and run business and find something that works perfectly for your friend or family member! | $22
15. Golde Matcha | This matcha turmeric superfood latte blend would go great with #14 (or any mug, tbh) and is an awesome way to support a small Black-owned and run business that started in founder Trinity’s one bedroom apartment in Brooklyn. A lovely gift for a coffee loving friend or wellness warrior who wants a delightful morning treat to savor – without the jitters and crash of coffee. | $29
16. All Along You Were Blooming by Morgan Harper Nichols| This is one of my all time favorite poetry books that I read almost every morning! Claire gave me this during a tough time and it is truly one of my most cherished items. Morgan Harper Nichols has a way of articulating and navigating the human experience that hits home time and time again – her power is truly in her ability to connect with so many people during the toughest and most beautiful times in life. If you know someone who could use comfort right now, this is absolutely the gift for them. | $14
17. Homesick Candle | I think one of the toughest things about quaratine is not being able to see family or, for me, to go home. Even moving was tough, and there are so many places, spaces and people that I miss dearly. Homesick is a company that helps us travel through our sense of smell, and feel reunited and connected to people and places that we love. I have the New York City candle, Book Club candle and some seasonal scents, and would love to try Chicago next! Plus all of the candles are phthalate, paraben and toxin free. A thoughtful way to connect with loved ones from afar. | $34
18. Sherpa Sandals | I like my Birkenstocks, but I would love these sherpa Birkenstocks! I mean seriously it’s like a sandal and a slipper had a baby and I am here for it. No better way to treat yourself than to have cozy feet! | $150
19. Ultimate Renewal Bath Set | Bring the spa to you! I am not a “visit the spa” person (hey, a girl can dream) but every since I started incorporating spa showers into my routine I feel infinitely more relaxed! This set has all the things you need before (dry brush), during (body scrub) and after (body oil) the bath or shower for a blissful mind and body experience. Plus it comes in a gorgeous red box and is 15% off through Monday! | $89
20. Jade Roller | A tool that is built to have a cooling, soothing effect on the skin, promote drainage from the face, and reduce facial tension. Pair this with a face oil or serum for maximum impact and prepare to be pampered and oh so relaxed! Tools like rollers and stones help us connect more with our skin and our bodies to truly unwind and recharge. Great for anyone who needs a little help with all of the above! | $34
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