In times of great change and turbulence, it’s important to show people we care, and not just during the holiday season. With our actions, with our words, and a sweet gift doesn’t hurt either. Here are ten of our picks under $50 that are sure to make those on your list shine a bit brighter in the new year.
This smart origami-inspired tripod has attracted quite a bit of attention, MOFT garnering multiple Red Dot awards within the past couple years. The Snap Tripod in of the same vein as their siblings, utilizing folding techniques to create new, inventive cases for a tripod beyond its original. This unique take on what once was a dark, heavy, bulky object, now comes in ten fashion-conscious colors, decreasing the stigma and logistical weight of carrying around camera equipment on a daily basis.
This notebook is aptly named, utilizing no wood fiber in the creation of the notebook pages or cover. Instead, stone dust and substrate is upcycled from industrial manufacturing and mixed with a binder to create a paper that is smooth, soft, and completely water-resistant. No longer will you be slowly fanning your notebook with a hair dryer after being caught in the rain, desperately trying to get the pages apart. With a small pocket in the back and a book divider that doubles as a bookmark, each notebook packs a punch at 144 pages. They have a satisfying amount of weight to them, without being cumbersome to carry around.
The Misen Paring Knife comes in five classic colors, sure to delight anyone who spends any amount of time in the kitchen. With a balanced blade, and a stainless steel finish, this staple will make light work of small chopping or paring jobs. Check out the entire Misen collection here, full of smart, practical kitchen tools for anyone looking to get more comfortable with their chef skills.
Independently run, woman-owned Freeland Spirits really know their stuff. This box set is a perfect tasting for die-hard fans and anyone unfamiliar with the Portland-based brand alike, sure to impress most discerning palates. The set includes three 200ml bottles: their signature Freeland Gin, a more herbal Forest Gin, and a bold, assertive Dry Gin. Full of inventive, fresh flavor, these are good to have around for a weekend mixer or perhaps a nightcap over ice, to fully experience the complex botanicals present in each.
Okay, so we know this one technically is discounted, but Muzen are masters of mini speakers and offer multiple options for anyone looking to up their audio quality. These speakers are surprisingly loud, and the sound is crisp, no brassiness or volume buzz. The controls are super satisfying, golden switches and a knob that rotates softly when turned. With a glossy retro look and two fun colors, these are well worth the investment, and an easy way to jazz up a desk or small room.
Anker is well-known for making high-quality electronics, and their cables rarely wear out around the ports, which is a much-needed win in a time of planned obsolescence. They also make some of the best power banks around, coming with an included USB-C port, so no other cords are needed. (There is a regular USB port on the side for your convenience.) Charge all day without having to stress about a charging station. Charge your friends too, and they might just get one as well and be able to return the favor.
This beautiful candle offers notes of elderflower fizz, Anjou pear, and apple blossom, a wintery fruity scent that errs more on sweet than green. Crafted by Angela Cook Stone, she pairs refined fragrance with high quality wax for a clean burning, thoughtful candle that is perfect for gifting to loved ones. With various themed offerings to choose from, any preference from light and fresh to musky oud is represented within the Otherland collection.
We all need a little bit more green in our lives. Enter the Carter + Rose Ceramic Wall Planter, a chic and easy way to give an air plant a home. With beautiful glaze choices to choose from, this is a simple but memorable gift that can be used in any part of the home to add a bit of natural decoration. Check out the rest of the Carter + Rose collection, including these ceramic snakes, which come in multiple lovely glaze patterns.
This nifty bag is perfectly suited to hold all your toiletries for travel or simply touch ups throughout the day. With dual spill-proof compartments, the bottom opens up to gather heavier objects, while lighter or more bulky objects go in the main pocket. Offered in 12 unique colors, there’s bound to be a style for someone on your list. Another bonus, it matches the rest of the colors in the Béis line, from luggage to the viral Weekender.
The AeroPress Coffee Maker, shown above in Clear Pink, is a fan favorite for baristas and coffee enthusiasts, offering a decent manual option in lieu of an espresso machine. Capable of producing a good cup of drip to decent espresso – look at that crema! – the AeroPress is a great choice for campers, those low on counter space, or just someone looking to expand their coffee portfolio. With five new Clear colors, simply pick their favorite and it’s certain to make their holidays a bit sweeter. Or at least more energetic.
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