For this gift guide, I’m focusing on wellbeing ideas, independent brands and quirky gifts. I wasn’t too sure how to put all of those into one category, so here we are with an alternative theme. No gift ever rivals the truly unexpected.
TheVeganKind Christmas Selection Box Gift Box, £17.99 – It’s been almost two years since I decided to quit dairy. Since then, I’ve been subscribed to TheVeganKind and receive an exciting box filled with goodies every month. Vegan treats seem to be getting better and better lately, with masses of new launches and an ever expanding free from section in supermarkets.
, £35-50 – Light mills are powered by exposure to light, and delicately spin around at a different speed depending on how bright the light is. I have mine placed on my windowsill and find it so calming to watch whilst I’m working. Definitely one of my favourite possessions.
, £24.99 – With the ability to keep drinks cool for 25 hours and hot for 12, this triple insulated canteen is ideal for any coffee, tea or iced drink addict. I’ve decided to gift this to my mum as she often goes on long drives around the country with work, though I must pick one up for myself too!
, £18.50 – I bought my mum a bottle of Norfolk gin last year as I just couldn’t resist the wonderful ceramic bottle that it came in. She was thrilled to have something special to sip on during the rest of the festive season, as was I to sneak in a few tastes. As we’re a family of gin lovers, this new bottle will go down nicely come Christmas gatherings.
Pure Aromatherapy Diffuser & Essential Oil Collection, £85 – I’ve had a diffuser in my bedroom for the past few years and now couldn’t be without one, to the point that we have three in the house. I’ve since discovered the incredible benefits of essential oils and which to pick out for any kind of mood that I’m in. I find chamomile roman especially powerful at easing anxiety and sending me to sleep, along with the Neal’s Yard blends which are always perfectly balanced. This diffuser is the best one I’ve tried so far down to its quietness and soft light.
Ohnishi Seisakusho Black and White Celluloid Ballpoint Pen, £65 – As I recently set up a home office, this beautiful handcrafted pen brightens up my day each time I go to use it. Going self employed definitely brought out the stationary nerd in me.
* – Last summer I had the time of my life overcoming my fear of heights and channeling my inner Tarzan at Go Ape in Thetford. I wobbled around for a good ten minutes after climbing up to the first platform before gaining the courage to move any further, facing the fear and doing it anyway was my motto for 2018 and I took to the challenge gladly. It’s safe to say that 2017 Jess did not foresee 2018 Jess swinging through the treetops and zipping down wires. A Go Ape gift voucher is such a fun way of gifting an exciting experience, and is redeemable at all of their 33 locations. I’d go for The Challenger voucher which can include a Tree Top Adventure for two adults, a genius way of sorting Christmas gifts for two people in one go!
Canon AF-1 Film Camera, £5 – I recently picked up this gem at a charity sale on an open day at an animal sanctuary. I’d really recommend looking at secondhand items for gifts, you end up saving a bomb, giving your money to a good cause and surprising someone with a truly different type of present. Vintage cameras can be picked up for next to nothing and you could even include a few rolls of film and a photo album to get them started.
Happiful Magazine 6 Month Subscription, £15 with the code HAPPIXMAS – If you’re on the hunt for a gift idea that will make a big positive impact on someone for months to come, look into gifting a Happiful subscription. Packed with self-care tips, body positive features and wellness guides, the magazine leaves you feeling empowered and enlightened from the first page to the last. It’s wonderful to see such a well made, considered magazine that is devoted to spreading positive vibes only.
Bluebird Christmas Wreath Tea Selection Box, £35 – Nothing beats cosying up with a cup of tea as the days get shorter at this time of year. If you’re yet to stray from a regular builders tea, you must give Bluebird a go. My favourites in the box are Snowball for a sweet treat and Nearly Nirvana for just before bed.
Make sure you check out my previous gift guides before you head off!
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