Holiday Gift Guide 2022
We are excited to present the This Is My Brave 2022 Holiday Gift Guide!
We love putting this together based on things we recommend personally, things we’d love to gift (or get!), and things we just love the message of. As usual, the majority of these items come from a black-owned business or have a give back factor. Let’s multiply the holidays as much as we can!
Encircle
We first learned about Encircle when we attended the Anti-Stigma Grand Challenge Summit in Utah this fall. We spent some time touring the Salt Lake City home and learned all about the incredible work that they do for the LGBTQ+ youth in their community. The best news? The model is WORKING! Let’s get Encircle homes all over the country to save our LGBTQ+ youth. Support Encircle this holiday season by checking out their gallery. From original art pieces that decorate the walls of the homes to “No Sides, Only Love” gear, you can feel good about where your money is going this year.
Emily June Handmade
We all know that small hobbies are great coping mechanisms for our mental health. Have you ever considered embroidery? If you’re interested in trying it out or you’re a seasoned crafter, check out Emily June Handmade on Etsy. The adorable embroidery kits are whimsy and uplifting, all in the name of mental health.
Imperfectly Perfect Stories
We always want to include at least one kids book on the holiday list because well, kids are the future and we need them to start feeling comfortable about mental health as soon as possible. This year’s pick is “Perfectly Imperfect Stories” by Leo Potion and Ana Strumpf. “This remarkable book reassures young folks that they’re not alone and proves that mental health issues won’t stop them from becoming who they want to be. It celebrates 28 famous people from sports, entertainment, art, science, even royalty, who lived with—and overcame—challenges that range from anorexia to depression and more.” Add to cart right now, and be sure to tell the kiddo in your life that this is exactly why we believe that #StorytellingSavesLives.
Ethnotek
The beautiful color combinations and artistry of Ethnotek bags caught our attention, and then learning about the business confirmed our love for these products. With a mission to celebrate culture by creating high quality laptop and travel bags that feature ethically sourced traditional handmade textiles, purchases help them back artisan-entrepreneurs by supporting their craft and telling their stories. Seriously, we all deserve a fun, useful bag for everyday or travel purposes after the past few years we have had!
Morgan Harper Nichols
What started as a favorite Instagram account turned into an AMAZING option for the holiday gift guide! Morgan Harper Nichols creates content that is so relatable, heartfelt, and beautiful – fully taking away the “doom scrolling” mindset. And now, she has a shop open! With journals, affirmation cards, and prints among other items to choose from, you are bound to be quite an inspirational gift-giver
Anna + Pookie
This may be more of a “bookmark this site” option, but we had to put it on the list. Anna + Pookie is the only female black-owned brand dedicated to providing party supplies created for children of color. Their unique party products feature black and brown children in fun and whimsical settings. For the holidays, they do have holiday-themed wrapping paper, so be sure to give them a visit!
Send a Friend
Send a Friend is simply “a great way to make someone smile” gift option. With over 35 options to choose from, you can send a quick “Thinking of You” stuffed animal to a friend or family member with a personalized note. We don’t know about you, but receiving a bright blue box with a cuddly little friend and a note would just make our day!
Whether you’re shopping for yourself, a friend, or a loved one – don’t forget to shop local and support your community! Your local restaurants, book stores, boutiques, and coffee shops need your support to continue thriving in your communities. Grab some gift cards, and hand them out as last minute gifts or stocking stuffers. Your purchases will be greatly appreciated.
Stay Brave this holiday season!
