As much as I know how important it is to keep a budget in mind when shopping for holiday gifts (and anything else), I go back and forth on whether to organize gift guides by price range. I don’t like perpetuating the idea that certain goods must be under a price point (such as the $5 we’re all used to paying when it comes to simple t-shirts). That’s because I know that most mass-produced goods couldn’t possibly be priced that low if they were sustainably and ethically produced, or made in small batches.
That said, everybody’s gotta budget! And it’s frustrating to want to align your shopping habits with your values, but feel like it’s impossible to fit those gifts into that budget. So we wanted to round up some sustainable gift ideas that are affordable to a wider range of consumers, that are still thoughtful and substantial. Plus, the brands below are some of my favorites for recommending to friends just getting started on their own sustainable living journeys.
our favorite affordable sustainable gifts
From top to bottom, left to right: Capricorn Bandana from Bon Femmes, Olsen+Olsen Organic Beeswax Wraps, Hand Dipped Incense Sticks from DIGS, Baby Gingham Bubble Romper by Lola & Stella, Vintage Twisted Candles from milkteeths (love the idea of snagging a vintage version of these trendy twist candles!), Slow North Eye Mask Therapy from Eco Vibe, Mountain Pieces Print from Holistic Habitat, High Maintenance Plant Pot from Eco Vibe, Golde Pure Matcha from Minna, Habit Cosmetics Nail Polish in Call It Chartreuse, Au Naturel Art Print by Wilde House Paper, Sunburst Gem Headband by Llani, Groovy Comida Kitchen Towel by Wasi Clothing, Miraflores Wicker Shopper Bag From Woven Rosa, Desert Daydream Crochet Potholders from Holistic Habitat, Nana + Livy Choco Soap Bars (which are palm oil free!), & Hibiscus Mirror by Quinta Esencia Studio
more affordable sustainable gifting tips
The designers above are lovely when it comes to buying new products for family and friends, but that’s not the only way to gift sustainably. Here are a few more ideas for thoughtful gifting, that are even more affordable and eco-conscious:
- Go vintage. Source a thoughtful item from Etsy or another vintage marketplace with the recipient in mind. I love to find vintage pieces for friends because you can go off of themes you know they’ll want + like, while offering something completely unexpected.
- Thrift. Similarly, you can shop in-person at your local thrift or consignment shop. This is a great way to hunt for gently used (and therefore cheaper) items based off of current trend or brands you know the recipient is into. Thrift shops are also a great place for nostalgic gifts! I love finding old, meaningful books and quirky glassware.
- Look for a “reuse” shop in your area. I’ve lived in a few cities over the years that have little hole-in-the-wall creative reuse storefronts that are goldmines for craft materials and gift wrap. This is a great way to make your own affordable sustainable gifts or personalize the ones you already have.
- Organize a Secret Santa. Last year our group of friends opted for a Secret Santa gift exchange for the first time. It was easier on all of our wallets because we each only purchased one gift, and had an agreed upon price limit. But it was also a lot of fun! We got to see what everyone got each other and it became its own experience.
How do you make holiday gifting more sustainable and affordable? Share your tips with us!
your two cents