Welcome to My First Holiday Gift Guide!
The season of giving is here and I am excited to share my first curated gift guide—a selection of meaningful products and causes that I support. Many of these items are from small businesses or organizations I believe in, often ones flying under the radar but deserving of the spotlight. From wellness essentials and eco-friendly skincare to one-of-a-kind experiences and opportunities to give back, every item has been thoughtfully chosen to inspire joy, well-being, and a touch of mindful living this holiday season.
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I've either used these products myself or chosen them because I deeply believe in the founders, their mission, or the quality they stand for. I’m sharing them purely out of passion—no affiliates or perks involved. I hope this guide helps you discover unique, meaningful gift ideas that bring delight to your loved ones (or yourself!) and add a sense of purpose to your holiday shopping.
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Here’s to making this season of giving thoughtful, intentional, and full of joy!
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Happy Holidays!
Susan
01
Wellness
Why it's a great gift: NAABI offers herbal supplements specifically designed for women experiencing perimenopause and menopause. Their flagship product, Peri Essential 5™, is a physician-formulated blend that supports five key areas of health: nervous system, digestion and liver function, immunity, blood sugar levels, and inflammation.
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Why it’s a great gift: Stress relief doesn’t get more timeless than this. Bach’s Remedy has been around since the 1960s, using a blend of five flower essences to promote calm, focus, and better sleep. While gummies might be all the rage these days, this is a natural, alcohol-free alternative that works for everyone—simple, effective, and classic.
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Why it’s a great gift: With thousands of free guided meditations, music tracks, and courses, Insight Timer is a fantastic way to support mental wellness without a subscription fee.
02
Lifestyle
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Why it’s a great gift: For the adventurous history lover, Far Horizons offers the ultimate experience: guided archaeological tours led by real scholars. These one-of-a-kind trips are perfect for those who want to dig (literally) into history while exploring the world. It’s an unforgettable gift for anyone with a passion for discovery.
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Why it’s a great gift: Affordable, fun, and perfect for any lifestyle—Goodr sunglasses are the ultimate stocking stuffer or treat-yourself item. With quirky names like “Wake & Bacon” and “Do It for the Victory Dance,” these sunnies are not only stylish but also functional. Whether for running, lounging, or just looking cool, Goodr has a pair to match every vibe.
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Why it’s a great gift: Not only are Bombas socks comfortable and durable, but for every pair purchased, one is donated to someone in need. It’s a gift that gives back.​ Everyone in my family gets at least a pair during the holidays! The Gripper Slipper are great to wear around the house.
03
Beauty
Why it’s a great gift: Eco-friendly, clean beauty products that nourish the skin without harmful chemicals. My favorite is the turmeric stick. It's a bit sticky to get off, but it works great on those spots!
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Biodance​
Why it's a great gift: Wear the overnight mask and you will wake up to a smooth, deeply hydrated face. A friend recommended it to me, and now I have it as part of my monthly Amazon orders!​​​
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Why it’s a great gift: Clean beauty that doesn’t feel heavy—Ilia’s makeup blends effortlessly into your skin, leaving you feeling polished but natural. Whether it’s their skin tint, mascara, or lip balm, these products make looking good feel even better with their commitment to clean, skin-friendly ingredients. Perfect for beauty lovers who want makeup that lets their natural glow shine through.
04
Productivity & Professional Growth
Give the Gift of Growth
Why it's a great gift: Give someone the transformative experience of personalized coaching. Whether they’re seeking clarity, a career pivot, or simply want to level up their mindset, coaching offers them a unique opportunity to invest in their growth and potential.
Ideal for friends, family, or colleagues who are ready for a meaningful change or want to make the most of the new year. A gift that’s not just impactful but can be truly life-changing! P.S. You can get one for yourself too!
Alex Carter’s Book, Ask for More
Why it’s a great gift: A powerful book on negotiation and communication, empowering readers to ask for what they deserve in life and work.
Note: Perfect for leaders, entrepreneurs, or anyone ready to level up their negotiation skills.
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Why it's a great gift: How we communicate is how we represent ourselves. If you want to practice your presentation, an upcoming interview or that sales pitch, this is a helpful tool in picking up on the subtleties. They have a limited free version.
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Feel-Good Giving
Why it’s a great gift: Give the gift of impact! Donations to Wings for Kids support children’s social and emotional learning through fun and engaging programming.
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Their after-school programs have made an impact and kids learn to better express themselves (which we all need as adults as well)!​
06
Gourmet
Why it’s a great gift: Zingerman’s is a treasure trove of gourmet goodies, from chocolate-covered clementines to artisanal balsamics and olive oils. Everything they offer is thoughtfully sourced and comes with a story. Perfect for foodies or anyone who appreciates curated, high-quality treats. Bonus: You can create your own gift basket and make it as unique as the recipient!
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Why it’s a great gift: Nothing says thoughtful like gourmet jams made from locally sourced Michigan fruit. American Spoon is a family-run business that turns Michigan farms’ finest produce into jars of joy. Their spreads are perfect for foodies, brunch lovers, or anyone who appreciates small-batch quality. I loved them so much, I once sent jars to all my leaders—they’re just that good!