Unique Gift Ideas For Everyone On My List
Hey! I’m Jacy, I’m on the marketing & creative team for DoneGood & Karma Wallet.
Every holiday season, I set out to find the most unique gifts – the kind that make people say, “How did you even find this?” My tried-and-true method? Full-on thrifting and antiquing mode. There’s just something so cool about snagging something that’s been around for 50+ years – it feels like a treasure hunt, and it makes gift-giving feel way more personal.
But I won’t lie – the thrill of the hunt has its downsides. It takes time. Like, a lot of time. Plus, I never really know what I’m getting in terms of quality or the story behind it. It’s fun to make these up, sometimes planning a whole haunted backstory, but let’s be real it would be better to just know. Plus, when people really love their gifts, I have zero way of sending a link to the product page or a social profile for them to learn or purchase from them again.
So this year, I’m switching things up by shopping with DoneGood. I still get to find unique, meaningful gifts, but with a lot less running around, and every item comes with its own cool backstory I can pass along. Win-win, right? Here are some of my favorite DoneGood finds for this holiday season!
Sustainable Gifts That Come With a Story
Gift Wrapping With a Twist
Alright, first things first: I’m big on gift wrap themes – every year, I’ve got a whole color scheme planned out, down to the tiniest ribbon. But here’s the thing...it feels a little tragic to spend so much on gorgeous wrapping paper, only for it to end up in the landfill. So this year, I’m going with Shiki Wrap’s Full Holiday Collection – Reusable Gift Wrap that’s made to last.
Shiki Wrap isn’t your average wrapping paper. They use an innovative dye sublimation process on fabric that’s machine washable and super durable, meaning I can reuse it year after year. Plus, they’re doing things right – eco-friendly, made in the USA, and proudly women- and POC-owned. It’s a feel-good choice that looks great under the tree and does some good for the planet.
Unique Gifts For My Husband
Rugged but picky, with that whole “I don’t need anything” vibe
Backyard Explorer Bundle by MPOWERD
We love spending time outside, so this MPOWERD bundle with Luci Lux and Luci String Lights is perfect for lighting up our backyard hangouts or camping trips. And since it’s all solar-powered, it’s a total lifesaver when my husband forgets to charge his phone (which he does a lot, especially when he’s at work where charging options can be...limited). Plus, MPOWERD is eco-friendly, B Corp certified, and supports its workers, so I know this gift is making a positive impact too.
Eco-Friendly Gifts For My Sister-in-Laws
Effortlessly stylish and impossible to shop for
Coconut Vanilla Bathroom Bundle by Community Goods
This bundle from Community Goods is a girl’s best friend for a natural, luxe bathroom routine. It’s got a Coconut Vanilla Shampoo Bar, Conditioner Bar, Deodorant, Fresh Mint Toothpaste Tablets, a Sisal Shampoo Bar Saving Bag, and even a Solid Bamboo Toothbrush. Everything’s vegan, cruelty-free, and made with natural ingredients, so she can enjoy her self-care routine guilt-free. And with Community Goods being women- and POC-owned, it adds a subtle touch of girl power to her daily routine!
Daphne Earrings by Astor & Orion
These Daphne Earrings from Astor + Orion are a perfect mix of style and sustainability. They’re simple yet elegant, made from recycled brass with a silver-toned finish that goes with everything. Lightweight, hypoallergenic, and a little artsy – I know my sisters-in-law will love them. Plus, Astor + Orion is women- and POC-owned, and they’re all about giving back, so it’s a gift that does some good too!
Gift Ideas For the Person You Never Know What to Get
Because they "already have everything” (oh really?)
Umoja Sling Bag by Ecodunia
The Umoja Sling Bag from Ecodunia is a great everyday bag for anyone, even those who “have everything.” With a spacious main compartment, easy-access front pockets, and a hidden zip pocket in the back, it’s practical without sacrificing style. Made from vegan materials and lined with vibrant African Kitenge fabric, it adds a unique touch to any outfit. And since Ecodunia is a female-founded, fair-trade brand from Nairobi, this bag supports dignified work and sustainable opportunities – so it’s a gift with purpose, too.
Ethical Gift Ideas For Secret Santa
Something safe yet thoughtful
Coastal Stripe Alpaca Scarf by SLATE + SALT
This Coastal Stripe Alpaca Scarf from SLATE + SALT is a Secret Santa win. It’s unisex, super soft, and perfect for layering on chilly days – basically, something anyone would love. Made from eco-friendly alpaca fiber, it’s durable and won’t pill, so it’ll keep looking great for ages. And with SLATE + SALT being fair-trade and artisan-made, this scarf has a unique story behind it. Founded by Lyndsay, who was inspired by the craftspeople she met while traveling, SLATE + SALT brings together traditional techniques and modern design while supporting artisans with fair wages.
For Me (Because We Deserve a Little Something Too)
The perfect staple piece that’ll last forever
Matis Ultra Wide Leg by ÉTICA
These wide-leg jeans from ÉTICA are my personal pick for the season – they’re the kind of wardrobe staple I know I’ll be reaching for again and again. Made with a blend of sustainable materials like organic and recycled cotton, they’re as eco-friendly as they are stylish. And ÉTICA, true to its name, goes all-in on ethical practices, from providing living wages and healthcare for workers to cutting back on water, energy, and chemicals in production. Durable, timeless, and doing good – exactly what I’m looking for in my go-to denim!
I’m kicking off my shopping early this year with DoneGood’s Shop for Good Sale (hello, 25% off – don’t mind if I do!). But if you’re more of a last-minute shopper, don’t worry – their Sale section is always loaded with great deals, so you can gift sustainably even if you’re down to the wire.
And rumor has it there’ll be some extra surprise sales for Black Friday and December, so definitely keep an eye out. Got someone on your list you’re stumped on? Drop a comment, and I’ll help you find the perfect sustainable gift!
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