Alexandria's Holiday Gift Guide 2021 Edition
Alexandria’s Holiday Gift Guide 2021 Edition
Originally published: December 14, 2021
I know I begin every holiday season proclaiming how much disbelief I am in that the holidays are indeed, in full swing. Holiday shopping can be downright stressful and anxiety-inducing. Am I right? There is nothing worse than not knowing what to get a loved one and being pressed for time. Though this guide came out a little late, there is no shortage of incredible last-minute gift ideas. This gift guide is broken down into twelve collections that I hope you can refer back to time and time again. Thank you for your patience, as it’s been a labor of love. It’s my hope that you or someone you know will be able to draw inspiration from this.
If you are feeling the holiday pressure like I am, just remember that thoughtfulness goes an incredibly long way. The holiday season shouldn’t solely be about materialism. The pandemic has made everyone’s financial situation even more trying. Don’t forget that making handmade items, baked goods, and vouchers can go a long way. Non-materialist items are timeless and typically that much more thoughtful. As always, if you have any questions or gift ideas that you love, drop them below, as I’d love to connect and hear from you. I hope you have an incredible holiday season ahead.
All my love,
Alexandria
For Her
We all have those women in our lives that are impossible to shop for. Here, I have rounded up some of my personal favorites, some of which are on my current wishlist this year.
01. Ippodo Ikuyo Matcha 100g- If you know me or watch my stories on Instagram, you are probably familiar with Ippodo. They are hands down my favorite Japanese tea company. I have frequented their shops in Tokyo and New York City. They have been harvesting tea since 1717 and are the absolute kindest people. If you love matcha as I do, you will not be disappointed with their 100-gram bag. It’s what I use daily and have found it to be the best bang for your buck.
02. Aesop The Advocate Elaborate Body Kit- Aesop has been a favorite of mine for decades. Their soaps, creams, and oils do not disappoint.
03. Lulu & Georgia Candlestick- Everything from Lulu & Georgia is divine.
04. Living Libations Sandalwood Oil- I have been eyeing this oil for quite some time. Their Sea Buckthorn oil is fantastic, so I can only imagine how incredible this one is.
05. Morgan Lane Satin Pajama Set- Is there anything more heavenly than a super chic, silky pajama set?
06. Ferm Living Ripple Glasses- These have been on my wishlist all year. Absolutely obsessed.
07. The Beauty Chef Inner Beauty Discovery Kit- The Beauty Chef, aka Carla Oates, is an extraordinary resource for all things beauty. Her products are hand-crafted with so much love. Her recipes are also incredible.
08. Nude Glass Pink Wide Vase- I have been fixated on finding a vase like this for years, so when I stumbled upon it I freaked out. You can thank me later.
09. Parachute Home Classic Robe- I have been living in this robe since Ben gifted it to me for my birthday.
10. Ferm Living Carafe- Because we obviously need the matching carafe.
11.S’well Bottle 170z- Okay, I’ve put these on my guides the past few years, and it’s because they are too good. They don’t leak, they keep your beverages hot or cold, and are just the best water bottles I’ve found on the market. We don’t leave the house without ours.
For Him
For all the men in our lives that are as equally impossible to shop for.
01. Ugg Scuff Slippers- I gifted these to Ben a few years back and safe to say, he (and I mean, I) has put them to good use.
02. Aesop Rise + Shine Beard Oil- This is a must. If you know, you know.
04. Carhartt Wool Socks- I’m not sure how I’m so late to the game on wool socks, but I steal Ben’s all the time.
05. Aesop Departure Kit- Because they need their own self-care kit too. But moreover, they won’t have to steal your products anymore.
06. S’well Tumbler 16oz- Okay, I’ve put these on my guides the past few years, and it’s because they are too good. They don’t leak, keep your beverages hot or cold, and are just the best water bottles I’ve found on the market. We don’t leave the house without ours.
07. Moleskine Classic Extra Large Notebook- My step-dad turned me onto these notebooks when I was in high school, and they have been my go-to ever since. I love their classic medium and extra-large books.
08. Coach Tech Napa Gloves- Perfect for those long winter months. I can’t live without mine
09. Tovolo King Cube Ice Tray- These ice cube trays make for a great gift to give your special someone. It's one of those things that are so handy, but not everyone thinks to get. I also like to use these for freezing smoothie ingredients and extra broth I don’t want to go bad.
10.Brooklyn Candle Company Escapist Set- Candles aren't just for women. I absolutely love the Brooklyn Candle Company and until we can safely travel again, what’s the second-best thing besides gifting a vacation? Chic destination candles.
For The Kiddos
Though I don’t have a child, many of my friends do. Here are some of the things that they love and can’t live without.
01. Artipoppe Baby Carrier- Hands down the chicest baby carrier I have seen. Many of my mama friends love theirs and rave about their functionality.
02. PackIt Freezable Snack Box- The coolest insulated lunch box I’ve seen. They make various shapes and sizes. For a more classic lunch box see here or here
03. Gathre Maxi Square Playmat- From their playmats to their bibs, this is such a useful gift to give. One of my best mama friends uses hers all the time and can’t get enough.
04. Stasher Snack Bag- Perfect for any on-the-go snacking.
05. Weleda Calendula Baby Bundle Duo Set- Perfect for mama’s to be or any mom in general. This is one of my go-to gifts.
06. Lovevery Playkit Subscription- Meet Lovevery, a stage-based play essential for your child’s developing brain. Lovevery takes the guesswork out of researching various Montessori-based toys. This makes for the perfect gift for your child or your friend's child with their subscription-based kits.
07. Mary Ruth’s Kids Multivitamin- I love Mary Ruth’s liquid supplements. So I can only imagine how great the kids' supplements are too. If your child is a picky eater, having them take a multi can be highly useful.
08. Honest Company Baby Arrival Set- Another great gift for any mama to be.
09. Branch Basics Premium Starter Kit- In my opinion, every single person should have this kit in their home, especially parents. Take a look at my Instagram Highlight section to view how I use mine. Use my code ALEXANDRIA to receive 15% off any starter kit. Branch Basics has been a godsend for my family and I.
10. S’ip By S’well 10oz Bottle- You already know how much we love our S’well’s, so this couldn’t be any more perfect for your little.
My Favorites From Branch Basics
Meet Branch Basics, a family-run and women-owned business. They are hands down my favorite refillable cleaning system on the market. Their hero product is the concentrate, and one bottle has lasted me just shy over a year, which is incredible considering how much I clean. Some of my favorite ways to use this are for washing produce, surfaces, laundry, and makeup brushes, amongst many other things. They have been a partner of mine for over a year, and I love working with them. If you've ever been interested in trying, use my code ALEXANDRIA for 15% off all Starter Kits.
01. Premium Starter Kit- This is the kit I suggest anyone starts with since it comes with everything you’ll need. The Oxygen Boost is another favorite product of mine. I use it to clean our bathtubs, grout, pots, and pans, and to brighten up our clothes in the laundry.
02. Laundry Starter Kit- If you’re just interested in finding a good laundry detergent, this kit is for you.
03. Glass Starter Kit- I recently received their glass bottles in the mail and I am obsessed. They instantly elevate your kitchen.
04. Natural Scrub Brush- Perfect for cleaning produce, especially potatoes and squashes.
05. The Trail Kit- If you’re unsure about how you’ll like Branch Basics, this trial kit is perfect.
06. Oxygen Boost- Oxygen Boost helps to maximize the power of the Concentrate and is great for laundry, stains, and grout. It’s free of bleach, ammonia, fragrances, and dyes. This container holds up to 32 loads of laundry and is safe for HE washing machines and septic tanks. This product is truly worth the hype.
07. Wool Dryer Balls- We don’t use dryer sheets, because I find them to be unnecessary and wasteful. I love using these dryer balls instead though.
08.The Concentrate Refill- If you or someone you know already uses BB, then this is liquid gold.
For The Home Cook
Getting back into the kitchen and cooking played a pivotal role in healing my relationship with food. For my fellow homemakers, I have put together a collection of items that any home cook should have in their kitchen.
01. Brandless High-Speed Blender- I have used plenty of high-end blenders, and if I’m being honest, this one easily compares to my parents' Blendtec. Because a Vitamix is simply not in my budget, nor do I want to shell out the cash for it, this one from Brandless has been fantastic.
02. Cuisinart 14 Cup Food Processor- Every home cook needs this food processor. Hands down, the best on the market.
03. Smeg Tea Kettle- I mean, it’s gorgeous just look at it.
04. Unicorn Peppermill- When Ben first proposed replacing our pepper mill for this one, I rolled my eyes so hard. I couldn’t wrap my head around why we needed this. However, I stand corrected. This pepper mill has been a game-changer, and I didn’t realize how lousy our old one was in comparison. The consistency of the grind is incredible.
05. Maldon Sea Salt- Every single person needs flakey sea salt in their lives.
06. Marcato Atlas 150 Pasta Maker- If you like pasta as much as we do, this is the perfect gift for any home cook.
07. Yamazaki Home Tosca Cookbook Stand- I just adore this home goods company. I might be a little biased, but all of their products are sleek and functional. This cookbook stand saves you from having to continuously re-flip through your cookbook while cooking. We all know how annoying that can be.
08. Stasher Stand Up Bag- I love these reusable bags and take them everywhere with me.
09. Silpat- Say goodbye to buying parchment paper. Just like Stasher bags, they are a little costly upfront but will save you a lot of money in the future.
10. Bamboozle Food Compost Bin- I am a big composter. I grew up composting and didn’t realize that a lot of people didn’t until I started traveling for work. This compost bin is so chic and I myself want to upgrade ours to this.
11. Salt Fat Acid Heat by Samin Nosrat- Such a classic book for any home cook. Samin is an incredible resource and she is downright brilliant.
12.Smeg Frother- Who wouldn't want this?! Makes for the most epic frothy lattes.
For The Beauty Seekers
I am a huge proponent of the philosophy that beauty begins from within. From eating an abundantly plant-rich diet, along with adhering to environmental and lifestyle toxins, taking care of myself and my skin is a priority. Here’s a collection of my must-have items.
01. Living Libations Sea Buckthorn Oil- Absolutely obsessed with this oil and everything Living Libations creates.
02. Heritage Store Rosewater- I have been using this rosewater spray since college, and it’s one of those things that I take with me everywhere. It’s great for on-the-go hydration, especially while traveling.
03. Kosas 10-Second Eyeshadow- I am obsessed with this liquid eyeshadow. I don’t wear much makeup but when I do, this is a must. The color I use is Copper Halo.
04. Weleda Skin Food Ultra Rich Cream- Much like the rosewater, this cream is another OG favorite of mine. I discovered it on set in Japan at a shoot, and always keep it on me.
05. Aesop Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm- Out of all my Aesop hand balms, this one is my favorite. From the aroma to the luxurious feel, this hand balm is everything.
06. Supergoop! Play Everyday SPF 50- This is the only sunscreen I use. It has a light texture, is non-greasy, and gives great coverage. I use this on my face as well. It’s a non-negotiable skincare item for me. And seeing as sun protection is often overlooked, it should be on your list too.
07. Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40- Like I mentioned above, I don’t wear a lot of makeup and have never been a foundation girl, until I tried this product. When I want a little bit more coverage I turn to this and it gives the perfect glow.
08. Ilia Fullest Volumizing Mascara- I have been using Ilia’s mascara for years. Hands down one of my favorites.
09. Ilia Essential Brow Gel- Besides skincare, this is the only thing I consistently put on my face. It’s a must for me.
10. Seed Synbiotic- I have tried so many probiotics on the market, and Seed is hands down the best one I have ever used. It is a synbiotic (meaning a pre and probiotic in one) and has an extraordinary amount of science and research behind it. I have recently partnered with them after being a customer for over a year. Use my code ALEXANDRIA15 to receive 15% off your first subscription order. My skin has never been better.
11. Moon Juice Supers Set- Moon Juice was where I first started going when I got into this space years ago. I adore their founder Amanda. Every product they create is beyond thoughtful and will instantly raise your vibration.
12.NuFACE Platinum Mini Set- I have been so intrigued by this tool. It’s loved by many of my skincare know-it-alls, so I felt it deserved a place on here.
For The Fitness Fanatics
Whether you’re into Pilates, yoga, or high-intensity interval training, or none of these, this collection of items can certainly level up your movement practice.
01. Dr. Teal’s Epsom Salt- This is a must regardless of your fitness level.
02. Sprout Living Epic Protein- I have been loving this plant-based protein. I have currently been using their Vanilla Lucuma flavor. It’s super smooth, not chalky, and has incredible sprouted ingredients. Sprouting helps increase the bioavailability and nutrition in plants. Not to mention, Sprout Living is third-party tested, ensuring you’re getting a quality product.
03. Bala Bangles- These ankle weights have been in my fitness toolkit for years. I absolutely love them and travel with them as well.
04. Manduka Pro Yoga Mat- Hands down the best yoga mat I have ever used.
05. Gaiam Yoga Block + Strap- Utilizing yoga blocks and straps has helped my practice and flexibility so much. These make for incredible gifts that your friends may not think to buy for themselves.
06. Sakara Protein + Greens- Makes for a great combination of plant-based protein sources along with high quality alkalizing greens and detoxifying algaes.
07. Jawku Massage Gun- Ben spent a few weeks researching the best massage guns on the market when he ultimately gifted me this one a few years back. With his science background, research is his thing, and this massage gun didn’t disappoint. I have tried various popular brands, and I ultimately liked this one better.
08. The Laundress Sport Detergent- Besides Branch Basics, I love everything by Laundress. When it comes to enhancing your cleaning experience, look no further. We keep various detergents of theirs on hand because we can’t get over the aroma it leaves on our sheets and clothes. This detergent is great for any friends who live and breathe fitness.
09. Bala Bars- Just like their ankle weights, these bars are like a much elevated version of a dumbbell. If you’re looking for a heavier option, see here are their 3lb weights.
10. Nike Air Zoom SuperRep- These have been on my wishlist for quite some time. I have heard nothing but great things about this cross training shoe.
11. Pilates Ball- These small yet effective Pilates prop helps enhance anyone’s practice.
12.Pilates Grip Socks- I love wearing comfy socks and hate having to take them off when I’m stretching or doing a flow. These grip socks allow you to remain comfy while getting your practice in.
For The Wellness Aficionado’s
Due to being in the health and wellness space for almost a decade, I come across a multitude of products. Some good, bad, and downright lackluster. However, this collection below is inspired by some of my favorite wellness-y practices. However, I just want to put this out there. You don’t need any of these products to be “well”. They are just some of the things I have found helpful over the years.
01. Seed Daily Synbiotic- I have tried so many probiotics on the market, and Seed is hands down the best one I have ever used. It is a synbiotic (meaning a pre and probiotic in one) and has an extraordinary amount of science and research behind it. I have recently partnered with them after being a customer for over a year. Use my code ALEXANDRIA15 to receive 15% off your first subscription order. My skin has never been better.
02. The Five Minute Journal- Such a simple, yet fun journal to incorporate into your daily routine. For more info on how I like to use it, see here.
03. Calm App Subscription- This is one of my favorite meditation apps. I do a three to five minute meditation daily and listen to their sleep stories every night. I highly recommend this app. For more on this, see here.
04. Things Are Looking Up Deck- Rooted in science, Dr. Depika Chopra hand-crafted incredible cards to help increase optimism. Which is something I think we could all use these days.
05. Hatch Restore Sunrise Alarm Clock- You know you’re getting older when this ends up on your wishlist. In all seriousness though, this alarm clock is amazing. For more information on what sunrise alarm clocks are all about, check out this article I wrote for Total Foods Japan here.
06. De La Hart Lymphatic Drainage Paddle- If you or someone you know is into lymphatic drainage, this tool is it. For more information about it, I do a deep dive here.
07. Boka Toothpaste- This is the only toothpaste we use and love it.
08. Higher Dose Sauna Blanket- The ultimate wellness gift.
09. Goop Dry Brush- Along with the lymphatic drainage tool, I love using this dry brush first. For more information one what dry brushing is, check out this article I wrote for Total Foods Japan here.
My Favorites From Sakara
Founded by Danielle and Whitney, these women were on a mission to share life-changing nutrition, ingredients you can trust, and chef-crafted meals that provoke pure joy. I have been a long-time customer of Sakara, and this year I got the opportunity to partner with them, which I never thought was possible. Below are some of my personal favorites from them. Please enjoy a 20 percent off me on your first-time orders using my code XOALEXANDRIAY.
01. Sakara Protein + Greens- Makes for a great combination of plant-based protein sources along with high quality alkalizing greens and detoxifying algaes.
02. Sleep Tea- This is heavenly to sip on while doing my evening routine.
03. Popcorn Trio- This is something I look forward to every year.
04. Beauty Water + Detox Water Drops- These have become a staple in my daily routine. For more information on why I love this duo, see here.
05. Metabolism Super Bar- This ultra fudgy bar is a compact way of enjoying their Metabolism Super Powder on the go. Just like the powder, this bar supports lipid metabolism, gut health, and combats sugar cravings. It’s 100 percent plant-based, has 10 grams of fiber, 12 grams of plant protein, and is nut free. It’s the perfect bar to keep in your bag for whenever you might need a boost throughout your day.
06. Metabolism Super Powder- This naturally rich dark chocolate powder helps support lipid metabolism, helps curb sugar cravings, supports gut health and digestion. I love adding this to my smoothies in the morning or making a hot chocolate using organic unsweetened soy milk as my base. If you’re a coffee drinker, try blending this into your latté.
07. Sakara Signature Meal Program- A great way to help your body reset at any stage of life. Their signature meal program contains fresh ready to eat meals, teas, supplements, and support. They are always fresh, organic, plant-based, gluten-free, dairy-free, non-GMO, and refined sugar-free. There is absolutely no cooking required which makes it the ultimate convenience delivery service. It’s a little pricey so I highly suggest taking advantage of my code XOALEXANDRIAY for 20 percent off your first order.
08. Sakara Nootropic Chocolates- Nootropics accompanied by adaptogens are a fantastic way to support your focus and keep your energy levels up without relying on caffeine. And what better way to do that than eating a piece of functional chocolate?
09.Sakara 10 Day Rest- This is a great introductory product to Sakara. It contains their wellness teas, protein and greens, water drops, and so much more. I love doing this reset anytime I’m feeling off, as it’s a great way to refocus on getting an abundance of nutrient-dense foods that are filled with antioxidants and rich in phytochemicals. Instead of getting pre-made meals, this reset provides you with a 10-day recipe book, which I love because I love to cook. If you want to see exactly what’s inside, check out myInstagram Highlight on Sakara here.
For The In-Laws And Your Parents
Shopping for your in-laws and parents can be extremely stressful. The subtle expectations from this season alone are a lot. However, I hope this collection below provides you with some inspiration that I think any parent in your life will be enamored about.
01. Lulu & Georgia Serving Bowl- When you’re lost on what to get someone, especially in-laws or parents, I always result to unique serving bowls. Gathering around home-cooked meals is a huge part of my family upbringing, and I know how hard it is to find a functional yet unique gift. What better way to do that than finding them a beautiful bowl that can serve as a piece of art?
02. The Laundress Signature Detergent- If you want an elevated sleeping experience, this detergent is a must. Not only does it smell magnificent, but it makes your sheets and clothing buttery soft.
03. Cultiverre Harvesting Bag- If you have garden lovers in your life, this harvesting bag is it. It would make for a great farmer’s market bag as well. Ugh, swoon.
04. Harney & Sons Paris Tea- My mom introduced me to this tea in junior high, and we have been obsessed ever since. It has such a unique flavor profile that is so comforting, especially in the long winter months.
05. Boll & Branch Robe- Who doesn’t love lounging in a robe? I love this one from Boll & Branch as much as my Parachute one that’s featured above.
06. Airpods- I was so hellbent on not getting Airpods for the longest time. It wasn’t until my then 68 year old Dad got some and I tested them out. These have been 100 percent worth it for me, and any parent would love them as well.
07. Boll & Branch Duvet Set- Nothing says, I love you more than gifting an organic high quality duvet set.
08. Netflix Subscription- I thought this was fitting since I’m sure many of us are still on our parents' streaming accounts. What better way to say thank you for supporting our binging needs than gifting an annual subscription to their favorite streaming service.
09.The Laundress Home Spray- Just like their detergent, this home spray is also so divine. I fell in love with this spray when I moved to New York City. I use it on my sheets, pillowcases, and for freshening up any room.
For Those Who Want To Shop Small
A collection of talented founders, creators, and artisans who you should know about and support.
01. Ippodo Tea Essential Matcha Starter Kit- My love for Ippodo runs deep. This matcha starter set is everything you need to start making traditional matchas at home. To read more about why I love Ippodo so much, see here.
02. The Ginger People Organic Sushi Ginger- Anything from The Ginger People is a must. However, I love adding their organic pickled sushi ginger to just about everything. If you’re a ginger lover like I am, look no further. Not to mention, they are such kind people. To see some recipes featuring an array of their products, see here, here, and here.
03. Brightland Olive Oil + Vinegar- Brightland, a female-founded company, lives up to the hype. Not only is their packaging insanely beautiful, but their olive oil and vinegar are zesty, bright, herbaceous, and made with so much care.
04. Jasmine Chong Accessories- I will forever have a special place in my heart for Jasmine Chong. She saw something in me that I didn’t see in myself. Because of her belief in me, I was able to experience being a part of New York Fashion Week. Which was something I was told I would most likely never be able to experience because of my height. Not only is she an insanely talented designer, but she is such a kind, hardworking, and thoughtful woman. All of which is reflected in her pieces that she handmakes in New York City.
05. Danielle Doby Letterpress Prints- An insanely gifted woman. Danielle Doby is a writer and her words resonate with me so well. I love gifting her letterpress prints to my friends and family. I have a few hanging on my walls as we speak.
06. Bachan’s Japanese Barbecue Sauce- Bachan (which means grandma in Japanese) sauces started with Judy Yokoyama, who lived and worked in an internment camp. Cooking, along with strong family values, was deeply rooted in her values. All of which were passed down to her grandson Justin. Fast forward many years, and he was able to bring his family's sauces to life in 2019. This is such an epic sauce and has become a staple in our home.
07. Electric Picks Jewelry- Founded by two women, Electric Picks works with a local metalsmith in New York City. Their designs are thoughtfully made, and they offer a lifetime guarantee on each piece, which is unheard of. I absolutely adore my anklets I have from them.
08. Fly By Jing Sichuan Chili Crisp- Founded by another badass woman, Jing was inspired to create products that reminded her of the amazing flavors of her hometown Chengdu and its famous fly restaurants. Trust me when I say this, but you need this product in your life if you love food as much as we do.
09.Seed + Mill- Founded by three incredible women, who all grew up in various countries. Their paths crossed in New York City, where they discovered a shared passion for food, cooking, and quality ingredients. Determined to show the versatility of tahini and halva, they opened a small kiosk and now have a beautiful storefront in Chelsea Market. Their tahini and halva are out of this world.
For Those Who Have It All
We all have these people in our lives. And my god, it’s anxiety-inducing not knowing what to give someone who seemingly already has it all. This list is a collection of a few items, but mainly inspiration ideas depending on your location.
01. The Adventure Challenge Couples Edition- My good girlfriend gifted me this for my birthday. It’s such a fun, unique, and thoughtful gift that I would’ve never found or gifted to myself. They make a variety of different themed adventure books.
02. StoryWorth- If you’re looking for a personal, heartfelt gift to give this holiday season, look no further. StoryWorth is a service that can collect your loved one’s favorite stories and memories and preserve them in a beautifully bound book.
03. Masterclass Annual Membership- Perfect for those who love to learn.
04. Under Lucky Stars- I’ve gifted this to a few people in my life and their faces when they opened said it all. It’s such a beautiful, yet highly personal piece of artwork that holds whatever memory you choose.
05. We’re Not Really Strangers Set- We’re Not Really Strangers is a purpose-driven card game and movement all about empowering and fostering meaningful connections. Three carefully crafted levels of questions and wildcards allow you to deepen your existing relationships and create new ones.
06. Handmade Vouchers- You can never go wrong with handmade vouchers. I love making vouchers for meal prepping, cleaning someone’s house, etc. Another option could be printing off a tasting menu that you will be paying for, movie tickets, ski passes, annual passes to a museum, concert tickets, fitness class packages, etc.
07. Fever Candlelight Classical Music- Ben recently did this and loved it. This is obviously location dependent but check Feverup.com to see if they have this in your city. They also have fun experience gifts to give as well.
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