The Conscious Gifting Guide
Oh hello!
I am thrilled to be joining HEYDAY as your monthly Sustainability Columnist.
Every month I will be sharing real-life, fuss-free tips and tricks for everyone wanting to make a more positive impact on the planet. We will talk about local brands doing good, DIY hacks, places to be, businesses to support, my eco-heroes and the land that feeds and nourishes us all.
My first column explores a few tips around conscious Christmas gifting, from new and exciting local brands to reconnecting with old traditions.If you're looking for gifts to please even the hardest-to-buy-for people in your life (that don't cost the Earth!) read on to discover my top picks...
It’s lovely to be writing for HEYDAY and I truly hope to add some value to your life!
Big Green Energy,
Pat x
Reusable Gifts
If you are looking for a ‘tangible’ gift, a gift that makes you produce less waste will always be my first suggestion. Here are some of my favourites. A coffee cup, a stainless steel water bottle or why not reusable bags? To always have a coffee cup with me is one of my absolute best tips, both for the wallet and the environment. I often brew my coffee at home, and my trusted cup will keep it warm for me, all morning. Or if I don’t have time, I buy on the go and just hand out my cup instead of using a disposable one. Win-win!
Homemade is Heartfelt
Gifts from the kitchen are always appreciated. Your time and energy, and creativity, are just as valued as that store-bought gift that they may not really even need. The gift of food is personal, easy on the environment, and not likely to go to waste!
Jams from the late summer berry season are classic holiday gifts. Also, baked goods, homemade chutney, or pickles are tasty gifts too.
If you don’t have the time or inclination to make homemade edibles, another idea is to investigate your loved ones’ preferences and create a custom recipe book for them. Print the recipes on index cards and bind them with a ribbon. Beautiful and thoughtful! This idea comes to me as my granny once put together the most beautiful recipe book for myself and my husband and it’s certainly something we will forever treasure.
The Power of Battery-Free Gifting
According to the UN, e-waste (think phones, laptops, tablets, etc.) is the fastest growing waste stream in the world.
And batteries aren’t on our planet’s side either. Disposable batteries are a villain in the effort to reduce toxic solid waste, and in the long run, they take far more from the environment than the energy they give. True, they are indispensable in many situations, but gift-giving is “non-essential” and a good place to consider alternatives to battery-powered toys and gadgets. If you must provide batteries for a gift, be sure to buy rechargeable ones.
Support Local
Ireland is packed with talent, but I don’t really need to tell you that. From fashion to art and everything in between, we have got it all! Local brands deserve a post of their own (watch this space!) but for now, I want to share with you a list of a few festive bits and bobs I’ve been either using or had my eye on for a while…
Nunaia Superfood Cleansing Balm
This plant-based facial cleansing balm has been in my life for over a year now and it’s just one of the loveliest (and highly effective!) ways to remove makeup and grime at the end of a long day. It’s packed with antioxidants and it smells divine!
Mervue is a Galway-based business offering a wide range of beauty products, but I am most impressed by their Floral Mist that can be used as a toner after cleansing or throughout the day as a hydrating floral mist. A beautiful treat for skincare aficionados like me!
If you know me, you will know that I am all about jumpsuits. I just think that they are so easy, one-piece et voilà, you are good to go! Feri Folk is a sustainable Irish brand offering a universe of fun patterns and colours. What’s not to love?
Theo & George Oversized V Neck Tee
Call me ‘basic’ but I do love a good plain tee! Probably the most versatile piece of clothing one can own, would you agree? I’ve been a customer of Theo & George for years now just because I’ve never come across a tee that washes so well. Sustainably made and long-lasting, can’t beat it.
Janice Byrne Goldsmith Baroness Rings
Janice knows me way too well at this point and she knows jewellery is my kryptonite. We all have our little sins, am I right? Janice has mastered the art of recycling gold and has worked on a few little projects for me. Her Mint Tourmaline Baroness ring is probably one of my favourite things in the world! #dreamalittledream
Initials to remind you of your strength and how far you’ve come or to remind you of a special someone. A simple, understated and chic piece, made right here in Foxrock village, my ‘hood, by the jewellery Gods at Juvi.
We all know someone who simply cannot get one good night of sleep. Are you that person? Well, these sustainably and locally made weighted pillows might be the solution to your zzzz’s problems as they provide emotional comfort & positional support. Yes, please!
Grounded Pottery Sea and Stars Ceramic Travel Cup
I got to work with this Tralee-based business when we joined forces to design a beautiful travel mug for my brand, reuzi. Grounded Pottery is all about handmade ceramic cups and accessories. There’s something so special about their work! This cup is the perfect gift for coffee and tea lovers alike.
Now, this is what I call a ‘Selection Box’! Alice, the incredibly talented chef behind Rua Food, has come up with a box containing some delicious treats. The perfect way to say I love you or just as a little treat to yourself… oh yes, it’s vegan-friendly!
Homespun Christmas Taster Parcel
I’ve been a fan of Erica’s creations from day 1. Healthy but never boring, Homespun offers a range of popped quinoa-based granola as well as the one and only Chicory Root Syrup, a fantastic low sugar replacement for honey.
Ground The Bearded Man Gift Set
I have looked far and wide for beard products that do the job but also work beautifully as an aromatherapy tool. In my opinion, GROUND has simply nailed it. This 100% natural aromatherapy grooming set will surely wow even the manliest man!
If you are investing in a new piece of clothing for the lads in your life, I’d recommend you to have a look at Grown’s collection for high quality and long-lasting pieces like this jumper.
Pixi + Jon Co. Clay Hair Clips
I am always so impressed by handmade gifts. These Irish made hair clips look the part and better yet, can get wiped clean in case a little bit of cake frosting gets on their hair :)
As a mom of 2 little boys, I am always on the hunt for plastic-free toys and this little jigsaw is one of those beautiful, fun and educational pieces. Made from sustainably sourced wood, this toy will make the perfect Christmas stocking filler for boys and girls alike!
Second Hand is the New Black
Sure, why not? It’s time to look at “pre-loved” in a new light. Giving a pre-loved gift was once out of the question – it made the gift-giver feel cheap. And no one wants to risk offending the recipient. But pre-loved gifts are the kindest of all to the environment, as no energy or resources are expended. Today there are many areas where pre-loved items can be appropriate as gifts, and the list grows with the steady accumulation of goods in our society. Used phones, tablets and computers, for example, can be refurbished and upgraded… kinder on the planet and on your pocket too!
And if you are looking for fashionable pre-loved pieces, check Thriftify and Siopaella. Great for gifts but also fantastic if you are on the hunt for a unique look for your Christmas day!
Support a Charity
Giving a gift through a charity is a gesture that makes most people happy. Personalise the gift by choosing an organisation that the person you are buying for is passionate about.
A few ideas:
Animal’s Rights > DSPCA
Children’s Rights > ISPCC
Climate Action > Climate Case Ireland, An Taisce and Friends of Earth
Carbon Offsetting > VITA Ireland
The Gift of Time
We have all missed friends and family members so much and time spent together has become the most precious thing so why not gift someone a handwritten card, inviting them over for dinner at your place or a weekend packed with long walks by the sea and a chilled movie together? Think of the beautiful memories you’ll get to build together… another scarf or pair of socks will never beat that!
Whatever you choose to do this Christmas, focus on what people need, focus on quality over quantity and always remember: the most precious gift you can give someone is the gift of time.
Wishing you a memorable festive season and see you next month!
Pat Kane, December 2021
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