5 Local & Global Gifts for the Holidays

If shopping malls give you hives during the holidays, then take a step back and rethink your approach. Shopping local and global can make gift giving fun while supporting smaller economies.  I found 5 gifts for the cool, conscious and engaged consumers seeking a new way to express their love.

 

1. DECORATIONS

Amani Ya Juu in Mount Pleasant Washington DC http://www.amaniafrica.org/

This small company took its name from the Swahili saying, “Peace from Above.” They import handmade holiday ornaments made by women in Liberia, Kenya and Rwanda. With boutiques in over five U.S. states, Amani Ya Juu has created a brand that blends empowerment with culture. Check out the embroidered gold Christmas African Angel for $10.

 

2. HANDBAGS & FIBER ART

Bahari Deco Crafts in Fenton Street Market in Silver Spring

Mariam Mohamed built her business, Bahari Creation, using the vivid Kanga fabric from her home of Tanzania. She creates soft, creative clutches, yoga bags and purses for the global woman with east African flare. Mariam leads a team that can create just about any kind of tote for your holiday shopping needs. Check out her traveling yoga bag made from imported Tanzanian cloth. Visit http://www.baharicreations.com/

 

3. CLOTHING

Nubian Hueman in Anacostia

This little gem tucked away in the Anacostia Arts Center sells an exotic array of body oils, soaps and earrings east of the River. The owner blends African diaspora couture with mainstream American cute and funky. Try the lemongrass soap for a soothing aromatic experience. $7 Visit Nubian Hueman online http://nubianhueman.com/collections/all?page=5

 

4. BODY CARE

Oyin Handmade in Baltimore

“Don’t hate, hydrate” is the motto of Oyin Handmade, a family-owned operation based off of Charles Street in Baltimore, MD. After testing their products, I purchased the gift box for $50.  I love the whipped honey butter because it hydrated my skin in the dead of winter as well as in the hot sun while on the beach.

 

5. BOOKS

Visiting Feelings by Dr. Lauren Rubenstein in Chevy Chase

Dr. Lauren Rubenstein didn’t let the traveling between Haiti and DC stop her vision. Dr. Rubenstein is a psychologist and yoga teacher who wrote a visually beautiful and poetic book about the emotions of children. The beautiful colors and diversity in images portray a world where children can express themselves without judgment. Order online at Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Visiting-Feelings-Lauren-Rubenstein/dp/1433813394

This season, explore a new form of giving that lets you window shop around the world from the comfort of your home. Support small businesses, shop local and consume with a conscience.

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