Michelle has been writing gift guides for 10 plus years. With a pure focus on local and/or sustainable items, products and services are tested and reviewed for inclusion. Michelle’s guides have been featured on Huffington Post, Thrive Global, moms.com and others.

Cheer, cheer for the happiest time of the year… the holidays are finally here! Every year we try to be mindful when testing products, not only to be cognizant of the brands that are sending their products out for review and the cost associated with this, but equally important is the impact it has on the environment. We always try to work with brands we truly believe in, rather than moving onto something new, just because. If we think something is great… it deserves continued attention! And if we find something splendid throughout the year or while doing our own research, then it will be making the list! We really spend time thinking about items that will last, have a positive impact on the wellbeing of individuals and the environment and offer giftees something special, they don’t already possess. This year, we worked with brands that had something to offer all genders. This will help avoid additional shipping fees to the consumer and help reduce carbon emissions for the planet, with one box and shipment for multiple people. We also broke the categories into different age groups Gen Z with more techie-type items and Millenials and beyond with a bit more pricey items. However, one could shop from either and find something for someone from teen to adult and a couple of brands even have gift options for children. So without further adieu… go on and get shopping!

For her:

1. Pact- Organic Cotton Cable Knit Sweater-Dress it up or down, this timeless piece will last for the long term The color is such a great neutral and will pretty much go with anything. Pact offers women’s men’s and bedding and bath too! Pact proudly partners with Fair Trade USA, Global Organic Textile Standard, and SimpliZero to ensure their products and processes, support both people and the planet. $83

2. Mejuri Dôme Figure Slim Stacker Set- These rings certainly have the wow factor! Make a statement by gifting both these beauties together or apart. They are sure to make a statement and that statement will live on as is or as they capture the attention of both people passing by and her inner circle alike. Mejuri jewels are designed in house in low quantities, using high-quality, responsibly sourced materials. Both 498 Gold $398 Diamond $598

3. Cozy Earth Women’s Bamboo Pajamas- These bamboo pajamas have become a cult favorite over the past several years. Their super supple feel keeps them often out of stock often. They also offer men’s and children.s options in addition to their bath and bedding.. Grab them while you can. $175

   Both

4. Lomi Food Composter- This indoor composter takes just about all your food waste and turns it into lovely fertilizer for your garden year-round. Looks great on the counter and doesn’t smell! And don’t fret if you don’t have a garden, you can empty it into your plants, gift it to a neighbor or friend, or pass it along to your community garden or compost center, Normally $659. Currently on sale for $359, their best price of the year, Use code: GWL50 at checkout

5. Ohom Ceramic Self-Heating Coffee Mug- An exceptional brand of high-quality products all around. Their UV filtered water bottle is outstanding and we are still testing some other products including their Jun diffuser which we plan to share in our GenZ guide, but for the star of the show we hail their ceramic self-heating coffee mug as our most fave pick. Have been using and following the brand for over 4 years now. They are not only well-made, but thoughtfully executed too. The charging pad for the mugs doubles as a phone charger! Genius! Hot coffee all morning long and unnecessary waste. Comes in 2 sizes starting at $98

6. Vinebox Organic Single Serve Wine Tasting Selection- This is a sommelier-curated collection of six European organic wines. An excellent selection of wines for a greener planet. Vinebox offers single-serve selections which helps to reduce waste. Each glass offers the freshest possible wine product. Never again will you have to pour out the remains of an unfinished bottle that’s gone off. Collections are sold separately and subscriptions are available . This organic box offers 3 red and 3 white. Priced at $79 Buy 3 and retrieve a 20 percent discount off the entire purchase.

7. Ettitude Airy Bamboo Sheet Set- Ettitude’s PLNTsilk™ fabric exudes the elegance of silk, while offering the supreme comfort of cotton. Its smooth texture and lustrous appearance read luxury while keeping the planet in mind. They are also antimicrobial, anti-odor, and antifungal. Ettitude is a B Corporation and offers a full line of bedding and towels using innovative and patented fabrications.
   Starting at $499 Currently on sale.

   For Him:

8. Pact 1/4 Zip Sweater - The quarter zip is on almost every guy’s list this year. It’s become a staple in a gentleman’s wardrobe. This one is crafted in organic cotton and can be paired up with a button-down or down with one of Pact’s durable, yet soft, softspun tees. Be sure to size down in the sweater, they are running a little on the large side. Sweater $118 Tee $28

9. Mejuri Men’s Leather Bracelet- These men’s bracelets pair well together or alone and offer two different price point options. Buy one, or both for a stacked look. Leather Bracelet From $78 Sterling Silver Bracelet $148

10. Cozy Earth Men’s Bamboo Pajamas- Same beloved bamboo pjs, but for men. He will no longer need to envy your bedtime clothing… he will happily now have his own. Tee $90 Pants $115

1. Radmor Golf- Stylish and sustainable golf apparel made of natural textiles like BCI and Peruvian Pima cotton, biodegradable materials and recycled fabrics, such as certified recycled polyester (aka. Repreve) made from plastic bottles or recycled nylon made from fishing nets. This brand is a perfect choice for the dad who wants to look good and feel good about the clothes he is wearing. With an elegant selection of shorts, pants, tops and accessories, the line pays particular attention to the durability of its goods. They have also completely eliminated the use of single use plastic with compostable hang tags, recyclable packaging and the use of recycled materials for their labels and trims.

2. Emile Henry- Made in France since 1850, Emile Henry is made of Burgundy clay using their proprietary High Resistance Oven Ceramic state-of-the-art manufacturing process to make high quality ovenware and bakeware products. Burgundy clay evenly and slowly diffuses heat to the very center of the cooking dish which is why professional chefs around the world hold this line in such high regard. Dad will love whipping up pizza with this pizza stone or cooking or baking with any of their other superior products.

3. Suri- One of the most well executed products we have encountered, Suri electric toothbrushes rock! From their commitment to the planet, with plant based compostable replacement heads and plastic free packaging, to the innovation of their UV charging case, which both sterilizes and charges your toothbrush. Suri is a game changer! Your techie dad will swoon over Suri for sure!

4. Pact- Clothing and homeware line made of organic cotton in fair trade factories. Pact wear is GOTS certified and carbon neutral with the help of Simpli Zero. All Pact wares are shipped in Vela bags: the responsibly made, carbon-neutral, FSC™ certified, and completely recyclable paper bag created to help reduce the use of plastic. Keep dad looking and feeling cool all summer long with a t-shirt bundle from their recently launched softspun t-shirt collection or any of their other organic clothing.

5. Leaf- This brilliantly designed razor is both luxurious and extremely well crafted. Made of chrome metal in a variety of colors, the razor ships with plastic free replaceable blades. The shave is clean and as close to this skin as you can, resulting in the most smooth shave possible. 3+ billion disposable plastic razors could be diverted from landfill each year with this simple switch. Shipped in completely plastic free packaging, dad will be obsessed upon receiving this stellar gift. Leaf also offers a blade tin for used blades. Once full, the tin can be shipped back to Leaf for safe recycling.

Click and Grow- This hydroponic garden allows mom to grow herbs, veg and/or fruit indoors 365 days per year. Will help mom cut down on last-minute groceries runs because she forgot that one herb for the recipe she is in the throes of making.  Cuts down on plastic packaging and plastic-wrapped produce which is good for the health of people and the planet. Available in multiple colors and sizes. $199.95

Camp Rose Cellars- This biodynamic wine isn’t just special because of its planet-friendly aspects, it’s also a mother-owned business. Camp Rose Cellars produces low alcohol acid-driven whites, plump rosés and unconventional red blends low alcohol acid-driven whites, plump rosés and unconventional red blends.  Prices range from $20-$48.

Garden for Wildlife- This e-commerce site sells native plantings curated by region.  Purchasing native plants and landscaping helps pollinators like at-risk butterflies, bees and birds thrive. Simply shop the site by your state to find the best eco plants for your area.  Single species from $34.20

Brochu Walker- With top notes of Cedrat, Bergamot & Cardamom, middle notes of Iris Petals, Lavender & Violet Leaf and dry notes of  Cedarwood, Amber Musks & Green Tea, this fragrance will sweep mom away to lavender fields, caressed by a gentle ocean breeze and illuminated by the warm glow of dawn. Madewith natural ingredients harvested with respect and benefit to growers and their communities. When resources are scarce, their notes are produced via a process that does not use the actual fruit/plant but replicates the scent in a lab to not diminish the natural resource or they are upcycled using natural materials that would have been thrown away by other industries.

evolvetogether- High performing, simple and sustainable products good for you and the planet. We especially like their hand creams and their lip balms are one of the best we have ever tried. A variety of scents and flavors suited to mom’s personal preference.  evolvetogether is a plastic-neutral brand.  Pricing for their best-selling prices start as low as $14.95

Emile Henry Storage Bowl- We swoon over this storage bowl which showcases your beautiful fruits while hiding those dirty root veggies.  This Made in France brand is produced sustainability, free of chemical toxins.  The bowl comes in a variety of colors, with the flint and blue flame colors on sale now starting at $129.99

1. Phlur Sustainable Fragrance- A line of sensual fragrances mindfully formulated, responsibly sourced and meticulously crafted by world-class perfumers. We love the trial size options for those unsure of their lover’s preferred scent. Gift an assortment and follow up on a future occasion, with their most beloved pick.

2. True Botanical Clean 3 Step Glory Skin Reset- Clean and PETA and Leaping Bunny approved. Make her Valentine’s Day glow last throughout the year with this award-winning skincare. Dewy skin guaranteed.

3. Dandelion Clean Chocolate Bon Bons- These bean to bonbons and bars, made of single origin chocolates, will certainly ignite the senses. With unique flavor offerings including strawberry and honeycomb and corn-macadamia praline, your sure to make an impression on any chocolate afficionado. There is a breadth of options available whether your darling is a chocolate adventurer or purist.

4. Louis Roederer Biodynamic Champagne Nature Blanc- Founded in 1776, Louis Roederer, still family-owned and maker of beloved Cristal, also produces this lesser known biodynamic champagne selection. Awarded 94 points by wine enthusiast, this 2015 Champagne Starck Brut Nature is forward with vinous and spicy aromas of saline and red currant, orange blossom, and smoke. It is expansive on the palate while maintaining a core of fresh acidity, with peach, dried flowers, and wet stone. This complex and unique expression is full of energy and has great gastronomic appeal. Drink 2022-2040.”

5. Helen Ficalora Love Story Charm Bracelet- Let a love story unfold with this sustainably and ethically made charm bracelet. Responsibly crafted in the United States, Helen Ficalora offers an extensive selection of jewelry. Helen has created a cult following over the last 2 decades with her adorb charms and the frenzy only continues. Start with one and build your own love story to be forever displayed on your one true love’s wrist.

6. Urbanstems X Vogue American Rose Bouquet- Not your traditional bouquet, this gorgeous arrangement is sure to stun and delight. Expertly designed by the team at Vogue, inspired by the Met Gala, this all-red bouquet features bursts of roses and ranunculus accompanied by eye-catching anemones. Urbanstems makes it a priority to work directly with their Rainforest Alliance Certified farms.

1. Bleusalt Tencel Quarter Zip- Made in Malibu, this super luxe quarter zip is elegant, versatile and impeccably made. Dress it up or down. Derived from a blend of sustainable wood sources of botanic origin*, The fabric is 95% TENCEL™ Modal with 5% Spandex offering a wonderfully soft feel.

2. Westwood Founder’s 2019 Reserve Pinot Noir- A special occasion bottle that is super rich and creamy on the palette, this biodynamic red will become a cherished red from first sip on. "For over two decades, Westwood Estate Wines has been cultivating a thriving biodynamic sanctuary, fostering a symbiotic relationship between soil and vine. Our carefully tended vineyard has become a canvas for expressing the singular voice of the Annadel Gap’s terroir, nurtured by decades of family passion and our pioneering biodynamic vision.”

3. Big Picture Farm Brown Butter Bourbon Goat Milk Caramels- Delectable caramels, made in the US of farm fresh goat milk and GMO-free, local and/or organic ingredients. Although all the flavors are worth indulging in, this one is for the bourbon lover! Made in collaboration with Mad River Distillers GMO FREE Bourbon and shipped in a compostable box. A little something extremely special for that someone special in your life.

4. Posh Totty Personalized Paper Plane Cuff Links- Crafted using recycled Sterling Silver and gold, approximately 98% of the precious metal used is actually recycled. With the option to personalize, this is a sweet little gift with big heart, for the dapper guy in your life.

5. A-Dam Heart Boxer Shorts- Made of the purest cotton certified by Global Organic Textile Standard, these heart-studded boxer shorts are the perfect cheeky(no pun intended) gift. A-dam is a carbon neutral, becoming B-Corp brand.

1. Sport Burton Snowboards- Burton has a strong commitment to sustainability. Their boards mimic that. Being out in mother nature and away from tech, boosts our state of mind. Get their endorphins going with a day on the slopes. Burton uses preferred materials like organic cotton, recycled polyester, and bluesign® approved materials to reduce resource consumption and carbon emissions. To keep their carbon footprint small and limit waste, Burton embraces circular principles that reduce resource consumption and extend product lifecycles. It's their mission to keep their products in the mountains and out of landfills. They back up all their softgoods with a LIFETIME WARRANTY.

2. The Traveler- Lo and Sons Weekender Bag. Not only are they sustainably made, they are thoughtfully made too! The weekender has a separate zip compartment at the bottom for shoes so your soles don’t dirty your clothes. Brilliant! They have a great product line of other items too, including backpacks and purses. Their goal for 2023 is to increase the percentage of products made with eco-friendly materials to at least 70%.

3. Social Butterfly- Escapology- All you need is your brain! This escape room experience is slightly different than its competitor, allowing your group to go about it solo without the extra charge. A great way to spend time with your favorite peeps!

4. Spectator- Gift certificate to Vivid for those who like to spectate. Experiences are always better than gifts and totally more sustainable than another item in the landfill. 

5.  Warm Weather Fashion- Vuori makes an amazing line of athleisure both comfortable and stylish. Since 2019, they have offset 100% of their plastic footprint with CleanHub and they’re proud to be a Climate Neutral certified brand.

1. Guilty Pleasure- Buffalo Trace X Fable- For that person who likes to sip and savor, give the gift of Buffalo Trace. Produced in Frankfort, Ky. after remaining open for “medicinal purposes” throughout Prohibition, this historic site boasts four centuries of architecture on 440 acres.  It’s smooth and refined, and will taste even better in Fable’s elegant, The Rocks Crystal Drinkware. Strengthened with an ion-toughening technique for durability. Designed in Vancouver, BC, crafted in Germany. Fable is Certified B and Carbon Neutral as they work to be a zero waste brand.

2. Fashion- Citizens of Humanity. Sustainability and innovation is at the start of everything they do. They have implemented techniques that reduce their global footprint such as laser technology, their own ozone process, and high-efficiency washers. And many of their products are made in the US. Their jeans are at staple for anyone’s closet.

3. The Griller- Subscription to Porter Road Butcher Shop. Pasture raised and hand cut in Tennessee and Kentucky, they visit their local farm partners regularly to make sure the animals are treated well with ample exercise and a vegetarian diet. The quality of all their products are superior. Standouts include their bacon and chicken breasts.

4. Guy’s Guy Poker- Slow Play Matt and Ceramic Chips .Mats are printed with eco-friendly Japanese ink, ensuring durability and resistance to fading even with prolonged use. Pair with recycled Bicycle Brand playing cards for a night of laughter and fun.

5. Jack off all Trades- Masterclass- A gift for him to fine tune his skills doing something he loves or perhaps to even learn something new. The class offerings are endless- music, design, science, wellness, sports, writing, food and more.

1. The Gift of Scent-  Vacation Eau de Toilette. Currently, many have vacation on their mind. Some are fortunate to be heading somewhere extraordinary and some will only get a vacation at home, if any at all. Especially for those… this is a must have. This scent is truly a tropical vacation in a bottle. It’s highly addictive and so is their website. Cheeky and fun, get lost for a few moments while you shop for others and maybe get something for yourself too! Vacation is reef friendly, Leaping Bunny Certified and vegan friendly. Fun fact- they just launched a collab with Arizona Iced Tea.

2. Guilty Pleasure- Jeni’s Ice Cream. Who doesn’t like ice cream?! Jeni’s flavor selection is off the hook and naturally, they have your standard flavors too. However, one absolutely must try, the Brown Butter Almond Brittle. Think Toasted Almond Crunch Bar from childhood, but in a pint and much cleaner. A Certified B Corp endorsed by the international nonprofit B Lab as a company that meets rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. Gift their pint club here.

3. Add a little sparkle- Mejuri Jewels are crafted using 95% recycled gold, responsibly sourced diamonds and 100 % natural gems. They do say diamonds are a girl’s best friend and with prices starting at as low as $198, there is truly something for everyone. Their stoneless options start at $48, so great gift ideas for teens too. From hoops to charm bracelets and pendant necklaces, Mejuri has a lovely assortment of jewels to consider for the many people on your list.

4. Tactile- Avocado sheets. There is nothing like jumping into clean sheets. Avocado sheets put Frette to shame. They are super soft, high quality and ultra luxe. Be sure to check out their Organic Superfine Suvine Cotton Sheets. They are made exclusively of GOTS-certified organic Indian Suvin Cotton, one of the world’s rarest Extra Long Staple cotton varieties. Need we say more?

5. High Energy- ClassPass gets you out and about. Check out a different gym class or treatment everyday! From pilates to boxing to massages. A great way to constantly change up their health and wellness routine and meet new people too! Good for the body and the mind. This app offers memberships for health and wellness experiences galore!

1. Pact Panties/boxer briefs- Adorable panties and boxer briefs from Pact. Upon opening, product orders are wrapped in an innovative green friendly packaging. Once unwrapped you will find organic cotton undergarments, made in a fair trade factory, keeping in line with sustainable practices.   

2. SallyEAnder Stain Remover- Known as “hogwash” this all natural stain remover takes out everything from oil to wine and even paint. This, yet to go viral stain remover, is a must. A can’t leave home without it product to protect your clothing, bedding and towels. Use Code GREENLIVING15 at checkout.

3. Be Green Lip Balm- Top Notch! If you are a lip balm fanatic, this one is for you… and your loved ones too. After testing many over the years, this is your new chapstick alternative. Made with natural and organic oils. Infused with beeswax to condition your lips. No parabens, phthalates, or petrolatum and scented with organic essential oils of either sweet orange or peppermint. There is a tinted version too!

4. K’ul Chocolate- Made in Washington, this organic chocolate is also fair trade, vegan and soy free. This clean chocolate rocks!  WIth flavors like burnt maple crunch, toasted coconut and sea salt almond, you are sure to delight any chocolate lover.

5. Lifeboost Coffee- This small batch coffee is organic and low acid. Tested for mycotoxins, molds, bacteria, pesticides, heavy metals plus 400 other toxins, its squeaky clean. Take the quiz to find the perfect cup for you or your loved one.

   
   
   

1. Boulder Canyon Avocado Oil Chips- Indulge in a healthier chip that still tastes delicious. Kids love their snacks. This Canola oil free chip provides an alternative you can feel better about. And due to its size, it helps fill the stocking easily.  Salt and vinegar are a coveted favorite.

2. Lake Champlain Organic Chocolates- More goodies! Christmas morning chocolates are a must. These darling holiday inspired chocolates will definitely bring a smile to anyone’s face during a brief pause from gift opening. Explore the many other options Lake Champlain offers, including hot chocolate and other fun treats. Many of which are soy free.

3. Touchland Hand Sanitizers- Help fight germs! Made with conciously formulated ingredients offered in a plethora of cool colors/scents.  Perfect for their bookbag… throw it in and go. 

4. Lush Bath Bombs- Well… they are the bomb! To start they are cruelty free and low waste. Made with essentials oil, they come in a gazillion scents. Offered in a variety of holiday shapes and a rainbow of colors, they are a no brainer! Checkout their advent calendar too! A sugar alternative way to kick off the holidays!

5. Native- Shower gel in holiday scents- think sugar cookie! Made in the USA and is cruelty free and vegan. Produced using naturally derived ingredients, shower time just got so muc better. Bonus, their shower gels are now packed in a 75%less plastic container made with FSC-certified paperboard.