In times of great change and upheaval, it’s important to show people that we care, and not just during the holiday season. With our actions, with our words, and a sweet gift does not hurt either. Here are ten of our under-$50 picks that are sure to make the ones on your list shine brighter in the new year.
This clever origami-inspired tripod has attracted a lot of attention, and MOFT has received several Red Dot awards over the past two years. The Snap Tripod carries on the same style as its siblings, using folding techniques to create new and innovative tripod cases that go beyond its original case. This unique take on what was once a dark, heavy, bulky object now comes in ten fashion-forward colours, reducing the stigma and logistical weight of carrying camera gear on a daily basis.
This notebook is aptly named, as no wood fibers are used in creating the notebook’s pages or cover. Instead, stone dust and substrate from industrial manufacturing are recycled and mixed with a binder to create a smooth, smooth and completely waterproof paper. No longer will you be slowly fanning your notebook with a hairdryer after getting caught in the rain, desperately trying to separate the pages. With a small pocket in the back and a book divider that can be used as a bookmark, each notebook contains 144 pages. They have a satisfying amount of weight to them, without being cumbersome to carry.
The Meissen paring knife comes in five classic colors and is sure to please anyone who spends any time in the kitchen. With a balanced blade and stainless steel finish, this essential will make light work of small chopping or peeling jobs. Check out the entire Misen collection here, full of smart and practical kitchen tools for anyone looking to get a little more comfortable with their chef skills.
Independently owned, women-owned Freeland Spirits really runs their stuff. This box set is a perfect treat for die-hard fans and anyone unfamiliar with the Portland-based brand alike, and is sure to impress even the most discriminating palates. The set includes three 200ml bottles: Freeland’s signature gin, herbal forest gin, and a bold and assertive dry gin. Full of fresh and innovative flavour, they’re good to have around on a weekend getaway or perhaps a nightcap over ice, to fully experience the complex botanicals found in each.
Okay, we know this product is technically discounted, but Muzen are the masters of small speakers and offer multiple options for anyone looking to improve their sound quality. These speakers are surprisingly loud, the sound is clear, and there is no brassiness or buzz in the sound. The controls are very satisfying, gold switches and a knob that turns quietly when operated. With a bright, retro look and two fun colours, they’re well worth the investment, and an easy way to spruce up an office or small room.
Anker is known for making high-quality electronics, and their cables rarely fray around ports, a much-needed win in a time of planned obsolescence. They also make some of the best power banks out there, coming with a USB-C port, so no other cords are needed. (There’s a regular USB port on the side for your convenience.) Charge all day long without having to worry about a charging station. Ship your friends too, and they might get one too and be able to return the favor.
This beautiful candle offers notes of elderflower, Anjou pear and apple blossom, a winter fruity scent that mistakes more for sweetness than green. Designed by Angela Cook Stone, it combines refined fragrance with high-quality wax for a clean, thoughtful burning candle perfect for gifting to a loved one. With different offerings to choose from, any preference from light and refreshing to musky oud is represented within the Otherland collection.
We all need more green in our lives. Enter the Carter + Rose Ceramic Wall Planter, a stylish and easy way to give an air plant a home. With beautiful glass options to choose from, it is a simple but memorable gift and can be used in any part of the home to add a bit of natural decor. Check out the rest of the Carter + Rose collection, including these ceramic snakes, which come in multiple beautiful glaze patterns.
This stylish bag is well suited for carrying all your toiletries while traveling or simply finishing touches throughout the day. With dual spill-resistant compartments, the bottom opens to collect heavier items, while lighter or larger items fit into the main compartment. Available in 12 unique colors, there’s a bound to be a style for someone on your list. Another plus, it matches the rest of the colors in the Béis line, from the luggage to the ubiquitous weekender.
The AeroPress coffee maker, shown above in Clear Pink, is a favorite among baristas and coffee enthusiasts, offering a decent manual option instead of an espresso machine. Capable of producing a good cup of drip for a decent espresso – look at that crema! The AeroPress is a great choice for campers, those low on counter space, or just someone looking to expand their coffee collection. With five new clear colours, just choose their favorite and it’s sure to make their holidays a little sweeter. Or at least more active.
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