Feeling festive today on Instagram @simplylynne
Note: Wearing my thrifted winter print thermal pants which I scored for $3!
The holidays are almost upon us!
I've got two more weeks of school after a solid month of a hectic schedule.
Which means that it's crunch time if I want to maximize the holiday cheer.
I've been watching cheesy Christmas movies with no shame, making holiday plans,
as well as keeping an eye out for gifts for the special people in my life.
This year, I've been working gifts from the heart.
Some are bought, some are homemade and some are things from around the house.
I don't think all gifts have to come in a shiny, new box to be loved and appreciated.
Like the gift of quality time - the gift I'm working most on giving my loved ones this year.
Not only because it's easier on the budget (hello, student life),
but because it's important to make memories with people while we can.
Quality time means being present in the moment with someone
(and means less stuff around the house - perfect for an aspiring minimalist!).
However even the most eco-minimalists likes the odd material gift here and there.
So I've put together this little list of gift ideas for the eco-minimalists,
bohemians and hippies in your life (approved by me!).
bohemians and hippies in your life (approved by me!).
As a huge tea drinker, I've had my eye on this one for a while (hint, hint!).
Not only are soy candles much better for the environment and your health (as opposed to regular candles) but they're handmade in Nova Scotia, Canada. Yay for supporting Made in Canada!
2) Marimo Pet
$35 + shipping
I know succulents are all the rage right now, but marimo pet's are equally pleasing and add some nature and greenery to any room. Marimo's are fluffy green seaweed balls (yes, they're alive!) and are very easy to take care of. In Japan they are considered good luck if you take care of them well. You may be able to find these in your local Green Earth or garden store - or you can buy them online.
$138
This one's a little pricey but you're sure to get some bang for your buck.
Made in Toronto, Ontario with fair labour and sustainable fabrics, this Cardi can be styled 8+ different ways. From a dress, to a cardi, to a shirt, to a scarf!
Perfect for ladies that like to travel, yoga doers, and minimalists alike.
(Alternatively, Encircled's Nomadic V-Neck is the more luxurious basic t-shirt ever, comes in various colours and is at a lower price point. I own it myself in 4 colours!)
Note: I may be slightly bias, as I work here ;)
$28.99 + shipping
These can also be found at your local Green Earth and similar stores, or online.
This is a lamp which not only looks beautiful when lit (much like a soft fire glow) but they're known to produce positive effects on their environment by cleaning the air.
They're also said to give a calming effect, relieve depression, improve mood and concentration as well as natural healing. You can read more about the science of it here.
I've heard many good things about this book! Not only is it small (doesn't take up much room) but it is packed full of great information and ideas for decluttering and organizing a space. I flipped through it once (and highly regret not picking it up on sale) and was already inspired just from the few headings that I read. One of these days I will get a copy! Less mess, less stress.
6) Tickets for something
Give your eco-minimalist the gift of experience! This doesn't have to be an airline ticket (unless you're feeling ridiculously generous) but tickets to their favourite band, the theatre (The Nutcracker, anyone?), an event etc. will help create memories that can last a lifetime. Bonus points if you're able to attend it with them!
7) Food
I cannot stress how amazing it is to get food for Christmas.
Maybe this is just because I'm a student, and don't like to cook but food is extremely practical and always well received. Last year my mom gave me a huge box full of food and house necessities and it was one of the best gifts I've ever received (#adultlife). Gift cards for food places, home cooked meals or home baked cookies are also gifts that are highly thought of (just beware of any allergies if you can!).
This one's an investment piece but sure to be loved for years to come. Large enough for a weekender travel bag (minimalist packing, remember) and can be personalized with monogramming.
If you can get it on sale, even better!
For more ideas, be sure to check to give Miss Minimalist's list a read.
♥ Brittany
