The Cool Drop: Gifts Guided in Thoughtfulness and Intentionality
By founders you will love to support.
There is an art to gifting. It lives in the delicate balance between intention and pressure. On one hand, there is something beautiful and mutually fulfilling about finding a gift that feels just right. A gift that reflects your understanding of who they are and what they love.
On the other hand, there is the stress of trying to accomplish all of that with one perfect item.
With Christmas one month away, Hanukkah beginning, and Kwanzaa approaching, now feels like a good time to slow down and shop with intention. This is the moment to focus on gifts that bring warmth, joy, and a meaningful story to share during the unwrap.
To get you started, I have done some exploring, guided by founders with stories I like to tell. I typically dislike gift guides, but this one is low key, pretty great.
The Anywhere Calming Balm by Space of Time
A pocket-sized ritual and somatic tool created to restore balance. It blends soothing jojoba oil, antimicrobial calendula flower, and the healing comfrey plant. Everything is packaged in a beautifully minimal container and personalized with a letter of your choosing. Two friends and founders, Isabella & Stephanie, we’re excited to support and a one-of-a-kind gift we’re excited to give.
Soeurs Vase by Argot Studio
This piece may or may not be a subtle hint for a loved one who reads this newsletter. The Soeurs Vase, created by French designer Eimear Ryan-Rateau, is a timeless and symbolic object. The name means “sisters” and reflects two asymmetrical forms fused together. It is a beautiful gift for someone who feels like your other half.
Gilles Slippers by Vinny’s
Raffia slip-ons perfect for the fashion-forward man in your life. They are made in Portugal and designed in Copenhagen by founder Virgil Nicholas. The brand was inspired by old family photos of loafers and named after his son, Vincent. The result is a gift that feels elevated, wearable, and quietly sentimental.
Anything From Ensō Vintage
Founded in Amsterdam by Andrea and Liseth, Ensō Vintage began with the desire to create a conscious wardrobe. Today it has grown into a destination for curated vintage, upcycled pieces, and interior objects. Everything ships worldwide in sustainable packaging. The energy is thoughtful and stylish at the same time.
Birthstone Rings by Simuero
Simuero creates handmade recycled sterling silver rings paired with natural birthstones. Every piece is slightly different, which makes each one feel personal to its wearer. The birthstone ring is a beautiful gift for a partner or anyone who appreciates the intricacies of design. The brand was co-founded by Rocío Gallar in Valencia, began as a side project, and evolved into a gift-worthy business rooted in craftsmanship.
Ceramic Matcha Set by Nordic Pottery
There is something really special about made-to-order pieces — minimal waste, maximal meaning. Founder Astrid created Nordic Pottery from her fascination with Scandinavian design heritage. Each piece is microwave safe, dishwasher safe, lead-free, and food tested. Consider me equally fascinated.
Wilding Holiday Bundle
Wilding was founded by an acupuncturist, herbalist, and holistic esthetician. Every product is intentional, beautiful, and rooted in ancient practice. The holiday bundle lets you build a custom set, which makes it ideal for the beauty lover who is equally devoted to wellness. We all have at least one in our lives.
Spiral Coasters by Sophie Lou Jacobsen
Something about these coasters stopped me in my tracks. Minimal but memorable. I love a unique gift for the home that’s equal parts beautiful and functional. If we’re being honest, literally anything at Casa Shop could land on my holiday wishlist.
Annie Leibovitz: Women
No gift guide is complete without a coffee table book. A sweeping portrait of womanhood in all its forms. This two-volume set brings together 250 images by the most influential photographer of our time, paired with writing from Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Susan Sontag, and Gloria Steinem. A powerful, meaningful gift for the friend who collects beauty with purpose.
I would be proud to gift any of these items and proud to support any of these founders, and I hope you feel the same.
Please enjoy, leave any questions in the comments, and let me know which founders you plan to support this holiday season.
Speak soon,
Kelly