A screenshot from the show ‘Arthur’ of D.W. Read saying “My allowance was raised to a gazillion dollars.”
Since I’m not being forced to produce any gift guides for the first time in five years, I’ve decided to give you all the gift of sharing some of my favorite products this year. I’m making a conscious effort to be a less active participant when it comes to capitalism, but if you know me well then you’re fully aware of my accumulation of… stuff. I’ve always enjoyed collecting special objects, putting them out on display, and watching my space transform into a private gallery. But because of this, people have dismissively labeled me as “materialistic” so I spent a huge chunk of my early twenties feeling guilty about it and trying to prove everyone wrong.
While I’m no longer ashamed to admit that I have acquired A LOT of things over the years that I cherish dearly, it’s usually at the expense of getting a good deal. The motto I have strived to live by since 2018 is “never pay full price,” but sometimes exceptions have to be made like when there’s a Telfar shopping bag drop. My resolution for 2021 is all about financial health so I’ll be tightening my grip on spending—I need to be more disciplined with myself and make a deeper commitment to budgeting. I outlined a plan in my last therapy session so I am “setting myself up for success” as they say.
In the meantime, if I can help any of you shop smarter that would make me feel better than a retail therapy bender. I won’t be giving away all of my secret finds because I have to keep some things to myself, but trust that this list is thoughtfully curated. (If you’re interested in a personal consultation, contact me directly for my “services.”) Whenever you can, remember to SHOP SMALL and BUY BLACK. My reasoning for not tailoring to that here? Most of the brands that I love are sold out, duhhh. Skin/bodycare is omitted because we all have our own individual needs—do slide in my inbox if you can hook me up with the new Humanrace line though!
While you’re here, please consider showing monetary support to organizations like Oko Farms, Farm School NYC, Hike Clerb, Black Girl Magik, Heal With The Land, and Beauty 2 The Streetz. ‘Tis the season of giving… back! (The tip jar is also wide open on PayPal and Venmo if you’re feeling generous but no pressure.)
Alysia Mazzella ~ Twin Flame Candle ($22)
I’m only directing you away from Alysia’s website because nearly everything is sold out, but once you get your hands on one of her beeswax candles you’ll understand why. First of all, the natural smell of beeswax is intoxicating. Then there’s the burn time which lasts for hours… Truth be told, sometimes I like to reenact this scene from ‘Rent’ when it’s time to light up!🔥 The craftsmanship that goes into these candles is what really blows my mind though like are you seeing the details? My entry point was the mirth pillar candle, then the tea lights from the Masha Tea collaboration, and now her signature twist. It’s described as a candle for special occasions, specifically “the crossroads, endings, and new beginnings.” New year, new vibes.
Tart Vinegar ~ Rose Vinegar ($24)
Never thought I’d see the day where I became a vinegar drinker, but 2020 had surprises for us all! Thank me later for this recommendation because you won’t be sorry. I’m still waiting for Tart Vinegar to launch a subscription service. There’s a limited supply of peach rose, but it won’t last long so act fast… Perfect for an intimate socially distanced gathering or a solo sit down with the ghost of your former self. (While we’re on the subject, I’ll be gifting some very special people in my life Brightland’s mini essentials.) Some other non-booze bevs to stock up on are Ghia, Kin Spritz, Cloud Water, and Yesfolk Tonics.
Object and Totem ~ Ko Soap Dish ($23-30)
For months I had been craving Binu Binu’s onyx marble soap dishes, but couldn’t justify spending $75. I almost forgot about the Ko Soap Dish, a collaboration with Object and Totem, and was lucky enough to find it over at O&T’s store. I snagged the last green one in stock, but there are still other colors available. I highly recommend considering the Seconds sale items—there might be minor discrepancies and cosmetic flaws, but that won’t take away from the functionality of the ceramics. I would suggest a botanical bar from REDOUX to go with it.
Rainbo ~ Forest Juice ($31)
This medicinal mushroom maple syrup is everything. I use it as a sweetener for all of my lattes and also drizzle it in a bowl of oatmeal. Y’all already know how I feel about mushrooms so I’m gonna saving my breath, but there are soooo many health benefits depending on which fungi you decide to indulge. (As for ️🌈 tinctures, my go-to’s are 11:11, lion’s mane, and reishi!) *BONUS: You can use my code COZYSPICE for a sweet lil discount at checkout 🍄
BABOSHOP ~ Sampler Incense Flowers ($35)
Soon you’ll get to see the full picture of what brought me into the incense universe, but until then I’m keeping my mouth locked shut. Trust that you’re always in good hands with BABOSHOP because the owner Hyungi Park makes every product by hand. The geranium + green tea flowers are my personal fave, but there are other shapes and scents to choose from!
Edie Parker Flower ~ Time-Out! Bud Tote Set ($45)
This is so cute, how could you resist if you’re a cannabis lover?! Once the CBD Nectar vape pen won me over, I knew there was no turning back… The big incentive for me to follow through with ordering this 🌼 bundle was that you’re getting the pack of CBD pre-rolls with a mini tote, lighter, stickers, and matchbox for an extra $10. When you compare that price tag to some of the other items it seems like a steal. (MUNISA, Tetra, Yew Yew, and Laundry Day also have good smokewear accessories.)
Loco Love ~ Nirvana Peruvian Cacao Bar ($10)
Gourmet snacking is my activity of choice and Loco Love’s vegan chocolates are the new standard, at least in my home. This 🍫 is loaded with 66% Peruvian cacao, coconut blossom nectar, and tonic herbs. Not a chocolate person? Lucky for you, I have a weak spot for gummies! Sugarfina, Gossamer, Supernatural, Serra, and Zizia are the only choice.
Good Company Tea x Joya Studio ~ Gift Set ($75)
I’ve been a fan of Good Company Tea since the brand launched with Japanese sencha in 2019. (The oolong is my personal blend of choice.) I’ve tried a bunch of CBD teas, but few have compared in terms of bridging the gap between taste and effectiveness. Many years ago, I bought a candle from Homecoming made in collaboration with Joya Studio and it completely changed my life—I’ve attempted to find replacements, but nothing has ever been the same. So when I found out about this set I didn’t even hesitate to buy it for myself… No regrets, baby!
Moon Juice ~ Kinto Travel Tumbler ($36)
As a tea enthusiast, I love love love tumblers. I happen to own an assortment from Kinto, but there’s something extra special about this one. Maybe it’s the shape? It’s so sleek and slender… I also appreciate that the Moon Juice logo is small and subtle. This stainless steel vessel makes me feel like I’m still a VIP with places to be, even if I only carry it around on walks outside. (Side note: I solemnly swear by Collagen Protect, SuperBeauty, SuperHair, and Blue Beauty.) If you’re interested in MJ supplements, the Supers set might be a good place to start.
Your Mornings ~ Echinacea ($24)
I’m currently running out of room on my tincture shelf, but I’ve been rationing this bottle because it’s been such a lifesaver these past few months. Echinacea is a flower in the daisy family with antibacterial properties that are commonly used for boosting immunity and treating issues like upper respiratory infections, acne, and eczema. If you have anxiety like mine then you’ve probably mistaken any sort of symptom for COVID at least once during the pandemic. Whenever I start to feel rundown I’ll drop this into a glass of water with lemon, ginger, and mint—if I want it served hot, I’ll pour in a spoonful of manuka honey too. You should see noticeable signs of improvement within a few days. (There’s also a Wooden Spoon Herbs tea blend that contains echinacea which has helped me out many times!)
Innermade ~ State of Clarity Tonic ($45)
Like wine, everyone has their own preferences for matcha. 🍵 I’ve been loving the taste of this wholesome herbal blend from Innermade that contains organic coconut milk powder, matcha powder, gotu kola powder, organic lion’s mane mushroom extract, rhodiola rosea root extract, organic tremella mushroom extract, and organic tocotrienols. (RIYL Golde’s matcha turmeric.)
LoQ ~ Domo ($95-125)
Remember how I was saying that I like things? Well, one of them is this leather container. I use it to store all of my pills and supplements. Super easy to travel with and it won’t spill in your bag. You can choose from three sizes in black, green, or red. (I have the Pequeño size in white.)
Nata Concepts ~ Yin Yang Candle ($27)
Nata Concepts is a BIPOC-owned home goods brand based in London that I found through Instagram over the summer. Goes without saying, but when you gift this candle to someone it should have a meaningful intention behind it. You can find more of NC’s vegan candles stocked stateside here and if that aesthetic feels aligned with your vibe, check out the selection over at Yui Brooklyn too.
Museum of Peace & Quiet ~ Natural Sweatshirt ($75-100)
I’ve been living in the earthy-toned Museum of Peace & Quiet staples, but the NATURAL shirts are my absolute favorite. Cozy is a lifestyle! If you missed out on the brand’s latest drop, there might still be some MOPQ pieces left at SSENSE… Subscribe in order to stay in the loop!
Ponsont ~ Rosa Rossa ($24)
While embarking on my aromatherapy journey, this incense paper became one of my instant favorites to burn due to its scent notes of rose, sandalwood, and honey. (Truly speaking my love language!) Some other 🌹 products that I happen to enjoy are… Wooden Spoon Herbs’ Rose-Colored Glasses tincture, NA NIN’s Palo Santo & Desert Rose candle, Masha Tea’s Rosy Tea, and Loco Love’s Wild Rose Ganache chocolate.
PLASTICANA ~ Gardana Clog ($62)
This hemp clog was definitely one of my best shoe purchases in quarantine. It is 100% recyclable and waterproof so good for your feet and the environment!
Canopy ~ Humidifier w/ Filter Subscription ($125)
I never had any interest in humidifiers until I experienced an eczema flare-up this fall and my dermatologist recommended buying one. Since our devices are all bugged, Instagram immediately targeted me with an ad from this brand. I liked the idea of a “clean” humidifier with anti-mold technology that is also easy to clean, and I’m happy to confirm that it fully delivers on that promise. It’s super easy to set up and shouldn’t disrupt your environment. (Side note: Terra-Tory’s soap is also partially responsible for saving my skin while I waited for my prescriptions to be filled.)
Total Luxury Spa ~ Float Club Oversize Spa Bag ($85)
Because I really wish someone would treat me to some goods from Total Luxury Spa! (Even the accessories are cool.) I love that the “Liquid State” collection is raising awareness about water conservation, ecology, and balance. The only thing that stopped me hard in my tracks was the shipping fee… No shade, just being honest. 😇
Hannah Jewett ~ Sculptural Candle ($76)
This is essentially the hardcore version of Areaware x Talbot & Yoon’s iconic Goober candle which I still don’t have the heart to burn. This bad boy is unscented and made out of paraffin wax if that’s something you happen to care about. Not in the mood to spend that much $$$ on a blob? Opt for one of the Octaevo, Common Body, or Seed candles.
Frama ~ From Soil To Form ($119-151)
This natural room diffuser is disgustingly expensive, but I really like the idea of it so including anyway! I will not be buying this for myself unless I see a significant markdown so let’s manifest that for me unless… someone has a plug that they want to share? 😫
Rachel Lieberman ~ The Minimalist Oracle Deck ($40)
Full transparency, I do not actually have this deck, but I would definitely be open to receiving it as a gift. (I do have this prism oracle deck which explores the connection between color and emotion.) From what I’ve seen in pictures online, the design is very on point and reviewers on Etsy had nothing but nice things to say!
love these picks so much