The Shop Small Gift Guide 2025

1. Cookbooks from Bold Fork Books — “The Fishwife Cookbook” is just one of the many offerings sold at Bold Fork Books, a store located on Mt. Pleasant Street, NW D.C. . In addition to being a robust, cookbook-only shop, Bold Fork Books has a great online selection of written work related to food for ages ranging from adult to kids!
2. Ami Market Tote by Graf Lantz — For those who frequent farmers’ markets or are always hunting for the freshest ingredients, the Ami Market Tote by Graf Lantz is the perfect companion.
3. Miniature Taiwanese Red Stool, Chen Mu Ren x Maji Treats — A staple of Taiwanese markets, this mini ceramic red stool, a collaboration between artist Chen Mu Ren and retailer Maji Treats, makes a perfect tabletop accent and a great conversation starter.
4. Spice Card Gift Set by Occo — Perfect for adventurous eaters or beginners exploring their flavor preferences. The Chile Sampler is a great start, but Occo offers a variety of sets for every palate — even those who prefer things on the mild side.

For the Homebody

For those friends who think a perfect evening is spent curled up at home with a warm drink, warm blanket and the cozy company of a book, movie or friends!  Here are a few suggestions to create that comfort vibe:

1. Mini Vase by Middle Kingdom — A timeless gift for those who take pride in their home is a Mini Vase by Middle Kingdom. They have a large selection of tiny vases you can group together or display solo with a delicate winter blossom.
2. Reusable Dish Towels by Line and Nest — Line and Nest’s hand-designed tea towels are both functional and beautiful. With fun patterns and multiple uses, they add a touch of charm to any kitchen.
3. Candles by Chez Lapin — One of my favorite sites for candles or accessories for face care; Chez Lapin has you covered and supports rabbit rescue!

For the Game Night-er

It’s Thursday night, time to celebrate making it to the end of the week! To borrow (and tweak) a sentiment from Anne Elliot of Jane Austen fame: being in the company of clever, well-informed people and sitting down to a board game with them isn’t just “good company”—it’s the best. Here are a few gift ideas for those who share Anne Elliot’s sensibility!

1. Minimalist Playing Cards by Joe Doucet — Designed by Joe Doucet, these beautiful minimalist playing cards elevate any game night with their sleek, modern aesthetic — perfect for a round of euchre
2. Kindness is Contagious Puzzle by Le Puzz — No one does puzzles like Le Puzz! As an avid puzzler, I can confidently say they’ve mastered the art of making puzzles even more fun. Their Kindness is Contagious puzzle is cheerful, colorful, and guaranteed to bring a smile.
3. Handmade Ceramic Chess Board by Atelier Cosmo — I’ve come across this handmade ceramic chess board by Etsy shop Atelier Cosmo so many times, and it never ceases to amaze me. Its handmade craftsmanship and multi-purpose design make it both a game and a statement piece.

For the Bookworm

Curling up with a good book and a quiet corner — the only question left is, “How far can I get today?” We’ve got the perfect picks for book lovers, from Loco Note bookmarks and stickers to the cutest design independent publisher:

1. Certified Bookworm Sticker by Loco Note — Let everyone know that while your body might be in front of a computer, your mind (and heart) are lost in a book.
2. Typewriter Reading Log Bookmark by Loco Note — Keep track of your reads and give friends a quick reference for your latest favorite book.
3. “Currently Reading” Door Hanger by Loco Note — The universal signal for do not disturb — ‘nuff said.
4. Counterprint Books — Perfect for anyone who loves design, art, and creative inspiration. This independent U.K. publisher curates beautiful and thought-provoking titles — including The Creative Act by Rick Rubin, a reflective exploration of creativity and how it shapes us all.

For the Highly Organized

Yes, they might already have their 2026 calendar filled out and color-coded, but here are a few tools they’ll still appreciate!

1. The Workbook by Appointed — With responsibly sourced paper, a choice of cover colors, monogram additions and options for grid, lined, or blank pages, this beautifully made notebook is hard not to love.
2. Craighill Rope Split Ring — Sleek, sturdy, and available in multiple colors, this clever key ring is perfect for taming the growing pile of keys they’ve somehow collected.
3. Moglea Grid To Do Pad — For those who know that lists just hit different on paper than on a phone screen. This grid-style pad is stylish, simple, and satisfying to use.
4. 2026 Yearly Wall Calendar by Case Study — I got this wall calendar for Christmas last year, and it’s honestly a lifesaver. It’s the best way to see your entire year at a glance — practical, minimal, and a total game changer for planners.

For the Collector

They can’t help themselves, and honestly, who would want them to? Their quirky collections of plushies, PEZ, or pins make them all the more endearing. Here are a few fun finds for the collector in your life:

1. Risograph Matchbooks by Hellosunroom — Featuring original designs and extra-long 3” matches, these risograph-printed matchboxes are small works of art worth displaying.
2. Strawberry Boof by Bugaboofriends — Also known as happiness in charm form, this adorable Strawberry Boof is pure joy for any collector who loves cute and quirky pieces. They are also beautifully handmade by Bugaboofriends!
3. Daisy Plush Blind Box by Bugaboofriends — Who doesn’t love a blind box? Also from Bugaboofriends, these Daisy Plush Blind Boxes combine the thrill of mystery with the charm of a cheerful daisy.
4. Perfect Sardines Sticker by Loco Note — The Perfect Sardine Can Sticker you didn’t know you needed — a playful little addition for any sticker lover or sardine enthusiast.

For the Trend Setter

This friend always has the newest boots, lotion, or bag you didn’t even know was a thing — until they showed up with it, of course. Here are a few finds that might just earn you some trendsetter cred too:

1. Flora Flora Sample Set — Plastic-free hair care that’s good for you and the planet. The Shampoo & Conditioner Bar Sample Set by Flora Flora Co. is perfect for sustainable self-care lovers who appreciate eco-friendly beauty.
2. Flor Bag Charm by Santos by Monica — Made in Mexico from cactus leather, this Flor Bag Charm is equal parts chic and fun — a playful, sustainable accessory for any bag.
3. Cardholder by Min & Mon — The Filium Leather Cardholder mixes practicality with personality — complete with the brand’s signature quirky charm.
4. Glass Charms & Rings by CLED — Handcrafted from upcycled materials, CLED’s jewelry pieces are truly one-of-a-kind — just like your favorite trendsetter.

However you celebrate this season, I hope this guide sparks some ideas for thoughtful, joy-filled gifting — whether it’s for your loved ones or a little something for yourself.

Thank you for supporting small makers and creatives! Every thoughtful purchase helps keep our creative worlds turning.

Happy holidays and happy gifting! 

Warmly,

Jacky Lococo

*All Product Images belong to each maker or shop that is linked*