The Ethically Made Christmas Shopping Guide
We've invited guest blogger Davina Wong from Douceur Vivre to share her list of ethically made gifts. To give you all a little background, last year she committed to not buying ANY clothing for 1 year. Being a fashionista, this was a huge challenge, but she survived and lived to tell it on her blog. She is also momma to little "J" and you'll be seeing more of her on our blog soon! _____________________________________________________________________ The holidays can be stressful when it comes to Christmas shopping, but it doesn’t have to be that way! If the thought of stepping foot into a mall makes you cringe, there are a plethora of options online, many which happen to be reputable companies that produce products as ethically as possible. ‘Tis the giving season, so why not give a gift that also gives back? I have created a simple cheat sheet below to help take the load off and give you some ideas for the amazing loved ones in your life! The Trendster: 
The Flamingo Sweatshirt, Indego Africa- $125 Who wouldn’t love a pink flamingo to brighten their day? This cozy sweatshirt is perfect for the fashionista who has everything. All profits from Indego Africa fund educational training programs for the women who handcraft these products. Now, how cool is that? 
Sole Sister Bangle Set, Sseko Designs - $49.99 This trio of beautiful brass bangles includes one of which displays the name of a Sseko woman. By wearing the name of one these women, the wearer is reminded of their life and story. These bangles represent the global community of strong, loving women that we are all a part of--women who continually inspire one another with courage and with grace. 
Navy Stripe Cosmetic Clutch, Connected Artisans - $36 This chic little cosmetic bag doubles as a mini clutch to hold the basic essentials for a girl’s night out on the town. All of the artisans who meticulously create these goods receive a fair wage for their work. This company also focuses on creating long-lasting relationships with these talented men and women for long-term sustainability. The Hostess: 
Mango + Grapefruit Candle, Raven and Lily- $22 This gold-dipped and hand-poured soy candle has been infused with lush and fresh fruit aromas and is a stunning addition to any decor display. Raven and Lily seeks to empower formerly homeless women in Los Angeles, California. 
Pink Pom Basket, Indego Africa- $40 A colorful little basket to hide and store the delicate treasures near and dear to her heart. One of a kind and hand-crafted using needles and fine plant threads, the technique requires much skill and patience. All funds go to provide educational training programs for the women who handcraft these products. 
Earth Glass Terrarium Kit, Connected Goods - $55 Made proudly in the US of A, this terrarium comes with everything (minus soil) you need to create your own little micro-environment. This glass cube sits on a flattened point, creating an interesting illusion. Terrariums are made with concern for the environment, using eco-friendly techniques, non-toxic flux, and lead-free silver alloy solder. 
Let Hope Rise Tote, EPA Made - $20.00 This is a great tote for a quick trip to the grocery store! We love the metallic-gold screen printed calligraphy as well! EPAMade is a social enterprise centered on creating jobs, building a loving community, and changing the lives of marginalized families in East Palo Alto, California. The Boho Goddess: 
Screw Hoops, Winifred Grace - $88 A twist on the classic hoop, these earrings resemble the tops of screws for a tough yet chic look. Designed in Chicago and made in Cuernavaca, Mexico, where Winifred partners with a workshop that employs poor local women to provide them with income and an opportunity to learn jewelry as a trade. 
Green Turband, Cult Gaia for Indego Africa - $48 Cover up any bad hair day with this stylish Cult Gaia turband that is decked out with fresh, vibrant prints. The wiring inside provides for the perfect fit and hold for any boho goddess (or boho goddess for the day). 
Weleda Skin Food cream, Weleda - $19 Keep rough, dry skin at bay with this ultra-moisturizing hand cream that has been formulated with natural calendula flower and other essential oils. Weleda creates products that nurture and heal. They use biodynamic farming techniques by developing fair-trade trade partnerships for a greater impact on the world. The Savvy Sister: 
Goudance Bangle, Indego Africa - $70.00 Made from recycled tin, this sleek and simple bangle will become a staple to any wardrobe. Stack a few bracelets for added drama. 
Royal Blue pencil holder, Everlane - $35 Leather always adds a touch of luxury to any gift, and this lovely pencil holder also brings organization into her life. Can also be used to store make-up brushes or feminine products. The best part is that it comes with an inexpensive price tag! 
Uzma Recycled Cotton Travel Journal, Raven + Lily - $9 A mesmerizing black broken braided print adorns this eco-friendly travel journal, perfect for the lady on the go. This collection seeks to empower marginalized women in Northern India. For the Mini's 
Goose Grease Custom Dolls, $30+ Give a gift that is personal, literally. These customizable wooden dolls are painted by Fair-Trade artisan women in Colombia. Each doll is carefully hand-chiseled on an electric lathe in a small carpentry shop in Bogotá, Colombia, using sustainably forested wood. All paints are non-toxic and suitable for kids and adults of all ages. The dolls also come premade with different characters and personalities. 
White Tooth Fairy Pillow,Oeuf $36. This little tooth pillow has a back pocket to hide a little one's tooth ready for the fairy to take it away! All of Oeuf's knits are made in Bolivia by a self-managed community of indigenous women. In line with fair trade principles, our artisans are paid a living wage, which enables them to afford healthcare and education for their children. 
Organic Cotton Chubby Robin Rattle, Green Heart Shop - $19.95 Put a mom’s mind at ease with this organic cotton rattle by Hazel Village toys. It doesn’t contain any hard buttons or features and is washable. 
Giraffe & Banana Patch Set, P.S. I Made This x Indego Africa - $45 A result of a collaboration with the innovative lifestyle brand P.S.- I made this…, these adorable iron-on patches make perfect additions to your little one’s backpacks, clothing and more. Hand-embroidered with love by the ladies of IBABA, the package includes DIY ideas from P.S.- I made this… 
Wooden Fire Truck Toy, Green Heart Shop - $24.95 Better than plastic, this fire truck is lead-free and made of sustainably harvested shesham wood and crafted by artisans in India. HSSS is a non-profit organization that works for the uplifting and development of underprivileged artisans. It is composed primarily of male artisans, both Hindu and Muslim, who suffer educational, training and health related issues. 
The Panda , Krochet Kids- $19.50 We (SF Giants) just lost the Panda to another team...but that doesn't meant your little one can't keep on sporting this adorable hat! Each hat is made in Uganda and signed by the actual artisan. The company, Krochet Kids intl. helps provide employment, training and mentoring for the women of Uganda. 
Hand-Embroidered Star Ornament, Ellie Fun Day - $28 How could I leave out this limited edition ornament from Ellie Fun Day? Personalize it for a new baby, significant other or anyone special in your life! The best part is that 100% of the proceeds helps with the development of their sewing unit in India. For the Dudes: 
Elmfridsson Heavy-Knitted Scarf, Nudie Jeans - $159 This heavy-knitted scarf will keep any man in your life warm and cozy. It is made of a wool and cotton blend. Also check out their denim for men, which is made of 100% recycled organic cotton. 
Denim Necktie, Forage - $78 “Add a little formal to your casual.” Suitable for all occasions: dress up casual or dress down formal. This denim necktie is one of a limited number made. Forage assembles each piece by hand in the USA while being environmentally conscious. 
Clemente Hi-Top, Fortress of Inca - $179 Treat your Man to something better than a foot massage. These sleek sneakers are made from three types of luxurious premium high-grade leathers - crust, nubuck and suede – giving these shoes both luxury and high comfort. This brand produces handmade shoes in Peru while providing workers with fair wages. 
The Lucas Backpack, Stone & Cloth - $51.80 We love camo especially if it hides dirt when your man takes this for a hike into the mountains. Your purchase of each Stone & Cloth backpack helps provide scholarships for students in need. Where do you shop for gifts made/sourced ethically?
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