I did a poll on Instagram a couple of weeks ago asking if holiday gift guides were useful. While the answers were unanimously yes, I am aware that holiday spending is fraught with concerns about consumption and capitalism. Gifting is not inherently bad - in fact it can be a wonderful way to share abundance and joy with friends and family.

So take this gift guide with that spirit in mind, and use it to give you ideas on what to buy or simply an opportunity to get to know new creators.

This gift guide showcases independent brands and retailers, many of whom I know personally or have purchased from. While it is designed with my Canadian audience in mind because duties and taxes are painful with the weak dollar, American readers can still partake. (I don't have many followers outside of North America yet, maybe next year!)

For simplicity I've listed the standard Canadian retail price of all items but many brands are offering great deals for Black Friday and beyond.

Without further ado here is my 2024 Holiday Gift Guide.

xo Amrita

Bath, Body and Cosmetics

A modern day take on an ancient Indian healing ingredient. Ghlee muscle recovery balm, $44

Haircare products that are great for your scalp and the environment. Bonus: founded by 2 Canadian women. Everist haircare travel duo $24

The perfect amount of light floral scent in this beautiful scrub made in my home province of Newfoundland. East Coast Glow wild rose infused sugar scrub $60

A lipstick that is easy to apply and stays put through all your holiday parties. Bonus: one of the first Indigenous-owned and founded cosmetics companies. Cheekbone Beauty Warrior liquid lipstick $36.

Home and Kitchen

This one is for my brother, who has loved nanaimo bars as long as I have loved him. ❤️ A box of yummy nanaimo bars from Northern Bars, $22

The only chai masala spice blend that stands up to my family's made-from-scratch recipe. Also available: the OG "golden milk", aka haldi doodh. Diaspora Co via Flavourfull, $17.99)

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A custom charcoal drawing of your pet by my friend and talented artist Meaghan Olinski (contact for pricing)

The softest sheets to cozy up in this winter, shown in this beautiful juniper print by friend and talented designer Kate Golding. (I have lots of talented friends, so I will gladly promote them!) Wilet x Kate Golding bedding, starting at $88

A delicious journey through Canada's restaurant history, by award-winning writer Gabby Peyton. Where We Ate by Gabby Peyton, $36

One of many stunning prints I've been eyeing at Smokestack Gallery. Yes, the gallery owner is also a friend. 😊 Art print: Dainesha Nugent – Enduring Ephemeral (the last bouquet), $250

A collection of breakfast teas to wake you up after holiday festivities, from the company that makes my favourite blends. Murchie's breakfast tea collection, $15.95

Clothing

A styling way to stay warm. Eliza Faulkner Lana fleece sweater, $195

A dainty hand-forged ring for your mom, sister or niece. By artist and friend Stray Stones, ($65)

This entire outfit, for your cool sister. (If my sisters are reading this, I am the cool sister I'm referring to 🤣). Sweater from Ali Golden at Ande the Store, $410

A cozy shirt to take on your weekend trip to The Berkshires, real or imagined! BestKind shirt, $140. Use code BESTKINDBF for $40 off during our Nov 29-Dec2 Black Friday promo.

Festive earrings because you can never have enough sparkle, and because Warren is an awesome person. Sparkle pink glitter earrings, Warren Steven Scott, $60