This whole gift season thing can be a bit overwhelming. As if it wasn’t hard enough to find the right gifts, now I’m trying to think about what I’m buying, where I’m buying, and who I’m buying it from! Enter my hunt for eco-friendlier gift ideas from Uncommon Goods.
I know it seems stupidly early to be talking about holiday gifts, but with delayed production/shipping times this year, it’ll be best to get your shopping done (at least ordered) well before normal. Many places are suggesting at least 6 weeks before a gift is needed!
Our gift list is, thankfully, quite small now that many of our family members have decided to skip gifts or do group donations! For those who remain on our list, however, what to do?
Gift Ideas from Uncommon Goods
These eco-friendlier gifts from Uncommon Goods are a fun way to support a company doing good as well as artisans around the world (even if we can’t travel too far these days). Not to mention, some of these products are just too good. I won’t lie that I may just be picking out things I like and finding people to give them to! There’s nothing new there though!
What is Uncommon Goods?
Uncommon goods is similar to Etsy in that artisans can sell their products on the platform. The main difference (to me) is that Uncommon Goods vets all products and, I think, stores them to sell (rather than products shipping from artisans themselves).
One of the major selling points of the company for me is that they were one of the first B-Corp companies – businesses using their success for good in the world. You can read everything they tout in terms of sustainability and accountability here.
A few highlights though (in case you don’t have time for the whole list) is that they use recycled or sustainable materials when possible (and encourage artists to do the same). They also opt for environmentally friendlier packing materials. They also have a give back program, donating $1 to a charity of your choice with every purchase!
I also love that you can read more about the artist on each piece sold on the site.
Gift Ideas for Everyone
A wife and husband team based in Georgia make these beautiful ceramic mugs. With a silicone lid you’ll be sipping your steamy drink in stylish, eco-friendly comfort!
Women in India sew reclaimed saris into beautiful pieces, including this scarf! Every piece is unique and you’ll be supporting female artists trying to lift up their communities and living standards!
Dryer balls are the second best option to air-drying all your clothes and these cruelty-free wool dryer balls are beautiful, handmade, and unique!
As we try to limit single-use plastic and foil to cover our food, reusable covers is the best way to keep food safe and let it breathe healthily in the fridge. Just toss these covers in the wash between uses!
Have a craft beer lover in your life? Who also loves animals? One of these candles is the sure-win then. Thes soy-based candles are poured into reclaimed beer bottles with beery scents that everyone will enjoy!
Based in Truckee, this is a Nor Cal “local” artist!
These steamer bars from Uncommon Goods are where my gift-giving ideas research all started this season.These little bars sit on the floor of your shower and fizz when water hits them. They release essentials oils and soothing aromas into your shower. Each one last 3 showers and the set comes with the dish!
Based in San Francisco, this is a Nor Cal “local” artist!
SUTTER CREEK UPCYCLED GLASS BOWL
Upcycled glass fragments are melded together into this beautiful bowl. Glass artist Mira Woodworth collects glass pieces to make into beautiful art pieces. Colors vary between each piece and there’s a silver version in place of the copper to match any decor!
Based in Sacramento, this is a Nor Cal “local” (and super Sacramento local) artist!
I’m a sucker for a good platter. This reclaimed wood platter is a beautiful counter or kitchen table topper. Sold with and without the recycled glass lid (handle made of salvaged, galvanized metal)!
All my iced coffee and tea drinks rejoice in this GORGEOUS ceramic iced tumbler with metal straw and bamboo lid! Everyone will be jealous of any drink enjoyed in this fun gift!
I love Uncommon Goods- they have such unique gifts that you can’t find anywhere else.
I’m so excited you already love them. I heard about them years ago and then they fell off my radar again until more recently when I started getting more into sustainability and shopping alternative to the big website out there! I secretly want more than one of these for myself! 🙂
The sari scarf looks super stylish!
It does! It would go with just about anything in my closet too! 🙂