Ethical Gift Guide for Friends, Family, and Everyone in Between

Sometimes gift ideas come easily (thank goodness for thinly veiled hints), but sometimes we’re stumped. We’ve got a few ethical gift suggestions for everyone on your list.

For friends

Sometimes buying gifts for friends can be tricky. You want to get something sweet that will let them know you appreciate their friendship, but you don’t want to get something that might feel a little over the top. A fair trade accessory that’s special without being excessive is the perfect present. The Rolling Waves Cuff Bracelet is a gorgeous hand-hammered piece in a neutral tone that will easily fit into their wardrobe. The Groovy Embossed Journal is also a delightful little gift for noting all their hopes and dreams for the year ahead.

For coworkers

When we think of the holidays, we often think of spending time with family and friends. However, don’t get so excited by the prospect of a few vacation days that you forget the people that have had your back all year at work. If your coworker mentioned that their family is opting for a virtual celebration this year and they will miss doing the hosting, gift them with a fair trade tea towel that will freshen up their space just because. Or if they’re making a resolution to go zero waste in the new year, they’ll love the sustainable Straw Travel Kit from India.

For a crush

So maybe you like them but don’t know if you like them? It’s a confusing place we’ve all found ourselves in at one time or another. In this case, it’s best to stay away from jewelry or any other classically romantic gifts. But there’s no harm in gifting them something small that sends a message of relatively platonic affection until you decide on exactly what kind of relationship you want to share. An ethical gift that promotes mindful living is a way to simply say I care about your wellbeing. The Little Song Singing Bowl is a meditative aid that is sure to delight. If you are really trying to keep it neutral, who doesn’t love socks?

For a significant other

When there’s no doubt about it, it’s time to up your gifting game. Fascinate your significant other with your superb taste by gifting the Amethyst Pendant featuring faceted amethyst set in sterling silver. Or help them stay warm this winter with the luxuriously soft Cozy Grey Wool Wrap crafted with a wool and alpaca fiber blend.

For parents

The challenge of finding a perfect ethical gift for Mom and Dad is they often already have pretty much everything they need (and probably a lot of your old stuff that they don’t need and would really love for you to come by and get rid of already). Try to find them something special that they wouldn’t splurge on for themselves. The soft Paisley Cotton Robe is a sweet gift for Mom and the Glowing Onyx Lamp is a stunning gift for Dad.

Have a few other people on your list that have you stumped? Find an ethical global gift for everyone with the help of our gift finder!