A Cozy Day at Home Shopping for a Cause
Christmas is just around the corner, and it feels like such a strange time in the world. Part of me feels guilty for enjoying the luxuries of life, especially when so many others are facing hardships, such as living in war zones. The reality is that countless children and families are having their lives destroyed by conflict, while human beings continue to harm the planet and contribute to a growing waste crisis.
This is why I believe that now more than ever, we should be conscious and mindful in our consumption and gifting. Christmas shopping can be overwhelming, especially if left until last minute.
This season, let’s pick items that positively impact artisan communities or support NGOs. I have included works from an art auction benefiting Médecins Sans Frontières in Palestine as well as soaps made in Lebanon. I’ve also included the Stamps Series by Sacha Haddad which is part of Moments for Lebanon, a fundraising art show in Paris aimed at raising funds for Lebanon. You can purchase by contacting Tamara Barakat by email (barakattamara@gmail.com) or by message on (+33 7 78 07 80 11). The event will take place on November 30th (6pm—12am) and December 1st (12pm—7pm) at Lucid Interval, 94 rue Quincampoix, 75003 Paris.
When buying toys for kids, consider purchasing pre-loved items on eBay. I recently found some amazing Star Wars figurines from the seventies and nineties in a vintage toy store in upstate New York. I can browse for vintage toys online for hours, and my favourite era is the '90s.
When selecting a gift for a couple, think about giving them something for their home that they can both enjoy. Some ideas that come to mind include a beautiful hand-painted carafe and tumblers by Petra Palumbo, or an artwork from the Artist Fundraiser, an initiative raising funds for MSF in Palestine. There’s an incredible list of artists and fantastic works available.
I’m also a big fan of matching items for mothers and children, such as matching strawberry jumpers from Campbell’s of Beauly or my Iman amber and tumbled stone beaded necklaces.
Cashmere socks or cozy knits are excellent gifts to help us through the winter. Paravel suitcases and travel accessories are ethically produced using recycled materials. They also happen to be chic and can be personalised. These items make a great gift for men—finding gifts for men can often be the most challenging task.
A few Christmases ago, I gifted each family member a cedar tree in their name. I think this is a thoughtful, symbolic gesture that has a positive impact on our planet. Another option would be to offer a tree in support of reforestation in the Amazon rainforest through organisations like Saving the Amazon.
You can also donate an amount of your choice to an NGO in someone’s name. This Christmas, I will be supporting Beit el Baraka, an NGO providing emergency relief to displaced families in Lebanon, my home country.
Check out the Earth Shop, the retail outlet of Dirt charity, founded by my friend and activist Arizona Muse. You will find many ideas for conscious gifting there.
Conscious gifting this Christmas is essential as it encourages thoughtful consumption and develops a deeper connection between the giver and the recipient. By choosing gifts that are ethically sourced, sustainable, and supportive of local communities, we not only show our loved ones that we care but also contribute to a positive impact on the environment and society.
I hope you’ll enjoy my selection of gift ideas!
Lots of love,
Noor
Here are some different ways to consciously gift:
- Handcrafted Items
- Sustainable Products
- Experience Gifts
- Charity Donations
- Charity Auctions
- Subscription Services
- Locally Sourced Goods
- Gift with a Purpose
1- Liwan Striped Cotton Cocktail Babouche: Liwan Lifestyle blend traditional craftsmanship with modern design with a focus on creating beautiful, handcrafted leather goods. Their Liwan Striped Cotton Cocktail Babouche are stylish and comfortable.
2- Handcrafted Brass Plate: Orient 499 specialises in decorative objects inspired by rich cultural heritage and artisanal techniques. Their hand-crafted brass plate serves as a stunning centrepiece, showcasing intricate artistry and timeless elegance.
3- Dama: Sarah’s Bag is a Lebanese brand that specialises in handcrafted accessories. This brand is committed to social responsibility, making it impactful. It works with marginalised women in Lebanon coming from challenging backgrounds, such as women who have been to prison or those at risk of social exclusion. This item is a handbag inspired by the backgammon board game.
4- Classic Tray: Nada Debs is celebrated for her contemporary designs that incorporate traditional craftsmanship.This classic tray features elegant design and functionality, perfect for serving or as a decorative piece.
5- Incense Burner with Handle - Orient 499: The beautifully designed incense burner with its handle provides a calming atmosphere with its functional elegance.
6- The Essential Set Plus: Paravel creates sustainable travel accessories that combine functionality with eco-friendly practices. This travel set includes essentials for the conscious traveler, promoting a stylish and sustainable journey.
7- Holly Jug with Set of 6 Tumblers: Petra Palumbo is a sustainable homeware and lifestyle brand based in Scotland known for its elegant and timeless design. This charming jug and tumbler set adds a festive touch to your table, ideal for hosting during the holiday season.
8- Eau de Fleurs d'Oranger: Epicerie Moune produces high-quality floral waters that capture the essence of natural ingredients. This orange blossom water is perfect for skincare and culinary uses, offering a delightful sensory experience.
9- Beirut Balcony Box: Senteurs d'Orient creates luxurious bath products with natural ingredients inspired by Middle Eastern traditions. This beautifully crafted item captures the essence of Beirut, making it a perfect gift for those who cherish the city's spirit.
10- Akub Hampers: Akub is a restaurant in London celebrating the rich flavours and culinary traditions of Palestine. The Gourmet hampers offer delicacies and artisanal products.
11- Piano en Bois FSC Swan: Konges Slojd designs eco-friendly toys and children’s products that prioritize sustainability. This wooden piano is not only an entertaining toy for children but is also environmentally responsible.
12- Petite Soeur Souris Ballerine et Son Lit Tiroir: Maileg creates enchanting toys and gifts that spark imagination and encourage storytelling. This charming ballerina mouse comes with her own bed, perfect for nurturing young children’s imagination.
13- Vintage Star Wars Toys: A collectable set of vintage Star Wars Toys with action figures and memorabilia, the ideal gift for collectors and fans.
14- Letters to the Holy Land - Maria Amiouni and Sara Dweik: This book is a collection of poems dedicated to the people of Palestine. It unites voices from different backgrounds and ages to honour Palestinian resilience, culture and hope and advocates for justice and solidarity.
15- The Kind Activity Book - Axel Scheffler, Nadine Kaadan and Renia Metallinou: Awesome Books is a platform that provides accessible and engaging literature for children, promoting creativity and kindness. Filled with fun and thoughtful tasks, this activity book encourages children to explore their creativity while promoting kindness.
16- Gibran Khalil Gibran: This book tells the story of Gibran Khalil Gibran, one of the most famous Lebanese writers and poets that touched the lives of many.
17- The Land in Our Bones - Layla Feghali: This thought-provoking book explores themes of identity and heritage and how our identities are shaped by the lands we inhabit. It calls for healing and belonging while guided by land and love.
18- Beirut Rise Pendant by Noor Fares: The Beirut Rise Pendant symbolises resilience and beauty, making it a meaningful gift. All the profits of this piece go towards Beit El Baraka, an NGO who is providing emergency relief to displaced families in Lebanon.
19- Olympia Le-Tan x Racil Beirut Clutch: Racil collaborates with designers to create fashion pieces that celebrate heritage and craftsmanship. This clutch is an ode to Beirut.
20- Peace Cushion - Orient 499: This cushion is a tribute to Palestinian women, children and men. The olive branch, Jaffa orange, eye, fish and watermelon icons symbolise hope. The proceeds will be donated to INARA, an NGO that supports the medical and well-being of Palestinians.
21- Canvas Cushion: Inaash operates primarily in Palestinian refugee camps in Lebanon, where they focus on empowering women through the art of traditional handicrafts. Palestinian artisans in refugee camps across Lebanon craft these items by hand embroidery. The pride of these women towards their heritage is celebrated through these pieces.
22- Silver Bouquet Wall Art - Sarah’s Bag: Each piece is personalised and meticulously hand-beaded and embroidered by female artisans that transform any moment or portrait of your choice into handcrafted wall-art.
23- Brampton Crew Neck Jumper in Peat: Herd is a British knitwear brand that celebrates sustainability and heritage. This jumper, cozy and perfect for layering is made using traditional knitting techniques.
24- Fleetwood Jumper in Jam with Peat & Ecru: This red knit is the perfect winter statement look with “peat” and “ecru” patterns.
25- Keffiyeh Shawl in Forest Green: Muzungu Sisters focus on ethically sourced fashion that celebrates cultural heritage. This versatile shawl adds warmth and style while promoting traditional craftsmanship.
26- Strawberry Yoke Jumper: Campbell’s of Beauty is a historic Scottish brand specialising in bespoke and ready-to-wear garments that reflect timeless design. This cozy and charming jumper with a strawberry motif on the yoke is a good addition to your winter wardrobe.
27- Kids Strawberry Yoke Jumper
28- The Terra Mater Pink Bead Necklace: Venyx World is a contemporary jewellery brand by Eugenie Niarchos that produces innovative designs by combining nature, fantasy and space-inspired elements.
29- Multi-Coloured Fans: the Noor Fares amber and tumbled stone beaded necklaces come in different sizes, for adults, children and babies. Amber is believed to harmonise the body by absorbing negative energy and enhancing natural healing.
30- Day & Night Earrings: Nada Zeineh is known for her contemporary jewellery designs that blend elegance with a modern twist. These versatile earrings transition seamlessly from day to night, making them a perfect accessory for any occasion.
31- ODP Bottle Bag with Bottle: Officina del Poggio (ODP) is an Italian brand that focuses on high-quality leather goods. This item is a leather water bottle holder with an adjustable strap that comes in different colours, both practical and elegant.
32- ODP Leather Yoga Mat / Blanket Strap: This stylish leather strap is designed for yoga enthusiasts seeking functionality with a touch of luxury.
The Artist Fundraiser is a platform that supports artists by promoting their work and raising funds for various artistic endeavours:
33- Earthrise / Falling Together - Nima Nabavi
34- Celadon Passions I - Tai Shani
35- Borges and Blindness - Munem Wasif
36- Cyanotype Drawing for Little Gods - Oliver Beer
37- Stamps Alphabet Series - Sacha Haddad: Sacha Haddad is a Lebanese illustrator. Her art honours her heritage. This series blends nostalgic Lebanese elements with familiar expressions and phrases.