*Queen of cookies, Gaia Valdemarsdottir, became a friend of the CAP family ever since she started sending her cookies across state lines. Never have we met anyone with such a varied palate and inclusive vision, both of which are applied to her cookies as well as the gifts she gives. You might just want to befriend her too.
1. I use my ashtray for castelvetranos and as I pick away at my olives, moon man appears and I love him.
2. Rachel is a true healer with a huge heart. A session with her is a forever gift you won’t forget.
3. One of my favorite authors, Clarice Lispector was a Ukranian born, Brazilian writer. Everything she wrote was poetic, whimsical and luminescent. I would gift this book to anyone who loves reading!
4. LOVE Anna Santangelo’s jewelry and her newest bikini collaboration with Fanny Kubler. Would gift her jewelry and get the bikini for a water baby like myself!
5. I toast these herbaceous pearls in a pan, crush them in my mortar and pestle and sprinkle them on roasted vegetables.
6. Have been using a dry brush for years now and this is the best one I’ve ever tried!
7. If you shave down there, then this is a must. I love Fur Oil and use the oil and scrubber every day!
8. Taking care of my hands and nails has always been important to me. This kit makes it so easy and I love that I can pop it in my purse, take it on the plane and travel with it.
9. Nothing better than going to the movies and being inspired by the vision and beauty of a film.
10. The BEST coconut butter out there! I add it to my oatmeal with some maple syrup. Perfect for cold winter mornings!
11. Because I am obsessed with soft lips! I keep one in my purse and on the bedside table.
12. Treat yourself!
13. The best way I can describe Hoshigaki is that it’s like eating something sacred and ancient. A winter ritual for me and a treat I get every year. Hand massaged dried persimmons, do I need to say more?
14. I have a thing for Filberts aka Hazelnuts from Oregon and these are my go to! Actually, they’re the only hazelnuts I want to eat!
15. I love everything about this body oil; from the beautiful green bottle to the way my skin feels and smells afterwards.
16. Incredibly beautiful, timeless and elegant jewelry that you’ll have forever. A favorite of mine.
17. If you have a lot of cash to spend, The Window in LA is celestial.
*We kind of consider Jimena our queen, and we’re not the only ones. She’s a brilliant artist whose medium is brows and she brings her discerning eye to all she does. Hers is a world filled with beauty, insightful wisdom and riots of color. And we’re all in.
1. These are super easy to use and they keep matcha-messes at bay. I love to pour a sachet into a bottle of fresh coconut water and shake for a little hydrating and caffeinating pick-me-up.
2. Spoonfuls in smoothies or soups or freshly steamed rice, or simply spread on warm toast —it’s so versatile and the best coconut butter you can find.
3. Eclectic imagery paired with ancient wisdom, these cards are designed to infuse the everyday with encouragement while growing intuition. It's a fun daily ritual; sometimes I call my friends in the morning and pick one for them, or offer one up when they are over for dinner.
4. From a traditional glass blowing studio in Tuscany that has been in the family for generations. Makes a perfect gift as it can be filled with holiday libations, used as a vase, or left empty as an art piece.
5. My father spent some of his childhood in Italy, so the classic Milanese dessert, panettone, has always been a holiday tradition for me. Sant Ambroeus in NYC is practically my second kitchen, so obviously, their panettone is my go-to and something I genuinely look forward to every holiday season.
6. Everyone needs one of these. The microfiber helps your hair dry quickly and the clever little elastic strap means the towel will stay on your head while you're getting ready to go out or slipping into bed. It's cold out, which means its time to take extra special care of your hair.
7. The perfect stocking stuffer, it's my go-to in the winter months. The best gift for everyone because all hands deserve a little extra love.
8. This is a life-changer. You can throw this big hunk of charcoal into any water to purify. The water will not only taste delicious, but it will also look super chic. I especially love to give this gift to fellow New Yorkers and my friends who are always on the go.
9. A luxe gift for foodies or anyone looking to make a perfect paella for a holiday bash. Diaspora does it right, ethically sourcing their golden threads from the historic Pampore in Kashmir.
10. Antique and vintage John Derian prints reproduced, cut, and collaged with hand-blown glass on top. Each piece is handmade, they are beautiful and so chic!
11. I always spray a bit in the air before I take Nadia Josse’s life-changing breathwork class, or honestly any time I need a little mood lift. It works every time, it’s insane.
12. An easy go-to gift for everyone. It looks beautiful on a countertop and you know it’ll get used, plus it tastes delicious and is packed with healthy minerals!
13. I only tone my skin with this divine creation from my dear friends at In Fiore or with Sublimage from Chanel. There are simply no other choices.
*Shereen’s exquisite eye and life story act as the guiding forces for her visual stories. Her refined and elegant style are a welcome balm to our often cluttered landscape, and a reprieve from the world where more is more is so often the norm.
1. Inspirational imagery that represents clarity, honor, cowardice and deceit. It's a cute coffee table book.
2. LESSE is my essential and I'm 100% positive that anyone would be honored to add this to their daily ritual.
3. Scents of jasmine not only encourages relaxation and calmness, but it also gives me nostalgic memories of summers spent in Pakistan. It’d be a personal gift I’d love to give to anyone dear to me.
4. Cozy and soft blanket for the winter ahead.
5. Forever a fan of Tiana’s work and her latest collection is elegantly beautiful. This bracelet would be the most special, timeless gift.
6. A unique set that will be so hard to resist lighting up; hence the perfect gift that'll last a lifetime.
7. My favorite balm made with natural ingredients, perfect for the colder days ahead.
8. Favorite hair accessories that are both beautiful and functional. They're specifically designed to work with thick hair like mine so I'd gift to anyone with a similar curl pattern.
9. Common body sculptural candles are so beautiful; you’ll rarely want to light them. They’ll bring charm to anyone’s home.
10. Journaling is my most favorite ritual, and this workbook allows you to document your days thoughtfully.
11. The perfect scent to wear all year long.
12. One of a kind vase to grace anyone’s home as the perfect gift.
13. Delicately caring for skin beneath makeup is most essential.
14. Brings personality to anyone’s home.
*You may know her as Ginny Weasley of the Harry Potter movie franchise, but we know her as an activist, friend of CAP and recent writer of the book, Go Gently, that encourages environmental activism by meeting you exactly where you are.
I love this Earth shaped dryer ball. Dryer balls speed up drying time, reducing energy consumption by 10-15%. This is a great gift for all your fellow Earthlings, even your pets, as mine have hijacked one of these as their own.
2. RUSTIC CAFE JAM CLUB SUBSCRIPTION
Who doesn’t love jam? Emily Eisen and I are back with our second year of Rustic Cafe JAM CLUB. All proceeds are donated to our friends at Suprmrkt, a non-profit organization providing affordable organic groceries to their community of South Central LA. A 2022 subscription of four seasonal jams makes a delicious gift.
3. RUSTIC CAFE LONG SLEEVE T-SHIRT
Rustic Cafe is a pop-up concept Emily Eisen and I created in 2020. The proceeds from our long sleeve t-shirt (like everything we do) is donated to our friends at Suprmrkt.
I was first introduced to this amazing bath soak during the cold winter months of living in New York. This makes the best gift for any bath lover you have in your life.
5. POMELO CASA HAND PAINTED PITCHER
This is actually on my wish list for a holiday gift, so unless no one gets the hint I will be happily purchasing one for myself. The joyful colors and hand painted patterns of Pomelo Casa’s homeware will brighten up any holiday table.
6. CHOOSE LOVE LGBTQIA+ SUPPORT
Every year I buy holiday gifts from Choose Love. It's an incredible non-profit that provides essential survival and long term support to refugees and displaced people. What I love most about this is you choose specific things to gift; from a hot meal, sea rescue, warm clothes, child education to LGBTQIA+ support.
This is a luxury treat for anyone's kitchen. I use olive oil for pretty much everything as I love the Mediterranean way of cooking and seasoning food. It's also great that it is made from locally grown olives in California.
An easy way to lower your use of single-use packaging is carrying a reusable set of utensils around. I love to gift these to people to encourage positive habits. I personally love the cute kid's size as it fits perfectly in my handbag.
I am a huge fan of Gabby and Luke’s brand Activist; they care so deeply about the quality of their honey and their loving family spirit comes through in everything they do. A sweet and immune boosting gift that we should be buying for ourselves too!
A fun gift for any age. I love how simple and elegant these crayons are. Harnessing nature to inspire creativity.
11. WRIGHT & TEAGUE STELLA FLOWER DROP EARRINGS
Ever since wearing these Stella earrings on the front cover of my new book Go Gently I have hardly taken them off! Made from recycled silver and designed by my parents they reflect the light beautifully and would make any outfit complete.
12. NUCIFERA STICK
I love a product that is multifunctional. This stick can keep your lips, hands and body moisturized all at once. I love to give gifts that are environmentally conscious like this, as it's packaged in cardboard that I can compost!
*This dynamic duo set out to create a company that incorporated their combined interests in yoga and meditation with their time spent in fashion. Sharing not only products, but experience as well, they’re who we turn to when in need of a movement and mindfulness tuneup.
1. This is our favorite surfboard shaper who has been around for decades but recently introduced this cool logo. Max just ordered a fun-shape board for sunrise sessions up and down the coast.
2. We do outdoor showers more than indoor so we upped our shower game. This brush being the most extravagant part of that upgrade. I think I'm worth it I'm but still not sure.
3. If you are not slipping into your pajamas overnight aided by this, are you really alive? Plus, the Japanese do it best. By ‘it’ we mean everything.
4. We live in southern California so we fling the doors open every morning and feed our 8 month old in the garden. Whenever I come back in Elsa has always burned incense and that makes life better.
5. One of our favorite ambient musicians Jon Hopkins just released this incredible soundtrack for deep-dive psilocybin journeys. Sound really defines these experiences like no other variable to harness the full spiritual and therapeutic potential of plant medicine.
6. I had laser eye surgery so I could wear these. Need I say more.
7. We’re about to launch a collab with Story Mfg and have been loving their hand-dyed and embroidered shirts for Topanga living.
8. I'd like to shave my head. Until then I'll use this. We're also all about multi-use products that span generations as my 8 month old Tuulikki is in the shower with me most days.
9. Everyone secretly loves ketchup which is why the fancy variant gives you the confidence to be public about it.
10. There is nothing more interesting than consciousness: what it is, how it arises, where it goes when we die… Anil Seth is one of the leading cognitive scientists in the field and his new book is a perfect intro for anyone interested in where science is at on the journey of figuring out this great mystery.
11. Devon gives us a taste of what great hand-made speakers should be, a new staple at all of our events.
*Founder of Cereal Magazine and Francis Gallery, Rosa’s taste leans towards intellectual minimalism but exudes a deep and welcoming warmth, not an easy task. Her reverence for objects and their makers are felt in all she shares and has us following her every move.
1. Dry brushing is a key part of my self-care routine, and something I’ve been urging friends to do if they aren’t already. This particular dry brush feels incredible with its soft bristles, and is one that will suit people with sensitive skin. I’ll definitely be sending a few of these to friends as part of a self-care holiday package.
2. A friend gifted this to me a couple of years ago, and I’ve been obsessed ever since. Breu is a resin extracted from trees in the Amazon, and has been used in healing rituals to purify and welcome harmony. I love its earthy aroma, and it’s a great alternative to palo santo, sage and sweet grass.
3. The midday slump has been a daily struggle, and I’ve gotten through it for the majority of my life by over-caffeinating. No longer. The O’Clocks: 4pm gives the boost I’m after, without the jitters and wired nights from excess coffee consumption. I want to send this to every friend who has the same predicament.
4. This ceramic work from Romy Northover’s solo show at Francis Gallery — titled Sanguine — was created by the artist with her eyes closed at the wheel. The performative nature of the work, coupled with questions it raises regarding value and movement, creates an energy that I wish to invite into my life. I’d love this piece for our new LA home.
5. Older Brother’s naturally dyed garments feel incredibly soft and comfortable. This Sherpa Hoodie is dyed with fermented Persimmon fruit, creating a subtle rust hue. I’d wear this all the time — when working from home, going to the farmers’ market, heading over to a friend’s house, and beyond.
6. I like lighting an incense to mark the start or the end of my meditation, and the smokeless ones by Bodha are my go-to. On hectic days when I haven’t been able to meditate, the process of simply lighting an incense brings me a moment of pause and peace.
7. The scent of this candle instantly transports me to Christmas! Lyn Harris of Perfumer H is a magician, and her refillable candles in jewel-toned, handblown glass vessels — which you can personalise with initials — truly make the perfect gift.
8. This book will change your perspective and take you to a place of unimaginable expansion. Written by a peak performance coach, Victoria Song, who I have the pleasure of working with, this is a book I’m buying for anyone in my life who is interested in doing the work.
9. You’ll find me cocooned in the Arran Border blanket this winter, while I cuddle with my baby son, and while I read on the sofa. For chums who love to feel cosy, this is what I’ll be getting them.
10. This is one of my staple products. The scent is grounding, and the oil absorbs and hydrates beautifully. I use this on my face, body and hair! The travel-sized Everyday Oil is going to be a stocking stuffer for my family this Christmas.
11. If I could have one luxury item for my pantry and medicine cabinet, this would be it. My body has always responded well to Manuka honey, so I’m keen to try this in my tea or by the spoonful!
12. My life feels incomplete without hot sauce, and Fly by Jing’s are the best. Sichuan Chili Crisp is a classic that I use for almost everything that needs a spicy kick, and Zhong is my sauce of choice for dumplings. For fellow lovers of hot sauce, Fly by Jing is the one for you!
*Rafael Prieto, founder of Casa Bosques, creates chocolates that connect him, and us, to time and place. His bars take inspiration from meals eaten in Berlin to teas shared in Kuwait and capture moments from all across the globe allowing a far away experience to play out in your own home. Inspired by aesthetics, this creative director turns memories into objects.
1. This coffee is just really good quality with great notes; all of them have a nice level of acidity, you can always perceive the notes, a favorite.
2. I like this olive oil, it's very fragrant with good character.
3. I really like what it does to images, it's a great size, and it’s the camera I use to document Casa Bosques and the work at Savvy Studio.
4. It's winter and this oil really feels really complete and moisturizing. I also like that it is natural.
5. Harold is a great friend of mine, he is an extremely talented being. This is one of his newest books.
6. This trio of our bean to bar chocolates captures the taste of the Holiday season, Speculoos Cookie, Canyon Coffee and Caramel. Each invokes comfort and indulgence. They are wrapped in limited edition printed linen, photographs from my travels of idle and visually rich rooms.
7. It’s very good with a great balance of acidity and some sweetness. Great character.
8. It feels powerful, calming and nourishing and the smell is quite special.
9. I am a full believer in the power of fungi, you have to welcome them into your daily life. They'll definitely improve your being.
10. Los Angeles-based Skye Chamberlain, aka D.O.O.R., has been pulling together pieces of wood, metal and ceramic—almost anything he can get his hands on—to create fantastical pieces, like this new collection of candle sconces for folk gallery Tiwa Select. Specifically for this series, Skye takes scrap metal (mostly copper) and joins the pieces together to create playful, whimsical light sources.
11. It's a great mezcal, great quality, founded by amazing women and great friends. The notes are amazing.
12. Aside from having worked with my friend Waris on the branding, the teas themselves are exceptional: really well sourced and high-quality ingredients.The blends are great and flavorful.
13. This is probably my favorite store in Paris, they have an amazing selection of Japanese porcelain, wood pieces, pastries and of course teas. Their rice tea is really special. Very flavorful and fragrant.
14. These ceramics are really beautiful and interesting. Made by this cool atelier founded by two sculpture artists, Charlotte Vander Borght and Loup Sarion, as a B-side project.
*Rebekah Peppler, an American food writer who makes her home in Paris, takes the act of hospitality and gift giving seriously. With dinner parties on repeat, and a kitchen that is always cooking, her vision is one of elegance, wit and parties that last through the night. Her book, À Table, is a constant reference for meals, and tips on how to make the most of a night spent with friends.
1. I have so many linen napkins at this point and these from my friends Shay and Jeanie at MADRE are my go-to for both my own table and as a chic, light, you-can-never-have-too-many gift.
2. I’d been drinking this tea pretty steadily for a few years but when I got sick with Long COVID, it quickly became my favorite afternoon go-to ritual. Now, my pantry feels bare when I start to run low, so I stock up and keep extras on hand for a simple, beautiful gift when someone I love is feeling under the weather.
3. My mom is a librarian and books have always been a part of any holiday, celebration, or surprise gifting. An Everlasting Meal: Cooking with Economy and Grace by Tamar Adler, The Language of Baklava by Diana Abu-Jaber, and The Margot Affair by Sanaë Lemoine are all food-adjacent and in regular gift rotation.
4. I have a lip balm in pretty much every jacket pocket and I’m more than happy to line the jacket pockets of those I love with one or three too.
5. Gifting spices from Diaspora Co. ensures all my friend’s spice cabinets are properly stocked with fresh, single-origin, equitably-sourced spices — a low-lift, high-reward gift that keeps on giving whenever I get invited over by said friends for dinner.
6. Since this duo makes for a pricey present, I’ll preface this one by saying it is a gift I have given myself—and my skin has never been happier.
7. Natural wine is my go-to when I’m invited to dinner and when I can’t make it, I can still send a bottle. In California, I send a box from my friends at Botanica. In New York (and a few other states), People’s Wine offers a beautifully-curated monthly club subscription.
8. It’s well-documented how much I love a good white shirt and normally I’m a stickler for the unembellished variety but you can’t not love anything and everything Steak Diane does. For an especially good time pair with a set of matching napkins.
9. My friend Susan infuses everything she makes (and everyone in her life) with so much love and joy. Gifting one of her fruit bowls packed with, well, fruit, keeps that love and joy train going.
10. Food is my love language and luckily, that’s also the case for a lot of the people I love. Sending a package with really good coffee beans, CAPnola, and honey provides a clearcut way to the heart (and a really lovely breakfast to boot).
11. One non-negotiable in any home I have is a designated tinned fish drawer / part of the pantry. Either (or both!) of these trios of tins is the perfect starter set for a like-minded tinned fish-loving soul.
12. In lieu of a card, I like to top a gift with an especially beautiful bar of chocolate and hand write the recipient's name and maybe a short love note directly on the packaging.
*Camille Becerra just happens to be one of our favorite chefs out there, and we’re always looking to see what she creates next. Her skills in the kitchen are informed by her reverence for aesthetics and reveal an extraordinarily beautiful life, one that marries plants, culture and the city of New York seamlessly.
1. Have you ever tried dusting matcha on your yogurt bowl, ice cream, oatmeal, Christmas powdered sugar cookies, pavlova, crepes or cakes? Then you know only the freshest, brightest and greenest matcha will do.
2. The famed American femme distillery grows and uses California-local and indigenous ingredients to make high quality gin, vodka and a zero-proof wonder child made with a beautiful mix of botanicals called Riverine. The most notable restaurants only use Amass as the house martini.
3. I may be biased in my love because this SPF wiz, planet protector and founder of Zoca, Emily Seager worked for me one summer making beach food in the Rockaways. At the end of that summer I went back to the city and she stayed and made the world a better place. Protecting our oceans definitely means being conscious of what we wear when we swim in it. This hyper skin nourishing stick is just the right size for Mid-Atlantic swim season.
4. If you’re well into the 3rd year of discovering chili crunch oil on everything, then you’re probably ready to move onto Zhong. THE bigger, bolder, umami-richer, super-powered, not too spicy, chili crunch sauce.
5. Fun on everything. Make warm drinks like chai creamy and rich, add to smoothies, or add a dollop to finish off a pot of autumnal soup. I even put it on corn on the cob with some crunchy salt.
6. I’ve always chosen to invest in my skin care. I'd like to be okay with aging even within the ever increasing landscape of deforming to appear young. This line of pure plant power potions is the only skincare I use. The baseline regimen is cleanser, toner and moisturizer. I add to that one of their vitamin serums during the day and the Gentle Retinol Serum at night.
My go-tos: Replenishing Oil Cleanser and Gentle Gel Cleanser (yes I use both, oil cleanser to hydrate and gel to clean), Balancing Hypotonic and the Barrier Lipid Complex.
7. I now know I had never properly shakshukaed before I shakshukaed with NYshuk. Two hearty dollops in my shakshuka changed my life.
8. The kind of scent that feels like a warm earth hug in the winter. I also have a theory that when worn it has the power to make everyone around you happier just by the smell of you.
9. An important food book with a beautifully curated platform for many of my favorite food activists, authors, artists and chefs. The book starts out with a prayer about food that reads like a poem and the first recipe is for a biscuit. Soul and food, a dynamic duo.
10. Shrubs for friends from spring and summer goods bought at the Union Square Farmer's Market. I benefit from an acidulated beverage every morning. Trying to be conscious as a New Yorker and reduce my fresh lemon consumption.
*Erica, co-founder of LOOM, a platform whose mission is to help women optimize their sexual and reproductive wellbeing has been a friend of the CAP family since day one. Allow her to guide you towards a true understanding of your body and find out what she’s gifting to get there.
I keep these drops handy in high-stress situations (holiday travel, family gatherings, year-end deadlines). A few drops of this flower remedy calms the nerves and brings me back to center.
2. COSTA BRAZIL RESINA DE BREU
This is the perfect gift for anyone in your life needing a deep reset. It’s made with Breu, a natural resin thought to enhance peace of mind and activate intuition.
Our Bodies, Ourselves is a classic feminist text and, in this updated version, remains an essential read to this day, delivering critical information on women's reproductive health and sexuality. For more than fifty years, this book has shown that education is empowering.
4. LOOM PREGNANCY AND POSTPARTUM PROGRAM
Know someone who’s expecting or caring for a new baby? Our Pregnancy & Postpartum program supports and embraces the transition into parenthood with advice, community and education.
5. KARMAMEJU NATURAL BODY BRUSH
Running a tech start-up requires lots of stagnant screen time and body brushing is a quick way to get the circulation flowing again.
Sleek, powerful, and hands-down the best suction toy I’ve ever tried. Bonus points: it’s waterproof and USB rechargeable.
7. FUR OIL
A healing oil for hair and skin. It’s specially formulated to soften pubic hair and prevent painful ingrowns, but you can apply it just about anywhere.
I love using this magical oil, scented with sandalwood, neroli and clary sage, while setting an intention at the start of the day.
My New Year’s Eve plans: curling up under the soothing embrace of this weighted blanket made from breathable cotton and glass microbeads.
10. DESIGNING MOTHERHOOD BY MICHELLE MILLAR FISHER AND AMBER WINICK
The coffee table book of my dreams: a vibrantly illustrated tour through the design of objects associated with reproduction, from the speculum to the Babybjörn. (I loved it so much, I wrote the prologue!)
This restorative oil brightens and soothes tired eyes. The heavy roll-on applicator makes for a calming sensory experience. I like popping it in the fridge for a cooling effect.
12. PRIMA DAILY CBD
I’m awed by the potential of CBD to tackle stress and restore bodily balance. These daily 25mg CBD softgels are cruelty-free, vegan and made from organic whole plant hemp extract.
13. CASA BOSQUES DARK CHOCOLATE
This chocolate is the perfect interpretation of food as art. It tastes as good as it looks.
14. PANSY ORGANIC COTTON UNDERWEAR
Pansy is my go-to underwear brand. This woman-run business features organic cotton, cozy styles and my always color palette: earth tones.
*The royal couple of modern, relevant design who happen to be some of my oldest friends, Jamie and Olivia have exacting eyes, and bring their discerning and precise vision to all their aesthetic choices. This is how design royalty gifts.
1. MATTER MADE PUFFBALL PENDANT
Matter Made just launched these new Puffball pieces by Faye Toogood and we are thinking of hanging one above our bed.
2. MARIE VERONIQUE GENTLE RETINOL NIGHT SERUM
We love Marie Veronique products. I use and love the Gentle Retinol Serum nightly and Jamie uses the Protective Day Oil daily.
3. CARTIER SANTOS-DUMONT WATCH
One of the first wristwatches made in the early 20th century, it marked a transition from the more common pocket watch to the wrist. The design hasn't really changed in more than 100 years, a testament to its ageless and exceptional design. They come in multiple sizes and finishes so there's something for everyone within this collection. Personally I'd look for a vintage one with a Frederic Piguet movement.
Always inspired and in awe of our friend Yelena Yemchuk's gorgeous drawings.
5. CAP BEAUTY + WOODEN SPOON HERBS LIGHT RAY
We have been brewing our own kombucha and I love including The Light Ray and lemon juice in the second fermentation.
6. CASA AHORITA
Inspiration in spades from Su Wu's Casa Ahorita. We would be very happy to give or receive cookware from Levadura de Olla or a head planter form Jose Garcia Antonio.
7. CAP BEAUTY PINK MOUNTAIN SALT
A foundation in our kitchen, we love this mineral rich salt and use it in everything.
Everyone in our house loves this all purpose balm. It smells amazing and really helps smooth everything from cuticles to lips to feet.
Nadia Yaron is new to the Matter roster but is quickly receiving attention for her sculptural work.
10. DONATION TO ONE LOVE COMMUNITY FRIDGE
One Love Community Fridge works to address immediate food insecurity and minimize food waste by providing communities access to free, fresh, nutritious food through community fridges that are accessible to all 24/7.
11. DARK HORSE UMAMI BOUILLION
A rich, dynamic super umami bomb that can turn the ordinary into something extraordinary.
12. ZUZU
We love this sparkling cocktail created by our friend Greta Caruso and her partner Ali Schmidt.
Most afternoons are punctuated with a Matcha, we make a latte with The Coconut Butter, date and collagen powder.
Designed by Philippe Malouin for Matter Made the Arca Portable is our favorite portable light, you can use it anywhere for everything.
Our favorite incense out there, we love the smell and integrity of the ingredients.
16. EMBROIDERY AND LACE: THE UNKNOWN WIENER WERKSTÄTTE BY ANGELA VOLKER
A forever favorite in our medicine cabinet, car and carry on, The CAPtivator is an instant mood enhancing magical mist.
*Marrying art with food, April, has made a career out of exploring her lineage through Masa Memory, her line of tamales, tortillas, mole and hot sauce. Her range is a love song and exploration of her ancestry, they also happen to be some of the most delicious food items you’ll ever taste.
1. DONATION TO THE ANCESTRAL GUARD
The Ancestral Guard is an indigenous organizing network. Their programs combine traditional ecological knowledge, science and values of world renewal. Currently, Ancestral Guard is working on the Victorious Gardens Initiative to develop gardens, deliver fresh produce and assist families with growing and preserving vegetables in Yurok tribal lands. To learn more about Sammy Gensaw’s work with The Ancestral Guard, Victorious Gardens and about the Restorative Resolution, this podcast is a must listen to!
2. CAP BEAUTY MATCHA STICK BOX
Kerrilynn gifted the CAP Matcha to me when I was headed away on a long trip. Since then, I've traveled many places with my little on the go Matcha sticks. This Matcha has a true vibrance!
3. MASA MEMORY MORITA HOT SAUCE
I put hot sauce on everything. We have made a few limited edition hot sauces with Masa Memory in the past year but I am especially excited about our hot sauce collaboration with Flamingo Estate. In this Morita Hot Sauce we give a small but sweet taste preview of our new Rose Moon Vinegar, a faithful ode to my Nana Rose. The Morita Chiles are from a farm in Oaxaca and also from Windrose Farm in California. Flamingo Estate is also joining Masa Memory in donating a large portion of profits to Native Seeds Search, a nonprofit seed conservation organization based in my southeast hometown of Tucson, Arizona.
4. MAIDA
Maida, my sweet friend, who feels like my sister, is based in New Mexico. Her project is an outpouring of devotion, with an online collective of Indigenous and Indo-hispano artists, an ever evolving project and expression of ancestry, homecoming and diaspora both forced and chosen. She is working on a new collection of wool rugs that I cannot wait for, be sure to keep an eye out of them! Every clay piece they make is one of a kind, the Brandon Adriano Ortiz Cooking Spoon is so special.
Tortillas are one of the most beautiful foods to me. The entire process: from growing Maiz, to cooking masa on the comal and ending with hot tortillas wrapped in a cloth inside of a basket. The smell of Masa is especially fragrant to me around the holidays. I love the scene of Masa in a large clay bowl on the kitchen counter, ready to be hand-pressed into fresh tortillas for family and friends, all morning and into the afternoon.
I learned about Activist Honey when I first moved to LA. I was staying at a friend’s home in Laurel Canyon and we were in the kitchen having Sunday morning coffee and she was eating Activist Honey by the spoonful out of the jar. She handed me a spoon and asked if I wanted some and ever since then, I've been hooked. I use it as a face mask, put it in my smoothies and teas and I’ve also used it when I’ve had a burn from a day in the kitchen. Gaby and Luke are a dream team!
Joy Harjo has and will always be someone I want to learn from and hear more of her stories. We are lucky to have her new memoir which had me in awe with each page. Girl warriors’ journey is one of hardships and beautiful victories. She is a guiding light that this world is so lucky to have. I cherish her poems, her work and admire the commitment to her soul’s purpose, even when it wasn’t the easiest road to take. A MUST READ!
Everything my dear friend Keiko makes, she pours goodness and beautiful energy into. I love all of her products! Her green tea makes me feel the most awake and alive. The GOLDA Hiba Wood Mist is my absolute favorite. Hiba is one of the most revered trees in Japan and the smell of the mist is like nothing else I’ve smelled before. I have one in my car, home and studio.
11.11 is the most stunning line of small batch slow made clothing. Renowned for its use of indigenous cotton and 100% natural dyes, the label uses heritage hand techniques: spinning, dyeing, weaving and quilting. The communities at the foundation of their value chain are custodians of living traditions and are essential to this moment in time. The cotton Indigo Patchwork Gloves are a kitchen dream! Quilted together and embroidered with indigo reclaimed fabrics make these a gorgeous, thoughtful and timeless gift. It brings me so much joy to see mine hanging in my kitchen, next to my stove.
This butter melts into my skin, I use handfuls of it after a day in saltwater and sun. The duality of LIHA’s community is rooted in African diaspora with a strong message about slow living and wellness. A female owned product with a beautiful message, design and origin story.
11. PROVINCE APOTHECARY DAILY GLOW DRY BRUSH
When I first heard about face brushing I sorta thought it was just another thing to do, but now I am a believer! I use my face brush first thing in the morning. My favorite spots are my jaw, around my eyes and on my neck, followed by a cold shower. This is the best way for me to wake up in the morning.
One of my Nanas is Irish so growing up with her and her parents meant A LOT of tea parties. Both my Nana and great grandmother Burke have beautiful teapot collections from around the world. I have carried on the tradition of tea pots, although most of mine are from Mexico, and I currently have my eye on the Qi Bloom glass teapot. Not only are their flower teas gorgeous, Lisa the owner of Qi is dedicated to sourcing the best quality organic teas and supporting local farmers in Asia.
*Mama, stylist, model and LA icon, Djuna, knows what to give and what to get. With a list that checks all the boxes, she’s giving the gift of health, hydrated skin and afternoon energy. You better hope you’re on her list.
1. MONASTERY ROSE CLEANSING OIL
Kindness is giving the gift of hydrated skin and this is one of my all time favorite cleansing oils. It's so gentle and so nourishing and feels luxurious. It truly does the job.
2. THE ELDER STATESMAN YOSEMITE SOCKS
These sunshine socks are the best thing to touch your toes. Nothing says California summer like these.
Adaptogens made easy. This is a lovely gift because we all get a bit sluggish around the holidays and this is a fantastic way to reset, while giving your mind and body a little treat.
4. ANGEL JUICER
This is actually what I want for the holidays...hint hint.
This is the most luxurious mask I use. It's the mask you don't want to buy for yourself because you can't justify it but you want it so bad, which makes it the perfect gift.
Another practical gift. An item I have on subscription; the moon juice magnesium is super powered, tastes amazing and helps your mind and body: your gut, stress levels and sleeping patterns will all thank you.
I'm totally biased, but I really love the L'Objet x Haas collection. This catchall is the perfect jewelry holder, snack carrier or incense handler. And it's the cutest.
8. LESSE BIOACTIVE FACE MASQUE
This is an essential face mask. It's also a straightforward product for all skin types. It's like giving the gift of a massage but is a great price making it the perfect stocking stuffer.
The most delicious granola treat! This bag truly ticks all the boxes and is an ideal breakfast, dessert or snack.
10. PLANT PAPER
I don't want to spoil anything for anyone, but I am giving subscriptions of Plant Paper to some people for the holidays. It's practical but also once you read their manifesto you won't turn back. Also, this is the first non chemical TP I've tried that doesn't feel like I'm rubbing my most intimate spots with sticks.
11. ASTROLOGY SESSION WITH MICKI PELLERANO
This is a special gift I usually reserve for birthdays but the new year brings so much change and uncertainty, it's a great gift for now. Micki's readings are so accurate and precise and he ends every session with tarot to top off what the stars have in store.
12. BAINA ORGANIC COTTON TOWELS
I actually did buy a set of these for myself. I mean my house. I mean my partner. They're so chic and soft and just the right size.
*Beverly, founder and creator of the home goods store phenomenon, Beverly’s, is encouraging us to look at what we surround ourselves with and take stock of our homes. Sharing the objects that she grew up with, her vision is one of beauty, inclusivity and never-ending dinner parties. It also happens to be sexy, cool and just what we want, now and always.
Giving the gift of time is chic and luxurious.
This chic compact has every ingredient I’m lusting for at the moment.
3. THE ART OF ARRANGING FLOWERS: THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO JAPANESE IKEBANA
My favorite book on Ikebana. I’ve always said you can’t put a price on paper. And this is totally worth it.
4. GOD'S LOVE WE DELIVER DONATION
A monthly or one time donation to God's Love We Deliver, a New York charity feeding the ill and elderly, during the winter months is an especially heartfelt gift around the holidays.
French Champagne is always the best present.
6. KARMAMEJU BUFF NATURAL BODY BRUSH
It’s super important to dry brush your body in the cold season to exfoliate the dead skin and have your body feeling soft and shiny! Not to mention it’s great for your digestive health and a million other important benefits that keep your insides beautiful!
I don’t use many beauty products to clean my skin but when I feel like my face can use a bit of help I turn to this. It's been a go-to for me since the company launched a couple of years ago!
8. MONASTERY LAPIZ MATTE BODY OIL
During the winter my skin needs so much nourishment and moisture that I love to lather it in this Lapiz body oil to feel hydrated.
9. COSTA BRAZIL RESINA DE BREU
I love burning my Resina de Breu! It’s cleansing, purifying and absolutely stunning.
10. EVERYDAY OIL
I never leave home without using my Everyday Oil. I lather myself in it, going through bottles to seal my skin with the most delicious ingredients. A perfect present.
Hands down the best granola. It has the cleanest ingredients and is a perfect on the go snack to keep you fueled while you holiday shop!
12. LOEWE PEA WAX CANDLEHOLDER
A designer candle that smells and looks stunning? A perfect object splurge.
*If you’re looking for something to cook tonight, then look no further than Carla’s videos and books for easy, delicious and exactly what you want to eat meals. Her most recent book, That Sounds So Good, a new favorite of ours, is already dog eared and splattered and is much loved for its real life approach to making food at home that’s just as good as out. Dine in deliciously.
1. CAP BEAUTY + TART VINEGAR COLLABORATION
Yes, the label is incredible and adorable, but this vinegar isn't just about looks. A few splashes of something sour will enliven a pot of lentils, a bowl of salsa verde, Dijon vinaigrette (obviously), or a batch of seared scallops.
2. CARLA'S SUNDAY RAGÙ STARTER KIT
Winter is coming! Time to ragù! This beautiful gift box contains my new cookbook, That Sounds So Good, and a custom tote, along with a few essential ingredients from some of my favorite small makers for making my Sunday ragù. Once you've made your first batch, you can revisit the other 99 recipes in the book.
Every year I say: This year I will body brush. And every year—I don't body brush. It may never be my year, but why shouldn't I make these goals come true for a loved one!?!
I love to grill, and cook outside deep into the winter, but I know not everyone is an outside cooker. Smoke is one of the hardest flavors to substitute when adapting a grilling recipe to an indoor method, but a few drops of this smoked tamari will deliver a richness of flavor, a finishing dash of saltiness and a rich woodsy aromatic finish.
I've kept this concealer in my run-around bag for years on years—it's the ultimate lightweight but truly effective cream formula that you can dab on with your fingers standing on a street corner 5 minutes before you're supposed to be at dinner and still look put together. Not that I've EVER been late to dinner! Give this to your best gal or guy friend with a jam-packed schedule.
6. THE YELLOW HOUSE BY SARAH M. BROOM
This stunning memoir by Sarah Bloom is set in New Orleans and spans decades. The author tells her story by first going back generations and then weaving in the lives of her 11 siblings. I can’t recommend it highly enough.
7. PROVINCE APOTHECARY JADE FACIAL ROLLER
A friend gave my husband one of these, and I fully stole it from him. Gift it with instructions to keep it in the fridge. The cold rollers feel so good over tight jaw muscles, sore temples and furrowed brows.
Not all tahinis are created equally—they can be bitter, grainy, or both. And then there's Seed + Mill. Their product is incredibly luscious and sweet and perfect for blitzing into herby dressings or drizzling onto roasted vegetables.
There is no greater "inside shoe." Fuzzy like an Ugg, but with open straps so your tootsies don't overheat, along with an ergonomic sole so you can be on your feet all day without getting flat-footed like you would in an ordinary slipper. Yes, I have a pair. No, I don't want to live without them.
10. DIASPORA CO. ANAMALAI CACAO
Diaspora sources some of the most beautiful spices from around the world, and this cacao is no exception. Combine with frozen blueberries, rolled oats, a few dates, a big handful of ice, a pinch of salt, and a 50-50 mix of cold brew and your favorite alt milk to get the blades turning.
11. LIFE IS WHAT YOU BAKE IT BY VALLERY LOMAS
I gave a copy of this book to my sweets-loving 12-year-old and asked him to flag a couple of recipes he'd want me to make, and he handed the book back with Post-its on half the pages. Lomas' desserts hit the spot between achievable and aspirational and will make you want to start baking immediately.
*Lisa makes upstate life look seriously desirable. Her book, Upstate Home, is a love letter to those who choose to make the wilds of upstate New York their home. It’s loaded with images of creatives at home, and has me missing the East Coast a lot.
1. LŌM CERAMICS PALOMA WOOD FIRED VASE
One of my dearest and oldest friends just launched a ceramics line with her partner and this vase—handmade in Bisbee, AZ then handfired for over fifty hours in a wood kiln—is one of my most favorite pieces (if you’re looking for something smaller their Crystal Wood Fired Tumbler is equally special). The cool part? The finish achieved through wood firing is the combined effect of the flame and ash inside the kiln interacting with the clay—the shape and size of the kiln, how the pots are arranged inside, and how it’s tended to during the firing all have a huge effect on the final results—which means that each wood-fired piece is completely unique, basically functioning as a record of its environment during the firing, a snapshot of a particular moment in time.
2. FRAY ARDENS NOUVEAU RANCH EAU DE PARFUM
I stumbled across this perfume line when my husband and I were passing through Marfa on a cross-country trip out west and promptly fell in love with a handful of fragrances from their collection (though the description for this one is hands down the best: “high desert air, sacred fragile flowers, eyelash grass, and new money.”).
We spent a couple nights in Alison + Jay’s Joshua Tree trailer where the bathroom is stocked with Wonder Valley products—this face oil makes my skin instantly glowy and makes me feel like the best version of myself. The combination of atlas cedar and frankincense doesn’t hurt either.
4. UPSTATE HAND DYED FRANKIE GLASSES
You know those glasses that make every drink feel like a special occasion? These are them. Hand blown in NYC, each one is wholly unique and mesmerizing to look at.
I can’t remember how we discovered this liquid magic but it’s a game-changer—made with 100% raw passionfruit it’s as good solo over rocks (with a squeeze of lime and a splash of soda) as it is mixed with mezcal.
Suggested use: pouring over yogurt, drizzling with maple syrup. Start your day right.
Made in France from hemp plastic, these clogs remind me of that prized pair of jelly shoes I had in 3rd grade.
8. EDIBLE FLOWERS BY MONICA NELSON AND ADRIANNA GLAVIANO
A jewel box of a book, this guide to edible flowers is so thoughtfully done that flipping through it feels like a special secret you’ve just been let in on. Authored by Monica Nelson, the founding creative and photo director of Wilder Quarterly, it’s packed full of anecdotes, recipes and beautiful photographs.
9. CAP BEAUTY + WOODEN SPOON LIGHT RAY
Tastes like if the juiciest berries had a lovechild with your most favorite herbaceous things. Dropping this tincture into whatever liquid you’re imbibing feels so satisfying and tastes delicious.
10. LESSE BIOACTIVE FACE MASQUE
Love me a charcoal clay mask.
I have a soft spot for beans so it would stand to reason that I also have a soft spot for Lindquist’s Faba, which is modeled after those aforementioned lovely legumes. It’s big enough to fit everything you need and small enough to prevent you from taking everything you don’t. Plus, you can get it monogrammed, which is a solid gifting move.
12. HRBLS NERVE LESS
There’s something about sliding this box open to peel a gummy from the folded paper inside that might be the most relaxing thing about these nervous system soothing gummies.
13. LYNN & LAWRENCE CLASSIC BEANIE
Handknit from 100% baby alpaca by artisans in England and Peru—it often takes more than a day to knit each hat—they come in a rainbow of whimsical colors and are an absolute winter essential.
