Gift giving can be an obstacle course of emotions. Some of us hate doing it. Others of us love it, which then makes us hate it, as we strive to outdo ourselves or find just the perfect thing. We are often racked with guilt: Should I be spending this money? Am I spending enough money? Where am I spending my money? Am I just contributing to toxic capitalism? We start out the month with meticulous lists, checking favorite websites and tracking sales. We end it like an addict on a 3 day coke bender, waking up in a puddle of Amazon boxes, with no recollection of what we bought or how we got here.
I don’t want to add to anyone’s stress levels, but I have some really talented friends. And if there’s one thing that can help us feel better as we navigate the emotional minefield of the holiday season, it’s supporting the work of independent artists and small businesses.
I have friends with books! If you’re looking for an illustrated herstory of feminism in the US, check out
’s She the People. Want fiction with your feminism? Juliet McDaniel wrote the hilarious Mr. & Mrs. American Pie (which is coming soon to Apple TV + as Palm Royale.) Emmy nominated producer Tracy Mercer contributed a number of essays to Giant Beast Cinema, including a feminist defense of Attack of the 50 Foot Woman. Poet Joseph Lopez has a number of books for you to choose from. Chris Young co-wrote The Green Witch’s Guide, a book of witchy brews to make. And photographer Ashly Stohl’s new book, Disappear Here, comes with a print!Speaking of books and photography…the covers of my Kat Kelly series feature photographs by Chris McGuire. Bring a little Italy home with you by visiting his Society 6 store, Photo Hustle, and getting his images on a number of home decor items. And his pictures are always turned into magic by screenwriter/graphic novelist/painter Tony Puryear. Pick up one of his gorgeous prints here.
Are we talking painters? We are! Checking out Eugene Huffman’s lush abstracts. Or pick up something from T.L. Duryear’s Sheroes collection. (If you’re looking for something for the holidays, she has a great Weird Barbie ornament.)
If you’re thinking about something a little more portable, Lorrie and Kip Veasey at Lenny Mud have a wide array of To Go Mugs and other ceramics, all with original art work and quotes. And jewelry is the perfect size to go anywhere. Melissa Clark’s Pretty War features a variety of original designs for earrings, necklaces, keychains and does custom orders, too.
Looking to avoid a hangover after your holiday parties? My friend Hilary Anderson sells clean wine with no sulfites, pesticides or added sugar at Scout & Cellar. And if you’re mind is already on 2024, Caitlin Muelder Astrology can read your chart and tell you what’s in store.
I’m sure as I hit send I will be fortified to remember 7 people I forgot to include, so stay tuned for Part 2. xoTess