If there's one emotion that Christmas always seems to evoke it's nostalgia. The yearning for what Christmas once was and convincing ourselves that "it just doesn't feel like Christmas". I'm not sure what it is but the season always takes me back to my childhood and, more specifically, the wonder surrounding the holidays. As a kid, you simply experienced Christmas. You weren't necessarily part of the team that created the magic. This year, I'm choosing to embrace that nostalgia through my favourite way to spread Christmas cheer - gift-giving!
Over the past six years, I've curated twenty-seven categories for gift-givers across Jamaica! It's thrilling to find local brands that fit so easily into shoppers' various niches but now and then I discover brands that would have been a perfect match for categories featured in previous editions. I've been itching to incorporate these brands into the gift guide and figured what better way to do so than by revisiting fifteen categories from the past five editions of A Jamaican-Made Christmas Gift Guide!
2024's gift guide is an opportunity to expand the selection for shoppers who might have resonated with specific categories all while filling in the gaps that a few pandemic-era brands left behind when they decided to step away from operations. I know I say this every year but this gift guide is truly phenomenal. So many of the brands featured are ones that I've been longing to include for years and I'm so relieved to finally be able to do so!
Think of it this way, these fifteen brands are so bewitching that I had to bend the rules a bit. As always, all brands featured in this gift guide create one-of-a-kind, inspiring products in Jamaica that are revolutionising the market as we know it. Enjoy and welcome to A Jamaican-Made Christmas Gift Guide 2024!
This Christmas, fall in love with new gifts for the Book Worm, It Girl, Holistic Home, Cheeseboard Coinnessuer, Recent Graduate, New Homeowner, Pet Lovers & Their Fur Babies, Coffee Addict, First-Time Parents, Self-Care Queen, Beach Bum, Secret Santa, Hungry Belly, Yaadie Living Abroad and Small Business Owner.
FOR THE: Book Worm (2020)
THAT GOOD STITCH
That Good Stitch debuted earlier this year with a wide selection of hand-sewn canvas bags and pouches designed to fit into and elevate one's daily life. The newest addition to their Everyday Collection quickly caught my eye, and I even ordered one for a book lover on my list! Their adorable 'Sarah Sleeve' is available in two standard sizes, with their smaller size perfect for a book or e-reader - a vital item for readers on-the-go who want to protect their most prized possession.
What I love about slow-fashion brands like That Good Stitch is that their pieces are entirely made to order! Not only does this mean that you're receiving a one-of-a-kind product, but you can also personalise it to reflect one's style. That Good Stitch offers a variety of customisation options, including various fabric choices, embroidery, quilting and more! It's an exciting process to create your very own item and see it come to life - a quality piece that will house many books to come.
Where to find them: Find That Good Stitch on Instagram @thatgoodstitch. A selection of their pieces will be available at our booth at Conu'co Market on December 8th.
FOR THE: It Girl (2022)
AVIOLA ACCESSORIES
The It Girl doesn't shy away from a fabulous statement piece, something that Aviola Accessories has in abundance! This local jewellery brand specialises in sustainable pieces made from eco-friendly materials such as aluminium and recycled brass and plastics. Their distinctive collection of earrings, cuffs and necklaces not only includes simple, modern silhouettes but tropical shapes, such as monstera leaves and periwinkle flowers, that accentuate any outfit.
Aviola's designer, Mel, is an artist herself and her expertise and attention to detail is reflected across her eye-catching jewellery pieces. Her handcrafted pieces are truly first-class works of art. A gift from Aviola is one that introduces a new quality staple into the It Girl's wardrobe that can be used for a variety of occasions! From sprucing up daytime outfits to accessorising for formal affairs, these bold pieces are extremely versatile and are guaranteed to generate lots of compliments.
Where to find them: Keep up with Aviola Accessories on Instagram @aviola_acccessories and shop their pieces in store at My Jamaica - where they will also be a part of their Support Local Saturdays on December 21st.
FOR THE: Holistic Home (2021)
GYV
Fill your holistic home with the sweet smells and healing properties of gyv. From Sandalwood to Lavender and Lemongrass, their collection of hand-poured soy candles are a delight in any home. Their organic candles feature a blend of essential oils which fill the air with unique scent profiles and clean, healthy ingredients. The act of lighting a candle in one's home not only smells nice but creates positive rituals and habits - something that holistic living encourages to care for one's mind, body and soul.
Holistic living is all about balance, harmony and connectivity. Curating a holistic home doesn't necessarily confine you to the walls of your house but can include our island home. gyv accurately describes their candles as "wicks with purpose" donating 50% of what they make to charities islandwide, namely the Jamaica Cancer Society. Furthermore, the vessels that their candles are encased in are made from repurposed wine bottles. A truly sustainable company to support during the season of 'gyving'.
Where to find them:Â Follow gyv on Instagram @shop.gyv to order with DM or shop their products at Locale.
FOR THE: Cheeseboard Connoisseur (2020)
BUSHA BROWNE'S
Busha Browne's is an essential on any cheeseboard, no matter what vibe the connoisseur is aiming for. Their selection of all natural, gourmet sauces, condiments and rubs boast a variety of sweet and savoury options, from Guava Jelly to Solomon Gundy, that complement cheeses, crackers and meats. One tells a story when creating a cheeseboard. After all, food is a way in which we come together to do so. Busha Browne's honours Jamaican stories, traditions and culture through their recipes dating back to a 19th century food diary!
The recipes transcribed in this family heirloom are the same ones adored today. Busha Browne's strives to stay true to its roots, replicating the high quality ingredients and flavours enjoyed centuries ago. They work alongside local farmers to grow a diverse selection of organic vegetables, fruits, herbs and spices and even produce in small batches to ensure the utmost quality. Captivating artisanal products like this always stand out at the end of the day. They make meals - and cheeseboards - an unforgettable experience.
Where to find them:Â Busha Browne's can be found online on Instagram @bushabrownesja or via their website www.bushabrowne.com. Their range can also be found in a variety of supermarkets islandwide, as seen in their 'Locations' highlight on their Instagram.
FOR THE: Recent Graduate (2023)
KALIA & CO DESIGNS
When I graduated university, one of the first things that I searched for was a high quality bag that would transition me into this new chapter - if only I knew about Kalia & Co Designs back then! Kalia & Co is a local resort wear brand known for its selection of handcrafted bags, including their stunning jute basket bags. Recently, their Sara Tote caught my eye. These tote bags are perfect for wherever post-grad life takes one. With a structured shape and versatile size, its functionality doesn't compromise its style.
The Sara Tote is available in a wide selection of modern prints, from tropical foliage to sleek denim, with sophisticated finishes, including their classic Kalia & Co leather identifier. They also have an option to upgrade the tote's handles to genuine leather which really ties everything together. Another amazing gift idea to pair alongside Sara Tote is one of their many pouches! These easily fit within the Sara Tote allowing one to keep their items organized throughout the day or even use as a clutch.
Where to find them:Â You can shop all things Kalia & Co via their Instagram @thekalia.co. There they also have an email and number listed where you can get in contact. Some of their pieces can be found at The Courthouse, Tensing Pen's gift shop and at Locale.
FOR THE: New Homeowner (2020)
HOMEBODY
Homebody is a Jamaican homeware brand that is the brainchild of industrial designer, Sâyan Johnston. Their made to order pieces are crafted by local carpenters and artisans across the island and are outstanding in both appearance and quality. Of note are their selection of wicker light shades, the Bel, Ovi and Trio. A wicker piece is a quintessential item in a Jamaican home and these light shades are a special way to incorporate our history and traditional styles of weaving into one's space regardless of personal aesthetic.
For the new homeowner, it can take a while to 'complete' a space. Luckily, the skilled team at Homebody also accepts commissions! A custom piece from Homebody is a generous gift that will grow with one's home and last ages due to its expert craftsmanship. Sâyan turns simple ideas and concepts into brilliant masterpieces, from wooden bed frames to wicker side tables, and their pieces are as innovative as they are functional. Always experimenting with new mediums, I can't wait to see what comes next from this brand.
Where to find them:Â Find Homebody on Instagram @homebodyjm to shop their made to order pieces.
FOR THE: Pet Lovers & Their Fur Babies (2021)
TROPICAL CANINE COLLARS
Tropical Canine Collars is every pet parent's dream! Their stylish products are not only a gift to pets but to owners thanks to their longevity, durability and ease. From dog and cat collars to leashes, toys, harnesses and even car set belts, their handmade products are made with biothane webbing - a waterproof coated material which is extremely easy to upkeep. All it takes is water to clean! As someone who has struggled to get rid of odours and bacteria from my dogs' fabric collars on multiple occasions, this is a game changer.
Tropical Canine Collars was born out of a need for quality pet essentials, mainly collars, on the island. As someone whose yard is overrun with active dogs, I can attest that I've bought more collars that I can count - they just never seem to last. As I publish the gift guide, I am eagerly finalising an order for my fur babies! It's been a fun process being able to customise their collars choosing from their wide variety of colours, including easily identifiable bright shades, and expansive size range, suitable for dogs of all breeds.
Where to find them:Â Keep up to date with Tropical Canine Collars on Instagram @tropical_canine_collars or via the website www.tropicalcaninecollars.com. You can shop their products in store at My Jamaica, Vet4pets Medical Centre and Locale.
FOR THE: Coffee Addict (2022)
NGOZI SWEET BLESSINGS
Ngozi Sweet Blessings invites one to unwind at home with their all-encompassing range of self-care products, from soy candles to rejuvenating serums. They have two items in particular that are fantastic gifts for coffee lovers - their Coffee Mint bar soap and Caffiend Coffee Scrub. Both products are made with grounded Jamaican coffee beans which not only smell divine (their scrub transformed my bathroom into a café) but have incredible benefits from one's skin, believed to have anti-aging and hydrating properties.
Ngozi's products are truly artisanal, made in small batches and with organic ingredients that one can actually recognise and feel comfortable using. Something cool that Ngozi offers that isn't a physical gift itself is a candle making experience in Kingston! Not only is this a lovely chance to spend time with a loved one but it's an opportunity for the coffee lover to make their own scent that reminds them of their own cup of heaven. Until then, they can gladly introduce these phenomenal coffee products into their routine!
Where to find them:Â Follow Ngozi on Instagram @ngozisweetblessings or shop online at www.shopngozi.com.
FOR THE: First-Time Parents (2022)
NUIGURUMI STUDIO
Introducing Nuigurumi Studio, a local brand specialising in amigurumi, a Japanese style of knitting and crocheting of stuffed items that is unlike anything else available on the island! Celine, the brand's creator, is able to handcraft a plethora of figurines - from cartoon characters to animals and even humans. They have a selection of Jamaica school children available and even did a custom order inspired by a photograph of a young couple - imagine a baby having toys to comfort them which resemble their parents!
The only downside about Nuigurumi's pieces is that they're so adorable that one might not even want to use them for their true purpose! Their pieces are works of art that would look just as lovely on the shelf of a nursery as they would in the hands of a baby. Nuigurumi's creations are fabulous mementos that first-time parents and their children will cherish for years to come. As a sentimental girl who has stored some of my beloved childhood toys away in safekeeping, I love gifting unique items, like these, to expecting parents.
Where to find them:Â Shop all things Nuigurumi Studio via their Instagram @nuigurumi_studios, where you can also find a WhatsApp contact and email for further information.
FOR THE: Self-Care Queen (2019)
O.A.B DESIGNZ
Add a new level of comfort and luxury to your nighttime routine with O.A.B Designz. This local brand creates quality loungewear and hair care accessories that are the personification of self-care. From satin bonnets to custom robes, pillowcases and scrunchies, their handmade products add a gentle touch to those final moments before bed. The choices one makes towards the end of the day heavily impact how one starts anew, and O.A.B even allows one to take care of themselves when asleep!
A bundle of O.A.B's products are an incredible gift idea for any self-care aficionado. They're as cute as they are functional. Their satin products are available in a variety of colours and patterns made from locally-sourced fabrics. They even offer customisation options for some of their robes - N.B. a perfect gift for brides to be! It's safe to say that their bonnets, however, are their best-selling products. They're reversible, aka two styles wrapped in one, and available in a range of style options, including adjustable tie bonnets.
Where to find them:Â OAB Designz can be found on Instagram @oabdesignz. You can also shop their range of products via their website www.oabdesignz.com.
FOR THE: Beach Bum (2019)
MERMADE IN JAMAICA
MerMade in Jamaica aims to share the natural gifts of the charming Caribbean Sea with the world through their line of jewellery, hair accessories and hanging art pieces. MerMade is an ode to our gorgeous shorelines and each piece is a unique memento that tells a story about the splendours of Jamaican marine life. Their designer, Morgan, combs through the beaches of Jamaica, such as Treasure Beach, Great Bay, Palisadoes and more, to handpick the enchanting seashells and wooden pieces that adorn their handmade works of art.
This gift is one that the beach bum will adore as it allows them to infuse a piece of their favourite spot into their lives and homes. Their stunning earrings and necklaces are subtle yet chic, a mixture of shell and metal elements, namely non-tarnishing stainless steel. Additionally, their wind chimes are a lovely addition to any Caribbean home incorporating locally-sourced wood, such as pine driftwood and hand-carved blue mahoe, which invites the relaxing aura of the beach into one's home.
Where to find them:Â Check out Mermade in Jamaica on Instagram @mermadeinjamaica to shop their coastal collection.
FOR THE: Secret Santa (2023)
BUMBLE BEAUTY
Find out what the buzz is about with Bumble Beauty's range of honey-based skincare. Made from natural ingredients, including mango butter, cocoa butter and honey sourced from local apiaries, Bumble's beloved body butters and scrubs are made with a simple but soothing formula that nourishes the skin and is packed with benefits for your skin. Their products are amazing for sensitive skin and are truly luxurious, leaving a deliciously soft and supple finish to one's skin paired with a heavenly and eye-catching glow.
Bumble's collection includes five tropical scents that immediately transport you across Jamaica with aromatic hints of coconut, lychee, pineapple, honey and more! A matching set of Bumble Beauty's body butter and scrub is a no-brainer gift idea that's suitable for any name drawn from the Secret Santa pot! Skincare is a stress-free gift that is great for someone whose interests you may not know well, whether it be a coworker or acquaintance. Plus, not only are you gifting a fabulous product but also encouraging self-love.
Where to find them:Â Follow Bumble Beauty on Instagram @bumblebeautyltd or shop online at www.bumblebeauty.shop. Their products can also be found on Carib Shopper or in store at Sand Box Boutique, Locale and Neo Pharmacy.
FOR THE: Hungry Belly (2019)
ASHEBRE CONDIMENTS
Unlock a new staple in your loved one's pantry with Ashebre Condiments' line of spices, hot sauces, vinaigrettes and pestos. Ashebre is a family-owned business that stirs up award-winning products that transform home-cooked meals into gourmet masterpieces. I was first introduced to their products when on the hunt for a new pesto. Their phenomenal basil pesto quickly gained a permanent spot in my fridge - and the label was not needed to convey how fresh their ingredients were!
From Scotch Bonnet Salt to Papaya Ginger Vinaigrettes, their gluten-free, all natural products are not only good for you but also for the community. I recently discovered that supporting Ashebre means supporting their internship and mentorship program which targets Jamaican youth who have an interest in cooking. Their program introduces them to the world of food through teaching them a variety of meals and educates them on sustainable farming and cooking practices. Talk about a 'guilt-free meal'!
Where to find them:Â Follow Ashebre via Instagram @ashebre or @condimentsbyashebre. You can also find them online at www.ashebregourmet.com or in select supermarkets islandwide, such as Loshusan.
FOR THE: Yaadie Living Abroad (2023)
HEYOLLO
Heyollo is a local artist whose variety of must-have stickers pay homage to our heritage and culture. Their digital drawings are available on-the-go through a collection of witty stickers that portray quintessential Jamaican snacks, beverages, cities and more! From box juice to flaky patties, these stickers are a great gift idea for any Jamaican living away from home as they're distinctively Jamaican and express one's identity in a trendy way that's not stereotypically touristy.
Their stickers are sold in sheets or individually and are so incredibly clever. While some may think that stickers are solely for a younger demographic, Heyollo proves otherwise. Their stickers showcase Jamaican pride in a subtle but captivating way that brightens up one's day. One can simply add a sticker to a plethora of items in their daily life, from a water bottle to a notebook or laptop, and be reminded of an item or somewhere that brings them joy - something that is a lifesaver when you're homesick.
Where to find them:Â Shop all things Heyollo on Instagram @heyollo_store. You can also find them at the Kingston Night Market where they typically have a booth.
FOR THE: Small Business Owner (2021)
CUT RIGHT DESIGNS
One thing that small business owners will attest to is that branding is everything. Based in Kingston, Cut Right Designs is a father-daughter run business best known for their custom wooden and PVC signs! Their range of services also include foam letters, large format prints and lit signs that will truly take any small business' branding to the next level. While some of these grander options may not be easy gift options, they also offer a variety of smaller scale pieces that your loved one would be thrilled to unwrap on Christmas day.
What I appreciate about businesses that tailor to customised pieces is that the possibilities are endless! Whether it be a tabletop sign of a logo for pop-ups, a personalised motivational sign for an office space or a wall piece to display in a store, one can create a truly bespoke gift that their loved one can utilise based on their small business' needs. Plus, the best gift is not only one that's functional but a high quality, durable piece that one that can be used for years to come.
Where to find them:Â Keep up to date with Cut Right Designs on Instagram @cutrightdesignsja where you can also find further contact information, their email and number.
Make sure to check out other years of A Jamaican-Made Christmas Gift Guide below for more gift ideas.
 Stop by these pop-up markets & shops happening this Christmas season featuring a plethora of Jamaican-made brands, many of which have been listed above.
KINGSTON/ST. ANDREW
» My Jamaica's Support Local Saturdays Pop-Up Series on December 7th, 14th & 21st
» The Market on December 7th
» Christmas in the Garden on December 7th » Christmas Plant Fair on December 7th » SugaLifestyle's Christmas Connection on December 7th and 8th » AJP's Art & Craft Fair on December 14th and 15th » Market At The Lawn on December 15th and 22nd
ST. CATHERINE
» Peppa Light Artisan Village on December 14th
ST. ANN
» Conu'co Market at the Cove on December 8th
ST. JAMES
» Market on the Dock at the Wharf House on December 1st
Comments