It’s that time of the year again; when Malaysians find themselves scratching their heads about what to gift their loved ones for Christmas. While it is undoubtedly one of the best and most festive times of the year, it doesn’t come without any stress — planning a party, preparing the Christmas dinner menu, and gifting family and friends all take a lot of mental energy.
If you find yourself feeling anxious about coming up with ideas on gifts to buy, then stop, as this list might give you an idea or two on what to get. Let’s dive into it and save you from those last-minute Christmas gift shopping because there is something for everyone.
1. For the artsy friend: Keemyeo
Looking to gift a special someone an art piece? Artist Kimberly Yeo can create incredible one-of-a-kind portraits for your loved ones in both watercolour and digital form. Who doesn’t love a thoughtful gift unlike any other? Besides personalised art pieces, if you’re looking to customise a Christmas greeting card, you can also request Kimberly to do so.
2. For the health-conscious loved one: LemmeDrink Kombucha
If you think the kombucha fad is over, then you’re sorely mistaken, and how can it be with such fantastic health benefits that come with it? LemmeDrink Kombucha is locally made in Penang and is 100% made from organic ingredients.
What sets LemmeDrink Kombucha apart from the others is its story of inclusion. Through LemmeLearn, the company trains young adults with autism to enter the workforce, which is how LemmeDrink Kombucha came about. And have you seen how cute the bottles are?
3. For the sentimental: Lettered Grace
Who doesn’t love personalised gifts? Something unique and the only one of its kind, what’s not to love? Go the extra mile with your presents this year through Lettered Grace, which makes personalised gifts by adding the names of your loved ones on just about anything! From cups and tumblers to wallets and mask holders, the gifting list is endless! There’s even a ‘Below RM50’ catalogue if you feel like being thrifty.
4. For your best friend: Miss Dainty Co.
If you’re looking to get cute jewellery as Christmas gifts this year, then Miss Dainty Co. is where you should be shopping from. There is a wide range of handmade clay earrings, keychains, and keycaps, all in miniature form. Ready-made ones are available, but you can also customise any design you want.
5. For the eco-friendly warrior: PenanLab
What started as a way to create awareness for the indigenous community of the Penan people is now a social enterprise that aims to promote Penan bags made and sourced by Penan women. Not only will you be supporting a good cause, but the products are truly elegant, practical, and eco-friendly.
By giving a meaningful and purposeful gift from PenanLab, you’re also able to spark conversation and raise awareness of the indigenous community who are doing the most to protect our remaining biodiversity.
6. For the hair-conscious sister: Paper and Ribbons
Unlike what Carrie Bradshaw from Sex and the City once claimed, everybody wears a scrunchie, especially us with longer locks. I’m a sucker for practical gifts, so I had to include Paper and Ribbons, which makes high-quality silk scrunchies. They are extremely pretty and serve a purpose: minimise breakage on your precious strands.
Paper and Ribbons also understand the gravity of having options where you can choose from various sizes, thicknesses, and colours. Their packaging is also eco-friendly, so you will not only support a local business, but also do your part in saving the environment.
7. For the one that loves a glass (or two): Le Wine
Most of us will have that one friend or family member who enjoys a bottle of wine at any time of day, and what better gift to give than a beautiful customised bottle with their name on it? Not only is a personalised present from Le Wine thoughtful, but it’s something you could pop open and sip together!
8. For the beach bum: Vacay Beach Bag
In search of the most perfect and thoughtful gift for a friend or loved one that is a total beach bum? Look no further, because Vacay Beach Bag has got you covered with its adorable and stylish options. Made ethically and with the Earth in mind, you can even personalise these totes that will pair with any outfit they have.
9. For the homebody: Wicks and Quills Candles
While we may not be able to experience a cold winter kind of Christmas in Malaysia, we most certainly turn on the air conditioning and light up a candle to set the mood at home this festive season. Receiving candles at any time of the year, but especially at Christmas, can be quite special.
Instead of ordinary candles, why not gift your loved ones these unique and adorable handmade ones with unique shapes and sizes? Got a friend that’s obsessed with their fur baby? Well then, give them any one of the scented candles from their PETS lineup.
10. For the one that loves cardio: Wings Rope
We’ve all seen it all over social media, especially TikTok — skipping is the new running. Though it may seem like a fad, skipping is actually one of the best forms of cardio, and we’re glad social media has made it a thing. So, if you have a loved one that just loves breaking a sweat with a heart-raising skipping session, gift them these from Wings Rope!
