Oprah’s Favorite Things list rarely steers me wrong. Her exclusive-to-Amazon gift finder is how I found the Trufflin’ Sriracha and Ranch Gift Set last year, which I bought for myself, then my parents, then re-ordered again for myself because whoa.
(Oh — and it’s still available. 10/10 would recommend.)
So while we love putting together our own favorite things lists around here, I had to pick out just a few great finds from Oprah’s Favorite Things holiday list because what can I say — she (and her people) have great taste.
All 10 of these holiday gift ideas not only support small businesses (some of whom use Amazon as a more affordable way for them to reach more customers), but they’re all owned by women, people of color and often, both.
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10 wonderful holiday gifts from Oprah’s Favorite Things list 2021
Vintage-style rag dolls never go out of style, and these are lovingly handmade in Decatur, GA. If you prefer shopping Etsy, I found the Cinnamon Annie shop there where they’re made to order, but you have to hurry. I think Oprah might have bumped her holiday orders up just a wee bit.
Bandolier Utility Crossbody iPhone Case
I have been shouting from the rooftops about Bandolier on Cool Mom Tech for ages, and I’m so happy to see them make the Oprah’s Favorite Things list!
Those of you who know me IRL know I’m never without mine — it makes it so easy to tote your phone around hands-free. They’re beautifully made and look so stylish. And the added compartments and the pouch on the strap makes a handbag fairly unnecessary. I’m all for that. (Just be sure to order the size to fit the correct iPhone.)
Compendium Life Notes Letter Writing Kit for Grandparents
We love finding holiday gifts for grandparents because we know they can be hard to shop for. This is a thoughtful idea, to help a special grandparent in your life create a treasured keepsake. The box contains 20 themed notes to get you started, and is embossed with the Jean Anouilh quote, love is, above all, the gift of oneself.
Pass the tissues.
Related: Our 10 Best Gifts for Grandparents from Small Businesses
Material Japanese Steel Knife Set Trio
Cool Mom Eats is always filled with wonderful gifts for the cook, especially those from small businesses, and here’s one more brand to add to our list. Material makes these triple-layered Japanese stainless steel and high carbon knives that are resilient, durable, balanced and beautiful. There are several styles of sustainably-harvested wood handles available with the magnetic storage block, but I kind of love the contrast of these “cool neutral” handles against the rich walnut.
Tote & Carry Vegan Leather Duffel
With so many of us excited to get back on the road again this holiday — if only for a holiday visit to the cousins — I love this stunning snakekin-pattern duffel in several colors, all a huge step up from the gym bags a lot of us still use. Hint to my friends and family: This is on my own list. I can pass the nylon one to the kids.
Related: Our 10 Best Gifts for Women from Small Businesses
The Chai Box Ultimate Chai Lovers Gift Set
Loose leaf gourmet teas always make a terrific holiday gift — I often keep a few special boxes or jars on hand for last-minute visits or hostess gifts. The Chai Box has developed a huge cult following, and this limited edition gift box is selling fast thanks to flavors like Lavender Nights, and All Chai’d Up. The reusable jars are wonderful too.
Head Lightz Headlight Hats for men, women and kids
If you know a runner, cyclist, camper, or someone like my stepdad who has a penchant for heading out after dark to grab another handful off firewood from the yard, Raquel Graham’s LED flashlight caps are amazing. The battery is rechargeable, the hat is washable, and if you’re shopping for someone who prefers practical gifts over the pampering stuff, this is a cool idea. Psst…get the original ones and support the original maker; not the cheaper knock-offs on Amazon, ahem.
Related: 11 creative gifts for hard-to-shop-for dads
Mented Cosmetics Gloss for Grown-Ups
Who among us has too many lip glosses? Not I. These super shiny, cruelty-free colors will look fantastic on nearly any skin tone — and you can even order individually for a sweet affordable gift or stocking stuffer that’s just $15. (You may know how much we love finding holiday gifts under $15 each year!)
Related: 20 of our favorite self-care gifts for moms
For those who prefer their hot sauce by the jar, not by the drop, these are getting rave reviews. Founded by model Ubah Hassan, the collection started with the Yellow Tanzanite Habanero Hot Sauce and grew from there. Three spice levels, all with bold flavors beyond just “hot.” They’re calling my name.
Related: Fabulous kitchen gifts under $25 that will look like you splurged
If you love giving crafty gifts to the kids in your life, I think these hand-poured beeswax crayons in 8 beautiful skin tones are so thoughtful — and truly meaningful to a lot of adults, too. Because this Black-owned company is dedicated to sustainability, they also skip the use of paraffin and only use waxes sourced from farms that pay fair, livable wages. The company says that “we are all one human family and the world is a better place when we take care of each other.”
That’s the kind of small business I love supporting with my wallet.
