From Gillie Roberts, owner of Asheville boutique Ware, profiled in the December 2018 issue of Capital at Play.
For Your Secret Santa
- A Fir & Sage Candle by Jade and Juniper, $29
This is the quintessential winter candle made better. It smells like fresh evergreen clippings mellowed a bit by earthy sage. Aside from the glorious smell that prompts appreciative comments from everyone who crosses the store’s threshold, the most remarkable feature of these candles is that they are made from a pure coconut wax base. Not only are the agricultural practices around coconut production more environmentally responsible, the structure of the wax allows for the highest available fragrance concentration – these suckers are potent! - A Frazada by LOOM Imports, $250
Is it a blanket or a rug? Yes. Frazadas are traditional Peruvian textile that can be used wherever need presents itself. In addition to the aforementioned, I’ve seen them put to use as a cover to the bench seat of a ’64 Chevy, insulating kegs at an outdoor wedding, and hanging in front of drafty doorways, to name a few. Did I mention that this Fairtrade-certified, woman-owned company is based in Asheville? - The Corvo EKG Tea Kettle by FELLOW, $83
Both this black beauty and its coffee-centric counterpart (the Stagg) come equipped with a thermometer embedded in the lid, for steeping tea at the perfect temperature. As a tea enthusiast, I can tell you: the temperature matters. (If this is news to you, this is the gift guide that keeps on giving.) The removable tea strainer basket in this kettle is handy for the person in your circle who prepares tea for the whole household simultaneously or has been known to throw the occasional tea party. - The Mae Tote by Xinh & Co., $32
Open weave market totes are having somewhat of a heyday at the moment, so if you’re feeling out of touch with the younger ladies on your Christmas list, the Mae Tote is your ticket to cool aunt/uncle status while also being a practical and timeless accessory. Xinh & Co. works to sustain rural economies in Vietnam by bringing traditional crafts to the Western market. - A Wool Felt Computer Sleeve by graf lantz, $98 and $108
In 13” and 15” sizes, this versatile sleeve slides into a carry-on with ease, but is attractive enough to carry confidently into a meeting or the hippest coffee shop from which they’re working today. Wool is naturally fit for the gig of protecting one’s valuables, as it both absorbs shock and repels water – no synthetic, petroleum-based fibers necessary. The pull loop detail makes it a particularly appropriate gift for the person in your life who is likely to snag it as they dash out the door to their next engagement. Late. Again. Or is that just me?
Stocking Stuffers and Add-On Gifts
to Help Kick the Plastic Habit
- A stainless steel straw and brush – Do it for the turtles. Plastic straws are on their way out.
- A natural loofah – Help your friends make the switch from plastic shower accessories to biodegradable options.
- A lip balm in a compostable tube – Once they’ve used the contents, your niece can throw the packaging into the compost pile.
- Natural soap – The oft-forgotten predecessor to bottled body washes is still a luxurious treat when it is made of such quality oils.
- Beeswax wrap – Not even plastic wrap is safe from the movement to rid our houses and habits of single-use petroleum products.
