2025 CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE
Each year, I attempt to find items for my gift guide that are affordable, out of the ordinary, and are small business owner brands. This year, I have a mix and match of goodies that are guaranteed to not break your bank. Some make you healthier, some happier and several are likely products you have never purchased in the past. I sincerely hope that you take the time to peruse the entire guide, and grab an item or two for your friends and family. Small business needs our support.
My deepest appreciation goes out to all the publicists and various participants that contributed to this guide. Have a wonderful Holiday Season! - Cin
KAL Vitamins
KAL Vitamins stemmed from one man's creation of a calcium phosphorus powder aimed at helping his wife's cramping. When it actually worked, he decided to dedicate his time and efforts into offering that same care and life-changing solutions to as many as possible. Fast forward ninety years later, and KAL has been instrumental in improving the health of individuals in every stage of life.
Their Utah based laboratory is responsible for creation of the first multi vitamin and calcium powder. Current health contributions are all free from peanuts, lactose, soy, gluten or preservatives. The areas that KAL addresses include: heart, digestive and immune health, sleep support, joints/muscles, along with mood and stress. Formats offered include liquids, powders, gummies, softgels, vegetarian capsules and instant dissolve tablets. These treatments can result in a life that offers more energy, relaxation and perhaps even a longer mortality.
The pricing structure for the above products varies by category. However, to give a generalized overview, you can look to spend anywhere from $8,79 to $76.39, Just in time for Christmas shopping, KAL is offering up to 30% OFF select vitamins and supplements. Get a headstart on being healthy with a purchase today: Amazon.com: KAL: All Products
Stella Shoe Bling Finders Key Purse
What happens when one woman has a very telling dream with messages from a deceased loved one? The inception of a new small business by the name of Finders Key Purse. It is well known that women lose their keys at least ten times more often than men. Typically, stress, fatigue or a frantic schedule can account for such happenings. Founder Sandy Stein wanted to stop this cycle, enabling females to have more time enjoying life. She succeeded in doing so by way of clasps, hooks and some darling designs.
The concept is simple: place a clasp on the key ring and then rest the hook on the edge of your purse. No more rummaging through your purse, dumping all your belongings or wanting to scream from frustration. Your keys are always in the same place, safe and sound. There is a total of four categories (Original, Gem, Bling and Monogram Bling) with over 100 designs.
Sandy also created a second line called Keep Her Safe, which boasts offerings such as pepper spray, personal alarms and other protections. On the accessories side, she provides colorful and concretely highly functioning sacs, wristlets, and luggage tags for females young and old. Lastly, there are the Purse Hangers, whose sole purpose is to keep purses safe and free from dirt and germs.
At this time, current pricing for said products ranges from $5,00 to $12.99. However, the company is offering a 30% discount on all products from Nov. 27-30, 2025. For anyone purchasing $15.00 or more, free shipping will be offered. To view the entire inventory, visit: Home of the Original Finders Key Purse-Designs for every PurseONality
Family Dates
Every mother and father will tell you that one of the most precious things to them is the time they spend with their children. One mom and dad put their heads and hearts together to create a card game designed for ages four and up called Family Dates. The main motivation behind this invention is to bring families together for some silly fun while strengthening bonds.
A few of the positives to these activities are that they do not involve any screen time, can be done easily at home, and completion time for each is roughly thirty to sixty minutes, a perfect time allotment to prevent boredom. Family Games consist of forty different scratch-off activities that are both creative and constructive. Who would have known that a simple 5x4 box could bring about such beautiful memories?
Besides Family Games, this small business has branched out to offer two more products that help strengthen partnerships. First is the Best Friend Bucket List, which are 35 scratch off friend dates that will help you collect stories and sentiments. Second is called Best Bach Ever, and these are six bachelorette games to enjoy while gathering together. These units truly push unlimited unity for all.
These brands normally sit at a sticker price of $18.99 with free shipping. However, Black Friday special pricing has it marked down to $14.39. To get your game today, go to: Happy Duo | Scratch‑Off Family Games & Adventure Gifts – Happy Duo Games
Betsy Jane 2025 Holiday Collection
Ever wonder what it would be like to take a few of your favorite moments and experiences and turn them into tangible products? This is exactly how the business, Betsy Jane, came into being. At her Wilmette, Illinois location, Founder Katy Khurana produces her unique, non-toxic candles designed to take her customers to an inviting and beautiful place in their minds. Since 2024, she has been passionate about helping people find peace, and it is working.
Betsy Jane candles are clean and consciously sourced, made from a combination of soy wax, essential oils and high-quality fragrances. They are free from toxins, vegan and cruelty free. Even their containers and packaging are eco-friendly! Her core collection consists of five invigorating candle fragrances: Coast, Banyan, Northshore, Rose and Sheridan. Through December 15, 2025, there are three limited edition holiday scents available, which are all encased in twelve-ounce double-wick glass vessels. The Chalet brand is sprinkled with clove, chestnut and cashmere scents, while Noelle holds hints of citrus and mulled wine. Third of all is Frasier Fir, which is full of cedar, fir and lemon peel aromas. Grab yours today before they are sold out!
Candles and gift sets are priced at $55 and can be purchased either online or in multiple stores and markets within IL. Should you purchase two or more candles from the Holiday Collection, you will receive a 20% discount. Head to their website to get your candles today: Betsy Jane
Jubilee TV
At Christmas time, there are an exorbitant number of gift choices for consumers, but not all with empathy at its core. JubileeTV is a gift for your aging loved one, serving as a bridge to keeping them and adult children connected and supported by means of HIPAA complaint technology. With the aid of a console, remote and JubileeTV mobile app, you and your family open the door to a more convenient measure of communication between you and your aging loved one.
Let me share some of the most impressive features of JubileeTV. First, you may set up video calls via the television with up to four other people - with the ability to include closed captioning. Second of all, regular reminders for medication and medical appointments may be established so they are never missed. Third, though the ‘Family Stories' feature, capture your relative on video regaling stories that can be forever cherished. Lastly, common TV issues can be addressed all through the phone, leading to less frustration and wasted time. To date, all of these services have amounted to a total of 20,000 happily served families, so why not add your family to that list today?
In order to set up JubileeTV, rent the hardware as well as subscribe for monthly service; for both, monthly pricing is $39, while annual is $389. As an added incentive to try this platform, save up to $60 off its most popular plans during Black Friday between November 27 - December 1, 2025. Members of the military are regularly offered a free month of service as a thank you for their contributions. Remote Caregiving System | TV Remote for Elderly - JubileeTV
Bandelettes Thigh Bands
Even through the winter months, inner thigh chafing is still an issue for many females. However, this condition can also be exacerbated by factors such as body shape, clothing choices, and physical activities. Founder Julia Abasova was one of the many sufferers who sat silently without a fix, so she and her friend Rena took to doing research and found a solution - that being Bandelettes. Today, over one million have been sold worldwide, and women all over the world are getting relief.
Bandelettes are sexy, stylish and stretchy thigh bands that are suited to fit women from size Small to 3XL. These consist of soft lace or microfiber materials and are supported by nylon, spandex and silicone. Not only is this a practical brand, but also one that provides others with a strong sense of self-esteem and acceptance about body image. In addition to the bands, one can also purchase panty shorts and bikini panties - because more means making a bigger difference. Moreover, they have partnered with brands that support their standards for high quality and design - those being Rago Shapewear, Amour Cache, 3 Wishes and Lingerie by Coco. Bandelettes are the best way to feel comfortable and confident in your own body.
As of now, the price range for items runs from $15.60 - $28.99. When you sign up for the newsletter, your first order is then 10% off. Should you spend $80 or more, shipping is free. Order today: The Original Bandelettes® Thigh Bands | Sexy Thigh Chafing Prevention
Dynamite Foods
Sometimes, some of the best and most brilliant creations derive from one's own heart. Dynamite Foods was founded on the basis of bringing better health while honoring the bond between a father and a daughter. Washington based Founder Rashida Samed was inspired by her father to create clean foods that are nourishing, comforting and delightful. Her concoctions are proof that great cuisine can be available to consumers without it costing them good health.
Presently, the company is starting off with their sauces - spicy and non-spicy. Each contains a rich, bold flavored sauce consisting of all natural ingredients - and made with care and integrity. Imagine the limitless amounts of heart healthy meals you can make with this splendid condiment. All of these big benefits in one jar, priced at $15.00.
With Dynamite Foods, purchases equate to purpose. From each sale, proceeds go to their self-established non-profit, Dynamite Girls international. DGI's goal is to help fuel further opportunities for girls in Ghana by providing after school leadership, mentorship, and education support. Your support ensures that future generations get the guidance they need to succeed.
To start an order or stay updated on the product line, visit: Dynamite Foods – Flavor You Can Feel Good About
Deborah Lindquist Denim Bucket Hats
Deborah Lindquist is an educator, storyteller/speaker and eco fashion designer. Over a span of four decades has she been the mastermind behind some very elegantly made apparel, accessories and home decor. She would eventually earn the title, Green Queen, which also serves as the namesake for her line of 100% vegan free clothing containing organic, sustainable, and deadstock materials. Her second line, Deborah Lindquist Upcycled, are small batches of pieces consisting of cashmere, lace, sari remnants, denim, and deadstock fabrics. Since her first day back in 1983, she has certainly come a long way.
Thankfully, the designer herself forwarded to me one of her original black denim hats. It is gender inclusive and created from post-consumer jeans. The artistry that went into its creation is well above average, and although I ordered it plain, I was informed that these can be studded upon request. I love that it is a washable item, as well as cozy and comfortable as to fit. Further, color choices are not limited to just black, but also olive, brown, white and black and blue tones. Price point for the hats is between $70.00 and $90.00. A fun, fine purchase that also helps protect the planet.
Few final facts here. You are able to make custom orders, and all purchases are shipped at no cost. More details are available at: Deborah Lindquist | Eco Lifestyle & Green Queen Clothing
Platterful
Some have said that charcuterie boards are a visual art form without any rules or restrictions. Throughout the years, they have propelled in popularity, as well as complexity to gain overall appeal in crowds. Platterful has manufactured an all-in-one charcuterie kit, complete with written and vide instructions that make it easy to have engaging experiences while offering unique and undeniably delicious boards at home.
Each order can feed anywhere from two to eight people, depending on the size purchased. Contents include a variety of new meats, cheeses, jams, mustards, nuts, chocolates, dried fruits, olives, crackers - and all from artisan brands. Food lovers can be treated to new products at their doorstep each month, or for three-, six- or twelve-month increments. To widen the appeal, there are also vegan and gluten free kits for purchase. If this is not enough to secure your interest, you should know that for every kit purchased, ten meals are donated to combat childhood hunger. Subscriptions mean you are helping so many other souls stay fed.
A few other perks to mention: a newsletter signup earns you a free cutting board. Spend over $200 and use this code for free shipping: SHIPFREE. Special holiday pricing is as such: For Black Friday/Cyber Monday: purchaser gets their first kit free with a six-month subscription OR their first kit 50% off with a three-month subscription. On Giving Tuesday, Platterful will donate twenty meals to children in need in the United States. Start your at home feasting today with an order from their website: All-in-one Charcuterie Kit and Subscription Box – Platterful
Better Battery
One of the biggest necessities we have in households are batteries. In this large world of electronics, batteries are our lifeline for connectivity. This means usually buying in bulk, so you want something cost effective. However, steady performance, long use, and zero waste are of stronger significance, which is why alkaline batteries are your best bet. There is a female owned business, founded by two sisters, that has created the first and only zero waste alkaline battery available today, and their name is Better Battery.
These powerful units are available in sizes AA, AAA, 9 volt and single cell. The owners are using carbon offset initiatives on a regular basis so as to ensure their products have a positive environmental impact. Three big ways they are doing so: allowing customers to send back their batteries to be recycled, selling carbon neutral items, and the packaging is fully recyclable. If you want affordable, clean and efficient batteries, this should be your first choice.
Pricing for the small packs is $7.99 to $14.99, while larger packs are $29.99. As to financial incentives offered: for every Kit (AA40, AAA40 + COMBO Kit) purchased, get a FREE AA8, AAA8, 9V2, C4 or D4 small pack, Also, 10% off with your first order when doing email registration. Bett er Batteries are available at Target, Walmart and other retailers. Otherwise, shop online today at: Better Battery Co. - Eco Friendly Batteries
Fragrance.Com
This may not be common knowledge to you readers, but there are a multitude of purposes for perfume outside of just improving personal aroma. These include health and emotional benefits, aid with grief, boost attractiveness, as well as possessing aphrodisiac properties. This list is exactly why perfume is one of the best Christmas gifts that your loved ones can get this year.
One of the more popular fragrance retailers out there is Fragrance.com. They carry 40,000 brand-name scents, candles, aromatherapy, as well as skincare, makeup, and haircare products. These are not limited to women alone, as they also have plenty of items for men and children. Should you hold hesitation about making a purchase, they do offer vials for sample trials and mini-size scents. The proof is in the pudding as to their success status, as they have shipped over forty million packages and sold over four million beauty products. Time to fill your house with some of these sensational aromas!
Free shipping is available on all products. Black Friday sales are going on the entire month of December. Further, there is a $500 shopping spree given out to customers. Secure your favorite scent today through here: Perfume, Cologne & Discount Perfume
The Chef’s Garden
Family farms are slowly disappearing, as there are roughly 3,000 fewer farms today than five years ago. Since farms contribute to our environmental and economic stability, as well as food security - we need to strongly support their efforts.
One entity that may not be on your radar is The Chef's Garden, which is a three-hundred-acre, family-owned farm that has been in business for over 40 years. They generate high quality, safe and flavorful specialty herbs, vegetables and meats, all while attempting to shape and redefine sustainable agriculture. The farm itself utilizes regenerative agriculture, which is a practice that rehabilitates the land and increases its productivity. This makes for vibrantly colored produce, delectable flavors and crisp textures. It is for all these reasons that many of the top shelf chefs and restaurants use their products.
:Outside of running their farmstead, Founder Lee Jones created the cookbook, The Chef's Garden: A Modern Guide to Common and Unusual Vegetables--with Recipes: A Cookbook. This has been termed as the "new bible for farmers' market shoppers and home cooks". They host on-site events, as well as their own farmer's market. They also run the Culinary Vegetable Institute, which is a premier educational, research, and event facility. The Chef's Garden is consistently reinventing and revitalizing their brand, and it is working well.
Boxes and kits can be bought individually or as recurring orders to ship weekly, bi-weekly or monthly. For the holidays, they have the Nosh Box, Best of the Season and Holiday Spirits boxes available. Purchase here: Home | The Chef's Garden
Unplugged Tots
A recent study indicated that sixty percent of parents believe that coding is an important skill for their children to learn, while 70% of children aren’t being taught how to code as part of their normal school lessons. Coding helps children strengthen problem solving skills, foster creativity and self-expression, and build confidence and independence. To address the significance coding has to adolescents, author Hannah Hagon wrote "Unplugged Tots: Introduce Children To The Foundations Of Computer Coding".
This 224-page book is best suited for those ages two and a half to eight years old and can be utilized by both parents and teachers. The activities included are all completely screen free and teach children core concepts behind coding. The structured play provided within these pages are all accessible, fun and engaging actions. Lessons learned here can help all receive a head start in the world of technology.
Hannah took a second step with unplugged play, as she also created the Unplugged Family Club. This is designed to offer meaningful and purposeful time together with your children, while supporting early brain development. Developed for ages two to ten, parents can choose from two monthly tier subscription plans for play.
At present, this book is priced at $12.99 for the Kindle version and $24.99 for the hardcover. To obtain your copy, go to: Amazon.com: Unplugged Tots: Introduce children to the foundations of computer coding: 9781916868229: Hagon, Hannah: Books
Jemluse Wireless CarPlay Adaptor
Jemluse is a top-of-the-line manufacturer of innovative adaptors that turn normal driving experiences into extraordinary moments. Your trips can now run smoother, smarter and with seamless wireless connectivity. A powerful 5.8GHz chip allows for lag free navigation and streaming while driving, which means no worries about disconnections while on long trips. Also, these units are not exclusive to just IPhones, as Androids have their own adaptor. These features are all meant to keep your focus on driving without distractions.
When you receive your order, the first thing you should note is these are compact and durable. It is a plug and play format, with online upgrades available if you choose. No need for any dash mounting. The adapter is controlled by your voice, so as to eliminate the need to manually operate features by hand. Finally, all units have a one-year risk free trial and lifetime technical support. No surprise that this brand is the #1 Best Seller in Car Audio & Video Input Adapters on Amazon.
The wireless car play adaptor price is now set at $39,99, and holiday pricing means you get an extra 20% off your purchases. Order yours today at: Amazon.com: Jemluse CarPlay Pro
ManifesTees
Yoga, spirituality and a journey of self-discovery are three things in life that are designed to free us from stress, offer better psychological and physical health, as well as provide an overall sense of calm. These are strong staples in the life of New Jersey based Stacey Jayne, creator of Manifestee. She wished to take her passions and incorporate them into something inspirational and innovative, which is exactly what her t-shirt line has evolved into today. Her line is officially launching this season, and already has been getting rave reviews.
Stacey is of the belief that the garments we wear can serve to ground us as individuals. They assist us with confidence and self-expression, and Manifestee is a big support of boosting one's inner self. Six types of shirts are in their current inventory - with sayings such as Don't Hate, Meditate; Namaste and Stay; and Let that Shi't Go. Outside of shirts, tank tops are also an option for purchase. Messages designed to direct you to peace, I would declare.
At the present time, shirts can be purchased for $25 or two for $50. Uplift your spirit and soul by purchasing one today here: Manifestee
Sticky Lemon Better Together Collection Large Fanny Pack
The Sticky Lemon brand is known for their quirky, bold and colorful design choices. They offer an array of clothing, backpacks, handbags and accessories that are eco-friendly, functional and sustainable. Numerous products in this line would make for a great gift for the holidays, however, I would like to highlight one of their fanny pack products ideal for any family.
Sticky Lemon Butter Together Collection Fanny Pack is sturdy and stylish; consisting of YKK zippers and knitted sporty stripes. Sizing is ideally set at 23 x 6 x 14 cm but can be adjusted accordingly to suit any occasion. The materials are a mixture of recycled PET bottles and waterproof nylon, which align with their mission to reduce waste and conserve energy. These are offered in four color variations: Gravel Orange / Rosette Pink, Khaki Green, Deep Lake Blue/Treehouse Brown, and Skate Ramp / Golden Cup. The collection itself holds a Global Recycled Standard certification, which means the company conducts responsible and sustainable practices in the production of recycled materials.
Fanny Packs are priced from $35.00 - $37.00 and include free shipping. Net profits from these purchases are contributed to the ELIJA Foundation, whose educational opportunities focus on improving the quality of programs and services available to children with Autism. This cause is significant to the Founder, as she is raising two children with said condition. To place your order, visit: Sticky Lemon Better Together Collection Large Fanny Pack - Gravel Oran – Just Shoes for Kids
Wine Road Winter WINEland
To those that have yet to attend wine tastings, there are a number of benefits to being in attendance. Besides the enjoyment aspect, one can acquire new acquaintances, gain knowledge of wine and its pricing, along with figuring out food pairing. These events can be even more exciting when taking place among the beautiful backdrop of Sonoma County in California. Once again this year, Winter Road Northern Sonoma County is hosting Winter WINEland, and it is set to be an amazing soiree.
Get a glimpse into winemaking while sitting amongst stunning landscapes from January 17-18, 2026 between the hours of 11am and 4pm. There are over sixty participating wineries. Participants also receive a souvenir glass, access to private tours, and exclusive event discounts. For those who opt to stay all weekend, there are some fantastic lodging packages being offered by local hotels. Should you find that your calendar cannot accommodate this event, there are two others happening in 2026. This could include the Holiday Wine Trail & Market on Dec. 6, 2025, and Barrel Weekend, which happens on March 7-8, 2026.
Plan ahead for this two-day experience full of beautiful spirits, scenery and amazing new adventures. Early bird tickets can be purchased from now until November 30th for $85. Otherwise, regular pricing is $95. Learn about all things Wine Road related at: Discover the Finest Wineries in Sonoma County - Wine Road
Voglia Swimwear
Voglia Swimwear aka "Wish" is an award-winning swimwear brand that offers one of a kind, handcrafted, sustainable and luxurious items for wear. Pieces are both reversable and versatile, PETA approved and boast built in SPF80. Suits are composed of ECONYL regenerated nylon and soy-based inks, with biodegradable packaging and shipping. The line is not inclusive of only swimwear, as they also sell skirts, sarongs, coverups and knitwear. Voglia allows you to look chic as you are aiding the country to be cleaner.
To coincide with their commitment to helping our planet stay healthier, Voglia has partnered with One Tree Planted, who are deeply dedicated to global reforestation. Each time a product is sold, another tree is planted. Secondly, proceeds from the Oh Honey collection benefit local beekeepers. So, while you are filling your closet with stylish suits, the environment is being more fully enriched.
Voglia Swimwear pricing ranges from $37.50 up to $300.00. Black Friday specials are as such: From November 28 - December 1, 2025, buy any suit or bikini form the Very Poppy collection and get the Lara Skirt Wrap ($65 value) for FREE + Free shipping. Purchasing of any made-to-order suit gets you another for 50% OFF + Free Shipping. Search online today for your new suit at: Voglia Swimwear | Sustainable Luxury Swimwear
Vacmaster 2.5 Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum
VacMaster prides themselves on utilizing the highest standards in engineering, design, and production to release inventory with exceptional performance and durability. Their customers have offered high marks for the product line's strong power, efficiency, value and effectiveness. Said brand includes wet/dry vacuums, air movers and general floor care items. Another big bonus: all of these successfully meet all EPA standards.
I was fortunate enough to test out one of the 2.5 gallon wet/dry vacuums, and it was nothing short of amazing. It is incredibly lightweight at six pounds, so super easy as far as movement through rooms. I also like the fact that it has a fourteen-foot reach, so I can access many more areas to clean in a simplistic manner. Motor size is well set at 100 air watts, as that is the standard for this form of machinery. Finally, nice to have a choice for more than one color, as they are offered in both red and blue. All in all, truly a wonderful new addition to my cleaning toolbox.
Typical pricing for the wet/dry vac is $44.99. However, for the holiday season, VacMaster is offering up to 30% off their appliances. To order yours today, go to: Amazon.com: Vacmaster: AROUND THE HOME
The Bright Girl Core 4 Gift Set
Parents everywhere have growing concerns about businesses consistently targeting children around seven years old and up with less than stellar skincare products. These items are less than safe, build anxiety about appearance, can damage skin, and slowly allow the beauty industry to build a foothold on children. One dermatologist strives to give parents hope through her line of safe, age-appropriate skincare called Bright Girl Skincare. Double board-certified Dr. Angela Casey has a passion for educating and empowering girls to develop a daily routine for a lifetime of healthy, glowing skin.
The Bright Girl Core 4 Gift Set is a safe and simple choice for skincare. The first core element is a sulfate-free cleanser powered by mild surfactants, aloe, and hydrating botanicals that removes dirt and oil. A balancing toner is a soothing and alcohol-free means to refresh skin. Their lightweight moisturizer keeps young skin soft and balanced. Finally, the mineral SFP is a gentle, zinc oxide-based sunscreen that provides ample sun protection. Rounding out the rest of the brand are facial cleansers, sunscreen and acne care items. Your teens and tweens will feel fresher, lighter, and lovelier than ever!
Looking to save? Well, there is free shipping for orders that exceed $50.00. Subscribing to their newsletter will score you 15% off of your first order. Turning to holiday deals, all merchandise is 25% off from Black Friday through Cyber Monday. Start good skin care for your kids today: brightgirl.com