5 Gifts from AAPI-owned Business for LNY

January 18, 2023

It’s always a good time to start scoping out unique gifts from small businesses, especially with Lunar New Year right around the corner. Here are some gifts from AAPI-owned small businesses that are great to add to your next package:

Kola Goodies oat mylk tea lattes and super green latte powder: Kola Goodies offers goodies that bring its South Asian roots to you, and some of their best-selling items are their vegan superfood lattes and Sri Lankan oat mylk tea lattes. The oat mylk tea lattes are devoid of dairy but not not its delicious, slightly floral black tea that offers an energy boost through slow-release caffeine. Plus, each box comes with 10 sachets that can be prepared in boiling water. Another great option is the super green latte powder, a Sri Lankan superfood drink made with moringa, cinnamon, ginger, and a touch of cinnamon spice.

To make a bundle of delicious and healthy drinks, you can even spruce up your gift by adding a tea strainer, ceremonial-grade matcha, local tea, and a mug or Miir Traveler to-go tumbler that keeps drinks cold or hot longer (plus you can get 15% off Miir’s site with the code “ALEENAHANSARI”)

Always pan: If you’re getting a gift for someone who loves cooking or wants to get better at, consider the Always Pan from Our Place, which is designed to replace 8 traditional pieces of cookware and be used for everything from sauteing and frying to braising and searing. Plus, it comes in a number of colorways and even comes in a mini version that’s ideal for small spaces and side dishes.

Weighted blankets from Luna: A weighted blanket is a great gift to help someone fall asleep, feel warmer, and simulate a hug, and Luna’s cotton weighted blanket is a great option that’s machine washable and made of a breathable cotton.

Suncatchers and window clings: If you’re looking for a smaller gift, suncatchers from small business Hemleva are a great option. The affirmation window clings can be added to glass and mirrors as a reminder of what your gift recipient is capable of.

Another option is the peace suncatcher which has a design of olive branch leaves, which can be placed on any window that gets direct sunlight.  And if you’re looking for a more portable option, this silver mushroom disco ball in the shape of a lamp from Sofiest Designs will make the whole room shimmer, making it perfect for anyone with variable lighting.

Reusable gift bags and shopping bags: A gift can be just as special as the bag you put it in. Tokki offers reusable gift bags that have a QR code that you can use to add photos and videos. We use these bags for everything from birthdays to holiday gifts, and this intentional tradition has helped us save money and paper from buying more gift bags and wrapping paper each year. Another great gift option is a reusable gift bag from Baggu. My personal favorites are their standard reusable bags for everyday shopping, which come in a variety of fun patterns, and I always keep a baby Baggu bag in my purse.

No matter what gift you’re getting this year, don’t forget to support small businesses, especially in your community.

Written by: 
Aleenah Ansari
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