Christmas is just over a week away and while it may not look the same as it did two years ago, we can certainly be grateful for life.
Also, if you’re looking for gift options for friends and family, I put together a list of Caribbean businesses that I love and that you can purchase from. Let’s do what we can and support local.
The Wrap Chic
A holiday gift guide with Grenadian handmade products will not be complete if headwraps from The Wrap Chic by Terrie-Ann Charles are not included. Her vibrant headwraps and satin bonnets are popular with naturalistas in Grenada and her products are a go-to for pairing with other local items as gifts.
Shop products in this post
Renee Stewart Cover-Up
Who said you can’t find classy lounge wear made right here in Grenada? The Annie Cover-up and White Bodysuit from Jamaican-born designer Renee Stewart, are the absolute perfect gift options for the confident women in your life who are all about that staycation life. Shop the collection at Calabash Hotel from December 18-19.
Ms. Elsa’s Hand-woven Bags
Hand-woven straw bags will never be a thing of the past, at least for me. Ms. Elsa Frederick, who I met a few years ago, does a wonderful job of carefully crafting a variety of designs. I take my bag to the beach, shopping, or on a casual hang. Send me a message if you’re interested.
Handmade by Kae
Handmade by Kae is a Barbadian eco-friendly skincare brand that I’ve been following. They produce soaps, lotions, oils, candles, and bath accessories. Their soaps are so colourful and almost look like blocks of candy. I’ve also included them on my list of items to get the next time I go to BIM.
Caribbean Crescent Garden
These succulent arrangements from Caribbean Crescent Garden are the whole package and oh so beautiful to look at. Your friends with the green thumb will thank you for this.
Tambran by Tamara
If you are from Grenada, you may have already heard about this brand and if you haven’t, then let me introduce you. Tambran by Tamara produces eco-friendly jewelry and accessories made from recycled materials and natural seeds. She is best known for her “tambrandies” which are hand-painted studs made from tambran seeds. I usually purchase her products as gifts for my family and friends when I travel and so far, everyone loved them!
Shop Scinen
Pronounced “sci-nen” which means to be radiant or to shed light, Shop Scinen is a recently launched jewelry line by Evelyn Clarke of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Her unique hand-crafted gold and sterling silver pieces are simply elegant and can be worn with any outfit. Gift vouchers are also available.
Crown and Luxe Satin Robe
Every girl should have a satin robe in their wardrobe. If you’re in Trinidad and Tobago, you can get yours from Crown and Luxe owned by Tobagonian blogger, Ghyanne Edwards Jack of @beautyoutspoken. You can also find satin scrunchies, scarves, and masks to compliment your robe.
Untamed
Untamed is a product line for men from Marcella Jeremiah of Renee Scentsationz which I highly recommend. I gifted my cousin with this product and got a good review. Find this oil for your bearded friends at Priceless Beauty Supplies on Hillsborough Street in St. George’s.
Lacoda Bath and Sparkle
Located on mainland St. Vincent, Lacoda Bath and Sparkle is a family-owned skincare business. I first came across their page on Instagram a few years ago and when I visited St. Vincent, I had to try their products especially since they use plant-based ingredients. I use the turmeric and charcoal face mask, body scrub, and charcoal soap in my skincare regimen and it leaves my skin feeling refreshed and brand new.
Tobaglo Cosmetics
I was recently introduced to Tobaglo Cosmetics, a Tobagonian makeup company as the name suggests, when I received the Sun, Sea & Sand eyeshadow palette as a gift from my cousin who lives in Trinidad. I love that the names of the shadows are things we can relate to as Caribbean people; governor plum, Easter, carnival, poui, heritage, etc.
Women’s Haven Grenada
Sanitary napkins and tampons are not the typical items you’ll find wrapped in a box. However, the Purse Ready Kit from Women’s Haven Grenada, which includes samples of their organic pads and liners is a great option for your girlfriends who are thinking of making the switch from the traditional products but not sure what to expect. Women’s Haven also provides menstrual cups, organic bamboo wipes, organic liners, and more.
Living Essentials
Living Essentials is a skincare brand owned by Kisha Miller. At a recent Pop-Up shop for small business owners in Grenada, I picked up the body oil, lotion, and bentonite clay soap. I love that her lotions come in various sizes, so I got the 2.05 oz. tube which can easily fit in my makeup bag. The formula is great, by the way.
Turquoise Orange Hair Clips
Can we take a moment to look look at these gorgeous resin hair clips from Turquoise Orange? Owner, Sonja Parke, creates an array of mixed media jewelry, accessories, and home wares to add a pop of colour and a little sparkle to your day and your home. These are great options for girls.
CariBucha
Owned by Kennita Henry and Makalani Manwarring, CariBucha is a nonalcoholic probiotic drink produced by flavouring fermented tea with fresh fruits. This produces a lightly fizzy product that is best enjoyed chilled. I’ve tasted the limin strawberry and I loved it! Check out their page @caribucha.gd for more flavours.
Be All Natural
Be All Natural (BAN) is a natural hair care line based in Carriacou that caters to children’s hair. Pair these products with clips from Turquoise Orange and your gift box is all set for that special little girl.
Sparkles Grenada Edible Treats
Here’s a another option for the men in your life with a sweet tooth. Consider a customized box of coated strawberries and treats from Sparkles Grenada. They also provide edible arrangements and gift baskets.
Tri-Island Chocolate Tour
Gift your friend or loved one with a chocolate experience. Visit the Tri-Island Chocolate Factory and Cafe and learn all about Grenadian cocoa and how to produce fine-flavoured chocolate bars. Go behind the scenes of the chocolate factory and see how they turn cocoa beans into chocolate. Besides the experience and knowledge gained throughout your time, you will produce your very own chocolate bars from 15 different ingredients to go home with and enjoy. Grenadian nationals will receive a 50% discount.
Nutmeg Design Company Ltd
Here’s one way to carry your spices with you everywhere you go. The Jola Market Tote from the Nutmeg Design Company Ltd is a great gift for family and friends to remind them of home.
What are some of the local/Caribbean made products you’re using or gifting others with this season? Share in the comments.
