It’s that time of year. You’ve got someone to buy for who has everything, claims they want nothing, and has such ridiculous taste that you haven’t a clue what to get them.
We thought we’d do you a favour and make a gift guide based on what we’re asking for. We all fit into one (or more) of the above brackets, so here’s inside info on what people like us want for Christmas.
Remote Control Kei Truck – Gregg
My wife got me one of these last year and it is genuinely brilliant. It’s got 4-way suspension, drifts, comes with a load of stickers to make your own licence plate, the lights work, and it’s as close to a real kei truck as I can get without talking Phil from Exemplar into making a coffee truck. I use mine to chase my cat around the house. Smasher of a gift.
Noah × Timex – Moon Phase Watch – Craig
I like watches. I missed the pre-order of these last year, wished I hadn’t, then missed this year too. Full moon phase movement that tracks its 29.5-day cycle. Magic.
Vans Authentic 44 – Gregg
They’re coming back. Maybe it’s the end of Y2K (please), but after seeing shops like Goodhood and stylists like Aaron Levine (Drakes, ALD, etc) push these over the last few months, a solid pair of Vans are going to be what everyone’s wearing in 2025 (maybe 2026, but you want to be there first)! Go for duck canvas if you can, it’ll hold up (and get beaten up) better. If you’ve got a big microwave, 30 seconds in there breaks them in instantly – just be careful…
Bullhouse Brewery – Christmas Glass Box – Craig
Ten beers. Limited Bullhouse glass. Novelty socks. Absolutely everything you need for a successful Christmas. We’re working with Bullhouse on a full rebrand at the minute (keep your eyes peeled) but for now, we’ll be continuing our own product research in the shape of 440ml tins.
Honest Toil Olive Oil (1L) – Gregg
If you know someone who loves cooking, get them something they always need but never treat themselves with. This oil from Honest Toil is exceptional – cold-pressed, small batch, early harvest (“agoureleo” for those who care) Koroneiki olives. Marty from Pi Guy put me onto Honest Toil with a shot alongside a pizza once and it’s fantastic. He uses it constantly for his pizzas, and there may even be a way to find out for yourself soon. It’s amazing for dipping, drizzling, or having friends over for dinner who you want to seriously impress. If you’re in Belfast, Bakari have it in-store and I think it’s cheaper than the link too!
An acre of bogland – Craig
As the owners of an acre of bogland (as part of our 1% for the Planet) contributions, it wouldn’t be right not to plug the opportunity to literally own a bog. You can buy 1/16th of an acre for €45, and get as much as you want. Brat summer, bog winter?
Olive Wood Keychain- Handmade Palestine – Kaia
Supporting fairtrade organisations is such an easy way to make sure the money you spend at Christmas goes directly to the people who make the products. One of the companies I have recently found is Handmade Palestine, who collaborate with over 30 artisan groups, women’s cooperatives and designers from across Palestine. There’s something for every budget and person on their site
Vintage Microsoft Long-sleeve Tee – Gregg
We’re big fans of solid vintage at the studio. I’ve had this on my eBay watchlist for close to a year, so I might beat you to it. Nothing says “I work in IT” like a semi-ironic, mid-90s Microsoft Authorized Technical Education Center Promo tee. Single stitch, made in USA. Winner.
Sprint Beauty Eyeliner Aligner – Craig
It wouldn’t be Christmas without sharing a gift I’m giving. We’re lucky enough to be good friends with Katie, who’s just launched her eyeliner-perfector and got features all over the place – not least from Grazia. I have it on good authority that it makes doing your eyeliner dead easy.
The Sacred Space Between: Kalie Reid – Gregg
I may or may not benefit from this. My wife’s debut novel comes out next November with Harper Voyager and you can preorder it now. As the very first reader, I can confirm it’s a phenomenal book. If you (or your loved ones) are into fantasy at all, this is the one to get.
Bouclé Stem Ginger, Rosemary & Clove Aromatherapy oil – Kaia
I love using organic essential oil blends in my burners, and in my recent searches for some new scents, I found UK based couple, Ben and Louise. They have a wonderful story that flows out of a focus on environmental sustainability and care for people, which has resulted in these absolutely beautiful products.
Young Buck Cheese by Mike’s Fancy Cheese – Kaia
Another fairly aromatic choice, but maybe not for everyone. I love my cheeses and very luckily (or unluckily, if you’re asking my budget) live less than ten minutes from Indie Fude on the Ormeau Road. While I could easily demolish any of their cheeses, my go-to for over a year has been the raw milk blue cheese, Young Buck, by Mike’s Fancy Cheese. It’s perfect for those cosy wine and cheese nights. Maybe get the oil burner too, to be safe.
Mercedes-Benz AMG S 63 E Performance – Craig
Everyone (including me) is talking about Jaguar. I still prefer one of these longboats. Pure luxury. 800 horsepower. Never happening. Can’t stop hoping.
Lines and Current Mini Dome Hoops – Kaia
Last but not least from me is from local jewellery brand, Lines and Current. Their beautifully made pieces give back to charity with every purchase, making them the perfect gift. A staple piece for everyday wear!
Bandit Calogrid Quarter Zip – Gregg
If you know me, I’m a bit of a sucker for nice stuff. Here’s a very, very nice ¼ zip from NYC-based Bandit who are probably the coolest brand in running right now. They do the fabrics and fit better than anyone, and keep making the best stuff. Right under the tree please.
Oliver Jeffers – Once There Were Two Friends – Craig
NI’s favourite artist just got a new website (by yours truly) and you can shop limited edition giclée prints from the site right now. A perfect gift for anyone with kids who love Oliver’s books, or for anyone who deserves something on walls they’re neglecting to put nice stuff on