The holiday season often sneaks up on us, leaving us scrambling for gifts. While every year I plan to do my holiday shopping ahead of time, life gets in the way, I push my shopping list further down my to-do list, and I end up procrastinating until the eleventh hour. However, I do feel somewhat reassured that I’m not alone. Research has found that 51 percent of Americans are last-minute holiday shoppers!
The Beauty of Bundled Gifts
For last-minute shoppers like me, anything that can make the gifting process easier wins my eternal appreciation. This year, I’m doing my holiday shopping through the online marketplace East Third Collective. Founded by college friends Kat McPeek, Darcie Cohn, and Nikki Lapidus, East Third Collective’s mission is to simplify the gifting experience while making a positive impact.
I particularly like the bundled gifts from East Third Collective that they describe as “One-and-done meets a thoughtful collection of favorites.” Here are some of the items I’m adding to my cart this year.
For The Host-With-The-Most
One of the standout offerings at East Third Collective is the “Thank You Bndl,” a perfect token of appreciation for the host who has poured their efforts into orchestrating a memorable holiday gathering. This carefully curated gift combines elegance and utility, featuring items that reflect a genuine thank you. From a beautiful Sicilian olive oil + balsamic vinegar duo to a handmade dipping dish and a handwoven linen kitchen towel, this set embodies the essence of gratitude. East Third Collective believes that the true essence of a great gift lies in its ability to delight the recipient through its usefulness and meaningfulness, and you can bet that the items in this set will be used again and again.
To Sweeten Time With Loved Ones
The holiday season is synonymous with family gatherings, and East Third Collective’s “Family Bndl” is designed to enhance these moments of togetherness. This thoughtfully curated collection comprises a book on ‘Smores (which features over 60 ways to make these family favorites), a party pack of organic vanilla marshmallows, and a bar of small-batch chocolate. Meant to be enjoyed together with family or friends, this sweet set is a great way to kick off your holiday celebrations.
For The Friend Or Family Member Who Needs Some R&R
For those who need a respite from the holiday hustle, the “Self-Care Bndl” offers a sanctuary of serenity. Crafted with relaxation in mind, this bundle includes shower steamers, an exfoliating body scrub, luxurious skincare products, and cozy socks to cocoon oneself in comfort. It’s the perfect gift for someone who deserves a moment of tranquility amidst the festive chaos, including yourself.
Tailor Joy to Individual Tastes
East Third Collective’s commitment to personalization shines through a ‘Curate-Your-Own Gift’ option, allowing you to tailor a present to the unique tastes of whoever you’re gifting. Whether they revel in luxurious bath and beauty products, find joy in functional and aesthetically pleasing home and kitchen items, or appreciate stylish accessories, the possibilities are endless. But while East Third Collective offers a tremendous selection, you don’t have to worry about going down the rabbit hole trying to filter hundreds of options. Whether bundled or personalized, East Third Collective offers a selection of thoughtful and purposeful gifts that are intentionally chosen.
You’ll find treasures like artisanal candles, eco-friendly homewares, and handcrafted accessories sourced from small-, women-, and BIPOC-owned businesses. Plus, East Third Collective’s commitment to sustainability shines through its selection of products from B Corp certified or 1% for People + Planet companies.
Design Trends in Retail: Embracing Innovation(Opens in a new browser tab)
What’s On the Outside Counts Too
Another thing I appreciate is gifts that arrive like a gift. Those of us who are last-minute gifters may need to send directly to the recipient, and often, that means the presentation leaves something to be desired. A nondescript shipping box with the item in bubble wrap doesn’t exactly scream, “I put thought into this gift!” East Third Collective gets this, ensuring the packaging is as beautiful as the gift itself.
What’s more, their sustainable practices also extend to the packaging with eco-friendly and recyclable materials. East Third Collective also avoids waste by choosing not to use a gift box in addition to a shipping box, and since customers can shop for multiple vendors on their online marketplace, they can send a cohesive gift without multiple shipments to their recipient. Fewer shipments and fewer boxes are small steps that make a difference.
If you’re a holiday shopping procrastinator like me, look no further than East Third Collective, a haven of gifts that not only meet the needs of the moment but also leave a lasting impact. Founded on the principles of simplicity, beauty, and social responsibility, East Third Collective curates collections that resonate with the season’s spirit. You’ll not only find unique, well-crafted items for everyone on your list, but you’ll also feel good knowing that you’re supporting a small business (that, in turn, supports small businesses).
Discussion about this post