Did you have a spree of “Tidying Up” in 2019? Are you turning to minimalism, sustainability, locally or ethically sourced goods in your general life? Whether the motivation is minimizing our affect on the climate, supporting our local economy, or curbing our worst consumer habits, many people are re-thinking the things we buy for ourselves and others. This Christmas, we’re proud to present the HTA Gift-Giving Guide for a Tidied Age; Our office’s plans for a Holiday Season that is sustainable, ethical, or just simply more logical!
Hugh Anderson, Co-Founder: I love making food for friends and family as presents for the holidays. I get to try out new recipes without being stuck with eating it all, and my loved ones get delicious treats!
Derrick Weisbrod, CEO: I’m not one to actively think about gifting things nor do I really like receiving items, but I do very much enjoy creating and sharing experiences with my family and friends. Every year I host a Winter Solstice party at my house. This involves a potluck, smoked meats, live music, and an ambitious bonfire designed to see us through till dawn. I can invite my family and friends and not only spend time with them, but gift them a great night of festivities. That’s my preferred present, every year – time, company, and good cheer.
Abigail Kern, Marketing Manager: Years ago I took over my mother’s tradition of making banana bread as gifts for the family. The bread is delicious, and once consumed takes up no space in your kitchen. While it’s time intensive, it’s still more affordable than getting gifts for everyone and I frankly feel better about giving a thing I have made rather than something I bought. The recipe can also be easily adjusted for dietary restrictions or “improved upon” each year to add variety, mostly with chocolate. Chocolate is the variety.
Kara Nagel, Marketing Administrator: I’m not a huge gift-giver, but my go-to is a local farmer’s market such as the one at Point Labadie Brewery. There I can find useful, local goods that are of high quality. Not only does this help my local economy, but the products are more sustainable than mass-produced items. I’d much rather my money go to local artists and craftspeople than to Amazon!
