Why do Homemade Gifts Matter?

Let's talk homemade gifting this Valentine's Day!

Homemade gifts are our collective way of showing care and love for our community. The practice of gifting goes back to ancient times - where tools, food, clothing and keepsakes were shared as a way to strengthen connection and friendships. Time has always been our most valuable resource, it's one of the only things we really can't replace - and so when we take our time picking out a gift or making one ourselves, it has the power to be deeply felt and cherished.

To me, this perspective oftentimes feels in direct opposition to how we are living. A quick click and a gift can be here overnight or perhaps a rushed visit to a big box store. Let's slow down, a practice at first until it becomes automatic. 

Perhaps once we slow down, that's when we see more clearly why it matters. This month write a love letter, knit a scarf, bake cookies, brew a cup of tea or make someone lunch. Simple gestures go a long way and homemade gifts are felt for a lifetime. 

For me, 2025 is stripping it all back and returning to basics. Practicing "less is more", buying from real people whenever we can, using our spending power on things we need or want that will last ... and tapping into our inner creatives, because we all can make something. 

Last year I was really feeling bogged down by finances and business and all things of that nature - and my dear friend who is a Reiki teacher told me to get down on the floor with my kids and finger paint or make pasta necklaces. Anything to feel playful, to get out of the mind and into the body, and reignite a spark that we all need to be thriving, healthy, creative human beings. 

Working with our hands, creating acts of kindness, and gifting from that space builds community, grounds us, connects us and unites us - which is perhaps what we need now more than ever.  XO