(Clockwise from top left: Courtesy of Luvons, Earth tu Face, Marmot, Lady Falcon Coffee Club, and Sommer)

60 Smart Holiday Gifts from Bay Area Makers, Brands + Shops

21 November 2023

and

and

and

Shopping and supporting local is literally our raison d'etre here at 7x7. And there's just no better time to double down than at the holidays.

Our editors have been busy little elves this month compiling our 2023 Holiday Gift Guide, which is absolutely stuffed with perfect presents at every budget for everyone on your list.

Whether you're looking for fluffy slippers for a fashionista or something tasty for a foodie, warm outdoor gear for adventurers or something delightful for littles, we've got it here—all locally made and stocked with love.

Plus, don't miss our 10 Ways to Give Thanks and Spark Joy this season.

Happy holidays from the 7x7 team.

Make your next camping trip a little more cozy with a sleeping bag from Sonoma-based Marmot ($199 and up). The retro-inspired sacks come in bright colors, have plenty of space for snuggling up with someone you love, and are made with recycled Spirafil insulation to keep you warm in temperatures as low as zero degrees. // Shop online at marmot.com.
▲

Cultivate a love of travel in a little one with this San Francisco-made children’s travel journal ($24). Inside, they’ll find dozens of illustrations and drawing and writing prompts that will help them to think more deeply about their journey. Subtonic Design will customize the book with the region of the world they’ll be traveling to next, the number of weeks they’ll be gone, and the color ink in the matching ball-point pen. // Shop online at etsy.com.
▲

Mission Workshop’s MW X ASP Stratus rucksack ($275) goes from city to mountain and back again. The waterproof pack has an 18-liter main compartment outfitted with a padded internal laptop sleeve, a divided front cargo compartment, and two external mesh water bottle pockets. With a custom-dyed, cloud-inspired pattern that comes in three colors—black, blue, and purple—this handy, dandy rucksack will suit any style. // Shop Mission Workshop in store or online at 40 Rondel Place (Mission), missionworkshop.com.
▲

Keep their skin glowing far from home with Earth Tu Face’s Geranium + Vetiver Skin Stick ($38). The botanical experts have created a single product to treat, soothe, and protect travel-worn skin and lips with mineral-rich olive oil, healing beeswax, antiseptic vetiver root, and inflammation-cooling lavender. The convenient, cruelty-free push-up stick comes in a 100 percent compostable tube. // Shop online at earthtuface.com.
▲

Air-conditioned airplanes, blustery hikes, cozy nights in front of the campfire, winter-time city strolling—Aether Apparel’s down poncho ($375) does it all. The stylish unisex puffer coat is made with super-warm 800-fill-power goose down, has a center kangaroo pocket, and buttons at the neck and under the arms for a custom fit. Snap the former shut and undo the latter and the poncho transforms into a blanket; available in two colors and two sizes. // Shop Aether Apparel in store or online at 489 Hayes St. (Hayes Valley), aetherapparel.com.
▲

Up their international travel game with a silky soft sleep mask ($39) from SF’s ElizabethW. The mask has an adjustable velvet elastic strap for a perfect fit that blocks out bright airplane screens and the disturbing plane etiquette of their neighbors alike. Choose from a wide variety of solid colors and patterns, like the Impressionist-style watercolor. // Shop ElizabethW in store or online at 900 North Point (Ghirardelli Square), elizabethw.com.
▲

Oakland-based Cincha is on a mission to solve one of the most annoying aspects of travel: When the purse or backpack you thought was safely perched on top of your rollie falls to the ground in dramatic fashion. Their adjustable, Shark Tank–approved travel belt ($40) wraps around any personal item and secures it with a quick-release buckle to the luggage handle of a suitcase. They’ve got more than a dozen belt colors and patterns to choose from, plus a version with an attached bag that can double as a sling bag. It’s truly the travel essential they never knew they needed. // Shop online at cinchatravel.com.
▲

With Wildebeest’s Farallon Field Day bag ($60), their pup’s essentials will never be out of reach on hikes, campouts, and road trips. The sturdy pack, which can be worn either around the waist or as a sling bag, has tons of space for treats and tennis balls including two easy-to-open front pockets with magnetic closures and easy-to-clean water-resistant linings. There’s also a built-in poop bag holder and dispenser, and a main pocket with a phone-sized divider. Best of all, it comes with a lifetime warranty to protect against any doggo-related chewing, wear, or tear. // Shop online at wildebeest.co.
▲

Give the gift of relaxation this holiday season. At Calistoga’s Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs, wellness and comfort come together with three geothermal mineral pools, a full-service spa, and vintage style. They’ve got several packages to choose from, including the Mudslinger and Blissful Body massage options, each of which get you hefty discounts on room rates and treatments, and Bed and a Better Breakfast package, which takes 30 percent off the room rate and morning meal at the Southwestern-leaning House of Better. King rooms start at $313/night. // 1507 Lincoln Ave. (Calistoga), drwilkinson.com
▲

Nothing says happy holidays like a luxury Hawaiian retreat and Kona Village, the brand new Rosewood Resort on the big island, is just the place to retreat to. The 81-acre property on Kahuwai Bay is a garden of beautifully appointed thatched-roof hales, lush landscaping, and exquisite Pacific Rim cuisine. In addition to the full-service Asaya Spa, the estate has two restaurants, two bars, and a market. Rates start at $1,695 per night and include breakfast. // 72-300 Maheawalu Dr. (Kailua-Kona), rosewoodhotels.com
▲

Treat your friends and family to coffee on autopilot with a three-month subscription to Lady Falcon Coffee Club ($126). We la-la-la-love the stunning packaging and unique flavors the female-founded, SF-based coffee and tea company are shipping out nationwide. // Shop online at ladyfalconcoffeeclub.com.
▲

The motto at Diaspora Co. is “friends don’t let friends use dusty spices”—and we couldn’t agree more. The Oakland-based, ethically sourced South Asian spice company’s customizable and colorful spice kits ($31 and up), colorful totes ($45), and Chai Caddy Kit ($120) always top our hostess gift-giving list. // Shop online at diasporaco.com.
▲

For the friend—who like so many others this year—discovered an appreciation for martinis, gift them a DIY martini cocktail kit from the award-winning distillery Hanson Sonoma. For $70 they’ll receive a bar-cart-worthy bottle of Hanson Vodka, castelvetrano olives, two engraved glass coups, and a recipe card. // Shop online at hansonofsonoma.com.
▲

Have your loved one saying “aw, shucks” when you gift them Hog Island Oyster Co’s beginner's oyster shucking kit ($115). On their doorstep, they’ll receive a bag of 36 fresh oysters on ice, plus a shucking knife, glove, detailed instructions, and recipe ideas. // Shop online at shopoysters.hogislandoysters.com.
▲

Of course the folks Sonoma's iconic sparkling wine house, Gloria Ferrer, know how to properly toast the holidays. Shop their specially curated holiday gift guide, overflowing with bottle sets flutes, olive oils, and more. // Shop online at gloriaferrer.com.
Thank you to our partners at Gloria Ferrer.
▲

Gift an ornament from the landmark behind one of SF’s most iconic beverages and a beloved holiday tradition, the Buena Vista’s Irish coffee ($45). // Shop online at thebuenavista.net.
▲

For the fine dining enthusiast who has already exhausted their experiences on land, consider gifting an evening with Daiji Yacht Club—a unique sushi experience on board a private yacht docked in either San Francisco or Alameda. Choose between a 10- and 15-course omakase prepared by a seasoned sushi chef with access to the amenities of a super yacht (prices start at $175 per person). // Book your experience at daijiyachtclub.com.
▲

Know someone who can’t stop talking about their trip to Japan? Gift them the Rintaro cookbook so they can recreate their favorite izakaya dishes at home. Born in Kyoto and raised in northern California, chef Sylvan Mishima Brackett’s cooking style is reflective of his Japanese-American upbringing and his time working for Alice Waters at Chez Panisse. His new cookbook walks home cooks through the essentials, such as how to break down whole fish for sashimi, debone chicken for yakitori, and create versatile sauces. // Support your local bookstore by shopping online at Green Apple Books, greenapplebooks.com.
▲

For the on-the-go snacker in your life, consider Patagonia Provisions' Hiker’s Gift Box ($89) complete with a branded hip pack, tinned fish, smoked salmon, and crackers—an upgrade from the crumbly, dry protein bar they’re probably used to carrying. // Shop online at patagoniaprovisions.com.
▲

Looking for a gift that is chef's kiss? Consider getting the aspiring home cook in your life a gift certificate to Kitchen on Fire where they can choose from a tasty array of cooking classes in Berkeley and Oakland. From Spanish tapas and Middle Eastern street food to cake decorating and holiday brunch, there’s something for every palate and skill level. Classes start at $175 per person. // Shop online at kitchenonfire.com.
▲

Ship a loved one a 12-pack of Zaddy’s ($37). The Bay Area–based brand offers a light and refreshing twist on iconic cocktails using California gin, minimal sugar, and no preservatives or artificial ingredients. These crushable cocktails will help keep the holidays hangover-free. // Shop online at drinkzaddys.com.
Thank you to our partners at Zaddy’s.
▲

For your favorite hostess, gift them access to the Friends and Family Cocktail Club so they can spend more time sippin’. The Oakland-based bar will deliver monthly bottled cocktails plus all the necessary garnishes, recipe cards, and pairing recommendations. Plus, members also receive 10 percent off in-person visits to the bar ($85/month). // Sign up at table22.com.
▲

Your partner in natty wine will cherish a wine club membership at San Francisco’s vibiest (yeah, we’re making that a word) wine bar and plant shop, Arcana. For $100 a month, they’ll get three hand-selected natural wine bottles, 50 percent off Flight Friday, 10 percent off plants in the greenhouse, and early bird tickets for special events like live jazz, paint and sip nights, and drag shows. // Shop online at arcanasf.com.
▲

Give the gift that sparks joy all year with a membership to one of the Bay Area’s many acclaimed museums. For those who prefer buzzworthy modern art, an SFMOMA membership ($130) will delight; for those who like variety, a FAMSF membership ($119) will grant access to both the de Young and Legion of Honor museums; for those with insatiable curiosity, a California Academy of Sciences will keep them busy ($159); and for those residing on the sunnier side of the bridge, consider gifting a membership to OMCA ($99).
▲

The pyro in your life will light up at the gift of a beginner’s glassblowing class at Public Glass. Play With Fire ($175) is a three-hour introduction to glassblowing where they’ll learn how to manipulate molten glass and add color like the pros on Netflix’s Blown Away. // Shop online at publicglass.org.
▲

For the friend in your life who prefers trail mix and hills to Netflix and chill, a U.S. Park Pass will get good mileage. For $80, they’ll get unlimited access to more than 2,000 National Parks and Federal Lands across the country. A pass covers entrance, standard amenity fees, and day use fees for a driver and all passengers in a personal vehicle. // Shop online at usparkpass.com.
▲

Gift one of the most unique and timeless experiences with a ride aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train. On a 36-mile round trip from Napa to St. Helena and back, they’ll experience gourmet cuisine, stunning views, and stops at historical wineries while falling in love with the bygone era of locomotive travel in the elegantly refurbished, vintage pull cars. Choose half- and full-day journeys ($195-$595). // Reserve online at winetrain.com.
▲

Blacksmithing, ceramics, woodworking, and jewelry making are just a few of the many classes available at the Crucible in Oakland—perfect for the DIYer in your life. Classes range in price from $100 to $625. // Gift certificates are available at thecrucible.org.
▲

Know someone in need of some R&R? Spoil them with a gift card to Piedmont Springs, a quiet sanctuary on Oakland’s Piedmont Avenue with private outdoor hot tubs, saunas, and massage offerings. It’s one of the more affordable spa-like experiences in the Bay Area with a one-hour sauna/hot tub combo room priced at $40 or a 30-minute steam for $20. // Shop online at piedmontsprings.com.
▲

There's just something about slippers: Wrap up the Devon ($80) and, no doubt, kisses will flow (no mistletoe necessary). The debut style from new SF brand Luvons checks all the boxes: effortless and elegant, luxurious, comfy and machine washable. Plus, each pair comes with a mesh laundry bag; available in black, camel and slate blue. // Shop online at myluvons.com.
▲

Fiat Lux's Circe perfume and third eye locket set ($1,485-$2,185) is best reserved for a special goddess in your life. The new fragrance, created with renowned perfumer Yosh, is powerful and seductively witchy—with labdanum, oud, amberwood, and hints of seaweed and salt. The 14-karat-gold and diamond locket (available in yellow, rose, and white gold) has hand-pierced holes on the sides to allow a Circe-dabbed fabric to waft out as you wear it. The perfume is also sold separately ($85). // Shop in store at 1942 Fillmore St. (Pacific Heights) and online at fiatluxsf.com.
▲

If you want to see what heart-eye emojis look like IRL, just present her with Alexis Bittar's spectacular lucite Quad handbag ($745). The structured, pewter leather stunner stars a sculptural, hand-carved lucite handle with 14-karat gold-plated detail. Even better? It comes with a detachable chain that can be worn as a necklace or belt. // Shop in store at 2105 Fillmore St. (Pacific Heights) and online at alexisbittar.com.
▲

He probably already has at least one of "The Greatest Hoodies Ever Made" in his closet. Instead, wrap up American Giant's French terry crew sweatshirt ($70). Made of super-soft, lightweight cotton, it's perfect for layering. Plus, the not-too-slouchy cut gives this workhorse piece an elevated feel (especially in black). // Shop in store at 2106 Chestnut (Marina), 1801 Fourth St. (Berkeley) and online at american-giant.com.
▲

The surest way to rock any skincare lover's holiday? Present them with a limited-edition, extra-large bottle of Vintner's Daughter Active Botanical Serum ($350). The gorgeous vessel, designed by artist MarSha Yi Robinson, celebrates VD's 10-year anniversary. As for the elixir within, it's the same nutrient-rich, award-winning, game-changing botanical face oil Bay Area punims have been addicted to from the jump. // Shop online at vintnersdaughter.com.
▲

Leave it to Lisa Says Gah to create the most whimsical ear ornaments. Whether your friend, sis, mom or bae is a golden child or silver belle, the Farfalle hoops ($45) delivers on the festive front. Indeed, the bowtie pasta charms make for a most delicious holiday gift guaranteed to stay fresh throughout the year. Made in the USA. // Shop at the new SF store at 522 Octavia St. (Hayes Valley) and online at lisasaysgah.com.
▲

When it comes to holiday gifting, shiny and bright is always right. Throw in functional, timeless and chic AF and you've got Cuyana's duo small zip wallet ($228) in anthracite. Crafted in premium Italian leather, this beauty is a two-in-one: the slim cardholder sits perfectly in the compact zip wallet and can be carried separately. Brilliant, eh? // Shop at any of the three Bay Area stores and online atcuyana.com.
▲

Bryr goes cozy-chic for the holidays with the just-launched Toastie clog ($300). For the first time, the Dogpatch-based brand uses wool as the star of the shoe—while the natural leather strap adds a shot of rich texture. These handcrafted, limited-edition clompers make a truly special gift—and won't be available for long. // Shop in store at 1080 Illinois St. (Dogpatch) or online at bryrstudio.com.
▲

The windows to the soul are nothing without their fabulous shades. No one knows this better than Benefit Cosmetics…enter the Fluffin' Festive Brows kit ($36), which includes three, full-size essentials to glamp up brows: Gimme Brow volumizing fiber gel, Fluff Up Brow Wax, and fan-fave Precisely, My Brow Pencil. (Choose from several shades for gel and pencil.) // Shop at anyBay Area boutique and online at benefitcosmetics.com.
▲

The Mechanic ($1550) by Shinola will surely elicit rounds of heartfelt thank-yous. This hand-wound mechanical timepiece is ideal for the watch-loving guy who needs to unplug and take a beat. It stylishly harkens back to simpler (analog) days when tick-tock meant just one thing. // Shop in store at 53 Hotaling Place (Jackson Square) and online at shinola.com.
▲

The barefoot-loving guys (or girls) on your list will cry with delight when slipping into a pair of Wildling North Wolfs ($149). The responsibly/sustainably made high-cuts have minimal soles (free the toes!) and come in a classic and water-repellent herringbone pattern. Crafted from 100 percent virgin wool with a felted-wool lining for warm and fuzzies all around. // Shop IRL at the new Wildling showroom at 370 Linden St. (Hayes Valley) and online at us.wildling.shoes.
▲

Timbuk2's classic messenger bag ($99-$139) is refreshed and more functional than ever. The 30-something icon available in four sizes has loads of innovative features like switchable left- or right-handed shoulder straps, larger organization pockets, and reflective tabs for visibility. Gift a customizable version so they can make their own merry. // Shop in store at 506 Hayes St. (Hayes Valley) and online at timbuk2.com.
▲

Berkeley-based Sommer prides itself in placing an emphasis on emerging artisans and independent brands with a goal of shining a light on traditional techniques and preservation. Their Espiral Puntos Vessel in Vaquero Y Blanco ($150) is created in a custom glaze. Hand-shaped spirals and spots turn this stoneware vessel into a perfect quirky flower holder. // Shop online at shopsommer.com.
▲

Designed by Carl Auböck, a bottle opener ($355) becomes art, channeling Austrian modernism. Made from polished brass, Auböck gives you a literal extra hand at the table, inserting just the right amount of polish and whimsy. // The Future Perfect, 3085 Sacramento St. (Presidio Heights), thefutureperfect.com
▲

ICYMI, Puglia is hot right now. Give your traveling friend a ceramic piece from the region, like these splatterware chamberstick candleholders ($50 each). It's a play on a traditional item with a whimsical touch. // Shop at March, 3075 Sacramento St. (Presidio Heights), marchsf.com
▲

Let them snuggle up in it or hang it on the wall: Super Simple's Midnight Sun throw blanket ($425) in natural, un-dyed, baby alpaca (kindly sheared) is a super-soft statement. // Super Simple, 855 Valencia St. (Mission), shopsupersimple.com
▲

Goodness, The Get Out has delicious color palettes. This enamelware set ($78) created in collaboration with Crow Canyon Home might be the prettiest outdoor gear we’ve seen. Reminiscent of a childhood campaign set, the colorful collection is lightweight, stackable, and meant to last a lifetime. While all are stunning color pairings, the lime is just too good. Each set contains one plate, one bowl, one tumbler, and one mug. // Shop online at thegetout.shop.
▲

Heath Ceramics’ small cylindrical pitcher ($144 )with a triangular spout and wiped edge feels so San Francisco in soft gradient shades of fog and stillwater. The classic piece was originally created as part of Heath's Design Series 2 as a one-of-a-kind, but was brought back. Now it’s slip cast in small batches in the SF studio. // Heath Ceramics, 2900 18th St. (Mission), heathceramics.com
▲

Know someone who's been pining for a home revamp but either doesn't know how to make the vision reality or have the funds for a full-blown project? Set them up with a professional interior design consultation ($600) with Alicia Cheung and Eva Bradley of Studio Heimat. They'll drop knowledge on space planning and share resources and recommendations for all the details like furniture, fixtures, paint, wallpaper, finishes, window treatments, and vendors. // Book online at calendly.com/studioheimat, studioheimat.com.
▲

Tucked in Temescal Alley, Esqueleto is a treasure trove of art and jewelry. This Face Vase ($260),consciously crafted by Casama ceramics, embodies the brand’s juxtaposition of rugged and refined, dripping with texture and detail. The vase is handmade by artisan communities in Oaxaca, Michoacan, Puebla, and Guanajuato, so there will be subtle variations, making each piece one-of-a-kind. // Shopat Esqueleto, 482 A 49th St. (Oakland), shopesqueleto.com.
▲

If you’re not familiar with Dog & Co, you’re in for a treat. They have quite the collection of too cute items for dogs and cats including snuffle mats, puzzles, chic and sassy attire and tags, and more; and they have a pop up at Batch. The Mice interactive cat puzzle toy ($68) is great for smarty pants kitties, who will delight in pawing out treats hidden beneath the movable orange pieces. // Batch, 1648 Pacific Ave. (Russian Hill), shopdogandco.com
▲

Mishka's artisanal dog treats are handmade with fresh, organic ingredients, no artificial colors or preservatives, and real meat. They’re also all approved by the California Department of Public Health and the FDA. Plus, they are pretty as ever! From cakes to candies to meatballs, this place has a decadent and delightful spread of treats for your pup. They even have a lounge you can rent out for birthdays. // Mishka Dog Boutique and the Lounge at Mishka, 2124 Union St. (Pacific Heights), mishkacakes.com
▲

The modern stoneware Moda bowl ($110) by Yonder is a work of art for your furry friend. It makes for a truly stunning piece to lap out of. Psst: Humans can use this for small bites, too. // Yonder, 701 11th Ave. (Richmond), yondershop.com
▲

Teach them the ABCs of San Francisco. From the Bay Bridge to dogs in Golden Gate Park to noodles in Chinatown, this beautifully illustrated book takes us through the city we love the most. Based on Mr. Boddington’s Studio designs, this board book is an effortlessly sweet gift for littles learning the alphabet. // $10 at Rare Device, 600 Divisadero St. (NoPa),raredevice.net
▲

Kidoki dominoes ($15 or $13 for members) by Goodlines offer a traditional game to play, but also opportunities to create endless courses to knock down dominoes balls, pass under arches, and navigate stairs. It also comes in a handy little cotton storage bag for easy clean-up. // de Young Museum, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr. (Golden Gate Park), shop.famsf.org
▲

Case for Making's watercolor palettes come in the cutest little tins with themed hues including Rainbow ($126), California Coastal ($156), and larger options like “Seriously, all the Feels Blends” ($304). Pair it with paper pads ($20) to give a complete set. // Case for Making, 4037 Judah St. (Outer Sunset), caseformaking.com
▲

Made in Oakland by Candid Art, this Winter Sprinkles reversible quilted jacket ($220) is ever stylish with cool winter hues and snap buttons and pockets on both sides. Made from 100 percent cotton, the gender neutral jacket is great for crisp days, and can also be layered under a jacket. Oversized so you can grow into it, and with two sides, it really embodies thoughtful design. // Shop online at candidartaccessories.com.
▲

Handmade in small batches in Oakland with organic California fruit, Oh Yami Yami’s gummies (starting at $16) promise no artificial flavors or colors for a guilt-free sweet to share with the kiddos. The Black Kat pluot pâte de fruit, made with produce from Blossom Bluff Orchards, are a favorite. // Shop online at ohyamiyami.com.
▲

Give your little a chance to create their own garden. SF in Bloom makes it extra fun, packing two ounces of native wildflowers seeds into a stainless steel and glass shaker. Once planted, the flowers will cover roughly 200 square feet. Assorted flower stickers are also included. // Shop online at sfinbloom.art.
▲

East Bay shop Min’na curates high quality, ethically made toys and clothing for children ages five to 12. We are over the moon for Jaq Jaq Bird’s new Stick It & Go activity set ($15) spotlighting San Francisco landmarks with a reversible city map and three sticker sheets. // Min’na, 1714 San Pablo Ave. (Berkeley), min-na.com
▲

Oso & Me makes gift-giving a breeze with their Oh What Fun Bundle ($125). The set comes in your choice of four patterned pouches filled with 18 colored pencils and a sharpener tucked in a canvas carrying case; a 35-page book for coloring, tic tac toe, and puzzles; and a surprise ball made of colorful hand-cut Italian crêpe paper stuffed with 16 fun little toys. The bag can even be monogrammed. // Shop online at osoandme.com.
▲

Written by former Grace Cathedral vice dean Ellen Clark-King and illustrated by Natalie Woo, Cathedral Cat ($25) is the story of a curious calico who, while having adventures on the streets of San Francisco, finds a new home at Nob Hill's most iconic landmark. // Purchase at Grace Cathedral's gift shop or online at gracecathedral.org.
▲

Related Articles Around the Web

Related Articles