Out of Chaos an organizing newsletter

Amanda’s Made-in-the-USA Gift Guide

Time does fly. Not only is it the middle of December, but this is my ninth annual made-in-the-USA gift guide. For those of you who are new to my mailing list, part of my inspiration is to challenge people to give themselves “roadblocks” to help avoid overbuying at this time of year. Finding gifts that are made in the USA is easier than it used to be, but it still adds a layer of challenge to your shopping experience.  Here are my favorite finds of 2019:

As usual, I started with a stroll through the Holiday Markets at Columbus Circle and Grand Central, but I also found a few things during the year—some of them in big chains like Ulta and Staples.

Someone always needs a hat at this time of year, and ekologic recycles cashmere into stylish hats, gloves and sweaters. Gorgeous and oh, so soft!

For the sophisticated woman on your list, artist Judith Haas makes jewelry that is both modern and warm.

Last year, I bought my son a very cool (yellow leopard!) belt from F.H. Wadsworth and he wears it all the time. Their styles range from preppy to classic to bold.

I fell in love with Djordje Skendzic’s gold leaf photographs of New York City, but then I saw his trees and I love them even more!

Want to get everybody off of screens this holiday? Get a family jigsaw puzzle. I love this one by New York Puzzle Company.

And Duke Cannon Big Ass Bar of Soap is a great stocking stuffer for the man in your life.

Personally, all I want for Christmas is really good hand lotion. Thymes brand is beautifully packaged, conveniently available online and at Ulta stores.

What I’m really looking forward to this holiday is the new Little Women movie, so for all the Jo’s on your list, here is a super-simple notebook sure to be filled with imaginative stories. I know Marmee would approve.

Whether it’s Maple Sugar Candy from the Farmer’s Market, or incredible hot chocolate from Maribelle, you can definitely find it made right here in New York City.

So have yourself a meaningful holiday. Gift-giving can be more than click and swipe: Buy less but better, talk to a craftsman, touch a sweater, give a gift with a story… because in the end, the story is the very best part.