10 Gifts You’ll Feel Good About Giving This Year

Little known fact: Philly became the first city to call the day after Thanksgiving “Black Friday.”  It’s only fitting that a new alternative will begin here as well. On November 29, Ten Thousand Villages will celebrate its annual “Fair Friday” — a nod to its long-standing fair trade mission — at all area stores.

The new maker-to-market spaces in Center City, Bryn Mawr and now Glen Mills not only partner with craftspeople in developing countries, but they also further incorporate eco-friendly initiatives. Artisan goods hang from repurposed store displays. New gift-wrapping stations feature sustainably sourced materials. Recycled or reusable bags populate each register. They’re the first spaces of their kind to open in the Philadelphia area — right down to the video and art installations showcasing the partners’ artistic processes.

This year spend the time after Thanksgiving finding thoughtful gifts and investing in makers in marginalized communities. Find deals on jewelry and ornaments at the store closest to you or shop the curated picks below for meaningful presents that put people and the planet first.

Patchwork Sari Topper, $100

Wrap up this kimono-inspired jacket for the upscale upcycler on your nice list. Artisan makers in India handcraft each piece from recycled cotton fabric as part of a collective promoting economic self-sufficiency for at-risk groups.

Essential Companion Tote, $40

With sewn leather straps and palm-leaf medallions, this woven bag presents a chic alternative to canvas freebies. A roomy interior holds the day’s essentials (water bottle, phone, keys, wallet, laptop — the works) or an armful of produce from the farmer’s market.

Guiding Star Necklace, $60

Lead the way with this North Star necklace as your guide. Cambodian crafters transform brass bomb casings safely recovered from nearby fields to make this symbol of peace.

Phoenician Glass Candleholder, $25

Melting recycled glass bottles together creates the dreamy, galaxy-like effect of this candle holder. The eco-friendly process leads to a completely new pattern every time. Each holder also comes gift-ready with a tea light and decorative sand.

Summer Day Hammock Chair, $125

Add some warm weather vibes to any space with a hand-woven swing. This cozy cotton perch hangs from a reinforced loop, so it can suspend from the porch or dangle inside as a snug reading nook.

Sari & Leather Travel Journal, $25

Let a colorful notebook inspire a New Year’s resolution of journaling more. The women of Biborton Handmade Paper in Bangladesh handcraft each cover from recycled saris and leather trim. The workshop provides its artisans with sustainable income for improved housing, food and education for their children.

True Compass Necklace, $60

The elegant minimalist on your shopping list is sure to love this geometric piece. Handmade in Cambodia from safely recovered bomb casings, the sleek pendant serves as a wearable statement of peace and progress.

Icy Whirlpool Cocktail Glass, $40

Traditional glassblowing techniques form these swirly martini glasses. With twisting colors from recycled bottles, this barware makes 5 o’clock cocktails look pretty even without a garnish.

Candy Cane Soap, $6

‘Tis the season for all things merry and bright — including soap. Pick up a festively wrapped, peppermint-scented bar as a holiday hostess gift or stocking stuffer. Made in southeastern India, farmers use locally cultivated palm oil that provides added income and avoids deforestation.

Hello Snow Ornament, $11

Coiled recycled newspaper turns into a cheerful tree decoration thanks to the inspired creativity of a Filipino women’s co-op. It’s just one of more than 130 ornament designs from 20 different countries featured at Ten Thousand Villages this holiday season.

Shop with intention at Ten Thousand Villages during their Fair Friday event. Jewelry and ornaments are Buy One Get One 50% off at all area stores and online.