What is slow gifting?

“Slow gifting” is the practice of choosing gifts thoughtfully and with intention. It can involve shopping from small businesses, buying gifts secondhand, making gifts yourself, or giving experiences instead of “things” (and more!). It involves giving gifts that the recipient will use and enjoy, not just what is most convenient or given out of obligation. 

A slow gifting mindset is often less wasteful and more thoughtful than  traditional models of shopping for gifts that are often driven by consumerism. Slow gifting means maximizing the positive impact of your gift on the recipient and community, and minimizing the negative impact on the earth!

Slow gifting CAN involve shopping from chain stores, if you are buying something the recipient needs/wants or will use for a long time to come. The key is being thoughtful about what you give and how!

A slow gifting mindset can be more challenging and time consuming than a traditional model of holiday shopping. The key is to start early! To make it a little easier, we are sharing our favorite strategies and ideas below.

Slow gift ideas:

–Experiences: tickets for concerts, sporting events and other events, museum memberships, short trips/hotel stays. Art or craft classes, music lessons, factory tours, mini-golfing, etc.

–Subsciptions to magazines, streaming platforms, patreon pages…

– Items that are consumable (and won’t end up as clutter!) Fun snacks, jams, sweets, or beverages. Candles, soaps or lotions. 

DIY ideas: infused liquors, homemade jam or applesauce, sourdough starters… 

–Natural items like plants, seeds, or fruit trees…

-Items that were purchased secondhand (or gift cards to secondhand stores!).Pair some vintage glassware alongside a bottle of the recipient’s favorite beverage for a fun hostess gift. Or snag a secondhand book and pair it with some hot cocoa mix or a bar of great chocolate. Find secondhand pajamas, clothing, or accessories and have them personalized for the recipient (we love Alex from Soothe Folk for custom embroidery!) 

Secondhand isn’t just for clothing! Check our secondhand stores for cool books, housewares, games, posters, magazines, playing cards or memorabilia. 

(note- “secondhand” doesn’t have to mean very used or dirty! many thrift, consignnment and other resale shops have items that are new with tags!) 

Do you have other ideas for slow gifting? Seend us a DM on Instagram to let us know!

 

What’s your name and what do you do in life? Tell us about yourself and your business!
I’m Emily LaPlume, Founder & CEO of Saturday Swimwear — a sustainable women’s swimwear brand designed for real life and real bodies. I’m passionate about creating timeless, comfortable, and eco-conscious swimwear that’s made ethically right here in the U.S.

What inspired you to get into your field of work?
Saturday Swimwear was born from my own frustration trying to find a swimsuit that felt good, looked good, and was functional. My shift towards sustainability came after witnessing the first hand effects fast fashion and overconsumption were having on the environment and developing communities around the world. I set out to prove that you don’t have to compromise between style, comfort, or responsibility. What sets us apart is that we manufacture small batch collections in Los Angeles, use sustainable fabrics like ECONYL® regenerated nylon, and prioritize quality, fit, and function — creating suits that move with you, not against you.

Tell us about a milestone in your work or something that you’re especially proud of!
In 2022, I started what I call my “Artist Series,” where I collaborate with a female-identifying designer to create a one of a kind print for our suits inspired by their connection with nature. It has allowed me to connect with other creatives and tell the store behind the print, encouraging customers to build an even deeper connection with the products they’re purchasing. While it is taking a hiatus for 2025, we are working on some fun stuff for next year!

What inspires you? Where do you look for inspiration?
Nature is my biggest source of inspiration — especially the landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. From the muted tones of a misty coastline to the vibrant colors of alpine wildflowers, I pull a lot of ideas for color palettes, textures, and even product design from time spent outdoors.

Do you know any resources for textile recycling?
A great option available right here in Portland is Ridwell. There is also For Days’ “Take Back Bag” program and Terracycle. Some cities have their own textile-specific recycling drop-offs!

Tell us your favorite secondhand shopping story?
My husband and I recently moved to Portland and during our first day exploring our new neighborhood, we discovered Consign Couture and I was SHOCKED at how well curated and not overwhelming CC felt (I will be the first to admit that secondhand shopping can feel fairly overwhelming for me). I found a pair of pants and shoes that I loved, but ultimately decided to hold off on buying them. The next day, my husband had gone back and purchased both items and surprised me with them for my birthday.

What challenges have you encountered while working to make Saturday Swim more environmentally sustainable? How have you addressed them?
Sustainability is at the core of Saturday Swimwear — from sourcing recycled materials to producing in small batches to minimize waste. One challenge is that eco-friendly fabrics and ethical manufacturing cost significantly more, which can make it harder to compete with fast fashion brands. But I’ve found that our customers want to invest in products that they know will last, align with their values, and fit well.

Tell us about your favorite outfit. What makes you feel your best, or the most “you”?
My go-to is a pair of dark grey straight denim jeans from Whimsy + Row, a black ribbed, cropped tank from Pepper, a thrifted, vintage Palmetto’s Fleece jacket, and my Blundstones. Despite working in the fashion industry, I love simplicity and most of my clothes are grey, black, or forest green.

What do you do in your free time?
You can usually find me outside — hiking, snowboarding, walking my dogs, or camping. I have recently rediscovered my love for reading and can always get down with a good book and a hammock hang.

Three things: The best thing you’ve read, the best thing you’ve watched or listened to, and the best thing you’ve eaten lately?
Read: I’ve been on a serious fantasy kick and just finished Crescent City by Sarah J. Maas.
Watched/Heard: We’re on The Last of Us train (RIP Pedro)
Eaten: Having just moved to Portland, it is hard to choose one thing, but we have been loving the croissants from Baker & Spice in Hillsdale!

(Bonus) A few small, local businesses you love:
Consign Couture (obviously!)
Origin Story
Baker & Spice
Make & Mary

x Emily