It’s that special time of year, with magic in the air. Summer is nice for all its joys, but nothing can compare to the winter holiday season. I have fond memories growing up in Jamaica during the Christmas season—festivities are especially memorable when wrapped around tradition and community. One tradition that reaches us near and far is the exchange of gifts! This year I am sharing Jamoji’s first gift guide. There are some of my personal favorites that have taken me through the year and will continue into the New Year.
- Reads: For your holiday getaway, if you’re not already a friend of Jamoji—Essays of Life and Play in Jamaica, now is the time to share in the love of island life ahead of one of the most sought out Spring break destinations. Also, in the new year, Jamoji will be visiting classrooms and two of my favorites along for the ride are Facing the Sun & “Daddy, Tell Me A Story.” I’m so happy to be surrounded by female authors doing extraordinary things. The tales of the Caribbean diaspora will not be possible without the fight of the Black American story. This Jamaican, Bahamian and Southern special curated trio setting captures the journey of childhood, family bonds, home and the coming of age tales in the face of adversity.
2. Sleep: Slip Silk Turban is perfect for any hair type. If you have an early morning and are not in the mood for full glam at the crack of dawn, the silk turban will allow for a good night’s rest and keep your blowout/do intact. What I especially love about it is that it is not overly tight, fits any hair length and doesn’t leave elastic dents on your forehead in the morning. The Sleep Mask is equally terrific and comfortable. I stumbled upon the secret of a good night’s rest is a silk mask after my turban slipped over my eyes one night. I woke up that morning with the most peaceful deep rest that I hadn’t known existed. I ordered my first pair the next day and never looked back.
- DIY: This year I convinced myself that running is fun, but what is not so fun is soreness. I welcomed baths again with 365 Epsom Salt Muscle Soak and it has been a game changer. A 20-30 mins soak is all you need to feel restored and ready for the week. A perfect gift to layer on for some personal time and individual experience.
- LUX: I love the very impractical mini petite bag trend and if I cannot find the excuse to buy another one, someone should and please let it be the Gucci GG Marmont mini quilted leather shoulder bag.
- Wear: I get excited when the L.L. Bean catalog arrives in the mail, I am the first to order yet another sweatshirt in its new release color. This Sherpa Fleece Jacket is one of my favorites for so many reasons; colors, style, price and seasonal versatility. It’s the perfect gift at any age.
- Home: I don’t usually wear cologne in the house, but I like my home to be all encompassing of a familiar scent. Jo Malone English Pear & Freesia Room Spray is the go to for a personal fragrant, especially when I don’t want to be preoccupied with whether I left a candle burning.
- Beach: I purchased my first FOUTA back in 2008 and I still use it on almost every beach and park outing today. The compliments never get old, it’s the throw of all throws. It’s durable, playful, lite, absorbent and washes well. And No, “one just isn’t enough!” One for each family member is just about right. You can even personalize them.
- Skin: I’m very much a (no scent) white bar person, but this AFOKOSKIN Black Soap Body Wash is so soft, tender and natural to the skin that it is my mini lux for the day. It’s also mild enough for the entire family to enjoy.
- Lounge: A jumpsuit?! Yes, please! Sometimes thinking of what to wear on top and bottom is just too much. Vuori Lux Jumpsuit makes it very comfortable and easy. Not to mention versatile: home, latte run, light yoga, errands, brunch… you name it! With a blazer, motor leather jacket, cardigan or fleece jacket, your options are limitless.
- GIVE: After you’ve enjoyed your holiday island getaway and want to relinquish its memories, consider giving to #JamojiPLAY! Visitors and admirers of the Caribbean Islands looking to give back in a visually and impactful way, can donate to the building of the first playground at Bridgeport Primary School in Portmore, St. Catherine—Jamaica.