'Tis the season to be thoughtful! With holiday shopping in full swing, it's the most wonderful time to get ahead on your gifts and cross a few names off your list. We know you don't have a lot of time to search the internet looking for gift ideas. So we've done it for you.
And, because the best gift we can give our friends is our business, all of our suggestions come from a veteran or military spouse owned company. Happy shopping!
For the Chef
For the flavor enthusiast in your life who appreciates seasonings with no hidden fillers, these all-natural products are low in sodium and full of real ingredients. Founded by Emily Avonya Jefferson, the wife of an active duty Marine, Avonya’s Blends is a Certified Military Spouse Owned Business.
Beautifully handcrafted, Weimy Cutlery is "veteran forged and American made." This knife will make every kitchen look more legit and make every cut of meat taste better. Plus, it may cause your spouse to want to cook more, and that's always a win.
You can, and should, put Mutt's Sauce on everything. Named for her grandpa, veteran entrepreneur Charlynda Scales has made a name for herself and her sauce. See why it lives up to the hype and order yours in time for your holiday dinner.
For the Mother
The world's first portable baby bottle warmer, this is the perfect companion for a PCS, a car trip or just everyday life.
"Be Safe, Love Mom" by Elaine Brye
This beautiful story is the perfect gift for your mom or your mother-in-law. It’s written by the incredible Elaine Brye, "Army brat" turned military wife and the mother of four officers -- one each in the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps. For more than a decade she endured countless teary goodbyes, empty chairs at Thanksgiving dinners, and sleepless hours waiting for phone calls in the night. She's navigated the complicated tangle of emotions -- pride, worry, fear, hope, and deep, enduring love -- that are part and parcel of life as a military mother. An awesome book and a perfect gift.
For the Reader
Women of the Military by Amanda Huffman
Well-known veteran and milspouse blogger "Airman to Mom," Amanda Huffman tells the stories of women service members in this poignant book that touches on service, sacrifice and maintaining self. A great read for men and women alike.
Fighter Pilot Parent: Leading Your Kids with Lessons from the Cockpit by Brick Conners
There are no bad teams (i.e., kids). There are only less-than-perfect leaders (i.e., parents). So says former fighter pilot and parent of four, retired US Navy Captain "Brick" Conners. Conners links thrilling life-and-death experiences in leadership, adversity and performance to practices and takeaways that will guide parents, grandparents, coaches, military personnel and anyone else who wants to raise, develop, and lead children and young people.
The Knock at the Door: Three Gold Star Families Bonded by Grief and Purpose
This stunning memoir will bring you to tears and show you unbelievable resilience and heart. A must-read for military families, The Knock at the Door shows us all that in the wake of unspeakable tragedy, there is always hope.
For the Gift Exchange
This handy-dandy contraption is the perfect little box for your cell phone. Place one by your nightstand, hang one at your front door, in the kitchen -- anywhere you want to stash your phone. Developed by a military spouse after she nearly dropped her cell phone in a port-a-potty (gross), this invention can save space and a whole lot of heartache. Not a fancy gift, but a practical one.
For your Favorite Fellow
Not only do these look awesome, it will also open beers for you. Made from 50 Caliber rounds and hand-crafted, these make great gifts for so many of the people in your life. Double cheers!
A gift you can feel good about! The floperator is the perfect shoe for your favorite operator. And, every purchase from Combat Flip Flops helps stem the tide of war in Afghanistan.
Keep the mancave classy with this stunning custom-made wooden sign by Vixen Woodworking.
For the Lady You Love
How can you not want to buy (or better yet, receive!) bracelets with a meaning? "More than just jewelry, Charliemadison bracelets inspire you to hold tightly to what you love. They are the perfect gift or keepsake reminder that you're not alone on this journey. Each meaningful bracelet keeps you connected to your purpose, your tribe, and your family. Choose the message that speaks to you and keep it close every day."
The collection of gorgeous jewelry, the patriotic vintage brooch bears a patriotic WWII-era US Eagle insignia centerpiece. This piece is a limited edition creation that was hand-crafted by a military spouse. Thank the lady you love for her support with one of these beautiful pieces.
The “the Las Vegas winery that could,” this certified veteran owned business is the creation of John DiVirgilio, a Marine Corps veteran, and his wife, Barbara. They specialize in small-batch, handcrafted wines. Most of the bottles available for shipping – including Warm Fuzzy, Naughty Noiret and other merrily named varieties – are in the $20-$30 range.
For the Success-Minded
Looking for a unique, meaningful gift? Try an individual coaching session! For $75, they’ll get a focused 75-90 minute chat to help sort through life goals, tackle challenges, and find a path toward balanced success. It’s a one-time, impactful gift for anyone looking to start fresh, find direction, or just invest in themselves. Vanessa Francis Gray, a member of the Military Spouse Chamber of Commerce, offers consulting and coaching services to a wide range of clients through her business, VFG Consulting Group. Through December 21, 2024, Vanessa is also offering a holiday special of three one-hour coaching sessions for $99.
For the Coffee Lover
Grounds4Cause, founded by U.S. Navy veteran and military spouse Melissa Green, serves up a variety of brews with a mission “to create a warm and inclusive environment for everyone,” in particular the military family and the LGBTQ+ communities. Its blends include Cowboy Tough, Freedom and Pride, and there’s also a selection of single-use cups.
No matter who you're shopping for this year, make the holidays extra merry by supporting your veteran and military spouse owned businesses.
