The Flux Hawaii 2021 Holiday Gift Guide

Illustrations by Noa Emberson

Your one-stop-shop for finding the best gift for everyone on your list.

Each year, we put together a gift guide curated from the discerning tastes of the NMG Network team. From locally sourced presents to widely beloved products, our guide features the perfect get for any type of giftee on your shopping list.


Browse by Interest

These items were independently chosen by members of the NMG Network Team. Flux Hawaii may earn a commission on purchases through these links.


For the Nester

Airfare to Hawai‘i Art Print

Natalia Da Silva

Debuted at Natalia Da Silva’s recent Forever 2021 exhibition at Aupuni Space, these prints showcase her mastery over her craft. Each piece is from a limited-edition of 99 paintings.

— Nico Enos, Designer

Available at $99

Diamond Head Waikiki Art Print

Sunny Weeks
Art

An understated and minimalist depiction of Honolulu’s most famous shoreline. This piece is enigmatic of Sunny’s monochromatic take on tropical modernism.

— Courtney Miyashiro, Operations Administrator

Available from $8

Glazed Anthurium Dish

Island Boy Shop

Slipcast and glazed in Kailua, O‘ahu, these tropically inspired bowls are nicely suited for storing small jewelry, stray coins, or other random knick-knacks that need a home.

— Matthew Dekneef, Editor at Large

Available at $16

Pot O’ Aloha
Swaddle

Coco Moon Hawai‘i

Everything from Coco Moon is super soft and the prints are so cute. My go-to baby gift shop!

— Courtney Miyashiro, Operations Administrator

Available at $24

Shell Pillow

Tamar Mogendorff

Funky home decor that’s not your average Hawai‘i beach house vibe.

— Mai Lan Tran, Designer



Available at $95

Spam Candle

Pumpkin Goods

Perfect for setting the mood. (Mood may vary.)

— Nico Enos, Designer




Available at $9.11

Unpaper Towels

Keep It Simple Honolulu

While zero-waste swaps for paper towels are now a dime a dozen, these are great for keeping your home goods local. Bonus: They are all handmade by the owner’s grandmother.

— Courtney Miyashiro, Operations Administrator

Available at $10

Weather Predicting Black Swan

Zach Borutski

Inspired by the sailing instruments of old, this hand-blown glass barometer is an elegant fusion of science and modern artistry.

— Emma Sossamon, Executive Assistant

Available at $44

Custom Dyed Linen Sheets

Citron & Date

Nothing epitomizes Hawai‘i hygge more than these linen sheets from Citron & Date, a local company that sews and dyes each piece on O‘ahu’s North Shore.

— Anna Harmon, National Editor

Available from $375

Franco Salmoiraghi Prints

Native Books at Arts & Letters Nu‘uanu

Timeless, evocative compositions of Hawai‘i’s wahi pana by a local master of the form.

— Matthew Dekneef, Editor at Large



Available from $110

Hawai‘i-Inspired Furoshiki

Furoshiki Hawai‘i

Love that these furoshiki (Japanese wrapping cloths) eliminate the need for throwaway gift wrapping and come in Hawai‘i-inspired patterns like palaka and lauhala print.

— Lauren McNally, Editorial Director

Available at $9

Ring-A-Date Calendar

Euroway x Home Union

A modern take on the ubiquitous wall calendar. This rerelease of Euroway’s 1970s cult classic calendar will inject some vintage practicality into your space.

— Eunica Escalante, Digital Editor

Available at $200

Soap Saver

R Planet

Perfect stocking stuffer, and a way to make use of those little soap scraps. It’s great to see this sustainable goods shop take off in Hawai‘i.

— Anna Harmon, National Editor

Available at $5

Spiral Twist Candles

Lex Pott

The quirky candles that set-off a viral DIY craze, these statement pieces from designer Lex Potts come in fun colors and are sure to liven up any table setting.

— Emma Sossamon, Executive Assistant

Available at $28

The Wavy Lamp

Wooj

If you aren’t ambient lighting your space, then you’re doing it wrong. Skip the too trendy mushroom and Noguchi lamps in favor of this more unique statement piece.

— Eunica Escalante, Digital Editor


Available at $130

Woven Throws
Blankets

The Little Avocado Shop

Liven up any space with these hand-made throw blankets by the one-woman team behind the Little Avocado Shop. Drape over a couch or hang on the wall like artwork.

— Eunica Escalante, Digital Editor

Available at $118


For the Intellectual

2001 Magazine
Issue #1

2001 Magazine

Sam Muller is a talented photographer who has contributed to Waves. His take on a skateboarding magazine will be a treat to experience.

— Anna Harmon, National Editor

Available at $25

Aspect Ratio Blanket

A24

For all the film buffs to flex on movie night.

— Mai Lan Tran, Designer



Available at $120

The Iridescent
Puzzle

Waves Puzzle

For the puzzle lover who’s also an interior design aficionado. The iridescent look is also so much fun for a shared living space or common room.

— Brigid Pittman, Digital Content & Social Media Manager


Available at $40

Museum Membership

Bishop Museum

Since 1889, the Bishop Museum has helped to preserve key facets of Hawaiian culture. An annual membership allows you to enjoy the museum’s permanent collections and rotating exhibitions.

— Gary Payne, VP Business Development

Available at $70

Nana i ke Kumu:
Vol 3

Da Shop Honolulu

In the tradition of Mary Kawena Pukui’s seminal “Nana i ke Kumu” series from the 1970s, this empowering volume authored by living kūpuna covers Hawaiian practices around conflict-resolution, reconciliation, grieving, and healing.

— Matthew Dekneef, Editor at Large

Available at $25

To Paradise

Hanya Yanagihara

A read that promises to be rich in detail and narrative by author and T Magazine editor-in-chief Hanya Yanagihara. Based on early reviews, elements of Hawai‘i, where Yanagihara grew up, appear throughout the book.

— Anna Harmon, National Editor


Available at $32.50

You Are Here (For Now) Book and Stationary Kit

Adam J. Kurtz

From the master of deep thoughts and wise words comes a new collection of essays. Written during the pandemic, this pocket-sized book touches on particularly pertinent topics like failure, purpose, and growth.

— Eunica Escalante, Digital Editor

Available at $34.95

Annual Family
Pass

Foster Botanical Garden

Give the gift that keeps on giving with this pass that gets an entire family year-long access to Foster Botanical Garden in downtown Honolulu.

— Lauren McNally, Editorial Director

Available at $25

Handcrafted Ukulele

Kamaka Ukulele

Founded by master luthier Samuel Kaialiilii Kamaka, Kamaka Ukulele has been a stalwart of the craft for over a hundred years.

— Codey Mita, Sales & Marketing Coordinator

Prices Vary

The Joy of
Basketball

Cookies Hoops

An artistic deep dive into the culture of basketball. Through infographics and illustrations, this coffee-table book celebrates the meteoric rise of the sport, and presents a lively melding of basketball and pop culture.

— Dan Bradley, VP Global Branded Video

Available at $27.99

Museum Membership

Honolulu Museum of Art

As the premier art museum in Hawai‘i, the HoMA’s collections hold some of the most important works of art in Hawai‘i. As a member, get unlimited museum access.

— Gary Payne, VP Business Development

Available at $50

Studio
Membership

Blue Clay Studio

Fishcake’s Blue Clay Studio offer local ceramicist in Honolulu an affordable space to hone their craft. Purchase an annual membership for discounted rates on access to throwing wheels, studio glazes, and other member benefits.

— Nico Enos, Designer

Available at $150

Curated Used Books

Friends of the Library of Hawai‘i

The public library launched an online bookstore last year as an offshoot of its annual book sale at McKinley High School. I’ll be scouring the online inventory for gift-worthy out-of-print books and Hawaiiana titles, like this one from Bamboo Ridge Press.

— Lauren McNally, Editorial Director

Prices Vary


For the Self-Care Connoisseur

Custom
Bicycle

Villy Custom

A great way to stay in shape and to encourage the recipient to spend time outdoors.

— Codey Mita, Sales & Marketing Coordinator



Prices Vary

Mushroom Extract Powders

Mālama Mushrooms

While a decade ago, chaga and lion’s mane were fringe supplements, the shroom boom of the last few years has put them in the mainstream. Mālama Mushrooms is a Hawai‘i-grown company bringing mushroom extracts to local fans.

— Eunica Escalante, Digital Editor

Available from $29.99

Energy & Astrology Session

Ramona Sidlo Wellness Coach

A certified energy healer and meditation teacher, Ramona Sidlo’s passion for mindfulness inspired her to start a wellness practice that focuses on prioritizing self-love.

— Courtney Asato, Marketing & Advertising Executive

Available from $150

Skin Savior Multi-Tasking Wonder Balm

One Lover Organics

Love that this is a do-it-all wonder balm that removes makeup, cleanses face, and acts as a moisturizer. I would give it to someone who loves small beauty brands and is a total skincare guru.

— Brigid Pittman, Digital Content & Social Media Manager

Available at $49

Everyday Oil Mainstay

Everyday Oil

Everyday Oil works wonderfully as a true multi-use oil. I use it as the last step in styling my hair, while moisturizing my hands and skin. Support local by purchasing at Roberta Oaks.

— Taylor Kondo, Brand Production Coordinator

Available from $22

Personalized Flower Arrangement

Renko Floral

Nothing says self-love more than a bespoke floral arrangement for your home. Ren MacDonald-Balasia’s exacting eye for unique materials and composition is sure to deliver a one-of-a-kind conversation piece.

— Eunica Escalante, Digital Editor

Prices Vary

Red Earth Facial Clay

SUNMOON

Sera is an NMG contributor who has been on a beautiful journey that led her to create SUNMOON. Her products are thoughtfully sourced and made, and a treat to use.

— Anna Harmon, National Editor

Available from $55

Solid Shampoo Bath and Conditioner Bars

Get ‘Olili

This plastic-free gift set of locally made shampoo and conditioner bars was formulated by a doctor who specializes in skin health and even comes in compostable packaging.

— Lauren McNally, Editorial Director

Available at $26


For the Gourmand

The Always
Pan

Our Place

No well-meaning Millenial kitchen is complete without this cult classic cookware from Our Place. With its minimalist design, splashy color ways, and claims of being the only pan you’ll ever need, the Always Pan is a must-have for cooks who prioritize aesthetics.

— Marly Graubard, VP Global Sales

Available at $145

Chef’n Reusable Berry Basket

Chef’n

A sustainable container for all of your farmers market goods, from grapes to strawberries. This clever container not only ensures your produce stays fresh, but it also doubles as a colander. A practical wash-and-store all in one. Comes in a set of two.

— Brigid Pittman, Digital Content & Social Media Manager

Available at $27.98

Dinner at the Lounge

Hy’s

We often stop by just to have their Bananas Foster in the lounge area. It’s the best dessert in Honolulu.

— Gary Payne, VP Business Development


Available from $20

Hello Kitty Rice Cooker

Zojirushi

Show someone you really love them with a Hello Kitty Rice Cooker.

— Nico Enos, Designer



Available at $152

Local Snacks

Enjoy Snacks

Local snacks are a must when it comes to holiday gifts.

— Codey Mita, Sales & Marketing Coordinator



Prices Vary

Regular Joe House Blend

Local Joe Honolulu Roasters

Established by certified master roaster Charles Asselbaye, Local Joe has supplied Chinatown’s caffeine addiction since 2016. If you’re a fan of their coffees, then you’ll enjoy their Regular Joe House Blend, the roast that they use for many of their in-house drinks.

— Courtney Miyashiro, Operations Administrator

Available from $10.50

Shaka Tea Holiday Blend

Shaka Tea

This holiday collaboration artfully blends Shaka Tea’s māmaki leaves with Mānoa Chocolate’s upcycled, richly flavored cacao shells. Fresh notes of peppermint offer a cozy and naturally caffeine-free, seasonal experience.

— Courtney Asato, Marketing & Advertising Executive

Available from $12

Breads by the Breadshop

Breadshop

Founded in 2017 by craft baker Chris Sy, the Breadshop in Kaimukī has become a local mainstay, known for its fresh loaves of bread and sweet pastries. While offerings can change day to day, a gift card will ensure that your giftée still gets access to the best breads in town.

— Mai Lan Tran, Designer

Prices Vary

100 Cookies: The Baking Book for Every Kitchen

Sarah Kieffer

The pan-banging cookies in this book are incredible. Kieffer offers really easy directions and a huge variety of cookies for every type of event.

— Brigid Pittman, Digital Content & Social Media Manager


Available at $27.50

Farmer’s Choice
Box

Farm Link Hawai‘i

Curated from Farm Link Hawai‘i’s ever growing catalog of local farms and small businesses, these farmer’s choice boxes offer a selection of fresh-from-the-farm produce.

— Anna Harmon, National Editor

Available at $30

Lilikoi Session Mead

Mānoa Honey and Mead

This craft mead features a perfect balance of passion fruit and locally harvested ‘ōhi‘a lehua honey. Aromatic and bright, each effervescent glass embodies a paradise unique to Hawai‘i.

— Courtney Asato, Marketing & Advertising Executive

Available at $19.50

Matcha Whisk

Art of the Tea

A matcha whisk is never something I think of as a need, but something really fun to receive and practical if youʻre a tea drinker.

— Brigid Pittman, Digital Content & Social Media Manager

Available at $19

Seasoned Salt
Trio

Jennifer Fisher

While Jennifer Fisher is most well-known for her jewelry, her own blend of seasoned salts has garnered its own cult following. A skilled home cook, this trio of blends are some of Jennifer’s spice must-haves.

— Marly Graubard, VP Global Sales


Available at $30


For the Sharp Dresser

Aloha Shirts

Roberta Oaks

Roberta’s retro reimagining of the classic aloha shirt has popularized the garment for a new generation of stylish dressers. Designed in-house and printed by hand, her prints are a true made in Hawai‘i operation.

— Gary Payne, VP Business Development

Available from $84

The Chore Coat

Roberta Oaks

An everyday essential wear, this versatile garment straddles the goldilocks zone between an outerwear and a sports jacket. Its silhouette, inspired by the vintage look of the French worker’s jacket, lends a casual air. Meanwhile, the luxe corduroy material helps to elevate any outfit.

— Jason Cutinella, CEO

Available at $368

John Lobb Foundry

Leather Soul

Anyone receiving a thousand-dollar pair of sneakers is styling!

— Gary Payne, VP Business Development



Available at $995

Luna Pant in Palaka

Matt Bruening Label

Matt Bruening’s Luna Pant is reimagined in the classic palaka print. Handmade in Hawai‘i from 100 percent cotton, the wide legs, breathable fabric, and unisex silhouette make it an instant closet staple.

— Eunica Escalante, Digital Editor

Available at $148

Puzzle Hobo
Bag

Loewe

Loewe’s signature Puzzle bag is reimagined in this sleek, lime yellow iteration.

— Courtney Asato, Marketing & Advertising Executive



Available at $2,350

Vintage Aloha Shirts

Single Double

Replete with iconic labels culled from the 1950s to ’70s, the curated racks guarantee unique finds with throwback details ranging from cotton broadcloth fabric to coin buttons.

— Matthew Dekneef, Editor at Large

Available from $60

Apollo Chain Anklet

Love Me Knots

This local brand has made a name for its simple yet chic approach to everyday jewelry. Their Apollo Chain Anklet adds an elegant flourish in the most surprising way.

— Taylor Kondo, Brand Production Coordinator

Available at $64

Everyday Sneakers

Hoka

Hokas have garnered a cult following for their functionality and comfort. Beyond being a great pair of running shoes, their limited release color ways make for the perfect statement chunky sneakers.

— Marly Graubard, VP Global Sales

Available from $120

Kai 5-Panel

Salvage Public

Perfect gift for the outdoor peeps! Weather friendly for a hot day, passing over showers, or surf day. Adjustable chin strap and detachable, yessah.

— Taylor Kondo, Brand Production Coordinator

Available at $64

Midi Skirt

‘Okika Cloth

Designed, handprinted, cut, and sewn on O‘ahu, each collection from ‘Okika Cloth is made with organic colors and natural fabric blends. Their midi skirt is the perfect everyday piece.

— Anna Harmon, National Editor

Available at $189

Three-Pleat Full Pant

Cyc The Shop

Founded on the ethos of staple garments for all genders, Cyc The Shop has an essential piece for all tastes. Their pleated linen pants are among their most versatile, adding comfort and edge to any outfit.

— Eunica Escalante, Digital Editor

Available at $120


For the Community

Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies

The Mama Mana program is a community-based midwifery model offering a holistic approach for expecting and new families across Hawai‘i. Beyond clinical services provided by Hawaii State Licensed midwives and nurse practitioners, the program offers vital resources such as food distribution, lactation support, and mental health referrals.

Donate Now

The Pōpolo Project

Since being founded in 2015, the Pōpolo Project has become a resource for Hawai‘i’s Black community. Over the years, the non-profit has provided a space for expression and kinship through community gatherings and cultural programming. In supporting their work, the Pōpolo Project can continue to celebrate Black lives and cultures in Hawai‘i and in the larger Pacific.

Donate Now

Pu‘uhonua O Wai‘anae

For years, Pu‘uhonua O Wai‘anae has acted as a refuge for many O‘ahu’s unhoused. In 2020, the community successfully raised funds to purchase a 20-acre property in the back of Waiʻanae Valley. Pu‘uhonua O Wai‘anae is now in its second phase of fundraising to complete plans for Puʻhonua O Waiʻanae Farm Village, which will feature true affordable housing for its community.

Donate Now

Pahiki Eco-Caskets Keiki Fund

Pāhiki Eco-Caskets provides families who have suffered a loss access to their eco-conscious burial options. Through their keiki fund, Pāhiki is able to provide keiki caskets 1 – 5 feet for just $1, unburdening families with costs that could easily reach into the hundreds.


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Purple Mai‘a

Purple Mai‘a began as a Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) outreach program. Since being founded in 2013, Purple Mai‘a has become the leading local non-profit providing mentorship in areas of technology and entrepreneurship to Hawai‘i’s next generation, with a focus on Kanaka Maoli youth.


Donate Now

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