Skip the shopping drama and give gifts that give back. Here’s my short list to make your holiday shopping feel grounded, meaningful, and full of Maine magic.

Shopping + Yoga

Yoga for Good – Dec 5, 8 AM at Toad & Co

Start your day (and your shopping) with something good for the soul and the community. Join us for an uplifting morning yoga class at Toad & Co that supports Girls on the Run Maine—plus, get a head start on your shopping with 30% off everything in the store after class!

They’ve got some seriously great local finds:

• Marin Lotion – A locally made, sustainable lotion that’s ridiculously silky on the skin. The science is pretty amazing: bio-engineers at Marin upcycle glycoproteins—natural byproducts from lobster processing—turning what used to be waste into effective, ocean-powered skincare.

• Cup of Sea Tea – Sustainably harvested Maine seaweed tea that tastes like a cozy coastal hug. My favorite is the Sea Smoke blend—perfect for sipping after yoga or a brisk walk by the water.

• Brant & Cochran Axes – Hand-forged in South Portland with an awesome mission of creating axes that can be handed down for generations. I toured their shop once—wow, talk about craftsmanship! A seriously cool gift for the hard-to-shop-for folks who want to split their own camp wood or maybe try some backyard axe-throwing.

The Gift of Yoga

For the yogi (or the yoga-curious) in your life, here are a few easy ways to wrap up a little peace and playfulness.

• Goat Yoga Gift Certificates – For a class with yours truly! Perfect for animal lovers and anyone who could use a good laugh and a deep breath (so… basically everyone).

• Ashley Flowers Yoga Merch – Cozy hoodies, hats, and tees that spread laughter, good vibes and Maine pride wherever they go.

Other Cool Ashley Flowers-Approved Ideas

• Maine Outdoor Brands Store – Pop over to this new online store where local makers and outdoor spirit collide. From gear to keep you warm during winter yoga adventures to gifts that inspire your next Maine exploration, it’s a one-stop shop for the adventurer (or weekend wanderer) in your life.

• Portland Pottery Holiday Sale – It’s been so fun getting back into pottery classes. I don’t have anything in the sale (I’m not that good), but there are so many talented artists in those studios—you’ll definitely find some beautiful handmade treasures.

Happy Holidays Folks! Hope to see you out there!