Eco-Friendly Gift Ideas From Bellagram Telegrams
It’s time to think outside the “gift" box.
The demand for eco-friendly gifts is soaring with the rising awareness of how our buying choices impact the environment. It’s more important than ever to “think outside the gift box,” ditch the culture of disposability and move toward a greener, cleaner way of showing people we care. Whether it’s for a holiday celebration, birthday, special occasion, or fun surprise for no reason, there is nothing like a gift that supports your loved one and the environment.
Material gifts often end up unloved, unused, or in landfills, contributing to the worldwide pollution crisis and overconsumption. And it’s not just the items themselves— the entire process, from manufacturing to packaging to shipping, all compound the problem. If you can’t be with someone you love in person, you don’t have to resort to sending them stuff from online big box stores. Instead, consider unique gifts for your friend that make a splash and keep waste out of the landfill.
At Bellagram Telegrams, we value low-impact, waste-free gift-giving. That’s why we’ve curated some unique gift ideas to help kickstart your list this season. (Or any time, really!)
Eco-friendly Gift Ideas
Local Art
Portland is chock-full of amazing artists and makers. From handcrafted jewelry and pottery to beautiful art and unique fashion, there is no shortage of eco-friendly gift ideas.
Visual art. If you’re local, head out to a maker’s night, farmer’s market, or art walk to find one-of-a-kind gifts made by Portland’s most talented artists.
Unique crafts. Portland Open Studios is a collective of artists who open their spaces to the public so you can watch them create their work in real time! Watch live pottery, glassblowing, and jewelry-making, or plan a tour of your favorite artists. The website offers lists of artists and locations, so you can find the closest ones and even set up a tour.
Jewelry. Material + Movement is a Portland-based business that repurposes your family heirlooms into stunning, wearable pieces. Is your grandma’s old china sitting around collecting dust? Have it turned into a one-of-a-kind necklace or pair of earrings. Get custom pieces from your own heirlooms, or browse read-to-wear jewelry made from salvaged or thrifted china.
Sustainable Clothing
The fast fashion industry accounts for a staggering 92 million tons of waste every single year. High-production, low-cost business models create millions of clothing pieces that are only worn a few times and then discarded. But buying clothing doesn’t have to be wasteful. Here are some ways you can find a great gift without adding to the cycle of consumption and waste:
Thrift stores. Used clothing from thrift stores is a great way to reduce the amount of textile waste.
Clothing Swaps. For a fun experience and a new outfit, try a clothing swap. As a bonus, you can clean out your own closet to make room for new items while finding the perfect gift for someone at the same time.
Consignment stores. A gift card to a local consignment shop helps find new homes for pre-loved items, supporting a circular economy and sustainable consumer habits. With a gift card, your friend can pick out their own items, ensuring they will love and wear them for years.
Faithhats (PDX Artist) Portland eco designer and cashmere evangelist makes hats from recycled cashmere garments. Check out her holiday schedule on Instagram!
Services
Services are a practical gift that supports the environment and gives your loved one something you know they actually need.
Bodywork. A gift card for massage, acupuncture, or other bodywork helps your loved one relax, heal, and take some time for themselves. (Who doesn’t need that?)
House cleaning. Give the gift of peace of mind by alleviating stress from the demands of daily life. Hiring a housecleaner is a practical and supportive gift for new parents, someone recovering from illness or injury, or anyone who is simply overwhelmed by responsibility. (To ensure eco-friendliness, remember to inquire about cleaning products!)
Subscriptions. Eco-friendly and environmentally conscious companies that support the environment and encourage responsible habits. Services like Ridwell help reduce waste by recycling and repurposing items that can be difficult to dispose of or aren’t accepted by traditional recycling services. Ridwell isn’t available everywhere (yet!), but they are growing fast and offer services in several big cities, including Portland. If you're interested in wasting less, check out their areas of service.
Music Lessons. Whether in person or virtual, music lessons are one of the best gifts you can give anysomeone, whether a child or an adult wanting to learn theory, or just a few songs around the campfire. La Di Da Lessons offers the best online music lessons around.
Experiences
For a unique gift with lasting memories, consider giving an experience instead of clutter.
Theater or comedy shows. Portland is chock-full of theater performances and has one of the most robust comedy scenes in the country. Check out Laughspdx for an ongoing, updated list of shows. Not only will your friend have a great time, but it will also support local performers.
Classes. Lessons encourage growth and exploration. With the gift of classes, your friend can discover new passions or deepen existing skills while creating memories and supporting local teachers. Music, dance, yoga, cooking, or art instruction encourages creativity over material items for a unique gift that keeps junk out of the landfill.
Singing telegrams. You didn’t think we’d forget this one, did you? Bellagram Telegrams offers the gift of human connection through a living, breathing greeting. It’s unique and eco-friendly, (no packaging, no shipping!), and we guarantee they won’t forget it. The best part is you don’t have to be in Portland, OR, to book us. You can even customize it for an even more memorable experience! Whether you’re local to Portland or looking for a long-distance celebration, we’ve got you covered.
“This is a truly special singing telegram experience, with an iconic Portland-style revolutionary artistry and the cherished, personable feeling that one desires when sending a message to a loved one through song. You will have a sentimental tear in your eye while your cheeks hurt from smiling. Bring a little sugar and spice into what might otherwise be an ordinary day!”
If you’re looking for a gift for your next holiday, birthday, or special occasion gift, we hope this gift guide will help give you some ideas!
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