While we’re spending money on Christmas presents for our loved ones, we might as well make sure they’re not the only one benefiting from our gifts, right?  My first choice always goes to local,  sustainable, second hand, made by a small business or an experience instead of something materialistic.  To help you a little on your hunt for the perfect gift, I’ve kept every budget in mind and collected nine ideas that are designed and/or made in Belgium or are Belgian initiatives.    Need more inspiration?  Make sure to dive into my archives.  Happy shopping!

1. 1. The elegant, timeless and practical Mariko handbag by Lies Mertens, made out of bio leather and built to last.  Get it here.  For a more affordable design, discover the wallets (one of which is named after me!) in her Antwerp boutique.
   2. Corian disk earrings by Anna Rosa Moschouti, made out of surplus materials from kitchen and bathrooms.  Buy them here.
   3. Silkscreen print based on Michael Graves’ resort in El Gouna, handmade by Astrid Nieuwborg.  Order it here.
   4. Stained glass mirror by GLASenGLAS, available in different sizes and colors.  Find it here.
   5. Terra table lamp, originally a handmade gift from Antwerp based Lauren Van Driessche to her partner, now (thanks to Serax) available for us as well here.
   6. testhereThese These vintage vases are just one of the many treasures sold by Orence store.  Second hand is the most sustainable option and budget friendly as well!  Find them here.
   7. The museum pas, which gives you one year of free access to more than 150 Belgian museums.  Bonus points if you give a pair to a couple, or give yourself one as well: one year of cultural dates guaranteed!  If you order now, you can get a limited edition that features De ijsvogels by Emile Claus. Discover it  here.
   8. Mambo baskets is a Belgian based company that sells baskets made in Kenya, by women who are now able to send their children to school and pay their medical bills.  Get them here.
   9. A flower subscription is a gift that keeps on giving.  For Antwerp locals, I recommend Wilder, a flower subscription that follows the seasons, bringing you long lasting dried flower bouquets during winter.  Read more here.