12 Holiday Gift Ideas from Yale Entrepreneurs
We know the struggle is real, folks. With the final countdown on, finding the perfect gift can feel like a mental marathon. But never fear! We're here to lighten your load and sprinkle some magic on your gift-giving. Whether it's your mom, dad, kiddos, or even your favorite professor, we've got gift ideas that'll make them all feel special.
So put down that generic candle and back away from your Amazon cart because the Tsai CITY gift guide has something unique for everyone, and you’d be supporting Yalie entrepreneurs and innovators with each purchase.
Apparel and Accessories:
Banofi Leather: Jinali Mody YSE ’23
Stumped on what to buy the fashion lover in your life? Banofi Leather is now developing products ranging from books, coasters, card holders, wallets, and more. You can find details on their product offering linked here, and to make the order, please utilize this Banofi Order Request Form.
Cambium Carbon: Ben Christensen YSE ’20, Marisa Repka YSE ’20
Introducing the Cambium Merch Shop! Celebrate this holiday season with their exclusive, eco-friendly merchandise. From live-edge cutting boards made of Carbon Smart Wood™ to stylish swag, their limited-edition store has it all.
Crew Dog: Constantine Polychronopoulos, YC ’25
Are you overwhelmed with trying to figure out what to get that stylish college-bound Gen-Zer on your list? Well, you can’t go wrong with Crew Dog, an affordable and fashionable clothing brand for college campuses.
The Dark Arts: Stephan Oliveira, YC ’24
The best gift ideas bring the wow factor. And, what better way to do it than with fun patches, stickers, and apparel punk and queer inspired.
Tian Hai: Jane Xiang, SOM ’25
There are only so many years a “breakfast in bed” coupon will fly. For those who are on your list every year, mix it up with an unexpected yet thoughtful gift. Tian Hai is an accessories brand focused on using upcycled materials that would otherwise go to landfills, with resources ranging from local construction companies to local designers with deadstock leather.
Food and Beverages:
Havenly Treats: Caterina Passoni YC ’18, Matteo Sandrelli YC ’22, Sofia Cianchi YC ’20, Huy Truong ARC ’23, Ben Weiss YC ’20
Whether you're gathering with neighbors for the annual holiday party or talking on the phone to grandparents across the country, the holidays are a time of togetherness and sharing. What better way to show your love than giving the gift of holiday treats made with care? Havenly’s gift line features the Havenly creations of their Head Chef & fellows–with all proceeds going to support their mission to build community power with immigrant and refugee women.
Kelewele: Rachel Laryea PhD ’21
The perfect blend of flavor and culture. Indulge in healthy and delicious plantain dishes inspired by the African diaspora and bring people together with a shared love of good food. Don't forget to try the brownie mix, a guilt-free treat for chocolate lovers everywhere!
Qi Foods: Tiffany Leong SOM ’21
Delight your loved ones (or even yourself) this festive season with the gift of ultimate relaxation, restoration, and reviving energy, all thanks to Qi Foods' three Bo-yi Asian superfood flavors. Qi Foods aims to bring traditional East Asian superfoods to the mainstream Western market.
Skincare:
Aureline: Alley Liang SOM ’21, Amy Gong SOM ’21, Ming Li
For the skincare-obsessed, there’s a high chance they have yet to try Aureline. Aureline has the most hydrating cleansing bar and cleanses without stripping the skin. Formulated by PhD chemists using only natural, plant-based ingredients, Aureline is not only good for your skin, it’s good for the planet as well.
The Palestinian Soap Store: Chris Hebdon GSAS ’22, Dina Omar GSAS ’22
Not sure what to bring to that holiday get-together? Gift the ‘hostess with the mostest’ a piece of history. The Palestinian Soap Store sells healthy and simple soap made in the same style in Nablus since the 13th century.
Dalmatian: Alex Holm SOM ’22
Will the teen in your life need acne patches for treating holiday stress pimples because they are still trying to find the perfect gift for their bff? Introduce them to the magic that is pimple patches by Dalmatian. Dalmatian helps young adults fight acne with trendy, fashionable, and dermatologist-approved hydrocolloid pimple patches that are designed to be displayed and dismantle the harmful stigma. These are the perfect stocking stuffers.
Forever Kin: Angelin Mathew, YC ’25
Looking for a gift that can help them look great and make them feel warm and fuzzy? Try Forever Kin, custom handmade lip glosses made with love in honor of Angelin’s friend, Sophia, who was diagnosed with a rare pancreatic cancer.
We hope you discover a new favorite in this year’s gift guide. Thank you for supporting Yalie entrepreneurs and innovators this holiday season, and happy shopping!
If you are a Yalie entrepreneur and would like to be added to our gift guide, please email us at comms.city@yale.edu, and you will be considered for future gift guides.