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The gift guide you need to shop POC-owned businesses for Christmas

The holidays are looking a little different this year amid the COVID-19 pandemic. If you still live with your Asian parents like me, they’re probably worried and paranoid more than ever whenever we bring up the idea of going out to do our holiday shopping – even if it’s

The gift guide you need to shop POC-owned businesses for Christmas

The holidays are looking a little different this year amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

If you still live with your Asian parents like me, they’re probably worried and paranoid more than ever whenever we bring up the idea of going out to do our holiday shopping – even if it’s just for curbside pickup.

“You’re going out, lah? Who are you going with? How are you getting there?”

“Don’t forget to wear your mask. Be safe, wor!”

And if your community is still under strict lockdown restrictions, holiday shopping might be a little more difficult this season.

Luckily, Cold Tea Collective’s 2020 Holiday Gift Guide features products from businesses that ship domestically and internationally, allowing you to shop from the comfort of your own home.

We would like to encourage our readers to support local and small businesses this holiday season. We are passionate about bringing visibility to Asian entrepreneurs, businesses, and products. As Asian American and Asian Canadian allies, we encourage you to support your local BIPOC businesses.

Whether you’re shopping for parents, siblings, or friends, we hope you enjoy the products we’ve highlighted below!

FYI – there are affiliate links on this page to help us in covering costs to run Cold Tea Collective and continue to support our community.

Nimble Made

After what seems like an eternity since many of us started working from home, it might be time to upgrade that Zoom wardrobe.

Nimble Made Shirts
Photo credit: Nimble Made

This holiday season, you can help that fashion enthusiast in your life get Zoom ready with Nimble Made’s slim-fit dress shirts made for Asian men!

Co-founders Tanya Zhang and Wesley Kang shared their stories about why they quit their jobs to create a brand to bring more representation and inclusion to menswear.

Get 10% off sitewide using the code “COLDTEAHOLIDAY”.

P.S. They ship internationally and offer free shipping and returns on domestic orders within the US.

SACHEU Beauty

Thinking of what to get that skincare guru in your life? Looking to add an 11th step to someone’s 10-step Korean skincare routine?

SACHEU Beauty’s stainless steel facial roller and gua sha make the perfect duo to add to anyone’s skincare routine or self-care ritual!

Sacheu Beauty
Photo credit: SACHEU Beauty

Self-care is extremely important, especially after a year of coping during a global pandemic, an extremely stressful US presidential election, and whatever else 2020 has thrown at us.

Founded by Sarah Cheung, SACHEU Beauty is a community-driven brand that stands for inclusivity and representation. They strive for creating a brand that puts ingredients first.

Get 20% off sitewide using the code “COLDTEA20” until December 24 at 11:59pm.

P.S. They also ship worldwide!

KOY Gear

COVID-19 may have disrupted our travel plans this year, but who says we can’t get ready and gear up for the next big adventure?

Whether you’re looking for a versatile everyday tee, cushioned socks, or even breathable boxer briefs, KOY Gear has the perfect ‘technical’ gift for you!

Koy Gear
Photo credit: KOY Gear

Embodying an ‘invisible technical’ philosophy, KOY Gear is a Canadian-based, recreational travel wear company that specializes in creating premium clothing.

Get 20% off using the code “coldtea” until March 31 at 11:59pm.

P.S. They ship worldwide, and you can get free US and Canada shipping on orders over $50!

Hatch Coffee

Dalgona coffee had its time to shine this year, but Hatch’s specialty coffee makes the perfect gift for all the coffee nerds, enthusiasts, and baristas in your life this holiday season.

hatch coffee
Photo credit: Hatch Coffee

Founded by Alfonso Tupaz, Hatch Coffee is a coffee bar, roastery, and brewery located just outside of Toronto.

Whether you’re looking for coffee to make the perfect pour over or batch brew, Hatch has something for everyone!

Use the code “HATCHCOLDTEA” at checkout to add a Hatch Origami Sticker and a packet of Third Wave Water to your order.

P.S. They even have a monthly coffee subscription program!

TITIKA

For all the busy women in your life who take forever to pick out what to wear on the daily, we have the perfect holiday gift idea for you!

TITIKA’s luxury activewear is perfect for those who still want to feel stylish while working from home, running errands, or working out.

Titika
Photo credit: TITIKA

Led by an all-Asian, all-female executive team, TITIKA is a brand that aims to empower women to feel their most confident selves. Actor Chase Tang recently shared his story about joining TITIKA to empower women around the world.

Get 10% off using the code “COLDTEA10” until December 24 at 11:59pm.

P.S. They are offering free shipping in the US and Canada for all of December!

AZN FLUSH

Catch the perfect drinking game for Asian Americans, anime lovers, K-Pop fans, and more. AZN Flush is coming for you with bestselling hits and brand new packs just in time for the holidays!

Enjoy cards like “If you’ve ever had ketchup and rice, take 5 sips,” and “If you posted on social media about how happy you were that Parasite won 4 Oscars, take 4 sips.”

With a brand new OG Pack and several other expansions, AZN Flush will make the perfect gift for anyone that’s into Asian culture and drinking.

The creator of AZN Flush, John Lim, also shared his story about building a community for Asian Americans through games, connecting with his heritage, and bridging cultures through the power of vulnerability.

Get 20% off your order for a limited time with the promo code: “TEAPLEASE”.

P.S. They even have a pack for boba tea lovers!

TSAICHEDELIC

You can never go wrong with gifting socks during the holidays. They even make great stocking stuffers too!

Take streetwear to the next level with premium tie dye Nike socks by Tsaichedelic! A portion of their proceeds go to The Frontline Fund, which represents Canadian hospital foundations dealing with COVID-19 all across the country.

You and your friends can flex these socks with your favourite pair of sneakers (or slides) while supporting a good cause!

P.S. They also sell tie dye onesies and toddler shirts – a perfect gift for the mommy-to-be!

Spirit Bear Coffee Company

Don’t forget to support your local, Indigenous businesses this holiday season too.

Gift your close ones with 100% organic and fair trade coffee from Spirit Bear Coffee Company. They are a First Nations, independently owned-and-operated coffee company, and all purchases contribute to social and environmental enterprises such as Northern Lights Wildlife Shelter, Raincoast Conservation Foundation, and Ocean Alliance.

P.S. They also sell coffee pods for the Keurig-aficionados in your life!

Whether you’re spending the holidays in-person or via Zoom, we hope our curated holiday gift guide sparked some inspiration for what to get your friends and family this season.

Make sure to share with us what you bought for your loved ones by tagging us in your photos!

For more perks from Cold Tea Collective, be sure to follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter, The Tea, for special subscriber discounts and giveaways.

From our family to yours, stay safe, wear a mask, and Happy Holidays from Cold Tea Collective!

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Alicia Cheung profile image Alicia Cheung
Alicia is a second-generation Chinese Canadian based in Toronto. She is a data-driven marketer who is passionate about storytelling and creating content. When she’s not working, she spends her time