As we approach the holiday season, finding the perfect gift for teachers can be both exciting and daunting. This year, I’ve curated a list of my favorite teacher gifts from small businesses that combine thoughtful design, practicality, and a touch of creativity. Supporting these businesses not only brings joy to educators but also uplifts the talented entrepreneurs behind these products.
Here are my top recommendations for teacher gifts that your favorite educators will adore:
Illy Lilly Design Co
Lanyards, Earrings, and Advent Box
Illy Lilly Design Co offers beautifully crafted lanyards and earrings that add style to any teacher’s wardrobe. Their advent box is a particularly special treat, featuring curated surprises to brighten the holiday season. Illy Lilly is a family run business that was born from a love that Lilly, the oldest daughter, had of making clay earrings when she was just in elementary school.
Why Teachers Will Love It:
The lanyards are both stylish and functional, the earrings make thoughtful, wearable gifts, and the advent box is a fun way for teachers to enjoy a little holiday magic each day.
Oh So Jo Designs
Holiday-Themed Earrings and Felt Letter Signs
Oh So Jo Designs offers a delightful range of holiday-themed earrings and whimsical felt letter signs. The earrings that Jo designs are unlike anything you've ever seen! She has festive designs perfect for the holiday season, but also the perfect statement earrings to add a little sparkle to your wardrobe! Not to mention her felt ball letter signs add a touch of charm and personality to any classroom or home. Oh and did you know that Jo was a contestant on the first season of NBC's show Making It?? I mean hello TV star!!
Why Teachers Will Love It:
The holiday earrings are a fun way for teachers to get into the festive spirit, and the felt letter signs make for cheerful décor that’s both cute and versatile.
Good Mornings by Stephanie
Earrings and Milk Jug Headbands
Good Mornings by Stephanie combines creativity and style with charming earrings and unique milk jug headbands. The earrings are perfect for everyday wear or a fun statement piece, while the headbands are the cutest accessory to compliment any teacher outfit! Steph makes every piece by hand and is beyond creative in her designs!
Why Teachers Will Love It:
These accessories add a dash of personality to any outfit and are thoughtfully handcrafted, making them extra special.
Teacher Golz
Teacher-Themed Apparel + Accessories
Jess Golz, aka Teacher Golz specializes in chic, teacher-inspired clothing, including T-shirts, hoodies, and sweaters. These pieces combine comfort with beautiful designs, making them ideal for both the classroom and weekends. Jess has been hand lettering for every a decade and creates accessories that are born from a need in her own experience as a teacher.
Why Teachers Will Love It:
Practical, stylish, and fun, these apparel items are a great way for teachers to showcase their love for their profession.
Quell
Sketchbook Carrier Case and Quell Apron
Quell’s sketchbook carrier cases are perfect for teachers who love to stay organized and creative. With plenty of pockets for art supplies, sketchbooks or a planner this case is a game-changer for on-the-go creativity. Additionally, the Quell apron is a must-have for art teachers, featuring multiple pockets (including a zippered pocket for jewelry), an adjustable neck strap, and extra-long waist ties for the perfect fit.
Why Teachers Will Love It:
The sketchbook carrier makes it easy to create anywhere, while the apron is as functional as it is stylish, ensuring teachers stay clean and organized during even the messiest of projects.
Supporting small businesses not only results in thoughtful, unique gifts but also helps foster a sense of community and care. Each purchase directly supports the creators, many of whom pour their heart and soul into every item they make.
This holiday season, consider gifting one of these amazing items to the teachers in your life. Not only will they appreciate the thoughtful gesture, but they’ll also enjoy the care and quality behind these small-business treasures.
What’s your favorite small-business teacher gift? Let me know in the comments!
