From authentic Ghanaian wall fans to aromatic soy wax candles, read on for a selection of our best vegan friendly gifts.
When it comes to finding vegan gifts, we know it can be a bit of a minefield. Whilst some red flags are well known (think fur, leather, suede, pearls), other forbidden materials are not always so obvious (did you know some dyes are made using insects?)
And then there's the question of what type of vegan they are. Is it only a dietary choice, or is it a way of living that extends beyond the plate and avoids animal-derived products of any kind? According to some, there are now five recognised "levels" of vegans, so knowing what your recipient does and does not avoid will certainly be helpful in your gift hunt!
With the number of vegan people in the UK quadrupling in the last 8 years, there's a pretty good chance that you'll have at least one friend or family member in your life who identifies as vegan. So to avoid you falling into an internet rabbit hole of the do's and don'ts of vegan gifting, we've handpicked some of our favourite gift ideas for vegans to make your search that little bit easier.
Not only are these cruelty-free gifts free from any animal and animal-derived products, but they're also crafted by brands that champion sustainable and ethical business practices with an emphasis on slow, handcraft techniques and local materials. Worth keeping in mind considering that a third of people choose sustainability as a main reason for switching to a plant-based diet.
10 one-of-a-kind gifts that are kind to animals, kind to the planet and kind to the hands that make them... what's not to love?
After more gift inspiration? Browse gifts by value, recipient and price in Akojo Gifts.
1. Bolga Fan, Lola & Mawu, £32.99
Lola & Mawu's selection of bold and vibrant fans look just as good cooling you down in the garden as they will hanging on your wall. Handwoven from 100% straw, these fans are designed without the traditional leather handle to make them vegan-friendly. And if you really want to push the boat out, we recommend purchasing 2 or 3 for a striking wall combo.
2. Yawa Soy Wax Candle – Mefiye, £30
Treat your loved one to the gift of relaxation with Mefiye's sensuous vegan floral candle. Fusing aromas of sweet jasmine and vanilla with a base of cedarwood and musk, this gift is guaranteed to add an air of luxury to any room. The beautiful matte black glass vessel can be repurposed too (think candle refills, succulents, pencil holders) making it an eco-friendly option they can use again and again.
3. Daphne Emerald Chain Necklace, Ottoman Hands, £125
Move over diamonds, emeralds are a vegan girl's best friend. The beautiful stone is said to open the heart and provide inspiration, balance and patience. Ethically sourced and suspended from a 21 ct gold-plated recycled brass chain, this necklace is a gorgeous gift for a girlfriend, mother, sister or close friend.
4. Shea & Macadamia Lotion (200ml) - Organic Savanna, £24
Organic Savanna uses locally sourced African ingredients to create plant-based products designed to nourish your mind and body. Made using shea butter, macadamia oils and a fragrant combination of essential oils grown by Mount Kenya, this moisturising lotion makes a practical gift that can be used for hands and body.
5. Qäsa Qäsa Cookery Set - Qäsa Qäsa, £38.55
This handmade tea set by Qäsa Qäsa is the perfect gift for those who love to entertain. Featuring four versatile utensils, each piece has been intricately carved by Makonde woodcarvers in Tanzania using a traditional craft technique that has been passed down through the generations. Ideal for serving brunch, afternoon tea, or as everyday kitchen utensils.
6. The Tiger Moth Limited Edition Organic Cotton Towel, Tawul Living, £65
This luxuriously soft cotton towel is a double whammy for your animal-conscious friends. Not only is it naturally vegan (made from 100% GOTS organic cotton and OEKO-TEX dyes), but the design is also inspired by Britain's colourful Tiger Moth, raising awareness of this critically endangered species.
7. Monkey Paradise Sandstone Coasters - Ardmore Design, £45.00
Treat your recipient to something a little different with these stylish and quirky coasters by Ardmore Design. Inspired by the wildlife of the lush Zambezi River basin, they’re guaranteed to add a burst of colour to any décor. And if you love the illustrations as much as we do, why not check out the rest of the designer’s range for a selection of gorgeous homeware, each as giftable as the next.
8. Turquoise Organic Earrings - Meraki Jewellery Design, £60
Be it for a special occasion, or simply to let someone know how much you love them, these turquoise drop earrings are a vegan-friendly gift alternative to the classic pearl. Carefully handmade using ethically sourced turquoise and recycled brass, it's said that turquoise has protective properties and is a symbol of enduring love.
9. Woven Round Placemats - Raw Label, from £25
Whether it's for a vegan birthday present or an ethical housewarming present, these rustic placemats by Raw Label will look great in just about any home. Handwoven in Zambia from locally sourced rush reeds, the mats are available in a pair or sets of 4 and 6.
10. Akuapem Print - AFFANDJAM, £40
If you’re wondering what to get for the strong and independent woman in your life, then look no further. Exclusive to Akojo Market, this hand-painted print is the creation of AFFANDJAM – two London-born female artists with roots in Ghana and Jamaica. Inspired by their identities, their artwork is a celebration of their heritage and femininity and seeks to promote female empowerment and body positivity.
