As much as I love a good gift, Iām also a minimalist and I try not to fill my life with too many things.
I share the list below, not as a collective list of things I own, but as a list of items that you or the entrepreneur in your life might enjoy.
Each section of gift ideas is ordered by price (lowest to highest).
Iāve also added notes for each item and some items have an affiliate link where Iād make a small commission if you make a purchase. At the bottom of the list, youāll also find options for the minimalist in your life who may not want a physical gift.
And now, the unique gifts for entrepreneurs!
Desk Items For Entrepreneurs
Field Notes Notebook – $9ish
Every entrepreneur needs notebooks because we have so many hair-brained ideas! I love, and own, a bunch of Field Notes notebooks in various sizes. These are perfect stocking stuffers and are great to keep around when an idea strikes.
Photo credit: Field Notes
Inateck Electronics Organizer – $29
Dongles, USB cords, pens, clips, etc create clutter and are a pain to keep organized. This little electronics organizer packs a PUNCH and can hold sooooo much stuff! It’s a great way to clean up any desk and have one item you can quickly zip up, throw in a backpack, and have all your electronics goodies in one place!
Photo credit: Inateck
Ugmonk Mouse Pad – $42
I love how my leather mouse pad from Ugmonk has agedĀ over time. I donāt worry about spilling coffee or putting cans of LaCroix on it. The craftsmanship on this thing is fantastic, and you should expect nothing less from products created and sold by Jeff from Ugmonk.
Photo credit: Ugmonk
Walnut Pen Cup – $60
Speaking of craftsmanship, you can’t go wrong with anything made by the folks at Grovemade. This simple pen cup is a beautiful way to organize pens and other straggling desk items. Also available in maple.Ā
Photo credit: Grovemade
Wooden Laster-Etched Tweets – $25-55
Hilarious. Funny. Completely silly, yet beautifully executed at the same time.Ā Take any tweet and turn it into a small display item or a set of coasters you can proudly put your beverage of choice on. These wooden gifts take tweets and make them real (kind of š).
Photo credit: Laser Tweets
Studio Neat Panobook – $57 (Set of 3)
The previously mentioned Field Notes notebooks are great to throw in your pocket (or keep in the Inateck organizer š¤) but when you need more space to write or sketch out your thoughts, the Panobook is the winner. I love the layout of this notebook and the simple touches on each page to help draw out grids, wireframes, or just write notes.
Photo credit: Studio Neat
Liberty Puzzles – $39 to $100
My friend Matt told me about these puzzles. I didn’t consider myself a big “puzzler” but once I saw the unique shapes of the puzzles pieces (look closely!) I scooped one up. Safe to say, Liberty Puzzles are oneĀ of the most unique giftsĀ out there, especially if you have them make a custom puzzle based on your own photo. Be warned: These puzzles are difficult!
Photo credit: Liberty Puzzles
Studio Neat Material Dock – $50 (pictured) or $70
When Tom and Dan from StudioNeat announced the “Material Dock,” I purchased the iPhone version ($45) immediately. Itās kind of like a home for your iPhone, where it can stay warm (charged) and be in a permanent state of reclined relaxation for your viewing pleasure. They now have a version with wireless charging AND iPhone + Apple Watch charging. Honestly though, you can’t go wrong with any product from Studio Neat.
Photo credit: Studio Neat
Dodecal Wooden Desk Calendar – $100 (Ā£79)
Look at this sexy beast! I stumbled across this fun “desk calendar” on Instagram. So fun. So cool. A great alternative to a standard paper calendar that lays on your desk (or hangs on your wall).
Photo credit: Dodecal
Productivity Gifts For Entrepreneurs
Action Journal/Notebook – $10-20
Yes, yet another notebook/journal. Where the Action Journal products are different from standard journals is they give you a format for taking notes and then taking action on those notes. Now all those hair-brained ideas can actually turn into real businesses!
Photo credit: Dave Emmitt
Hourglasses 60/5 Minute – $25
I wanted a productivity tool I could hold in my hands that wasnāt an app on my phone or computer (letās face it, productivity doesnāt happen online). These hourglasses are super affordable, look great, and help get things done.
Photo credit: Amazon
Fitbit Inspire HR – $165
There are SOOO many wearable devices to choose from and I’ve tried almost all of them. The Fitbit Inspire HR packs the most powerful punch, at an unobtrusive size, has great battery life, and Fitbit’s app is really well done. For under $100, this little device will up your productivity with reminders to move, drink water, and get some exercise.
Photo credit: iMore
Kindle Paperwhite – $159
I know, the Kindle is not a super-unique gift, but hear me out: Reading books has definitely made me a more productive person. Having all of my books stored in a device that fits in my back pocket is hard to beat. There are multiple versions of the Kindle, just get this one. Iāve done the research for you.
Photo credit: Amazon
Recommended Books For Entrepreneurs
The Obstacle is the Way – $10-$15
This is the book I recommend the most. To anyone. Ryan Holidayās writing will help you reframe the way you look at the tough moments in your life or business. A must read for entrepreneurs.
Rework – $12-$15
Iāve read Rework more than any book I own. Itās the best business book Iāve ever read. I go back to it constantly for inspiration and real-talk about running a business.
The Crossroads of Should and Must – $9-$10
Elle Luna’s book was born out of a popular article she shared a few years ago. Not only is the book full of great content to read, it’s also full of beautiful artwork too.
Essentialism – $12-$15
The last of the nonfiction recommendations. Essentialism is a principle that can be applied to life and business. Read this book or buy it for an entrepreneur, you wonāt be disappointed.
The Circle – $10-$20
One of two fiction books I couldnāt put down in the past few years. The Circle is coming out as a major motion picture in 2017 starring Tom Hanks and lots of other important actors. Read the book though, itās really goodĀ and eye-opening.
Dark Matter – $12-17
Many of you reading this list may have heard of Blake Crouch or his first successful book Wayward Pines. I hadnāt. I started my Crouch author experience with Dark Matter and am happy I did. A fun read with a few good twists and turns.
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Offscreen MagazineĀ – $20 per month
Iāve heard nothing but rave reviews of the quality and craftsmanship of Offscreen magazine. Support the good folks behind Offscreen and share the gift of unique entrepreneurial stories.
Gifts for the Audiophile Entrepreneurs
Amazon Echo Speaker – $25 (and up)
The Amazon EchoĀ has solid quality for a small portable-ish speaker (it is wired) and is loud enough for nearly any office or living room. Alexa, much like Apple’s Siri, does a decentĀ job with her voice activated robot duties. The Amazon Echo Dot is the smaller option, but know that it needs to be paired with another speaker to have quality sound.
Photo credit: Techcrunch
Rode Smartlav Lavalier Microphone – $80
If you or an entrepreneur in your life needs to record audio for interviews, a podcast, or other things they want to create, this $80 lavalier (lav) microphone is a steal. Itās the best microphone to start with if you want great audio for an affordable price.
Photo credit: DanOnline
Apple Airpods with Charging CaseĀ – $130
I 100% do not know how I lived life as a human being before AirPods. They are truly one of the best inventions of our time and my wife Caroline and I find ourselves wearing them from sun up to sun down (š¤ we don’t find out in 20 years they killed brain cells). I recommend these standard AirPods over the AirPods Pro. The Pros just never fit my ears correctly, no matter how hard I tried š¤·š»āāļø.
Photo credit: Engadget
Bose QuietComfort 45 Noise Canceling Headphones – $279
Stepping up from AirPods, if youāre looking for the best bang for your buck when it comes toĀ noise canceling headphones, Bose has you covered. For the frequent traveler, these are a must. Personally, I’d save the $100 and go with the slightly older model shown here.
Photo credit: Pocket Lint
VideoĀ Related Gifts For Entrepreneurs
Google Chromecast with Google TV – $49
This is a great alternative to the Apple TV if you aren’t going that route. Chromecast gives you a simple way to watch things on your TV from your laptop, or get access to certain apps directly on your TV. You canāt go wrong with this affordable little gadget from Google.
Photo credit: Gizmodo
SwitchPod Tripod – $99
Full disclosure, I am good friends with the creators of the SwitchPod but that has no bearing on this recommendation. I happily backed this project on Kickstarter and have used and loved this minimal, versatile tripod ever since. The “Gorilla Pod” was always the go-to handheld tripod but I definitely prefer the design and functionality of the SwitchPod. This is a great gift for any budding video creator in your life!
Photo credit: SwitchPod
Apple TV – $149 (and up)
The newest generation of Apple TV is fantastic. Iāve owned each iteration, and the newest version is a huge step up in experience and usability. I find Siri to be worthless on my phone, iPad, or laptop, but fairly useful with Apple TV. Iāve completely replaced my cable subscription thanks to all the apps available on Apple TV.
Photo credit: Tested YouTube Channel
Nintendo Switch – $389
We cannot say ENOUGH good things about the Nintendo Switch! It had been years since we played a video game and when the Switch came out, we gave it a go and are soooo glad we did. Hours and hours of fun and you can pack it up and take it with you. Game recs from us: Zelda Breath of the Wild, Mario Odyssey, Mario 35, Overcooked (1 and 2), and You Don’t Know Jack.
Photo credit: Alvaro Reyes
Apparel Gifts For Entrepreneurs
Foot Cardigan Sock Subscription – $12.99/month (and up)
Most people own boring socks. Why? Step up your sock game, and do it with some pizzazz. Plus, with a name like Foot Cardigan, they canāt be wrong about their choices for your feet.
Photo credit: Foot Cardigan
Any T-Shirt from Cotton Bureau – $25ish
This is my go-to for new t-shirts. I have a rotation of 8-12 t-shirts and when I wear through one, I order something new and support an artist on Cotton Bureau.
Photo credit: Xconomy
Chunky Wool Beanie – $28-70
Every entrepreneur (and hipster) needs a good beanie. Everlane makes fantastic products at super reasonable prices. Your head (or a friend/family memberās) will thank you for buying this. Available in multiple colors and styles.
Photo credit: Everlane
Travel Necessities For Entrepreneurs
Everlane Twill Backpack – $68
Everlane is back on the list with this sleek and simple backpack. As much as I love Jansport, we all have to grow up sometime. Everlane has a bunch of other backpacks to choose from. The entrepreneur in your life will also appreciate Everlane’s transparent business philosophy (look at the bottom of any product description on their website).
Photo credit: Everlane
Herschel Novel Duffle Bag – $90
Iām a sucker for a nice duffle bagĀ (hence why there are two in this list). Herschel makes quality products at spot-on prices. This style of duffle from Herschel comes in 30+ styles! Youāll be happen with any product from Herschel.
Photo credit: Herschel
Minaal Carry-On Bag – $299
If you forced me to pick ONE item on this entire list of gifts, I would pick the Minaal Carry-On. It wins, hands-down, the best travel bag Iāve ever owned. Itās extremely versatile and the perfect size bag for people who travel lightly.
Photo credit: Minaal
Everyday Carry Gift Items For Entrepreneurs
Carabiner Cap Lifter – $10
Hello stocking stuffer! Simple. TSA friendly. A great little tool at a fantastic price. You can’t beat having one of these in your backpack or your organizer pouch.
Photo credit: Leatherman
Pocket Tripod – Starts at $19
I recently pre-ordered this compact tripod. I havenāt received it yet, but the idea of it alone was worth sharing on this list. If it lives up to half its potential, itās well worth itās weight in rose gold. Available for iPhone and Android devices.
Photo credit: Pocket Tripod
Peel iPhone Case – $25
The best minimal case you can nestle your phone into. The folks at Peel now make cases for more than just iPhones too! The guys from Need/Want make great products, and the Peel case lives up to their high standards. Available for most iPhones and some iPads.
Photo credit: Peel
Tile Mate – Starts at $25
Luckily, Iām not someone who misplaces things (call it a tad obsessive, fine, but I donāt lose stuff, ever). If you or someone you know is frequent losing their keys or just wants a way to keep track of important items, the Tile Mate is a great gift.
Photo credit: Digital Trends
Minimal Wallet – $20
I absolutely hate the idea of a clunky wallet filling up a pocket in my shorts or pants. Thread Wallets come in 31+ different styles and if you’re a person who has too many cards, consider getting one main wallet that has the essential cards and a second wallet you keep in your car with all the other cards you never use š.
Photo credit: Thread Wallets
Black Oxide Keyring – $39
Taking the keyring from flimsy and boring to high quality and cool. Not only does it look great, but it also doubles as a bottle opener. Available in other colors and finishes.Ā
Photo credit: Grovemade
Misc Goods Co Ceramic Flask – $98
You can’t go wrong with a well-crafted flask. While metal is the go-to for flasks, the folks at Misc Goods Co wanted flasks to feel more hand-crafted. Gorgeous to look at and the perfect accompaniment to any home bar setup (if that’s your jam).Ā Also, their unique playing cards and good smelling items are solid gift options too!
Photo credit: Misc Goods Co
Every Entrepreneur Needs Coffee Gifts (because, coffee)
Trade Coffee Subscription – $12.50 start
Coffee subscriptions are a dime a dozen these days but Trade Coffee does a good job of mixing it up! There’s a ton of variety and they’re supporting multiple roasters around the world. Feed your coffee addiction monthly after taking their short coffee matching quiz. Oh, and if you want to support BIPOC Coffee Roasters I found a great list and have purchased from a few biz owners there too!
Photo credit: Trade Coffee
Stagg XF Pour Over Set – $99
This is my daily pour over āļø coffee setup. I’ve been using it for over three years and cannot say enough good things. There used to be other coffee-making setups on this list (Chemex) but those have been removed because the Stagg XF is superior and priced extremely well!
Photo credit: Fellow Products
Stagg Pour Over Kettle – $79-149
The sexiest kettle youāll ever find. In matte black and chrome, this thing is simplyĀ the most beautiful way to pour hot water over coffee grounds. It comes in multiple models and I own the EKG model which has Bluetooth and can be controlled via your iPhone (fannnncy!)
Photo credit: Frontsf.com
Oxo Burr Grinder – $195
Speaking of better coffee, grind your beans yourself people (and do it right before you make your coffee). Yes, this grinder isn’tĀ cheap, but it has a built-in scale and grinds your beans to absolute perfection.
Photo credit: Oxo
Not-Physical-Goods Gifts For Entrepreneurs
Donate to their favorite charity or cause!
Everyone has a favorite charity or non-profit. Make a donation in their name and wrap a note about the donation.
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And that wraps it up! Hope youāve enjoyed this gift guide for entrepreneurs.
