Issue 55: Local Treasures and a Little Holiday Magic
Unique finds for every lifestyle enthusiast + a calendar of Guam’s must-visit pop-ups & holiday events!
Hi Friends!
We hope your Thanksgiving was filled with love, laughter, and plenty of good eats. With the holidays now in full swing, it’s time to tackle that gift list. But instead of defaulting to the big-box stores (ok we do have some links to amazon 😅), why not explore gifts that tell a story and support local.
We’re flipping the script on the traditional gift guide with thoughtful picks for every kind of enthusiast in your life. Like any good tribute heading into the arena (or, in our case, the holiday shopping season), preparation is key. Whether you’re tackling Black Friday or venturing to Guam’s local pop-ups, may the odds be ever in your favor.
Let’s make this holiday season less about the rush and more about the joy of discovering something meaningful
💝Happy holidays and happy gifting,
Marissa and Akina
Gift Inspiration for Every Kind of Lifestyle
🏠For the Homebodies
Velani Jewelry
We love Velani Jewelry for its timeless, gold-filled pieces that elevate everyday wear. Now, with the launch of Velani Essentials, the brand introduces a high-end home decor line that combines beauty, sustainability, and versatility—perfect for gifting or enhancing your own space.
Our Top Picks from Velani Essentials:
🕯️Banana Bread Candle: Made with coconut wax, these candles are free from harmful chemicals, parabens, and phthalates, ensuring a clean burn. This scent is a personal fave because it makes my house smell like fresh-baked banana bread without the baking and the mess! Available in:
Big Glass: $14 (Approx. 120g/4.23oz)
Small Tin: $9 (Approx. 60g/2.12oz)
Wax Melts: $9 (Approx. 60g/2.12oz)
All options are refillable at a discounted price, offering a sustainable way to keep your space cozy and fragrant. Also available in other scents and are housed in elegant glass jars with wooden lids that can be engraved with a customizable message—perfect for adding a personal touch to your gift.
Jesmonite Multi-purpose Dishes: These stunning dishes, crafted from Jesmonite, are eco-friendly, water- and fire-resistant, and perfect for home decor. Use them as jewelry trays, candle holders, or statement pieces for your space. Available in:
Star Design: $24
Seashell Design: $49–$59 (depending on size)
Velani Essentials also offers a variety of Jesmonite decor pieces, ranging from $12 to $79, making it easy to find something for every taste and budget.
Powder Candles: A unique, non-toxic way to enjoy candles! These innovative powder candles can be customized with your favorite essential oils, allowing you to create a personalized, chemical-free scent experience. Pair them with Velani’s Jesmonite dishes for the ultimate home decor duo.
Velani Essentials is where luxury meets sustainability, offering thoughtfully designed products that are as beautiful as they are eco-conscious. Whether you’re shopping for gifts or sprucing up your own home, this collection is sure to impress. You can catch Velani at the upcoming pop-ups, DM her on IG, or order on her website.
The Salt + Light Home
More than just a design studio and home furnishings store—it’s a space dedicated to inspiring beautiful and intentional living. With thoughtfully curated pieces and a commitment to creating positive, memorable experiences, they transform every visit into a journey as unique and meaningful as the spaces they design.
Why we love them? The Salt + Light Home designs feel like home. From their cozy yet elegant room sprays to small accessories like bookends, vases, and decor, every piece is chosen to help you create a space that reflects your values and style. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or finding the perfect gift, their collection radiates warmth and purpose.
Don’t Miss This: Their Black Friday Sale continues through Saturday, November 30, with up to 45% off storewide—an amazing opportunity to refresh your space or pick up timeless pieces for the holidays.
Visit them at:
📍922 S Marine Corps Dr, Suite C-201, Tamuning, 96913, Guam
Hours of Operation:
Monday–Friday: 10 AM–5 PM
Saturday: 9 AM–6 PM
Shop their collection in-store or explore more at their IG or at thesaltandlighthome.com.
📚Book Lovers
Don’t forget to check out our last issue featuring Marissa’s book recommendations! It’s packed with curated reads perfect for cozy nights or gifting to the literature lovers in your life.
Our curated list is growing, and by shopping through our Bookshop.org storefront, you’re not only supporting Week to Weekend but also helping Bookshop’s mission to keep local bookstores thriving. It’s a win-win for readers and indie bookshops alike!
Start your literary gifting with us and support a great cause along the way.
🍳For the Foodies
Diaspora Co. Single-Origin Spices
Diaspora Co. is redefining what it means to cook with spices. Founded with the mission of decolonizing the spice trade, they work directly with small, regenerative farms across South Asia to bring single-origin, sustainably grown spices to your kitchen. What sets Diaspora Co. apart is their commitment to fair trade and transparency—each jar of spice not only guarantees vibrant flavors but also ensures farmers are paid equitably for their work.
Why We Love Them
Their spices are bold, fresh, and unlike anything you’ll find on your typical grocery store shelves. But it’s not just about the product—it’s about the story and impact. By purchasing their spices, you’re supporting small-scale farmers who use traditional and regenerative practices, helping to preserve agricultural heritage while promoting sustainability.
Product Offerings
Diaspora Co. has an expansive selection of single-origin spices, perfect for home cooks, foodies, and professional chefs alike. Each variety is harvested at peak potency, giving you an unmatched flavor experience. Some highlights include:
Aranya Black Pepper is grown in Kerala, this pepper is bright and citrusy, perfect for everything from seasoning meats to finishing a pasta dish.
Pragati Turmeric is known for its deep orange hue and bold flavor, this turmeric is a powerhouse in both taste and health benefits.
Kashmiri Saffron is handpicked from fields in Pampore, this luxurious saffron adds depth and a subtle floral note to both sweet and savory dishes.
Guntur Sannam Chiles: Smoky, spicy, and versatile, these chiles are ideal for adding a kick to curries or chili oils.
They also offer curated gift sets and spice blends like the Chaat Masala and Garam Masala, which make thoughtful presents for food lovers or an easy way to explore South Asian flavors.
Check out their full collection at Diaspora Co.’s website and taste the difference of fresh, ethically sourced spices.
🍔Foodie Gadgets and Gizmos
Kusini Fondue Electric Pot Set is perfect to gather company for dips and giggles.
All-in-1 Vegetable Chopper saves time, money, fingers, and one’s dignity.
Gardon Food Warming Mat keeps dishes warm, just like Grandma would.
Every foodie needs a Restaurant Review Journal in case Yelp crashes.
☀️For the Outdoor Adventurers
Best Tracks on Guam
This waterproof book by Dave and Bev Lots is all you need to trek through Guam’s hiking trails which includes information for beginners and experienced hikers alike.
Outdoor Neccessities
Carhartt Deluxe Dual Compartment Insulated Lunch Cooler Bag is tough, simple, and reliable for all outdoor meals.
The LifeStraw Go Series is a must-have for your post-apocalyptic kit - or your next hike to Sigua Falls.
Pop-up Outside Picnic Mesh Food Covers is the answer to our fiesta prayers - protecting our food from uninvited guests.
🎁 Local Pop-Ups & Holiday Events
🎄Local Holiday Events
Jingle Bell 5K Run/Walk Charity Fundraiser
December 1, 2024
📍Hilton Guam Resort & Spa
5:30 AM SHOW TIME - 6:00 AM GO TIME
Gingerbread Housewarming & Tree Lighting Ceremony
December 3, 2024
📍Hyatt Regency Guam
5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
JFK’s Music Department Presents 2nd Annual Island Echoes of Christmas
December 6, 2024
📍Agana Shopping Center
6:30 PM
Mangilao Christmas Parade and Festival
December 8, 2024
📍UOG Campus and Calvo Field House
8 AM - 8:30 PM
That’s a Wrap
Thanks for joining us as we kick off the holiday season with meaningful gift ideas, local treasures, and festive events. We hope this guide inspires joy and connection.
Don’t forget to share this issue with friends who love unique finds and supporting local. And if you’re not already subscribed, sign up now to never miss a dose of Week to Weekend magic ✨