At this time of year, everybody’s hunting for that perfect gift, the one that says, “I see you,” without you having to say a word. And if you’re anything like me, you’d rather spend your dollars with people who are creating something meaningful, building something local, or putting real care into what they offer.
So think of this as my holiday “things I love” list, Oprah style, but Madison and beyond, Selfless Way flavored. These are businesses and products I support, enjoy, and think you should check out for Christmas gifts, host gifts, or just because you want to bless somebody (including yourself).
1. Lindsay Letters (Sun Prairie)
If you’re the kind of person who loves art with heart, art that feels like warmth on the wall, Lindsay Letters is for you. They create pieces that are creative, soulful, and made for seasons like this. It’s the kind of gift that doesn’t just decorate a home, it sets a tone. Especially around the holidays, when you want your space to feel like hope, joy, and family.
Check out their holiday best sellers here: https://lindsayletters.co/collections/10-best-selling-holiday-pieces
2. Visage Life (Madison)
I love when people see a need and decide to build a solution, not just for profit, but for people. Spencer Johnson is a Madison barber who took that leap. He didn’t just want to cut hair, he wanted to help clients take care of the skin they’re in too.
Visage Life is science-backed skincare made with intention. It’s practical, it’s thoughtful, and it’s the kind of self care gift that says, “You matter.” Whether you’re shopping for someone who’s already into skincare or someone who needs a gentle push toward taking better care of themselves, this is a solid place to start.
Learn more here: http://www.visagelife.com
3. Books by Local Authors
If you know me, you know I’m always cheering for local voices. Especially the ones who write from experience, not just theory. Books are one of the best gifts because they keep giving long after the wrapping paper is gone. Here are three worth your time:
Wisest Learners: Guiding Your Child’s Athletic Journey, Alex Compton (co author)
Alex Compton is a Madison basketball legend and Wisconsin Basketball Hall of Famer, but this book isn’t about living in the glory days. It’s about helping the next generation walk through their days with confidence, health, and perspective.
Wisest Learners is an award winning guide for parents navigating youth sports, the highs, the lows, the pressure, the joy, and everything in between. What I appreciate is how grounded it is. It doesn’t just talk about raising athletes, it talks about raising whole people. It’s practical, encouraging, and a really great read for parents who want to support their kids the right way.
Info here: https://wisestlearnersathletes.com/
The Audacity to Lead, Michael Johnson
Some leadership books teach you how to level up. This one teaches you how to live right on the way up.
Michael Johnson, CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Dane County, shares real stories from a real journey, from Chicago public housing to nationally recognized nonprofit leadership. The Audacity to Lead is honest, human, and full of hard earned wisdom about resilience, purpose, and the kind of love that shapes a leader. You don’t have to be a CEO to benefit from this book. If you’re trying to lead a family, a team, a classroom, a business, or even your own life with integrity, this one will meet you where you are.
Learn more here: https://www.mjohnsonceo.com/portfolio-collections/pete-the-store-owner-and-mentor-with-his-wife
The Kairos Code, Josh Kosnick
This book is for anybody who knows what it feels like to be strong on the outside but tired on the inside.
Josh Kosnick doesn’t write like someone trying to impress you. He writes like someone who’s been through it and came out the other side with something worth sharing. The Kairos Code tells the story of a high performing leader whose life unraveled, and how he rebuilt it with honesty and faith. The “5 Bridges of Kairos” framework he lays out is about more than recovery, it’s about reclaiming purpose and becoming whole again.
If you’re looking for a gift that could quietly change someone’s direction in 2026, put this on the list.
Info here: https://www.joshkosnick.com/
4. Chippy’s Popcorn (Beaver Dam)
Let me put you on to one of my favorites in the entire state. Chippy’s Popcorn is a small business with big love in what they do. You can taste the care. You can feel the creativity. It’s popcorn, but it’s also joy in a bag.
And if you don’t know what to get, start with the Churro Puffs. Trust me. This is a perfect holiday gift, teachers, coworkers, family, party hosts, it never misses.
Shop here: https://chippyspopcorn.com
5. Rasta Barista (Madison)
If coffee is your love language, Rasta Barista is a must. Located in the HUB on Madison’s South Side, it’s the type of place that feels like community the minute you walk in. The aroma hits you first, freshly roasted Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee, roasted in house so every cup stays bold and alive.
And it’s not just coffee. Their food menu is legit too. If you go, do yourself a favor and try the wings. You’ll understand why I’m smiling right now.
Check them out: https://www.rastabarista.com
The holiday season has a way of reminding us what matters. And one of the simplest ways we can live selflessly is by being intentional with what we support, choosing gifts that carry meaning, choosing businesses that carry vision, choosing local when local is doing it right.
So if you’re still building your list, start here. And if you try any of these, I hope they bless you the way they’ve blessed me.
From my family to yours, merry Christmas, happy holidays, and may your season be full of good people, good gifts, and the kind of joy that lasts past December.
