November 15, 2023

When you use this helpful shopping guide to kick-start your holiday season, you're supporting alumni-owned businesses 

Red box of chocolates with a red bow

Share the gift of this revolutionary artisanal chocolate made from bean to bar by a dynamic duo of Pan-African sisters. Pioneered in Accra, Ghana, ’57 Chocolate is on a mission to revive Ghana’s 1957 “can-do spirit”. Co-founded by Priscilla Addison (WAG ’13).

Various sizes of olive oil bottles on bright pink and orange background

For the home-chefs and/or pro-chefs in your life, gift them the joy of high quality game-changing olive oil. Brightland makes artfully and consciously-crafted olive oils, vinegars, and honeys that infuse the everyday with a little bit of happiness. Founded by Aishwarya Iyer (GAL ’09).

Two glasses of wine and a wine bottle on a barrel with a vineyard in the background

Who doesn’t love a bottle of fine wine? Field Blend Selections is a wine import and distribution company based in New York City, serving the New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania markets. Our portfolio of wines from around the world focuses on small producers, organic/biodynamic farming practices, and minimal intervention winemaking. Founded by Amanda Miller-Burg (STERN ’10).

Young child with arms in the air in a purple costume with matching eye mask

For the little ones in your life, Bailey & Ava has a beautiful line of costumes and accessories that are handmade in Brooklyn, NY. They have something for every occasion, whether a birthday or costume party, Halloween trick-or-treating, a Broadway play and more. You'll find everything from a fierce Amazonian warrior princess to the belle of the ball. Founded by Laurena Allert (STERN ’91, ’97).

 

Sachet of sage in a decorative dish

This is perfect for the crystal and sage-lover in your life! My Little Magic Shop is a self care exploration platform, for those who have a desire to connect more deeply with their inner voice. They focus on guiding the inward journey to emotional and spiritual well being, while also providing the optional tools and a community to support and empower participants. Founded by Shereen Campbell (SPS ’04, CAS ’05).

Women on a stationary bike in a gym

Gift your fitness-minded friends and family (or indulge in a “treat-yo-self” moment) with a few spin classes at Harlem Cycle. This indoor cycling studio is pioneering a new kind of fitness community: one that values body health over body shape, high engagement over high fees, and community over competition. All with the swagger, vibe, and cultural richness of Harlem itself. Founded by Tammeca Rochester (STERN ’11).

Black women smiling with foaming face wash on her face

Skincare lovers will be so excited to try Love, Indus! They are an opulent skincare and wellness brand whose mission is to combine cutting-edge technology with the best of ancient wisdom, rich minerals, and rare botanicals from the Indian subcontinent to create powerful, sensorial offerings that address relevant, unmet consumer needs. Founded by Surbhee Grover (STERN ’04).

A man giving a women a piggy back ride in matching pink Swoveralls

They are sweats, they are overalls, and they are your new WFH uniform. Founded by Kyle Bergman (STERN ’19).

Clear holiday bulb ornament with gold band and finger print design around the middle

For the person who loves to collect unique pieces for their home, gift them an original piece from Michael Wainwright who sells his handmade houseware and kitchenware. You can order items online and receive a 20% discount using the checkout code STAYING HOME. Founded by Michael S. Wainwright (STEINHARDT ’90).

Three women on Pilates machines in a workout studio

Book a class or two for a friend at Pilates on Ludlow! They are a boutique Pilates reformer studio located on the Lower East Side near Essex Market. With small group classes of up to five, our reformer-certified instructors are able to give you more individualized attention. Use NYU10 for a discount. Founded by Janet Basilone (STERN ’87).

Gift boxes wrapped in silver and gold paper

Still unsure what to get friends and family this year? Let Gift Fairy do the work for you. Gift Fairy helps you find the perfect gift, streamlining thoughtful gift-giving. All orders are beautifully wrapped and paired with a handwritten card. Plus, NYU alumni receive 15% off with promo code VIOLET15. Founded by Dhara Vyas (GAL ’14).


Did you know that you can find over 600 NYU alumni-owned businesses in our NYU Alumni-Owned Business Directory? From retail to hospitality to health and wellness, this directory includes alumni-owned businesses across more than 20 different categories. Browse the alumni-owned business directory or submit your own business