Move over kids-this gift guide's for grown ups!

the good life

Welcome to the 2012 Ayurvega Holiday Gift Guide. We've rounded up a plethora of gift ideas that are eco-friendly, sustainable and plant-based, so that you can do your gift giving without guilt.

Everything included in the guide is designed with sustainability in mind. Nothing listed is tested on animals or contains animal products. Many of the products are organic, made from recycled materials, and/or are recyclable. It doesn't get much greener than that.

Part of the Ayurvega sensibility is creating an earth-friendly life with style. To that end, we've included gifts in every price point, with a special section dedicated to luxury items. Even if you're not interested in purchasing such an item, it's great to see the range of products and services available for our community.

I hope you enjoy the publication we've created and that you find the perfect gift for someone special in your life...maybe even you. Have a look at what we've found-no doubt you'll enjoy the list as much as we do.

Happy Holidays!

IlenaCreator, Ayurvega.com (Facebook | Twitter)

What’s Inside The Nice..................................3 The Naughty.............................4 The Fashionista..........................5 The Gentle Man........................6 The Companions.......................7 The Foodie..............................9 The Connoisseur.......................10

New Age LUXE

The Jet Setters........................13 The Savant.............................14 The Maven.............................15 The Sophisticate......................16 The Provocateur......................17 The Nostalgic.........................18 Piece de Resistance...................19

10

19

06

The Nice

CRAZY RUMORS LIP BALM

Stuff their stockings with something sweet. They'll love you for it!

$13.50 and up per 4-pk | Crazy Rumors

A LUSH GIFT

Lush gift sets are always a hit with the squeaky clean! The company offers a wide range of body care products made from natural, primarily organic ingredients. The bulk of the product line is vegan,and items that are not will be clearly marked, making it easy to shop for the veg in your life.

Gift sets come in every price range from stocking stuffer to luxury. We suggest springing for one that includes Dream Cream. It's sure to be a winner—it's the company's top selling product worldwide.

Pictured: You're a Star gift set, $74.95$13.95 and up | Lushusa.com

SPONSOR AN ANIMALPAWS- Pet Animal Welfare Society

There are lots of animals in need year-round. PAWS does its part to give shelter and medical attention to injured, abused and homeless animals.

A great gift for the animal-loving giftee is an animal sponsorship in his or her name. The donations fund the care or rehabilitation necessary for each creature's survival. At any given time, there are all sorts of animals to choose, from the domestic to the exotic.

$35 and up | PAWS.org

THE VEGAN BOXConscious Box

Give the gift that keeps coming for months! Sign your sweet vegan up for a three or six-month subscription to the Conscious Box service. Each month, she'll receive an assortment of different plant-based products to try. Each box is a surprise and includes products from great companies like Vega, Glee Gum & AuraCacia essential oils.

Each package arrives in a recycled box that is 100% earth-friendly- the ink is vegetable based and the box is created in a wind-powered plant.

$57 for 3 months, $112 for 6 months including shipping | ConsciousBox

The V List • Holiday 2012

SIR RICHARD'S CONDOMSAVA certified. PETA approved.

With a tagline like “Doing good never felt better,” what's not to like?

These condoms are cruelty-free, free of common irritants (for the ladies), and exceed FDA regs. for effectiveness. What makes them even better? For every condom you purchase, the company donates one to a developing country.

There are four different style to choose from (Ultra Thin, Classic Ribbed, Pleasure Dots, & Extra Large), and the classic plaid packaging is a bit more appealing than some other brands.

$13.99 per 12pk, or sign up for their subscription service (for the more active among us) | Sir Richard'sAvailable at your local health food store.

BLOSSOM ORGANICSAll-Natural Lubricant

100% free of harsh chemicals, Blossom is an organic, water-based personal lubricant. The product is glycerin-free and latex-friendly (see Sir Richard's above).

$12,may vary locally | Amazon Available in-store at

Walgreen's.

LEAF Personal Luxury Massager

Eco-friendly, natural pleasure. The Leaf is enjoying a huge buzz in the plant-based and eco communities right now. The seamless designs are made of body-safe silicone and fully submersible- if you're interested in underwater use.

Each comes housed in reusable, recycled packaging for discreet and conscientious delivery.

There are six options in the Leaf collection. Life (pictured) is the original, and is designed to fit the palm of your hand. Other styles are the Bloom --shaped like a flower bud, Vitality, Fresh, Spirit and Touch.

$120-$140 per unit, depending on model of choice.Available direct through the Leaf website or at drugstore.com.

Did You Know?

Most condoms are not vegan. Nearly all traditional brands contain casein, a milk derivative.

The Naughty

The V List • Holiday 2012

1 THE DAMONThe Damon is a great utilitarian satchel, large enough to be functional and without appearing gaudy. Carry it on the go for work and move into dinner and drinks while remaining stylish. The bag is 100% cruelty free, and the inner lining is made of recycled nylon. Give this to the girl who wants to make being environmentally conscious look effortless.

$135 | Matt&Nat, or check their store locator

2 ZINC RING HOLDERThink outside the (jewelry) box. This Zinc holder from CB2 is the perfect place for those who tend to slip rings off and misplace them. The chrome finish adds just the right amount of bling to be put on display.

$7.95 | In store or at CB2.com

3 THE UMA BOOTIEWe rarely see vegan shoes and instantly fall in love. This time it's for real. Cri de Coeur's Uma captures everything we love about a great shoe: it's sleek, stylish, and made from great materials.

The ultra-suede and faux leather are excellent, and the au courant ethical woman is sure to love the overall styling. Pair them with with The Abigail for a combination she'll adore.

$150 | Cri de Coeur's online boutique

4 THE ABIGAILVegan style, with an edge. This vegan leather biker jacket pairs well with boots and jeans on a brisk fall evening. It's stylish enough for the trendiest among us,and compassionate enough for all. Though the company's based in Australia, they ship free worldwide. How tasteful...and considerate.

$149 | JamesandCo.com

5 PALISADES PONCHOThis long-sleeve beauty by Threads4Thought is a great versatile wrap for layering over winter tops. Made from 60% organic cotton & 40% modal, the piece is both stylish and sustainable.

$60 | Threads4Thought Check the Store Locator

6 GREY FAUX CHINCHILLA SCARF:See below

1

2

45

6

3

The Fashionista

The V List • Holiday 2012

3 VEGAN BODYBUILDING & FITNESS

Never again will anyone ask, “But, where do you get your protein?”

Robert Cheeke created an excellent resource for fitness enthusiasts with his book. He details his own experience of going from 90-lb. weakling (pre-vegetarian) to hunk of burning love and award-winning bodybuilder. The tips he gives are backed up by sound nutritional information and clear anecdotal evidence. In addition to nutrition info, he includes training schedules that will steer those just starting out in the right direction.

The best defense against naysayers is a good offense, and Robert advocates the “living proof” model. So do we. Highly recommended.

$14 | Robert Cheeke via Amazon

4 BLUE MOON BEER SOAPDomestic Love

Want to give the gents on your list a gift that will make them feel manly without harming themselves or others? Beer soap is perfect. Preservative and synthetic-free, the inclusion of beer makes this a moisturizing option for even the roughest of ethical men.

$5 per bar | Domestic Love on Etsy.com

1 JAAN J. LUXURY TIES

There's little dispute among women that a man in a suit & tie is sexy. Even so, few of us give much thought to the materials used to create this staple of the male wardrobe. Most high-quality men's ties are made of silk, which isn't a vegan/sustainable material. Enter Jaan J.

The company offers timeless neck pieces in an array of colors. Though they're designed to flow and feel like silk, the ties are actually satin, and animal product free. Choose from the traditional cut or skinny, depending on your gentleman's taste. Be sure to check out the customization options for tipping color.

In addition to ties, the company offers a variety of men's accessories including ascots and cuff links for the dapper fellow.

$33.50 and up | Jaan J. online store

2 ORGANIC GROOMING BODY CARE COLLECTION

A man's skin needs love, too! With the personal care industry full of synthetic chemicals and additives, giving your favorite guy a healthier alternative may be the best thing your ever do for him (gift-wise, of course). Made from all-natural ingredients, Herban Cowboy products are growing in popularity across the board. All Organic Grooming products are synthetic-free, and come in recyclable packaging.

The company has nationwide distribution, so when he runs out of his new favorite, he can pick up more from his local store.

A man who looks & smells great while caring for the environment? Now that's sexy.

$37.99 for the four piece gift set | ShopOrganic Price may vary locally.

1

3

2

The Gentle Man

The V List • Holiday 20124

1 V-DOG FOOD

There's still some controversy surrounding the subject of a vegan diet for pets. For those who embrace the idea, V-Dog food is a popular alternative. It is soy, gluten, corn & GMO-free, a welcome thought for those whode pets have sensitivities. The formulation is veterinarian approved, and meets and exceeds AAFCO requirements for an adult dog food.

$39 for a 20-lb bag | V-Dog

2 PETFUSION CAT SCRATCHER LOUNGE

Finally, a cat scratcher the recipient won't be embarrassed about when friends come over. The PetFusion Cat Scratcher Deluxe sports a simple, modern design that will easily fit with most decor. It's reversible, and made of corrugated cardboard,making it both eco-friendly and economical.

$49.95 | PetFusion via Amazon

6 GREY CHINCHILLA FAUX FUR SCARFEveryone from Sarah Jessica Parker to Angie Harmon has sported and supported Imposter designs. The founder's creations are inspired by animals and intended for their protection. 10% of all online sales are donated to the charity of the purchaser's choice (PAWS, featured in this publication, is included).

Given the divisive nature of faux fur among the plant-based/animal rights communities, this is one gift we suggest confirming with the recipient prior to purchase.

$139.95 | Imposter4Animals

3 RECYCLEBONE CHEW TOY

PlanetDog RecycleBones are made from excess production material that would otherwise go to waste in a landfill. Durable and safe, we recommend these for medium-sized dogs.

$9.50 | Planet Dog

4 ECO-FISH TOY (cats)

Filled with 100% organic catnip, this toy is completely safe for your favorite kitten.

$8.00 | West Paw Design

1

2

3 4

The Companions

The V List • Holiday 2012

Share your holiday cheer with someone in need of our most vital resource. 100% of what you give goes

directly toward providing people clean water.

Sign up to give now:

http://CharityWater.org

CHLOE'S KITCHEN

She's vegan. She won Cupcake Wars-as a vegan. What more do you need to know? Seriously though, we love Chloe for making vegan food more accessible to the home cook who isn'i interested in searching the world over for 40 ingredients just to make dinner.

Check out her website for some free recipes, and give a copy of her debut cookbook to someone you love (maybe even yourself).

$12 | Amazon

“It's not a blender; it's a VITA-MIX.”

This machine is beyond a hit in the healthy/vegan/raw communities-it's the standard. If someone you know is in the market for a high-powered, long-lasting blender, the Vita-Mix tops the list. Consider it an investment.

$379 and up | Amazon

DIY MUSHROOM KIT

Even if your giftee isn't a green thumb, he can grow his own oyster mushrooms with this kit!

The soil is recycled coffee grounds, & the whole process takes less than 2 weeks from crop to harvest.

$19.95 | Backtotheroots.com

VEGAN TRUFFLE GIFT BOX

“If you can't find the words, say it with chocolate.”

Lovers of the dark elixir find themselves deprived when first becoming vegan due to one ingredient that is nearly ubiquitous in American chocolate: milk. The second worst offender? Egg whites . Imagine the pleasure that a gift of gourmet, vegan truffles will give the chocolate lover on your list. If she's gluten-free, not to worry...Chocolate Decadence has you covered.

We recommend the classic Vegan Truffle Collection, 12 assorted chocolates selected for your recipient. If allergies aren't a concern, the Nuts & Caramels Collection is another fine choice.

$24.95 and up | Chocolate Decadence via Amazon

The Foodie

The V List • Holiday 2012

ORGANIC MASALA CHAI TEA

For a different type of connoisseur. Good, artisan crafted chai tea is an experience to behold. Because of the heavy spice content, the best blends come whole to maintain freshness. With a touch of almond milk, a warm cup is the ideal defense on a gray evening.

$9.95 for four ounces | MightyLeaf.com

CAVI-ARTPlant Based Foods

It is now officially true that anything can be veganized. Cavi-Art is a plant-based substitute for caviar created in Denmark. Apparently, the discovery was a happy accident by Jens Moller during an experiment to show his children how seaweed catches enzymes. There are five flavors suitable for vegans and vegetarians: Black, Red and Yellow Lumpfish, Wasabi and Ginger. A glass of Prosecco or Cava with this on a toast point could lead to high times.

We suggest this gift for a foodie with an adventurous palate, as those who never had caviar as omnivores might not see its appeal.

$8.99 per 3.5 oz jar | Amazon $20 for 3-jar gift set | VeganCuts

HENNESSY V.S LIMITED EDITION by Futura

Hennessy, the world’s number one selling cognac, needs little to no introduction. For the gentlemen among us, and the ladies that enjoy a good French Connection, this spirit is likely already a staple.

This year the company partnered with legendary graffiti/street artist Futura to design a limited-edition bottle that honors the classic while adding an aesthetic twist for the modern fan.

According to Barnivore, Hennessy is verified vegan-friendly. Pick up a limited edition bottle from your local retailer, and help your favorite vegan make a night of it.

Price varies according to location.Available worldwide at local spirits retailers

The Connoisseur

DIVINE DUO OLIVE OIL GIFT SET

Every kitchen needs a good extra virgin. Grab two for a friend with the Divine Duo. It offers classic EVOO and a heavenly lemon infused oil that's fabulous for making vinaigrette.

The producers use the 'agrumato' method to make their infused creation – the lemons are pressed together with the olives. The set comes housed in a cardboard package, and each container is made of 57% recycled material. Tasty and Earth-friendly? Yes, please!

$19.95 | Nudo-Italia.com

The V List • Holiday 2012

THE VEGAN VINEClos LaChance Winery

Based in California (naturally), and part owned by former NBA player and well-known vegan advocate John Salley, The Vegan Vine crafts 100% animal-free libations in three different varietals and one blend. According to a recent write-up in Wine Spectator, the wine is fined and filtered with clay, thereby avoiding the use of animal products such as isinglass.

The vineyard reintroduces their grape skins and water back into the soil, providing nutrients from compostable materials and reducing waste.

Consider the Cabernet Sauvignon a gift perfect for the season. With a price tag under $20, you can share a few bottle with your hosts as you make the holiday rounds.

$14-$18 per bottle, depending on varietal |The Vegan Vine shopCheck your state's wine shipping laws.

SPIRIT BEAUTY LOUNGE E-Gift Certificate

Still not sure what to get the ethical lady on your list? Gift cards (almost) always work. One from a well-know retailer that carries high-end, eco-friendly products? So much the better. She'll have the flexibility to choose her own gift, and the comfort of knowing that the company offers only the best in sustainability.

$10 and up | SpiritBeautyLounge.com

ECOTEX Hanging Jewelry Organizer

Made out of recycled water bottles, this hanging jewelry organizer is great for carrying all the little things that seem to get misplaced during travel (chargers, anyone?).

With 23 compartments, there's plenty of space for the essentials-lots of accessories-and a few extras.

Grab one in black for your eco-friendly traveler.$34.95 | Heys.ca online shop

StockingSTUFFERS

The V List • Holiday 2012

NEW AGE LUXE

A new era has begun. We have entered a time where style and social responsibility are no longer at odds. In fact, it's become expected that the most stylish among us are also the most environmentally conscious and socially aware.

This is quite the departure from decades past. In the olden days, mentioning you were a “vegan” or an “environmentalist” conjured visions of brown mush and shapeless hemp clothing in mainstream minds.

Today, a bevy of fashion forward designers and tastemaking consumers are redefining what it means to be environmentally aware.

From clothing to travel and home goods, we are now the leaders of the new school--on the cutting edge of sustainability and conscious luxury. Conventional brands are running to catch up.

In honor of the dawning age, we present the very best in luxury goods for 2012. Every piece is high-quality, sustainable, and crafted with the utmost care. More importantly, these are pieces you can give, wear and share while proudly declaring your commitment to wellness-for yourself and planet.

Join us, as we usher in the new age.

PARIS TRAVEL BAGGUNAS the Brand

For our money, nothing beats a GUNAS bag for sustainable luxury. Beautifully designed and crafted, their pieces have the look and feel of heirloom bags that will be carried for many years to come. From sleek exterior materials to custom hardware, GUNAS bags are equally as luxurious as their less environmentally conscious counterparts.

We recommend the Paris in gunmetal for your high-flying vegan. It's the classic duffel style and perfectly sized for carry-on. The universally stylish design makes it a great gift for the lady or gent of your choice.

$450 | GUNAS online boutique

FELIX WEEKENDERDeux Lux

Commissioned by Oprah after O readers flipped for the original, this duffel is perfect for the girl that sparkles inside & out.

It's the classic duffel, making it ideal for that spur of the moment weekend away. The bag comes in a gorgeous peach, with an easy-clean satin polyester lining, so a little blush won't hurt it.

Oh, what about the leather, you ask? No worries-it's totally faux. In fact, the company's designs are all animal-free!

$137 | Deux Lux online boutique

THE

Jet Setters

The V List • Holiday 2012

New Age LUXE

THE PHOENIX BROGUE

NOHARM

“At first look, NOHARM's

collection of vegan men's shoes

made me smile.” -Ilena

Vegan footwear is often hit or miss. Men's styles even moreso. From the looks of it, NoHarm certainly has a hit on their hands. With designs

based on classic styles, updated for a sleek contemporary look and hand-crafted from socially responsible materials, these dress shoes top our list for the fashionable gentle man.

From product to packaging, on word comes to mind when thinking of NOHARM: detail. They've sourced great material for everything, all the way down to biodegradable boxes and eco-friendly ink.

We love the Brogues, but the wingtips and slip on loafers are equally as elegant.

$299.50 and up | NoHarm.com

Savant

THE

The V List • Holiday 2012

New Age LUXE

SOHO OVERSIZED CARRYALL

Jill Milan

For the compassionate woman who has everything, the Soho is a superb choice. Its modern, sophisticated design is comparable to designer bags from traditional couture houses. The Italian vegan leather and patent are top quality and virtually indistinguishable from their conventional counterparts.

Such a piece is an investment, to be sure. The company does offer repair services for clients who purchase directly from their website or through an authorized dealer.

Be sure to inquire about gift wrapping at the time of purchase.

A portion of Jill Milan proceeds are donated to organizations that rescue and retrain former racehorses.

$1,400 | JillMilan.com

Maven

THE

The V List • Holiday 2012

New Age LUXE

DRAPED MATT JERSEY DRESS Stella McCartney

Created by acclaimed designer Stella McCartney, this dress harkens to vintage glamour. Cut in a style similar to the famous “wiggle dress” of the 1950's, the piece gives a sense of high drama perfect for a cocktail party. New Year's Eve, perhaps?

It's sure to remain a staple in her wardrobe for years to come.

$1,175 709 | StellaMcCartney.com

Sophisticate

THE

The V List • Holiday 2012

New Age LUXE

DISTEND JACKET VPL by Victoria Bartlett

“This vegan leather and faux fur piece conjures visions of stylish vegans in post-apocalyptic Manhattan.”

Crafted in classic black, the Distend will pair well with the sleek lines of skinny jeans and the Cri de Coeur Uma booties feature above.

Its draped front collar supplies delicious contrast to the more geometrically tailed back hem. The fact that its hand washable (avoiding

unnecessary exposure to chemicals) is an added plus.

$595 | VPLnyc.com

Provocateur

THE

The V List • Holiday 2012

New Age LUXE

THE WHITMAN

Vaute Couture

The ladies of Ayurvega do love a dapper man. Social responsible guys are the best of all, as evidenced by their interest in conscientious style. This guide to luxury gifts would hardly be complete without a nod to Vaute Couture, the home of the vegan winter dress coat.

The line's FW12 standout for the gentleman is the Whitman. It combines classic shape with a modern length and sustainable materials.

The coat's buttons are the first prominent use of Tagua nut—also known as vegetable ivory—in a US line that we've noticed.

After a thorough search for great earth-conscious coats for men, the Whitman is the distinct favorite for its timeless styling and verifiable provenance.

$500 375 | VauteCouture.com

Nostalgic

THE

The V List • Holiday 2012

New Age LUXE

KAMALAYA LUXURY SPA VACATION

Koh Samui, Thailand

Relaxation should be a beautiful, transcendent experience. Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary was designed to offer just that. The resort is a private oasis, full of tranquility and the perfect place to retreat on holiday.

Kamalaya offers wellness programs that can be integrated into the resort experience of you so choose. Yoga and meditation programs are among a host of holistic therapies offered. Should you prefer to simply get away and enjoy the resort without the healing work, vacationing guests are always welcome.

You'll be surrounded by magnificent views, and the facilities dazzle. The saunas and steam cavern available should relax away any lingering tension, preparing you to fully experience the location's splendor.

One of the highlights of Kamalaya is the dining experience. The sanctuary's culinary philosophy stems from ancient systems, including Chinese medicine and Ayurveda. Food is regarded as medicine, and the primary modality for healing. Its team of chefs specializes in

plant-based dining, with fish and poultry offered as alternatives for non-vegetarians. Have breakfast or dinner at Soma overlooking the valley, and grab lunch at Amrita. Slip into the Tea Lounge in the evening for an alchemical herbal elixir as a nightcap.

This is not what many envision when they think “vegan vacation.” Everything about Kamalaya is designed to meet the highest standards of luxury and comfort. Select between rooms and villas with hillside, pool or sea views. All options offer simple, stylish decor that will enhance the ability to focus on the sanctuary experience. If there's someone special in your life who needs a peaceful getaway, consider Koh Samui your next destination. It's an extraordinary luxury gift.

From $250 per night | Kamalaya.com

The V List • Holiday 2012

Thank you for reading the 2012 Holiday Gift Guide. We hope you found something for all the most important people on your list- including yourself.

If you have questions, tips or suggestions on how our upcoming publications could be even better, please feel free to email us at hello@ayurvega.com

To keep up with the latest, including website launch news, events and more, scan the QR code below to join us on Facebook.

For more about us, check out our blog here.