Aa Christmas Giftguide 2024

Dear Aa readers,

As winter winds howl and temperatures plummet, we’re embracing the season with endless cups of Glühwein and daydreaming of Amsterdam streets transformed into a snowy wonderland.

Let’s face it—along with the cheer comes the chaos of holiday gifting. What to get? Will it arrive in time? Where to even begin? 

We’ve got you covered. Our Aa Gift Guide curated by Santa’s little helpers features a selection of treasures from Amsterdam’s most exciting creatives and brands (and beyond). 

Here’s a taste: think the Stacks Diner hot sauce, Sanaa’s Kitchen’s exclusive hibiscus tea sets, cozy accessories from U SO NICE and Pinkorange, unique decor from Haas and Klar Candles, stunning prints and books from Printroom, ultimate self-care items like the Tree of Saba shea butter, and so much more. 

We couldn’t resist a tiny bit of shameless self-promo: introducing our very first IRL product, the Aa Agenda. Your ultimate guide to 2025, it’s a companion for jotting down thoughts, staying organized, and exploring our handpicked Amsterdam recommendations. The planner makes the perfect gift–for yourself or anyone on your (nice) list.

Even better? Most of these finds will be available at our Christmas Market with Zomer Bar this Sunday, December 15th. To skip the freezing wait at the door, secure your spot by grabbing your tickets in advance via this link.

This holiday season is also a moment to reflect on what truly matters. Finding the perfect gift for your dad’s eccentric friend is great, but showing kindness to those in need is even better. That’s why proceeds from the first 200 tickets—complete with an exclusive gift bag—will go toward providing a warm dinner at a nice restaurant for the residents of Parkhof Cordaan mental care home.

Scroll to get inspired and a sneak peek of what’s in store.

Chiara’s Picks

1. Almond in a Glass incense holder €14 – How about making your friend or partner happy while also supporting a local business? Sounds like a win-win, right? Well, Almond in a Glass might be the perfect choice then. Carly, the talented creator behind the brand, handcrafts each unique piece with love and care. This beautiful incense holder embodies that personal touch and pairs perfectly with ASeriesof’s incense set, making it a thoughtful gift for that special person in your life!
2. (MALIN+GOETZ) meadowfoam oil balm €16 – This is the ultimate version of the infamous ‘20-in-one shower gel for men’ for all skincare freaks! Underrated yet incredibly versatile, you can use it for almost anything — soothing chapped lips, hydrating a dry nose, removing makeup, or even moisturizing dry hair. A true all-rounder!
3. Birkenstock Grey Cotton Socks €15.9 – To be completely honest, socks were the last thing I wanted to find under the Christmas tree when I was a kid. But I believe everyone in their early 20s eventually comes to appreciate the simple luxuries in life — like a pair of cozy, high-quality socks.
4. ASeriesof New Dawn Incense €55 – Speaking of simple luxuries in life, you can never go wrong with a set of incense. Made in Japan, and with notes of cinnamon, sandalwood, clove and star anise – a perfect present for a friend or partner in need of reset and relaxation. 

Anastasia’s Picks

1. Baba Boys Cafe Baba Tee €35 – Baba Boys is an Amsterdam-based high-end streetwear brand inspired by founder girlboss Karmel’s Palestinian roots. They just dropped five new t-shirts and you have to trust me when I say the Baby Tees have the most perfect fit ever. The red on this Café Baba t-shirt is perfect to fuel that holiday spirit.
2. Vision Undressed Issue 1: Inside Georgia’s Most Imaginative Fashion Minds €23 – Vision Underdressed is the perfect gift for all the niche fashion magazine lovers, not only because I designed it and the coolest Ananano is the editor-in-chief ;), but also because it offers a thorough peek into contemporary Georgian fashion beyond Demna.
3. Z12 Pisces T-Shirt €45 – I can say from personal experience, that this is one of the sweetest most personal gift ever with a 100% success rate! Barcelona and Tbilisi-based Z12 will be selling their coolest zodiac sign t-shirts for one day only at the Christmas market, it’s a now-or-never situation.
4. Aa AGENDA €26 – We’re beyond excited to introduce our first-ever product, the Aa AGENDA. Your best companion for planning, organizing, strategizing, and sometimes ranting throughout 2025. Not just a yearly planner – It’s a collection of adulting tips and tricks, random facts, with Amsterdam tips as the cherry on top..

Fabian’s Picks

1. Baba Boys socks  €20 – You know how to never go wrong? A great pair of socks—and Baba Boys has you covered. These red beauties are a Christmas gift in disguise: festive, cozy, and perfect for slipping under the tree.
2. Pinkorange Knitted Scarf Job Wouters €62,50 (50% OFF)- The best way to beat the cold is by keeping your neck warm with a good scarf—and while you’re at it, why not do it in style? With 50% off, Pink Orange’s knitted scarf is the ultimate accessory to keep you cozy and looking hot during the chilly winter days ahead!
3. Green Deli Cap Stacks €29 -Slowly rising as an icon within Amsterdam’s niche crowd, the green deli cap has become a signature must-have in any city girl’s wardrobe.
4. ‘Identity is the Crisis, Can’t You See?’ via Printroom €22 – What is identity, and what can we do about it? Covering ways to break free from capitalist’s visual chains, this book is as interesting as it’s pretty—much like your best friend. So, why not make their day and gift it to them.

Awa’s Picks

1. Sanaa’s kitchen Hibiscus Tea Set €15 – We all know and love Hader’s Egyptian Falafels—not just for their incredible flavor but for that cozy, homely feeling they bring. Her hibiscus tea is no different. Growing up, hibiscus tea was a staple for me, making this set feel extra nostalgic. Bonus points for the stunning color—and let’s be real, who doesn’t love a warm cup of tea in these glacial temperatures?
2. Deana Lawson Photography Book €40 – This stunning publication offers the first comprehensive survey of Deana Lawson’s groundbreaking photography, spanning 15 years of work. Known for redefining representations of Black identities across the African American and African diaspora, Lawson blends family albums, studio portraiture, and staged narratives to create powerful visual stories of love, family, and spirituality. An essential addition to any coffee table or bookshelf
3. Tree of Saba Whipped Body Butter €20  – Soft skin is a luxury I take pride in, and knowing the joy it brings, I thought it was only fair to share. Tree of Saba, founded by Luna Keanni, pays homage to their roots and the rich heritage of African and Caribbean skincare traditions. Their Whipped Shea Butter is crafted from shea nuts, the fruit of the West African shea tree. Packed with vitamins and fatty acids like linoleic and oleic acid, it deeply moisturizes while keeping skin perfectly balanced—not too oily, just right. The perfect little gift to elevate anyone’s self-care ritual.
4. Sebonsa Wine €19 – ​​Your twenties call for a ‘snobby’ hobby—or at least the appearance of one—and Sebonsa’s natural wine selection hits just the right note. With their refreshingly unpretentious approach to the world of natural wines, they make the experience accessible without compromising on quality. The perfect all-rounder gift for anyone who loves (or wants to love) good wine.

Irene’s Picks

1. Hello Kitty Press-on Nails €30-€50 – This Hello Kitty Press on Nail set is a needdddd!! Are you kidding??? This is the perfect gift for every diva’s diva. Step on all your haters (especially those you are related to) this holiday season with the baddest nail set. 
2. Stack’s Hot Sauce  €9.25 – As a non-chef myself, yummy hot sauce is the end-all ingredient in elevating the taste of all my meals. Its iconic packaging also makes for a cute table accessory- which is always a plus.   
3. Pinkorange Print by Tim Mastik  €50 (50%OFF) – Everyone needs a beautiful print to make their little bedroom that much more of a peaceful,cosy haven for the new year. For this holiday season be the person who gifts their loved one calmness (in the form of a print because gifts need to be physical).  
4. Cinevillepas €19 p/m – Nothing better than a GOOD movie on a cold, rainy day – which is the majority of the time for us Amsterdammers. Not only is this such a sentimental and fulfilling present to gift someone, but it also secures you a movie date – the ultimate gift that keeps on giving. If on the other hand, you are looking for a special something to gift yourself, show yourself some love with the opportunity to experience unlimited cinematic masterpieces. 

Lilian’s Picks

1. Mimi Kimchi €11- We all know how good fermented food is, due to its probiotic nature, and as a self-proclaimed food lover, I think Mimi Kimchi is a must for anyone who considers themselves as such. And while you’re at it get the Kimchi chutney too. Yummy and it is good for your health. 2 in 1!
2. Hay Toothbrush and Holder in Purple €15 – Look, stay with me for a second. I know you are properly like ‘Lilian, why would I spend 15 Euro on a toothbrush and a holder’, HOWEVER I bought this cute little set recently and it makes the start of my day so much better. Sorry if you can’t relate (yet)… So go get it
3. Wine Glass Red/Green Block €9 – Imagine hosting a dinner party, your friends are bringing the wine and you can pull out these funky and beautiful wine glasses you can find at HAAS. Sounds like a good start to a successful evening to me!
4. LiwA Christmas cookie bag €7,5 – Are you still in search of a Christmas gift for your grandparents? Or a snack for after the market? LiwA’s cookie bag with 5 different cookies got you covered. There is something in there for everyone.

Claudia’s Picks

1. N1 by Noetic €25 – This is the adult version of Willy Wonka’s golden ticket. N1 by Noetic takes the classic chocolate box idea and flips it making you everyone’s favourite guest. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or want to add a little spice to your family holiday, these cacao-enhanced mushroom blends are perfect — especially for managing the holiday stress. These are ethically crafted and sustainably sourced making it an obvious gift option!
2. Corporate Gray Hooded Wool Top  €85 – A crowd-pleasing and fail-safe gift option! This top is chic, practical and a winter staple. The piece has hooks instead of a zip – so fun?! A good investment piece and great for layering. And supporting a small business from Kyiv!
3. LUNCH Lacey Tights €18 – I am a sucker for some fun hosiery and these sexy blue lacey tights from Lunch won’t break the bank. I love winter fashion but sometimes layering can feel blah and these are perfect for the days when you’re feeling uninspired adding textural healing to any outfit. As the name denotes, they look good enough to eat for lunch—but maybe just wear them instead.
4. Subbacultcha Membership €10 p/m – A no brainer for those who seek hot events, exhibitions, venues, film screenings, guests and artists! Subbacultcaha is an art and music platform that spotlights emerging artists. The membership offers free access to all events with the first month free. Arguably equally as important as your rent and utility monthly bills.

Christina’s Picks

1. Studio ef7 giftcard €97 – Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, and while you may not get diamonds, you’ll get something more special. A hands-on workshop by Studio ef7, choose from a silversmithing or wax carving workshop. A one-of-a-kind silver piece of jewellery and a unique experience with that special someone. 
2. HAAS House Bag Olive €75 – A perfect gift for the friend on-the-go. Holding all of your essentials, it’s perfect for biking around Amsterdam and provides a seamless way to grab your stuff. 
3. Klar Neo Cone Candle x Aa €14 – Dress up your home whilst supporting local artisans. These playful candles add a touch of vibrancy and coziness to your space.  
4. Smiski Keychain €12 – These little guys will (literally) light up your life. These cute, collectible creatures hang out in the nooks of your home.

Viviana’s Picks

1. U SO NICE Green Metal Silk Hat €70 – Perfect for those ‘I’m just out here searching for the world’s best hot chocolate’ vibes, which let’s be honest, probably ends up with you at Starbucks. Chic, stylish and designed for pretending you’re not cold while sipping on your overpriced hot drink. This is definitely the beanie I’m dreaming of this season.
2. ‘Colonial Banality’ by Masha Krasnova-Shabaeva via PrintRoom €15 – Looking for the perfect gift? How about a beautiful reminder that life is fleeting and art is eternal? Screaming thoughtful without trying too hard and ideal for that friend who insists coffee table books count as a personality trait. This book is playful and mysterious and just ironic enough to impress.
3. HAAS Lace Top White  €110 – Crafted from repurposed curtains, this stunning top blends femininity with a daring, edgy twist. The ideal gift for that friend who loves making a statement by showing off their unique style.
4. LUNCH Reversible Fungi Hand Warmers €45 – Taking me back to frosty winters in Romania, where hand-warmers were an essential against the cold, LUNCH’S knitted hand-warmers are here to save the day (but not your fingers). With their signature Fungi knitwear design, they keep you warm and stylish – because who wants to freeze when you can add a fun twist to your winter wardrobe?

Stay warm, and we’ll see you on Sunday!
Xx,
Aa