Entrepreneur Barbara Rivas’s message to Latinas: your wellbeing is of the utmost importance. Here’s how to take care of it every day.

At just seven years old, Barbara Rivas and her mother moved from Venezuela to the United States. The pair settled in Miami without extended family to fall back on or a community to help them acclimate. She grew up in an environment where she had to advocate for herself in order to feel seen and understood.

“Coming to a country where everyone in school speaks a different language than me, where even my teachers couldn’t understand me, was something that truly impacted me as a child,” Rivas tells Latina. “Seeing my mom work several jobs at a time to make ends meet and not be able to be there for me at school functions taught me to understand the sacrifices she faced. It wasn’t glamorous, but it taught me how to take initiative and keep moving forward, even when things felt uncertain.”

Her love of music led her to pursue a career in entertainment journalism. But after nine years in broadcasting, Rivas felt burnt out by the instability she faced (both financially and emotionally) in the field. “Sometimes life’s hardest moments—the ones that feel scary and uncertain—are actually divine redirections,” Rivas says. “What felt like a loss at the time turned out to be a blessing. Every challenge was a lesson that shaped the path I’m on now. There are no failures, only lessons.”

“[My mom] taught me to take initiative and keep moving forward, even when things felt uncertain.”

The experiences of her youth gave Rivas the grit to face career crossroads with confidence. She pivoted career paths, landing a project manager position at Mr. 305 Records, the record label owned by Cuban-American Grammy-winning rapper and entrepreneur Pitbull. For nearly the past five years, Rivas directly supported musicians at different stages of their careers, guiding them through everything from marketing to mental health advice. 

Working closely with the label’s artists and others in the industry shed light on the toll being in a demanding space can take on people, herself included. “I’ve worked with artists and colleagues that burn themselves out constantly,” says Rivas. “I try to teach them about the importance of taking care of themselves. We’re not machines meant to be working all the time.” In response to these experiences, Rivas decided to start The Blissful Project as a way to gather people from the local Miami community employed in high-pressure industries, particularly music and corporate spaces, who want to prioritize their mental, physical, and spiritual health but may feel like they don’t have the time to take care of themselves.

“Sometimes life’s hardest moments—the ones that feel scary and uncertain—are actually divine redirections.”

In two years leading the Blissful Project, Rivas has curated events where people can engage in self-care and develop resilience. Activities are designed to help guests find empowerment through shared experiences like guided meditation, sound healing, yoga, and journaling.

“Everybody’s working at 1000% capacity trying to catch up to the next person or their next goal, but we’re not really connecting or building a better future for ourselves, this generation, or the world,” Rivas says. “The Blissful Project has helped me build a community of people who want to heal, learn and grow together.”

No matter where you’re based or how much spare time you have (let’s be honest, it’s never enough), here are Rivas’s six favorite tips with Latina to support a positive journey with mental health and wellness in mind.

1. Repeat positive affirmations and gratitude aloud.

Rivas says one of the most powerful ways to start your day out is by writing down five to 10 things she’s grateful for, along with affirmations and intentions she wants to manifest. A few examples: “I am grateful for a new day to be alive,” “I am grateful for my healthy mind and body,” and “I am capable of achieving anything I set my mind to.”

“The words ‘I AM’ carry an incredible energy, and we use them daily to define who we are, how we feel, and what we believe is possible for us—so why not use them with intention?” says Rivas. “Don’t overthink it. Speak from the heart and let your intuition guide your affirmations each day.”

2. Set boundaries—and honor them.

Rivas is adamant that boundaries are a key component to protecting your peace. On a daily basis, try setting clear “off hours” where you don’t respond to work messages unless it’s an emergency. Keep your mornings clear by not jumping straight into emails or Slack DMs the moment you wake up and instead take 10 to 15 minutes to ground yourself in your own needs. And, while she encourages networking and building community, Rivas emphasizes the importance of honoring your energy and time: “You don’t have to go to every party or event or say ‘yes’ to every drink invitation.” If possible, try stepping away all together for an extended weekend or longer: “Take that vacation, you deserve it.”

Set guardrails around your personal time to keep work and social life from becoming overbearing. Reserve at least one day—weekly, if possible, or monthly—for yourself where there’s no work and no phone and you’re just “flowing through the day with whatever your soul needs.”

3. Start and end the day with a short journaling session.

The simple act of journaling can become a powerful habit to support your mental health. “Sometimes, we can say things, but our mind has a lot of different thoughts racing at once,” Rivas explains. “[Journaling] is such a powerful tool for you to intentionally see and feel what you’re writing with your own hand.”

Maybe you’re recording the thoughts in your head, maybe you just want to remember the goings-on of your day-to-day life a year from now—no matter what it is, try writing it down. For instance, your morning journaling can include your gratitude and affirmations; in the evening, try including reflections on what happened that day, one thing you feel proud of (or something you wish you’d handled differently), and your goals for the next day.

“[I believe that] putting pen to paper has powerful manifestation energy,” Rivas says. “You’re thinking it, speaking it, and seeing it as you write it.”

4. Curate your community selectively.

As she’s grown up, Rivas says she has learned the importance of surrounding herself with people who support her growth and reflect the energy she wants to embody. Building her community has given her motivation.

“At the beginning of my career and wellness journey, I didn’t have many people who were on a similar path, but by setting intentions and being open to new environments, I found my soul tribe,” Rivas shares. “We’re not meant to walk this path alone, especially when creating something with real purpose. When you’re around the right people, you grow together.”

“Get involved, show up, and—most importantly—don’t be afraid to make the first move.”

If you’re looking to build your circle but aren’t sure where to start, Rivas recommends checking out platforms like Eventbrite, SweatPals, or local Facebook groups: “Get involved, show up, and most importantly, don’t be afraid to make the first move.”

5. Get moving, even if it’s just for a few minutes at a time.

Something as simple as a morning walk with your dog or a quick stretch in the morning can help you ground yourself and ease into the day. (Rivas goes to the gym four to five times a week and includes a yoga or Pilates class at least once a week.) “This balance keeps my mind clear and my energy flowing throughout the week,” she says. “It doesn’t have to be complicated. Moving your body, even for a few minutes, shifts your energy.”

6. Ground yourself in the present.

Whether you prefer elaborate sound healing therapy, breath work exercises, lighting palo santo, or using essential oils for aromatherapy, Rivas recommends taking even 15 minutes to ground yourself in the space you’re in.

“When I’m stressed out or have a lot happening at work, these practices help me feel zen and relaxed,” Rivas says. 

Searching for gifts all your favorite people will love? Check out our other guides of the best cookbooks by Latin chefs, the best gifts from Latin-owned brands, and the best wellness gifts. All products are hand-selected by Latina editors. If you buy something through one of our links, we may receive an affiliate commission.

Teddy bears and chocolates are cute, but the very best Valentine’s Day gifts extend the love beyond the day. Pay attention to what activities and interests she finds fulfilling. If she’s your one-and-only Valentine or your dearest Galentine, you’ll discover just how to make the apple of your eye’s heart tick at this time and place in her life—and the perfect present to make her feel like the certified national treasure she is.

There’s a little something for everyone on this list whether the budget is $25 or you take V-Day very seriously and have saved enough to buy her the next soon-to-be staple in her wardrobe and beauty toolbox. Spoiler alert: The intention behind our selects focuses on the era your Valentine is in—is she the CEO of her own life? Fully invested in revamping her lifestyle habits? Or the person you link up with for a round table session full of incense, yerba, and a stellar vinyl record listen? 

We’ve got a visual guide to help you curate a Valentine’s Day present for the books. And the best part of all, each of these curated Valentine’s Day finds is interchangeable between whichever era she is in—hey, a woman can be a jefa and a mom all at once!—just as she can be actualizing her professional style while sorting out some emotional baggage. If that wasn’t enough of a glimpse of what’s in store, just trust that Latina’s Valentine’s Day 2025 gift guide gets juicy. 

For the Valentine in Her Fitness Era

Apple AirPods Max ($549, Shop Now)

Anyone lucky enough to receive this particular Valentine’s Day gift surely puts in the work to lead an active lifestyle on their own, but Apple’s sleek AirPods Max will help them get in the zone even more. They cancel out all distractions with their active noise cancellation feature and the ability to tune into their preferred hypeman playlist with spatial audio in tow. Bring this gesture home with a special airdrop of the latest playlist you curated, just for her.

Rizos Curls Hair Wax Stick + Sunset Clip Bundle ($21, Shop Now)

We love a styling assist that adds shine and freshens any hairstyle without adding a greasy look or feeling. For the most put-together friend in the group, wrap up this Valentine’s Day goodie that her hair will cherish daily: a glam kit that’ll match her personality through and through. For her slicked-back gym styles, this Rizos Curls duo (which includes a hair wax stick and hair claw clip) keeps flyaways in place as she gets her reps in. Plus, the hair wax’s formula is packed with nourishing and softening ingredients like castor oil, willow bark extract, and hibiscus flower extract.

Sports Research Hydrate Electrolytes Jar ($40, Shop Now)

Her fitness journey isn’t complete without the essentials that keep her hydration in check. If your Valentine is big on sugar-free sources, she’ll appreciate Sports Research’s Hydrate Electrolytes, which come in yummy cherry pomegranate or passion fruit flavors. This electrolyte powder features 200 milligrams of potassium, coconut fruit water powder, and loads of trace minerals. What’s water intake if it doesn’t have the necessary minerals that feed our body? For your special one reveling in her workout era, this gift adds a thoughtful splash for her pre- or post-workout stretch.

Therabody Theragun Mini ($149, Shop Now)

Therabody knew exactly the time of year to come out with a dedicated discount code for a wellness device that can be enjoyed by two (or solo)  after a long day or week. Whether your Theragun Mini helps massage a knot post pilates or any tension after an unsuccessful snooze or simply targets those muscles you didn’t even know existed, it is a useful gift they’ll never stop thanking you for.  From today until February 15, the Theragun Mini is a whopping $40 off. It might just get the most action out of everyone this Valentine’s Day.

Ceremonia Dry Shampoo Con Arrowroot ($28, Shop Now)

The latest to join the Ceremonia family is this elevated, ‘what’s in my bag’ dry shampoo powder, extending days ‘till your bestie’s next wash day with a boost of volume to help disguise the grease. She will thank you for this, especially on days when she walks out of the steam room or her favorite hot yoga studio drenched from head to toe, and even more on days when her scalp decides to act up with dryness and itching. The Dry Shampoo con Arrowroot loves a good head of curls or fine strands and comes with a pouf applicator that spreads the formula throughout without any of the unwanted white powder residue its aerosol counterparts project. 

Diosafit Daisy Dress ($18, Shop Now)

Nights out clubbing are overrated, and fitness dates are in this spring. Get a matching set with your favorite workout partner and stretch, break a sweat, and move freely together in Diosafit’s Daisy Dress. As just one of Diosafit’s athletic wear capsules, this tennis dress features a built-in sports bra with removable cup pads to accentuate however you feel most comfortable and built-in shorts for limitless movement. 

For the Valentine in Her Jefa Era

Hija de tu Madre La Jefa Desk Plate ($26, Shop Now)

How’s the C-suite? Champion tus amigas and their professional growth this Valentine’s Day with the perfect stationery gift from Hija de tu Madre. This desk plate will serve as a daily reminder that they are the boss of their own life, and you’re right there rooting for them and everything they’re accomplishing. 

Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip Color ($29, Shop Now)

Infinitely complementing on all skin tones and a gorgeous introductory matte finish for those who often go with gloss and balms, Fenty Beauty’s Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip Color in Uncensored is a rich and vibrant red tone for the lady in your life who loves a classic red lip. This pigment keeps the lips feeling naturally supple and doesn’t dry them out, and best of all, its applicator wand assists in lining the lips without the need for exact precision. 

Cuyana System Zipper Tote 13-inch ($428, Shop Now)

If the world is her office and the office is her oyster, Cuyana’s System Zipper Tote is the leather signature that’s even better than a pearl. Is she always on the go? We practically guarantee you’ll win this Valentine’s Day (and every V-Day that follows) if you pop a pretty bow on this for her. Let’s go through it: while this additional feature is an extra cost, this tote was designed with just enough space for a custom laptop sleeve that fits a 13-inch computer, and the fully LWG Certified tote is so versatile that along with a special destination for phone, keys, lip care essentials and beyond, it can be worn with an adjustable wide strap as either a crossbody or low-shoulder staple. 

Hernán Herdez Fusion Rings All Silver ($471, Shop Now)

However bold or quaint your Valentine’s jewelry game is, Melissa Hernández’s Fusion Rings will allow your person the opportunity to alternate between three styles through just one design. Authentic to the Puerto Rican designer’s creviced silhouette ring signatures, the sterling silver rings interlock beautifully to form one or can be worn alone (which looks just as alluring). A perfectly balanced set, this is a sophisticated accessories du jour.

By Sloan the Midi Skirt in Cotton Voile ($255, Shop Now)

By Sloan’s Midi Skirt in Cotton Voile will bring the wearer such a flow and ease while they sport it, that is a wonderful gift your best friend, sister, and even yourself deserve to have for days at the office or sunny Sundays with the family. It falls slightly pleated from the waist down and hems right above the ankles, featuring two deep pockets at the side sewn from every angle in Mexico. Gift her a newfound staple. 

Refy Plum Collection ($80, Shop Now)

For a complete brow, lips, and face card, the Plum Collection sets her up with a five-minute makeup finish. Your Valentine will grow especially fond of the Blur Liner and Tinted Lip Gloss duo given the gloss features a metal applicator that spreads pigment so deliciously, that your lips feel hydrated and plump as you smack them together and have the pigment settle (my favorite part of the application process!). The plum-colored pigment accentuates your natural lip tone as it fades, and let me not get started on the Glow and Sculpt Face Primer, infused with the makings of a hydrating serum and an applicator that doubles as facial massage galore. 

Para La Mujer de la Casa

Tata Harper Bio-Shield Face Oil ($165, Shop Now)

We know the woman of the house loves her potions, and what more than to gift her a finishing skin-care touch this Valentine’s Day that feeds her complexion with oat ceramides, omega fatty acids, and silky hydration? Tata Harper’s Bio-Shield Face Oil will always be our mainstay. After all, Tata Harper is the mother of Sustainable Luxury. From one Queen to the other, Mom deserves only the best skincare can offer. 

Santos by Monica Ines Bi-Fold Wallet in Cognac & Black ($159, Shop Now)

Unfolding Santos by Monica’s Ines Bi-Fold Wallet comes with a beautiful surprise, one with retro-esque charm and a muted color palette that deems the accessory an instant staple in Mom’s, Tia’s — or any of the women who you envision sporting it best — armoire. Made of cactus leather, which is an ethically opulent alternative to the norm, this wallet will house her riches for years.

Costa Brazil Aroma Eau de Parfum ($198, Shop Now)

Described as a mature, earthy, and fresh scent by team LATINA, Costa Brazil’s Aroma Eau de Parfum takes inspiration from the jungles of Brazil, prioritizing a blend of grounding sandalwood, patchouli, and smoky vetiver. It gets richer with wear and it comes on strong, so just a few spritzes go a long way.

Shark Speed Style Pro Flex ($170, Shop Now)

It’s hard to get Mom to experiment with anything new sometimes — let alone if it involves getting her to swap out her tried and true decade-old blowdryer that’s practically running on fumes at this point. Don’t worry, she can keep her trusted round brush on hand, but this particular upgrade will enhance her blowout sessions without the bulk of a heavy tool and the ability to alternate between sleek and voluminous styles without damaging the hair with harsh heat. Once you put the Shark Speed Style Pro Flex to use, its scalp shield technology activates, and Mom can diffuse, blowout, or soften the frizz with either of the three attachments you customize her Valentine’s gift with beforehand.

For the Valentine in Her Mom Era

Urbanstems Flower Subscription ($60–$75, Shop Now)

A custom bouquet delivered at her doorstep every week or once every month extends the thoughtfulness behind Valentine’s Day beyond measure. Gifting an Urbanstems Flower Subscription this year brings a personalized touch to the gesture; the makings of an arrangement that seems as though you personally handpicked and petaled each floral featured within.

La Mer The Renewal Body Oil Balm ($230, Shop Now)

The woman in your life who is in her Mutha era will most likely appreciate anything that gives hera minute to unwind and engulf her skin in luxurious, benefit-packed balms and oils. And well, the La Mer Renewal Body Oil Balm is an opulent way to show her that you know exactly what she needs. This body oil dispenses onto the skin with a rich consistency, but your skin will instantly soak it up as you massage it out,  enveloping the body in antioxidants and a blend of La Mer’s Miracle Broth formula. 

Joanna Vargas Spa Day ($250 for the Oxygen Purifying Facial, Book Now)

Get on Auntie duty, and give her the gift of experiential beauty through a day trip to Joanna Vargas’ Spa in either New York or Los Angeles. From a purifying facial to one focused on red light therapy and facial massage, she’ll love the switch-up from the norm and a spa day dedicated to resetting her skin and freshening up her routine. If you’re not located in one of those two cities, worry not: She’ll be just as impressed if you pick her up one of Joanna Vargas’s famed skin-care products.

Coco Fesse Twerk Crème ($49, Shop Now)

Amongst the mental checklist I try to commit myself to every morning, is the 20 squats per day situationship I have going on with my mirror. Once that’s complete, I love to iron out my glutes and hips in Coco Fesse’s Twerk Crème. This gift is applicable for all the women—las mamas, las hermanas, todas las tías—in your life, because what better than a body cream that firms up the booty with a coconut oil formula that sources its ingredients from Thailand, home to the Thai coconut.

For the Valentine in Her Sad Girl Era

Disclaimer: The only way out of the sad girl era is to ride it through—and these gifts will make that ride way more fun.

Min & Mon New York Cotton Blanket Ultimate Cuddle Companion ($150, Shop Now)

A blanket to coddle her when she needs it most, and full of personality as she stretches it atop her body during a cozy night in. This Min & Mon blanket is made of 100% cotton and is long enough to warm up even the tips of your tippy toes, with a full embellished finish of stars, stripes, a good third eye, and fringe. 

Topicals Faded Under Eye Masks ($22, Shop Now)

One for her purse, another for making her presence known on the top shelf of her lover’s bathroom mirror cabinet, and many more for her moments of self-care starting with the most delicate area of her face: her under eyes. Wipe the tears sister, Topicals Faded Under Eye Masks come with six hydrogel masks that target dark circles and depuffing with derm-recommended ingredients like niacinamide, kojic acid, and caffeine.

Frida Kahlo Coffee Table Book by Taschen ($200, Shop Now)

Immerse the one you love in the visionary that was Frida Kahlo. Featuring the Mexican artist’s 152 paintings and a glimpse into the journaled voyages of her life, gifting this monograph this Valentine’s Day is a dreamy escape into Kahlo’s work, time, and impact. 

Ana Gabriel Vinyl ($40, Shop Now)

Do her Sundays involve good flower, watering the plants draping throughout the living room, and a record player? Check out listings on eBay, like this special Ana Gabriel Vinyl Record available that will be delivered right before Valentine’s Day, so that you both can listen to the influential artist’s classics together. 

Mystic Mondays: The Crystal Grid Deck ($26, Shop Now)

A perfect practice for post-meditation or as a guide to voicing your intentions, Mystic Mondays’ Crystal Grid Deck is an invitation to uncover 3D renderings of over 50 types of crystals and how their properties speak to your crown, third eye, sacral, solar plexus, and root chakras. From a resident sad girl to yours truly, this crystal deck knows how to shake off the funk. 

For the Valentine in Her Hot Girl Era

Maude Vibe + Spot ($122, Shop Now)

Maude’s Vibe + Spot welcomes all types of play. Whether stimulation or penetration hits the spot best, Vibe stimulates the clitoris with its flutter tip design, and Spot is perfectly curved for those just starting to experiment with toys or for all who are well-acquainted. And we strongly appreciate that both of these powerful vibrator toys’ material is made of premium grade silicone. 

Manojo Mezcal ($50, Shop Now)

Now this is how you avoid showing up empty-handed and with a new cocktail recipe to fawn over — grab her a bottle of Manojo Mezcal, pick up some Tajin, grapefruits, limón, and carbonated water, and you’ve got a homemade Mezcal Paloma para que disfruten juntas. Enjoy this bottle of Agave Mezcal, together.  

Voight Tabby Dress in Black ($98, Shop Now)

The Tabby Dress hems right at the thigh, cinches the waist with mesh embellished cut-outs and half-bodice wiring, and cups the chest for full coverage yet cleavage-fulfilling wear. This slinky Voight item rounds out any wardrobe; exactly the look you need for special occasions. 

Edie Parker Glass Fruit Pipe ($50, Shop Now)

Call it the cannabis accessory of the hour made just for the girls. Edie Parker’s scrumptious Glass Fruit Pipe in Cherry is designed with molded borosilicate glass and rings true to a cherry’s anatomy with a resting leaf so that your new favorite bowl doesn’t tip and crack after you pack it. 

Lu Goldie Solene Sunglasses in Cola ($159, Shop Now)

The key to cool girl eyewear is showing just enough to look them in the eye, but remaining completely on brand with your outfit’s aesthetic. These Lu Goldie sunnies are made with cellulosic fibers, feature a rectangularly sleek frame, and are sold at an e-commerce destination that simply features the best of sustainable and earth-conscious ready-to-wear and accessories. 

Waited ’til the last second to do your shopping? Good news: Nearly all of these have shipping options—including overnight and one-day timeframes—that’ll make sure your gifts get there when you need them. All products are hand-selected by Latina editors. If you buy something through one of our links, we may receive an affiliate commission.

The holidays can be a truly beautiful season, offering you ample opportunities to spend time with loved ones, reflect on the past year, and break out that sequined outfit that you don’t wear nearly enough. But for millions of us, it also means anxiety over gift-giving. Whether we’re coping with the effects of economic woes, are experiencing newfound stress over unanticipated expenses, or are trying to save up toward a larger goal, sticking to a budget when shopping for holiday gifts in 2024 can help you enter 2025 feeling a little lighter—and fewer financial strains putting pressure on you means you’ll have more room to make joy-filled memories with those you care about.

To make shopping for your loved ones even simpler, Latina.com is breaking down this list by price point, starting at under $10. Plus, since we’re coming down to the wire, these each have options for shipping by Christmas and Hanukkah, ensuring they’ll get to you in time to wrap and give them to their intended recipient.

Under $10 Gifts

O’Keefe’s Working Hands Cream ($9, Shop on Amazon)

This cream is famous for a reason: It works absolute wonders on parched, damaged skin. Whether your loved one works with their hands or is simply experiencing the consequences of cold, dry, wintry weather, they’ll thank you for putting this in their stocking.

Glass Nail File With Case ($8, Shop on Amazon)

Put your hands together for another hand-focused product (hyuck, hyuck) with this useful, portable nail file that slips perfectly as an individual item in their stocking or packaged together with a larger manicure set.

Universal Grip Socket Set ($10, Shop on Amazon)

If they just moved into a new place, they’ll be extremely grateful for this super-handy, versatile tool.

Soidram Checkered Cosmetics Case ($9, Shop on Amazon)

Need to get organized? These bold cosmetics cases can hold makeup, pens, change, art supplies, knick-knacks, or whatever else you need them to. Plus, they’re bright enough that it’s easy to spot them when you’re in a hurry.

Under $25 Gifts

Pantone Mug ($25, Shop on Amazon)

There’s something so simple, fancy, and fun about Pantone-themed products. While the company is best-known by design professionals for its color-matching services and by the public for its annual Color of the Year declarations, many don’t realize that there are countless delightful Pantone-branded home products.

Frame a Sentimental Photo ($18, Shop on Amazon)

I’ve given my father so many types of gifts—expensive fragrances, athletic equipment, sweaters, gadgets—and, to this day, the happiest I’ve ever seen my dad was when he opened a photo of…me. (This may sound terribly vain, but to my credit, I also framed photos of his mother and my mother, so it was like a small collection of family photos!) If you have a parent or other loved one who’s hard to shop for, pick up an inexpensive frame online or at a thrift store and pop a photo they’ll love into it, whether it’s a family shot, a picture of their kids, or a Polaroid of their kitty or pup.

Fashion Brand Company Mini Market Tote ($12, Shop on FBC)

If you’ve never checked out Fashion Brand Company before, I cannot recommend doing so enough. It is an absolutely wondrous brand with fantastic products fit for any weirdo (you included, if you self-identify as such), and this cute mini market tote is an excellent incentive for anyone to head to their local farmers market at the first sign of spring.

Kotn Crew Socks ($12, Shop on Kotn)

These are, without exception, my favorite socks on the planet. I own upwards of nine pairs because, when I was experiencing severe foot pain two years ago, I couldn’t bear not having a pair for each day of the week. Plus, the quality is fantastic—they simply last forever—and they’re so squishy, they practically feel like a shoe insole. Pick up a pair for you while yourself snagging them for everyone you love!

Custom Measuring Spoons ($24, Shop on Etsy)

There’s nothing like an adorable little set of custom kitchen products to brighten up your home.

Jeasona Cat Sock Set ($18, Shop on Amazon)

With five adorable pairs of socks in candy-like colors with pouty cat designs, this set is a must-have for any feline fan.

Zeroll Ice Cream Scoop ($20, Shop on Amazon)

OK, I’ll readily admit that this is at the top of my holiday wish list. (Yes, really.) We’re huge ice cream fans in my home, but scooping makes my wrist super tired, especially when we’ve got company over and I’m trying to assemble sundaes for six-plus people, so this top-rated scoop is what I’m crossing my fingers for this season.

Moleskine Notebook ($18, Shop on Amazon)

The art of keeping a journal is one that pays off in spades, both in the short- and long-term. As a hobby, it can offer relaxation and respite, as well as a tried-and-true route to channel your thoughts, dreams, fears, anxieties, and goals. Then, down the road (perhaps even decades from now), you’ll be glad to have documentation of your life right now—not only for nostalgic purposes, but also to see just how far you’ve really come.

Utopia Kitchen Grocery Bag Organizer ($15, Shop on Amazon)

I love this weird little kitchen accessory so much, I put it on multiple gift guides—it’s that good. At just $15, it is well-worth the cost (I highly recommend getting one for yourself); to this day, it is one of the best and most useful gifts I’ve ever received. Sold in small and medium sizes, this organizational gadget comes in sterling silver and copper colors, making it a solid fit for any home.

Under $50 Gifts

Sol de Janeiro Jet Set ($32, Shop on Amazon)

Ask any beauty lover: Sol de Janeiro makes some of the most wonderful-smelling skin-care products on the market, and this cute compact set is no exception.

Que Será Será 2025 Weekly Planner ($50, Shop on Hija De Tu Madre)

The best-selling Que Será Será planner is a great way to get organized in style for 2025. Pick it up for your best friend or sibling, then nab one for yourself while you’re at it.

L.L.Bean Trailblazer 400 Lantern ($45, Shop on L.L.Bean)

For those who love camping and getting outdoors, a rechargeable lantern is a useful gift that keeps on giving—especially when they realize how many batteries they’re saving money on.

Ellis Brooklyn Biography Fragrance Discovery Set ($35, Shop on Ellis Brooklyn)

Perfume is one of those special gifts that can be used every single day. The hard part: picking the right scent for your recipient. A discovery set, like this one from fan-favorite fragrance brand Ellis Brooklyn, takes the guesswork (and anxiety) out of shopping for scents for your loved ones.

Yellowtail Morning Star Pendant ($45, Shop on B. Yellowtail)

This gorgeous, bold-colored necklace from indigenous designer B. Yellowtail adds a bit of extra oomph to every outfit.

Rowenta Steamer for Clothes ($40, Shop on Amazon)

For the stylish people in your life who always want to look their best, a sleek handheld clothing steamer can be a godsend. Not only does this affordable option heat up in just 15 seconds and allow users to get wrinkle-free garments in minutes, it features a velvet surface (which prevents the steam from damaging fabrics), as well as a convenient lint-removal side to keep clothing fluff-free.

Yorepek Golf Trunk Organizer ($38, Shop on Amazon)

Got a golf fan in your family or friend group? Help them stay organized with this multi-slot organizer that holds shoes, balls, and everything else they’ll need for their next round.

Magnetic Apple Watch Charger ($34, Shop on Amazon)

If you’ve got an Apple Watch wearer on your list, snap them up this nifty charger with magnetic wireless charging, dual ports, and a foldable plug.

Ouai x DedCool Detergent ($38, Shop on DedCool)

Latin-owned brand DedCool collaborated with beloved hair-care brand Ouai on this detergent. It may seem like an odd gift to give; when you think “holiday presents,” it’s rare that laundry is the first thing that comes to mind. But this luxurious formula is exactly the type of product that many people want to try, but may feel hesitant to invest in it.

Soundcore With Anker Wireless Earbuds ($40, Shop on Amazon)

For music fans in need of a fresh set of earbuds, pick up this affordable set from Amazon and slip it into their stocking.

Sam Escobar is a writer and editor living in Brooklyn, NY. You can follow their work on Instagram, X, and Threads.

With surprisingly useful (and affordable) kitchen accessories, huge makeup vaults under $75, and a stunning personalized star chart, this list is packed with unique holiday gifts, While you’re at it, check out our holiday guides for the best cookbooks by Latin chefs, the best gifts from Latin-owned brands, and the best wellness gifts. All products are hand-selected by Latina editors. If you buy something through one of our links, we may receive an affiliate commission.

They say that “to give is better than to receive,” but when you’re struggling to find the right holiday gifts for those you love most, it can feel like a serious challenge. Perhaps you’re dealing with a picky teen, your hard-to-shop-for mother and father, or the family minimalist, or maybe you’re scouring the shelves for that one friend who’s always getting you amazing gifts. This curated guide to unique holiday gifts to give in 2024 is chock full of ideas for useful, thoughtful, and one-of-a-kind treasures.

If you’re on a limited budget this year (who isn’t?), don’t worry: Holiday gift shopping doesn’t have to mean money budget stress, so there are plenty of options under $15 on this list. From personalized bags, makeup vaults, and fragrances to brilliant kitchen gadgets, unbelievably soft socks, and joy-boosting custom wall art, we’ve searched far and wide to find the best gifts on the market for the 2024 holiday season.

Ready to find the perfect presents for all of your loved ones this year? Let’s dive into this list of hidden gems.

1. Rolife Book Nook Kit ($35, Shop on Amazon)

If you have a craft-loving bookworm in your life, this miniature DIY kit lets them create an easy-to-assemble nook to sit between all their favorite tomes. (Just look at those cute, teensy little rainboots.)

2. The Night Sky Custom Star Chart ($55+, Shop on The Night Sky)

This custom star chart commemorating a single special evening makes an incredible one-of-a-kind gift for anyone (and everyone) you love. On top of being able to specify the date, time, and exact location of your memory, as well as adding up to eight lines of text if you wish to include a message, there are also many options for colors, textures, dimension, and framing. I got this gift for my partner with the location and date of our very first night together—he loved it so much, he mounted it to the wall immediately.

3. Utopia Kitchen Grocery Bag Organizer ($15, Shop on Amazon)

This may seem like a strange addition to the list, but I promise, it is one of the most oddly useful gifts I have ever received. My brother gave one to me eight years ago and I’ve used it in three different apartments, lest I wind up with a disorganized, under-the-kitchen-sink pile of random plastic bags from the bodega or grocery store. It comes in small and medium sizes, and in both sterling silver and copper colors.

4. Symbolically Adopt a Capybara ($25–$100, Shop on World Wildlife Fund)

Everyone I know (myself included) absolutely loves capybaras, but you can also symbolically adopt any of the myriad animals whose conservation is supported by the World Wildlife Fund, including the endangered capuchin monkey, the unreasonably cute three-toed sloth, the majestic polar bear, and even the ocean’s resident Pokemon, the axolotl. Symbolic adoptions come at multiple price points, with optional gifts like plushies and tote bags included at the higher levels, but every animal lover will undoubtedly care most about your contribution to conservation.

5. MAC Cosmetics Golden Girls Mini Lustreglass Lipstick Vault ($74, Shop on MAC Cosmetics)

Give the gift of the perfect lip color for every season, outfit, and style with a stunning assortment of lip colors. This 12-piece lipstick menagerie from MAC Cosmetics comes in metallic packaging that’s so pretty, it practically wraps itself.

6. Cricut Joy Machine & Digital Library Bundle ($99, Shop on Amazon)

“Joy” is literally in the name of this gift, and with good reason. For anyone with a moderate to serious crafting affinity, Cricut’s products are considered some of the most coveted on the market. With the Joy Machine and its accompanying bundle of digital art, you’ll be gifting your loved one with a near-endless supply of design-making entertainment. (If you’re OK with a gift arriving after December 25, there are also plenty of great-value Cricut bundles that include the brand’s famous smart-cutting machine.)

7. KitchenAid 2024 Design Series Tilt-Head Stand Mixer ($699.99, Shop on KitchenAid and select colors on Amazon)

Give a gift that every foodie will fall in love with: a kitchen stand. Whether they’re a casual baker or a hardcore home cook, they’ll be thrilled to receive KitchenAid’s incredibly handy Artisan Series mixer, which comes in a huge range of colors, including the stunning evergreen iteration above, as well as bright red, cornflower blue, deep orange, pastel pink, and sleek silver or black. Then, pick something up from our list of the very best cookbooks by Latin chefs.

8. Yellowtail Poppy Floral Scarf ($75, Shop on B. Yellowtail)

For that stylish friend or family member who’s hard to shop for, there’s this gorgeous, 100-percent silk scarf created by designer B. Yellowtail as an “homage to the first fashionistas to walk the Plains.”

9. Diptyque Set of 5 Eaux de Parfum Les Essences de Diptyque ($200, Shop on Diptyque)

If you’ve got someone you really want to splurge on, few things feel as luxurious as a Diptyque candle or perfume. (Who can resist that elegant Art Nouveau–style packaging?) With five distinct scents, each held in its own striking bottle, this set from the famed perfumer will add an extra spritz of beauty to the recipient’s entire 2025.

10. Hestan OvenBond Tri-Ply 5-Piece Set (Shop on Hestan Culinary or Amazon)

Another gift that’s great for cooking fans, this comprehensive set of high-quality features a half sheet pan with a rack, a quarter sheet pan, and square and rectangular sheets—everything they’ll need to roast, bake, and broil their heart out.

11. Life Is Pain au Chocolat Sweatshirt ($46, Shop on Polychrome Goods)

For the snarky yet sweet bakery lover, Polychrome Goods has this cute sweatshirt that comes in multiple colors, including royal blue, maroon, tan, white, and black.

12. Vacation Classic Spray Sunscreen ($21, Shop on Amazon)

Vacation claims to be the “world’s best-smelling sunscreen,” and oh my goodness, it is not bluffing. If you’re in search of the perfect stocking stuffer, look no further: Give the gift of sun protection with Vacation’s beloved sunscreen spray, which features a scent that somehow smells both familiar and like nothing you’ve ever smelled before.

13. Highway Robbery Casa Felice Sarape Robe ($128, Shop on Highway Robbery)

Without a doubt, one of the best (and most-worn) gifts I’ve ever received is my Highway Robbery robe, which is currently hanging up in my bathroom and still looks just as stunning now as it did when I got it over six years ago. Sure, it’s pricier than many of the robes you’ll see in the big chain stores, but the quality is unmatched. (I would never advocate going against the clothing tag, but it is a testament to this robe’s durability that, despite admittedly not always following the recommended wash instructions, it is still in inexplicably perfect condition.) If you’re looking for a splurge that’s well worth it, a robe from this brand is it.

14. Making Faces by Kevyn Aucoin ($28, Shop on Amazon)

For the beauty lover who seems to already have every product on the market, pick up a copy of Making Faces by legendary makeup artist Kevyn Aucoin. With stunning portraits, step-by-step technique guides, and insider tidbits from behind the scenes of Aucoin’s prolific career, your favorite makeup fan is bound to turn to Making Faces again and again.

15. Ban.Do Color Me Happy Vase ($27, Shop on Ban.Do)

This cute, colorful, and hand-painted vase makes for a sunny addition to any shelf, countertop, or bedside table.

16. Jolie Filtered Showerhead ($165, Shop on Amazon)

In pursuit of healthier skin and hair, many people opt to drop lots of money on pricy skin-care and hair-care products, but often ignore an element that can have a huge impact: your shower water. A high-quality shower filter like this one from Jolie helps to prevent the types of minerals that have drying and damaging effects on your strands and complexion, allowing you to start every cleansing routine in a softer, gentler way.

17. A Donation to a Local Organization in Their Area ($1+)

To make a major impact, sometimes it’s best to think small. If your loved one has a cause that they care about, find an organization in their area that supports those efforts, whether they’re passionate about rights for immigrants and refugees; advocacy for people struggling with homelessness; support for youth music, arts, and athletics programs; animal rights protections and wildlife conservation; legal advocacy for low-income folks; reproductive rights; or anything else.

18. Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro ($300, Shop on Amazon)

It may look small, but Breville’s combination air fryer and convection oven packs a serious punch. (To this day, it is one of the best thing I’ve ever invested in; I can’t emphasize just how much time I save on preheating the oven every time I roast or bake anything.) With 13 helpful settings, a two-speed convection fan, and a huge library of recipes available for customers, and this smart oven is an amazing gift for anyone who loves to cook, but has a small kitchen and/or limited time.

19. Milk Eau de Parfum by DedCool ($30–$90, Shop on Sephora)

The art of layering fragrances can be tricky, but this scent from Latin-owned vegan perfume brand DedCool makes it much simpler. Its light, fresh fragrance features notes of amber, white musk, and bergamot, giving it the flexibility to pair beautifully with a range of other scents.

20. Magic Society Judy Bag ($150, Shop on Magic Society)

Looking for a gift for your favorite fashion-forward weirdo? Magic Society has absolutely got you covered with this bizarre, wonderful, head-turning crossbody bag.

21. Chatty Feet Modern Artists Sock Gift Set ($45, Shop on Chatty Feet)

Know any art-loving teens who are tough to shop for? Pick them up this set of four super-soft sock designs inspired by Yayoi Kusama, Roy Lichtenstein, Salvador Dali, and Piet Mondrian.

Sam Escobar is a writer and editor based in Brooklyn, NY. You can follow their work on Instagram, Threads, and X.

This list of crowd-pleasers ranges from helpful kitchen essentials to hair care and accessories to apparel. While you’re at it, check out our holiday guides for the best cookbooks by Latin chefs and the best wellness gifts to give in 2024.

The 2024 holiday season is in full swing, filling our streets and homes with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and warm traditions. For many, though, the holidays can be a time of stress when shopping. If you’re looking for Latin-made gifts to shop for all your favorite family members, allow the Latina.com gift guide to help you by taking the guesswork out of giving amazing presents. This list of crowd-pleasing products from Latin-owned brands spans accessories, apparel, hair care, beauty, and kitchen essentials, offering excellent choices for all your favorite people.

Whether you’re celebrating in your sala or traveling to spend time with family and friends, you’ll find high-quality gifts for everyone on your list. We’ve included a fun Spanglish card game that’s an instant hit at parties, a platano-shaped handbag, a stocking stuffer-sized hot sauce we love, a gorgeous line of necklaces featuring positive affirmations, an Indigenous Xicana–owned makeup collection that every beauty lover will fall for, and so much more. Check out the whole list below, starting at just $15.

Idioma Studio The Platano Bag and Madurito Pouch (Platano Bag, $395.00; Madurito Pouch, $130)

Founded by Joel and Nabila De La Rosa (a highly creative Dominican husband and wife duo), Idioma Studio is the designer behind this elevated bag—an ode to the plantain, a beloved staple in many Latin American dishes. The green Platano Bag is made from dark green calf leather, adorned with gold hardware, and can be worn as a shoulder or crossbody bag, while the yellow Madurito Pouch is made from recycled leather and makes a beautiful wristlet to go with all your party outfits.

Chillhouse Chill Head To Toe Bundle ($92, Shop on Chillhouse or Shop on Amazon)

The spa has never been closer to home than with this skin-care and press-on nail bundle from Chillhouse, the trendy salon-cum-retail company founded by Cyndi Ramirez-Fulton. It includes an in-shower body conditioner, a face and body mist, and two sets of chic Chill Tips—perfect for popping in the stocking of your best friend, sibling, or anyone else who loves a simple at-home manicure.

Cultura Confetti Feliz Año Nuevo Headband ($15, Shop on Cultura Confetti)

Share the gift of celebrating the holidays in style with Cultura Confetti’s Spanish party decor. Twin sisters Marlene and Maira Delgadillo create affordable headbands, balloon arches, and sashes for holidays and milestone moments—a unique way to add even more sparkle to your New Year’s Eve look.

Cassava & Cane Bendecida Affirmation Necklace ($40, Shop on Cassava & Cane)

Gift the power of a wearable affirmation with Cassava & Cane’s 18k gold-plated stainless steel necklaces. With phrases like bendecida, poderosa, and querida, Afro-Latina founder Gloria Malone wants the wearers of her jewelry to feel empowered and ready to take on the world.

Barrio Drive Me Llueven Las Bendiciones Tote Bag ($35, Shop on Barrio Drive)

Made by LGBTQ+, immigrant-owned shop Barrio Drive, this roomy, well-constructed tote dons a positive message: me llueven las bendiciones (“blessings rain down on me”)—a lovely affirmation that inspires positivity and hope. This makes an excellent everyday tote bag with adjustable straps, an inside zipper pocket, and a reinforced bottom. 

Yo Sabo Card Game ($20, Shop on Yo Sabo The Game; $25, Shop on Amazon)

Add a fresh game to your family night with Yo Sabo, a fun vocabulary-based card game that’s easy to play across generations and in big groups. Players gain points by correctly translating English words to Spanish, so the game doubles to fine-tune your language skills. Yo Sabo has quickly become a household favorite for my family, especially during holiday gatherings.

Yola Mezcal 1971 ($60, Shop on Yola Mezcal)

Not sure what hostess gift to bring to the next party you’re invited to? For the person who enjoys a versatile handcrafted and organic drink, check out the female-founded, female-led Yola Mezcal. Started by Yola Jimenez, the agave-based distilled spirit brand was launched with a recipe she inherited from her grandfather.

Hello Updo Gorro Silk Bonnet ($64, Shop on Hello Updo)

Winner of Oprah’s Best Bonnet for Beauty Sleep in 2024, the Hello Updo Silk Bonnet protects hair from damage and losing shape overnight. It comes in two colors and two convenient sizes, one for shorter or thinner hair and one large one for fuller, thicker hair.

Kids of Immigrants Holiday Capsule Hoodie ($110, Shop on Kids of Immigrants)

Look fresh while paying it forward with a piece from Kids of Immigrants’ 2024 Holiday Capsule, like this “Support Small Businesses” hoodie. Brand founder Daniel Buezo partnered with Buchanan’s Whisky to match the first $20,000 in sales from the limited collection to the Reimagine LA Foundation, which supports community organizations and local small businesses in Los Angeles.

Prados Beauty x RAH Azul La Indígena Guerrera 2024 VIP Box ($175, Shop on Prados Beauty or Shop on Amazon)

The Indígena Guerrera 2024 VIP Box is a stunning makeup collection by Indigenous- and Xicana-owned makeup brand Prados Beauty. Not only is it completely packed with amazing products (an 18-shade eyeshadow palette, blush palette, bronzer palette, three lip products, and a tote), the collection also features vibrant Indigenous-inspired artwork from Los Angeles-based artist RAH Azul.

Loisa La Familia Tool Set ($105, Shop on Loisa)

From chefs to casual foodies, the Loisa four-piece Familia Tool Set includes some of the most prized cooking tools for Latin cuisine. The tostonera is perfect for pressing plantains into tostones, the masher is essential for plates like mangú, the skimmer scoops without scratching your pans or pots, and the mortar and pestle will help with mixing spices, salsas, mojos, and more.

Rizos Curls The Complete Lengthening & Thickening Collection ($80, Shop on Rizos Curls or Shop on Amazon)

The dry, cold winter months can take a serious toll on one’s hair, so share the gift of a new hair-care routine with your friends and family by getting them Rizos Curls’ comprehensive collection formulated to improve hair health and add thickness for longer, stronger strands. On top of reducing breaking and supporting your long-hair-don’t-care goals, it features a light, refreshing scent and elevated packaging.

VolverDe La Dama Gift Basket ($95, Shop on VolverDe)

This luxurious, low-waste bath and body set from Latina-owned sustainable marketplace VolverDe is a great route to boosting your self-care and beauty routines without compromising your environmental values. This set features a natural bath soap, a cactus soap bar, and an agave body sponge packaged in a beautiful artisanal, handwoven palm basket. 

Diosa Fit Essential Set ($45, Shop on Diosa Fit)

Help grow your gym-loving friends’ cute athletic wardrobe with the Diosa Fit Essential Set, which comes with a matching sports bra and buttery-soft tennis skirt, with the latter featuring built-in pockets that make it as cute as it is functional.

Vive Cosmetics Dulce Holiday Kit ($35, Shop on Vive Cosmetics)

The Dulce Holiday Kits bundle together some of Vive Cosmetics’ most popular products, including a long-wearing Que Matte Liquid Lipstick in the color of your choice, a precision brow pencil, and the delicious, Dulce de Guava Lip Scrub. Your mami, tias, or primas will undoubtedly each want a set of their own. 

Piken x FAIYA Mama Juana Sauce ($15, Shop on Faiya)

Inspired by the Dominican rum-based drink mamajuana, this tropical sauce is a complex blend of spiced spirits, hot peppers, tamarind, mango, and spices. It’s as delicious as it sounds. We’ve gone through several bottles of this hot sauce in our home, so I’ll definitely be crossing my fingers to get this magical, spicy concoction as a stocking stuffer.

Bonita Fierce Best-Sellers Candle Gift Set ($92, Shop on Bonita Fierce)

It’s no wonder these nostalgic candles are Bonita Fierce’s best sellers. With scents like coquito, cafecito con leche, and lavender fabulosa, these coconut soy wax candles are sure to evoke the soft scents of home. The wooden wicks also crackle while they burn, adding a cozy ambiance wherever you set them.

Lybre Lashes Essentials Collection ($75, Shop on Lybre Lashes)

Makeup artist and influencer Karen Sarahi Gonzalez, better known as @iluvsarahii on Instagram, created these soft and natural-looking faux mink lashes for people who might usually feel intimidated by false lashes. They come in a range of cute styles befitting any occasion and can be worn up to 20 times.

Vida Bars Discovery Sets ($35, Shop Sets for Fine Hair or Coarse Hair)

Ana Perla Núñez has changed the game for the plastic-free and clean hair care space with her brand Vida Bars, including this set of nourishing, color-safe shampoo, conditioner, and leave-in products, all in bar form. These discovery sets are made for fine-to-medium hair and medium-to-coarse hair and are all curly-hair friendly. The sustainability-minded and travel-obsessed folks in your life will love you for these easy-to-carry bars.

Bawi Agua Fresca Variety Pack ($40, Shop on Drink Bawi)

Quench everyone’s thirst with Bawi’s sparkling agua fresca, which comes in fruity and delightful flavors like passionfruit, pineapple, lime, and guava—perfect for mixing up in cocktails or mocktails during your next celebration.

Zameena Mejia is a Dominican-American freelance writer born & raised in New York City. She is passionate about storytelling and uplifting diverse voices in beauty, wellness & Latinx lifestyle. Her work has appeared in Forbes, CNBC, Latina, Popsugar, Remezcla, Refinery29 and other outlets. Zameena holds a BA in journalism and Latin American studies from the State University of New York at New Paltz and an MA in business reporting from the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism. You can follow her work on Instagram, Threads, and zameena.com.

These cookbooks by chefs all over the world cover everything from ceviche and lomito to sourdough and sofrito. While you’re at it, check out our holiday guides for the best gifts from Latin-owned brands and the best wellness gifts. All products are hand-selected by Latina editors. If you buy something through one of our links, we may receive an affiliate commission.

Even in the age of cooking apps and aspirational Pinterest boards, there’s still nothing quite like flipping through a cookbook earmarked with favorite recipes and annotated with handwritten notes. While many recipes are often passed down by word of mouth in Latinx families, chefs from across the diaspora are prioritizing the preservation of culturally significant dishes and equipping the next generation with the tools to ensure the roots of our food aren’t lost. If you’re searching for the perfect holiday gifts to give your favorite foodie, one of these beautiful cookbooks is sure to be a hit.

Whether you’re an experimental chef eager to recreate the comforting snacks of your Dominican childhood but only have access to your bodega, a food historian seeking a deep dive into the culinary legacies of Latin America more broadly, or a veggie-lover embracing plant-based spins on nostalgic dishes, this curated list highlights authors who offer passports to your next food adventures without having to leave home. Here are 15 of the best cookbooks to gift or add to your own wishlist from James Beard Award-winning chefs to viral Instagram bakers that serve as guides for the sizzling barbecues of Argentina to the soulful stews of El Salvador, and celebrate the diversity and evolution of Latin and Caribbean cuisines.

For the Wanderluster

1. Nopalito: A Mexican Kitchen, Gonzalo Guzmán with Stacy Adimando ($30, Bookshop and Amazon)

Inspired by Napolito, Gonzalo Guzmán’s popular San Francisco restaurant, the chef (along with culinary author Stacy Adimando) shares simple yet impressive recipes that spotlight the range of Mexico’s regional culinary differences from Puebla to Yucatán. Featuring dishes like crispy red quesadillas with braised pork, tamales with red spiced sunflower seed mole, and toasted corn with crema and queso fresco, this approachable cookbook combines essential Mexican techniques with thoughtful cultural insights. 

2. The Simple Art of Rice, JJ Johnson ($35, Bookshop and Amazon)

The acclaimed James Beard Foundation Book Award winner’s second publication is an ode to rice across cultures and cuisines featuring a foolproof guide to cooking the versatile grain. JJ Johnson’s recipes influenced by diverse traditions from across the globe push you to think outside of the white rice box and include dishes (like Liberian jollof and Filipino champorado) while taking the reader on an educational journey through the culinary staple’s deep history and significance.

3. Colombiana: A Rediscovery of Recipes and Rituals from the Soul of Colombia, Mariana Velásquez ($35, Bookshop and Amazon)

This visually stunning and heartfelt tribute to Colombian cuisine from Mariana Velásquez, a Michelle-Obama-approved recipe developer, blends traditional dishes with modern cuisine. Featuring recipes from classics like arepas and empanadas to inventive creations like tamarind pork tenderloin with mint and spicy papaya gazpacho, this cookbook captures Colombia’s hospitality and array of flavors and customs.

4. Diala’s Kitchen: Plant-Forward and Pescatarian Recipes Inspired by Home and Travel, Diala Canelo ($30, Barnes & Noble and Amazon)

Inspired by her culinary explorations of cities like Barcelona, Santo Domingo, and Florence, chef Dialo Canelo (known as @dialaskitchen on Instagram) shares vibrant, vegetable-forward, and pescatarian-friendly recipes. Rooted in fresh, local ingredients, and a love for bold touches, her star dishes range from salmon tacos with chipotle crema to coconut flan.

5. The Cuban Table: A Celebration of Food, Flavors, and History, Ana Sofía Peláez & Ellen Silverman ($35, Rizzoli and Amazon)

Food writer Ana Sofía Peláez and photographer Ellen Silverman uncover the lore and family secrets behind authentic Cuban cooking. With timeless recipes and beautiful presentation, this contemporary explores the country’s rich cuisine and culture through the insights of home cooks, chefs, and food writers from Cuba, Miami, and New York.

6. Ceviche, Martin Morales ($31, Amazon)

This introduction to Peru’s vibrant culinary scene from Martin Morales, owner of the London’s acclaimed SoHo restaurant Ceviche, offers a look into the fusion of native Peruvian ingredients like quinoa and lucuma with Spanish, Italian, Chinese, and Japanese influences. Plus, find refreshing takes on ceviche, superfood salads, and eclectic desserts.

For the Nostalgia Lovers

7. Cocina Criolla, Carmen Valldejuli ($26, Barnes & Noble and Amazon)

Currently only available for sale in Spanish, Cocina Criolla by Carmen Valldejuli has been a staple in Caribbean kitchens since it was published in 1983. This old-school classic is filled with charming illustrations and hundreds of authentic recipes—it offers instructions for making everything from moro de guandules to sofrito—while providing practical cooking tips and advice (even for beginner cooks!) on how to read recipes and stock your kitchen with essential equipment.

8. The SalviSoul Cookbook: Salvadoran Recipes and the Women Who Preserve Them, Karla Tatiana Vasquez ($35, Rizzoli and Amazon)

After experiencing difficulty finding recipes to recreate dishes from her childhood, Karla Tatiana Vasquez set off to write this book highlighting the El Salvadoran community through recipes and personal stories gathered from women in her family and community. Combining traditional dishes like pupusas and Rellenos de Papa with moving narratives of resilience, Vasquez preserves the voices and histories of Salvadoran women across generations.

For the Aspiring Great British Bake-Off Contestant

9. New World Sourdough: Artisan Techniques for Creative Homemade Fermented Breads, Bryan Ford ($28, Bookshop and Amazon)

Inspired by his Honduran roots and New Orleans upbringing, viral baker Brian Ford (known as @artisanbrian on Instagram) offers a fresh, approachable take on baking sourdough bread and other baked goods at home, featuring recipes for birote, bagels, and beignets, among others. Focusing on practical techniques and flavor development over perfectionism, this cookbook is a must-have for bakers of all levels with tips on how to experiment with pan de coco, challah, tortillas, Cuban muffins, and more. 

10. Chicano Bakes, Esteban Castillo ($40, Bookshop and Amazon)

Explore sweet, nostalgic notes of Chicano cuisine with recipes for desserts, tamales, pan dulce, and traditional drinks that sparkle on the cookbook’s pages through dreamy Instagram-feed-worthy photography. Drawn from his Mexican American roots and childhood memories, Esteban Castillo shares beloved recipes like tres leches cake, conchas de vainilla, churro cheesecake, and tamales de elote.

11. Bodega Bakes, Paola Velez ($35, Bookshop and Amazon)

This debut cookbook from the co-founder of the organization Bakers Against Racism is a joyful celebration of Paola Velez’s childhood and Dominican heritage that invites you to bring the magic of bodegas into your kitchen. With more than 100 accessible and playful recipes highlighting the colorful character of corner stores, Velez showcases her blend of expertise and experimentation through recipes like pineapple empanadillas (a Caribbean classic) and her signature Thick’ems cookies.

For the Vegetarian or Vegan (…or Just Plain Veggie Lover)

12. Abuela’s Plant-Based Kitchen: Vegan Cuisine Inspired by Latin & Caribbean Family Recipes, Karla Salinari ($30, Bookshop and Amazon)

Drawing from her Puerto Rican upbringing, health coach Karla Salinari shows readers that they can still indulge in satisfying meals with complex flavors centered around plant-based ingredients. This cookbook shows you how to utilize chickpea water, tempeh, and tofu to carry on multigenerational cooking traditions. Dishes like garbanzo stew with plantain balls, Cuban-style picadillo, and coconut flan prove meat- and dairy-free comfort food doesn’t have to come at the expense of taste, making it an excellent cookbook for anyone with dietary restrictions or food allergies.

For the Grill Master of the Family

13. Seven Fires: Grilling the Argentine Way, Francis Mallmann ($40, Bookshop and Amazon)

A deep dive into mastering cooking with fire, this 2009 James Beard Award-winning cookbook shares primal techniques for sophisticated palettes. With show-stopping recipes like whole boneless ribeye with chimichurri, salt-crusted ctriped bass, and dulce de leche pancakes, renowned Argentine chef Francis Mallmann introduces readers to seven distinct grilling methods for both indoor and outdoor cooking.

For the Encyclopedic Chef

14. The Latin American Cookbook, Virgilio Martinez ($51, Bookshop and Amazon)

This comprehensive Latin American cookbook curated by a renowned Peruvian chef Virgilio Martínez features over 600 recipes that praise the region’s rich and complex culinary heritage. With classic dishes like empanadas, tamales, and tacos and lesser-known specialties that are sure to be a hit at any dinner party—Chilean disco fries and Nicaraguan squash stew, anyone?—Martinez exhibits myriad influences from indigenous, European, and Asian flavors.

15. Gran Cocina Latina: The Food of Latin America, Maricel E. Presilla ($40, Amazon)

Historian and restaurateur Maricel Presilla’s ultimate guide to Latin American cuisine provides over 500 recipes that span from Mexico to Argentina and the Caribbean. This expansive cookbook has it all: traditional dishes like adobos, ceviches, tamales, and moles, as well as desserts like flan and tres leches cake.

Leah Rodriguez is a writer based in Brooklyn, NY. You can follow her work on X.

Comforting candles? Check. Sleep trackers? Check. Gifts that’ll make life a little easier next year? Check, check, & check. While you’re at it, check out our holiday guides for the best gifts from Latin-owned brands and the best cookbooks by Latin chefs. All products are hand-selected by Latina editors. If you buy something through one of our links, we may receive an affiliate commission.

The body always knows what it needs and when it needs it most — you might just need a hand in figuring out which are the wellness tools and items to gift yourself and the ones you love for the holiday season, offering everyone’s self-care practices a boost in the new year. Whether you are craving movement, either physical or mental, some sunshine, or above all, a moment of self tending-to as the bustle of responsibilities of everyday life take up most of your attention, the ultimate source to help keep that engine going all lies in your wellbeing. 

Gadgets tailored to learning the ins and outs of your sleep cycle or optimizing your state of rest might do the trick. Or, something as unexpected as shuffling through a deck of cards full of daily affirmations will do you good. This holiday season, focus in on the wellness tools and practices that stimulate your skin and senses or simply put, make moments of self-care all the more ritualistic. From Latin-owned and minority-owned wellness brands to the best in sleep tech and lymphatic drainage tools to come by, here’s what to shop on the wellness front.

1. Tronque Ionic Body Dry Brush ($70, Shop on Neiman Marcus)

Not to exaggerate but, if you’ve ever been skeptical about the humble dry brush or haven’t seemed to find a reason for trying one out, everything changes once you do. Simply put: I’ve pushed my coffee intake back an hour in the morning thanks to the burst of energy that fills me up after I dry brush my entire body (even the palms of my hands) with the Tronque dry brush post-shower. Look out for those lymphatic portals throughout the body and make sure you’re brushing upward or outwards towards them. This dry brush is firm, dense, and powerful, stroking the skin with firm copper brush bristles that are ion-charged and beautifully exfoliate and, tone the skin, and of course, enhance your energy and better circulation.

2. San Soli Dark Cyprus Candle ($65, Shop on San Soli)

The moment this San Soli candle gets lit up in the corner nook of our living room, a deep breathe of calmness takes over the entire space. Developed is Grasse, France, Dark Cyprus has a gender-neutral aroma and is long-burning, whose pine notes definitely come through yet with an understated hint of sage and citrus lingering around. It’s the perfect kickstarter for a writing session, lounge around, or a cozy day in. 

3. Bloomi Travel Bundle ($68, Shop on Bloomi or Amazon)

You and yours — ahem, your forever friend or anyone who instantly comes to mind — deserve the ultimate travel buddy this holiday season: the Bloomi play and pleasure tote and bundle. While your off setting intentions for the new year, set a new standard for personal intimacies while you’re at it. The Travel Bundle comes with Bloomi’s Play curved vibrator, which is waterproof and fits in the palm of your hand, and the Desire Sensual Pleasure Oil, formulated with plant-based ingredients and meant to “heighten sensitivity” during play or peak. Check out Bloomi’s sexologist-approved tips to get the most out of your new favorite toy (and tote). 

4. De La Heart The Body Tool ($36, Shop on De La Heart or Amazon)

The woodworks of sculpting and massaging the body as a form of ritualistic beauty and wellness care has been a part of our community’s DNA for ages, and the de la Heart brand and Body Tool were dreamt up for that exact reason. As a self-care essential born from founder Gigi Vogel’s Colombian traditions, every crevice on the Body Tool can iron out tension and tone along the thighs, waist, booty, and more. Referred to as wood therapy, soothe the body with a tool that is handcrafted in Colombia.

5. La Boticá Large Palo Santo Set ($35, Shop on La Boticá)

Oftentimes the very best wellness remedies are performed at home base, and if you’re looking to clear and cleanse your space as part of it all — or beforehand — open your windows and burn a lock from La Botica’s Palo Santo Set. 12 sticks come with, and are sourced from Ecuador.

6. Vela Negra Raíces Candle ($60, Shop on Vela Negra)

Three familiar scents, in one artisanal mexican-dough bowl. VelaNegra’s Raíces candle comes in a hearty basin that doubles as coffee table talk decor, allowing you to alternate between a well-lit blend of dark chocolate and coconut, hibiscus and rosewater, or, masculine palo santo and musk.

7. Almadé Affirmation Deck Cards for Wholeness ($30, Shop on The Salvaged Sawhorse)

No matter the day or the mood of the day, gifting an affirmation deck to your loved ones is actually a gift for their inner dialogue. Something positive comes from each card pulled when sifting through the Almadé Affirmation Deck, and while we’re at it, it serves as just the right reason to learn how to shuffle a deck of cards. In many ways, acts of wellbeing can start with how you speak to and speak of, yourself. So here’s a cue for the mind and matter.

8. Ere Perez Quartz Sculpt & Lift Face Stone ($30, Shop on Ere Perez and Amazon)

Made with clear natural quartz for all the clarity in the world, the Ere Perez Quartz Sculpt & Lift Face Stone features a mermaid tale-shaped tip for stimulating all the pressure points around the eyebrow, and massaging out tension near the jawline. This year, I skipped the 10-step skincare routine and put all my attention on facial massage. This face stone helps release all the tension we hold in our face, and was designed with a flat surface and curved silhouette to make your daily facial massage your own. 

9. Elix Daily Harmony ($38, Shop on Elix)

I add this daily tincture to a cup of room temperature or hot water, nourishing every phase of my cycle with a curated dose of Chinese medicinal herbs that aren’t capsulated (which is cheaper to make) and purely boiled. Elix’s Daily Harmony formula focuses on supporting your digestion and cycle fluctuations that affect mood and energy, removing any alcohol or preservatives from the equation. Since introducing TCM into my wellness routine, the highs and lows of the menstrual, follicular, ovulation, and lastly,  luteal phase are completely in my control.

10. Hatch Restore 2 Sunrise Alarm Clock ($170, Shop on Hatch and Amazon)

After one too many mornings waking up startled by my cellphone’s awful alarm clock ringer, it was time to invest in sleep care. Feeling well rested is where it all begins, and you can enhance the experience straight through the sleep sounds, bedside light, and sunrise alarm features the Hatch Restore 2 sunrise sleep clock features, controlled through the Hatch app or the rest and rise buttons on the sleep device itself. It’s a must for setting yourself up with a new wind-down routine and good morning hello. After all, what’s a good night’s rest with a cell phone near your space and body.

11. Cora the Simply Soothing Heat Patch ($15, Shop on Cora and in a 2-pack on Amazon)

Looking for a unique (and much-needed) stocking stuffer? Prioritizing menstrual wellness can be as simple as dedicating the day to minimal movement, rest, and loose clothing. Except, if your cramps tend to linger around your lower back or stomach, nothing does the trick like a heated assist. Cora, a clean menstrual care brand, has a carbon-activated heat patch made for that monthly discomfort; remaining warm for up to eight hours and simply adhering to your undies in whichever area you need it to. The Simply Soothing Heat Patch is made with raspberry leaf, dandelion root, and cramp bark, serving as your motivator on days when the monthly menstrual takes over.

12. HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket ($560, Shop on Amazon)

It’s not every day you get to take part in a sauna session, unless you’re open to bringing the sensoriality of the sauna to the comfort of your home through wellness tech — without the bulk if you’ve got limited space. Whether your muscles are recuperating or you’re looking for a newfound source of detox and grounding, HigherDose’s Infrared Sauna Blanket can be rolled out onto your floor, heated up in 10 minutes for you to slip right into it, and tucked back into the closet once you’ve sweat it all out. Think of this wellness sauna blanket as your at-home cocoon, that you’ll come out of feeling radiant, refreshed, and ready to regroup. 

13. Apple Watch Series 10 Smartwatch ($379–$399, Shop on Amazon)

The latest and greatest device for tracking your sleep, health, and fitness, all while depending on exceptional battery life? The Apple Watch Series 10 smartwatch. This watches build is sleek, thin, and titanium-based, and has the features you want to make sure your go-to watch is waterproof. If you’re going for a swim, tracking fitness metrics,  or zoning in on sleep quality, its a gift that will go a long way. 

14. Chani App Gift Subscription (Shop on Apple)

Do your Astro bestie a favor, and put them onto the Chani App. Loaded with guided meditations for affirming your sense of belonging, intuition, abundance, and so much more, this is an Astrology and manifestation app that helps you uncover the beauty of your birth chart, moon, sun, and rising signs in an actual digestible manner. Perhaps you just started sound meditating or are interested in tapping into what the new or full moon of every month signals for your particular zodiac sign—either way, this app is the gift that keeps on giving and has something new to offer. 

A Chani App subscription can be gifted by purchasing an Apple or Android app store gift card. 

15. Maude Burn No.3 ($30, Shop on Maude or Amazon)

A new way to initiate intimacy (or a well-deserved massage from your partner) is Maude’s soy-based massage candle. It’s a pleasurable wellness gift for you and them — all while soothing and softening the skin barrier with jojoba oil and heightening the senses with notes of eucalyptus and vetiver. Once it is lit and melted into a liquid as a candle would, burn no.3 turns into a jojoba-based body oil for a nice grip and moisture as you massage the skin. 

16. Rahua Rainforest Grown Beauty Hydration Heroes Set (Shop as a $137 set on Rahua or individually on Amazon)

Drastic changes in weather are first to show face through the health of your skin, scalp, and strands. If you’ve got a friend yapping away about their winter skin and dull hair (I’m the friend), set them up with Rahua’s Hydration Heroes shampoo and conditioner duo, hair mask, and detangler and heat protectant spray. Powered with Amazonian oils and protein bonding sugars, this haircare set is a cure-all for dehydrated textured hair and color-treated hair. 

17. Jacana Releaf Balm in Lemongrass ($70, Shop on Jacana Wellness)

We soothe the wear and tear of our active life with Jamaican wellness brand Jacana’s Releaf Balm. Made with beeswax and essential oils, this everyday essential is reserved for shoulder work, the heels of our feet, and targeted soreness. Everything from organic menthol, lemongrass oil, and tea tree oil is infused within the Releaf Balm’s lemongrass formula, featuring ingredients grown in Jacana’s farm in Jamaica. 

Chelsea Avila is a contributing market and feature writer based in Queens, New York. You can follow her work on Linktree and Instagram.

“For us, stories are living beings,” writes Nemonte Nenquimo in the introduction of her memoir, We Will Be Jaguars: A Memoir of My People, co-written with her husband, and fellow activist Mitch Anderson, “A story dies when no one tells it.”

“This book centers my thoughts: how I look at evangelicals, how I look at white people,” Nenquimo shares with me over a video call while on a family vacation with her in-laws in Petaluma, California, a drawing of a densely populated jungle hanging behind the white couch Nemonte sits in with her husband and children. We Will Be Jaguars, released in the U.S. on September 17, is a testimony of her upbringing. “I asked my dad, ‘How about sharing our collective struggle? Our memory. Making the world understand is necessary,” she recalls. “We began remembering with my dad, my mom, my brothers, aunts. Many times, evangelicals, and anthropologists have given their perspectives. But no one has written, our memory, the true history.”

Nemonte Nenquimo is among the world’s most recognized Indigenous climate activists. On April 23, 2019, she was the lead plaintiff in a landmark suit against the Ecuadorian government’s planned auction of Waorani land to oil companies. After a three-day trial, the verdict stated that the government had conducted a faulty consultation process with the community prior to putting their territory up for sale. Under the leadership of Nenquimo, the Waorani people asserted their right for self-determination, culminating in the protection of half a million acres of their rainforest. On April 26, hundreds of Waorani flocked to Puyo, Ecuador, streaks of achiote red pigments adorning their eyes and declared them Waorani. They had won over a system that long deemed them voiceless.

Nenquimo was born in 1985 deep in the Ecuadorian Amazon as a member of the Waorani tribe. It was among the last tribes to be contacted by American missionaries in the 1950s and known for resisting previous contact attempts. Experiences and life stories like Nenquimo’s have been told by anthropologists and other outsiders looking in for far too long. Nenquimo achieves a monumental feat in reversing colonial narratives, using the written word to center generations of Waorani cosmovision. It joins the company of The Falling Sky: Words of a Yanomami Shaman, Davi Kopenawa Yanomami’s 2010 memoir documenting his life story as a shaman and Yanomami spokesperson and the cosmo-ecological thought of the Yanomami in the Brazilian Amazon.

The book serves as both a recollection of a people and a coming-of-age tale covering nearly three decades of her community, from the early 1990s through 2019, from the first time Nemonte sees a plane land near the Curaray River to the ever-rising tensions between settler evangelicals and nearby oil companies in the last decade. Youth and elders can either accept missionary hymns, Western clothing, and work for the oil companies or find forms of fighting back. Some flee their land while others accept employment, but in the end, they must all come together in response to the oil companies’ poisoning of their water supply.

For Nemonte, the process of remembering her adolescence meant confronting deeply painful memories she had long repressed. At 14, Nenquimo left Nemompare for the first time to study with an evangelical missionary group in Quito. She writes from a place of empowerment with women in mind as she recounts stories of sexual abuse and her journey towards unlearning prejudiced viewpoints held by the so-called “civilized” world. Naming the harm became a step on the journey to healing and transformation. “It was a difficult process of remembering,” Nemonte says. “I kept so many things hidden for so long”

By far, the hardest memories to unearth pertained to her late brother Victor or Mengatowe. “It was very emotional to talk about him and then listen to the stories. I went to the waterfall crying and asking Victor to join me and help me to write this book so that everyone can see mother nature,” explains Nenquimo.

With Victor’s blessing, Nenquimo expresses an urgent message: “How can I make the world respect Waorani, respect mother nature? Many elders say, ‘outsiders know more about destruction than the jungle.’ We need to remind cityfolk that they are also connected to the earth, connected to the air, connected to the water.”

We Will Be Jaguars arose from years of early-morning conversations with Anderson. A few days before the birth of their son Sol, Nemonte began sharing stories with her husband. Guided by generations of oral tradition, Nemonte would recite while Mitch would transcribe. Over the next two years, the two collected enough stories from Nemonte, friends, and loved ones to begin weaving a tapestry of the Waorani people. She insists that Mitch is not a translator, “My husband lives in our territory. He is one of the activists that works and fights with us. We’ve learned from him, just like he has learned from us.” Mitch is the founder and executive director of Amazon Frontlines and has long worked with Indigenous nations throughout the Amazon to defend their rights to land, life and cultural survival. During our interview, Mitch distracts their two kids Sol and Daime while Nemonte tells me her recent dreams. It’s a small glimpse into their partnership.

As its title suggests, We Will Be Jaguars asserts the future without erasing the past. It is a promise towards reclaiming and amplifying Waorani knowledge—a self-documented celebration of the tribe’s rich history and culture. Importantly, as so many of us watch, all but frozen with fear, as our world seems to be inevitably consumed by rising tides, burning forests, and deepening inequalities, We Will Be Jaguars is a portrait of the modern revolutionary activism undertaken by Nemonte and her husband, peers, and ancestors. Our task is to listen with humility, then ask ourselves: What action can we take now?

D’ana Nuñez, known as COVL, has just made history as the first Latina artist to co-create a makeup collection for Ulta’s private label artist series. The limited-edition lineup comprises 10 products, including colorful eyeshadows, lip glosses, funky hair clips, a spa headband set, a candle, and more, all priced under $20.

Although Nuñez has collaborated with major brands like Nike and Instagram, this marks her debut in co-developing a makeup collection. As a multidisciplinary artist, her signature colorful, nostalgic, and vibrant designs span various mediums. You can find her art not only on painted canvases but also in digital designs featured throughout Netflix’s hit show “Never Have I Ever” and on basketball courts in Orchard Beach, The Bronx. Now, her artwork extends to color cosmetics and beauty products available at all of Ulta Beauty’s 1350+ stores nationwide and online.

Hailing from Miami and now based in Brooklyn, Nuñez’s work is deeply influenced by her vibrant Latin culture and upbringing. Throughout the collection, she pays homage to her Puerto Rican heritage, evident in the product names and the blue hues inspired by the Puerto Rican flag’s light blue, representing independence.

“I added that color because I wanted some semblance to the light blue that represents independence on the Puerto Rico flag,” Nuñez tells LATINA. “With art, it’s important to share my history, to champion a liberated future through different bodies of work, and to represent those before me.”

The cream eyeshadow set in the collection nods to Nuñez’s background, resembling partially squeezed paint tubes and featuring three mattes and one pearlescent cream eyeshadow formula. Her favorite items to create were the luxury-inspired “homeboy” candle and the puffy makeup bag. However, designing the eyeshadow palette proved challenging, as she had the freedom to create an 18-shadow palette like never before. The entire process, from Ulta Beauty’s initial email inviting Nuñez to join the artist series to the collection’s launch, took about a year.

“When the email [from Ulta] came in one day in May of 2023, my manager and I thought it was spam,” Nuñez recalls. “[I was in] total disbelief, but I was so ready.”

Now, makeup enthusiasts and art aficionados alike can own a piece of the “COVL universe,” as Nuñez describes her body of work.

“The process was so inspiring and full of exploration because as someone who has to have her hands in every part of the process, it’s important to partner up with brands who encourage you to dream big and allow you to run free with ideas,” she says. “Makeup is an avenue of self-expression through which I can tell my story while helping others unfold theirs.”

The Ulta Beauty Collection x COVL Artist Series is available now at ULTA.