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Last year, The Quality Edit launched its Quality Makers category, focusing on the ins and outs of the inspiring individuals behind the many brands we’ve covered. The talented founders have shared their background stories with our TQE community – from when they first planted their seeds to the tall branches their trees have now grown. They’ve been kind enough to provide inside looks into the DTC world and hand out valuable life lessons on how to build a business.
This year, we’re lucky enough to once again check in with some of our favorite founders, before the busy holiday season begins. The Quality Makers gift guide is back, this time featuring Aishwarya Iyer’s carefully selected holiday picks! Keep reading for some special inspiration so you can match the unparalleled taste of Brightland’s successful founder.
The woman-of-color owned company Brightland sells happy and wholesome olive oil, vinegar and honey. In line with its motto ‘where trust and traceability thrive,’ with Brightland you know exactly what you’re getting: authentic products that are never rotten, overprocessed, or fraudulent, with absolutely no fillers or artificial preservatives. The Brightland team carefully sources its olives from a family-run California farm, and then cold-presses them into custom-blended oils.
The inspiration behind Brightland stems from founder Aishwarya’s personal experiences, and her desire for time-honored food production and a deep belief in the land and what it provides. As her ancestors were salt farmers in the South of India, they always embraced the concept that the land provided for them. Similarly, Aishwarya believes in the California sun and soil, and the wonderful ingredients they grow. It is her wish that Brightland’s ‘good for you’ products provide nourishment to the people for all their meals to come.
Enjoy Aishwarya’s special holiday picks below:
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AI: “Our new Mini Artist Series features petite bottles of Brightland’s flavored garlic, chili, lemon and basil-infused olive oils — all with special artist labels. I love this gift because it is just the right size for a stocking stuffer, and beautifully packaged – so no need to wrap.”
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AI: “AMASS makes ultra-premium, small batch botanic spirits, giving its gin a modern twist. My go-to cocktail to make for myself at home is AMASS gin, Brightland’s PARASOL champagne vinegar ($22), sparkling water, mint leaves and one slice of an orange.”
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AI: “This robe from Lunya is so glamorous and perfect for lazy evenings in the kitchen with a glass of wine. The brand believes that staying in is the new going out, and this robe really helps with that mentality. Cozy wear for a dreamy night.”
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AI: “This magical-tasting, hand-harvested saffron from Afghanistan makes for a very special gift. I love the color used in the packaging. You can tell the ingredients are pure due to its potency. A small pinch goes a long way! One of my favorites to cook with.”
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AI: “Paired together to balance and round out your kitchen, The Duo includes Brightland’s AWAKE and ALIVE oils. This is a thoughtful option because you can add a monthly subscription, making it a fun gift that keeps on giving.”
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AI: “When I’m baking, I love using this adorable Areaware timer rather than my phone. One of Brightland’s values is to try to embrace the analog over digital, and this is a small way to do that! The design is so aesthetically pleasing, I love to look at it. This is truly a gift for everyone!”
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AI: “As someone who doesn’t drink coffee, I love sipping on this ceremonial grade matcha from Golde. The tea leaves are grown in Uji, Japan, and this kit comes with a bamboo whisk. I never knew a matcha latte at home could taste this good. Easy to make and no jitters guaranteed.”
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Share these goodies with your loved ones by gifting them one of Aishwarya’s favorites. Wise words to live by through the eyes of the lovely founder herself, inspired by what it means to live in the Golden State:
“Savoring the simple moments. Everyday elegance. Cozy days and slow nights… Beauty from the inside out. Seeking the truth. Lazy evening strolls. Analog moments. Nourishing body, heart and soul… Verve and vibrancy. Being fully engaged in the present. Living well.”
Pass on this lifestyle to keep California Dreamin with Aishwarya’s Quality Makers Gift Guide.
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