Thanksgiving has wrapped, and now the holiday shopping season is officially in full swing.
That means now is the time to identify enticing gift options for friends, colleagues and family — especially those who may be difficult to please. Fortunately, several local companies sell a variety of unique products bound to appeal to the people on your shopping list.
If you're in need of inspiration, check out some gift options below:
For pets lovers
Dog and cat enthusiasts can't help but be drawn to anything that can help their furry friends stay healthy. Enter EpiPaws. Founded last in 2022 by a Florida International University Ph.D. graduate, the startup is the maker of a DNA test that can determine the chronological age of dogs and cats. That information could help rescue owners, who often do not know the exact age of their animals, improve health outcomes for their pets. Right now tests are on sale for $96 each.
For techies
Plantation-based Magic Leap released its Magic Leap 2, an augmented reality headset that is reportedly 20% lighter and 50% smaller in volume than the company's first-generation device. While other AR/VR headsets cater to everyday gamers, the Magic Leap 2 is designed for professionals that want to access immersive environments for job training and other uses. The device starts at $3,299.
For anyone who eats frozen food
A tasty frozen snack can be a godsend for anyone who doesn't have the time or energy to cook a meal. The problem? So many of them are full of preservatives and other unhealthy additives. Miami-based Toast It is providing an alternative. The brand is the maker of authentic frozen arepas and other Venezuelan snacks that are made from organic ingredients sourced from Latin America. In October, the startup's founders received a $150,000 investment from Kind Snacks founder Daniel Lubetzky after pitching Toast It on "Shark Tank." A bundle of 30 ready-to-toast frozen arepas sells for $50.
For women
West Palm Beach-based Kushae sells a line of all-natural feminine wellness products, including body washes and deodorants. Kushae's products stand out from competitors because they are made from plant-based materials free from synthetic ingredients. Plus, all of the company's formulations are developed in collaboration with physicians and made in the U.S. Kushae's signature gift set costs $69.99.
For the wellness lover
Top-of-the-line water is the latest way to stay healthy. Miami-based Weo is the maker of a water bottle that it claims can boost immunity. The reusable bottle reportedly uses electrolysis technology and diamond-coated silicon to "activate" biomolecules in water that support vitality, gut and skin health. In March, the company raised $15 million in a series A funding round led by Korelya Capital. But it isn't cheap: The Weo Bottle starts at $219.
For new parents
Give the gift of a full night's sleep to parents in your life. Storybook is behind a mobile app that combines relaxation techniques, infant massage, music and bedtime stories to help parents and their children bond and sleep better. The app, designed for babies and children up to 10 years old, is available in English, Spanish and Portuguese. Subscriptions start at $49.99 a year.
For kids who need to get off the iPad
Miami-based Storypod is the maker of a screen-free device that plays music, nursery rhymes and interactive games for children up to 6 years old. The device can also be activated by read-along books and interactive flash cards, all made to help kids explore foundational learning concepts while reducing their screen time. The Storypod is currently on sale for $59.99.
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