Below are a few inexpensive options to get for your favorite person: you! But honestly, these work just as great as a gift to someone else. After all, there are still holidays to look forward to.
For a sweet tooth: healthy treats with a local twist
We’re bringing traditional desserts back! Next time you’re in a supermarket, look for Russian treats like pastila, smokva, and chocolate butter. Chances are, you’ll love what you’ll find. Not only do they taste great, but some brands also create beautiful packaging, and even partner up with the Hermitage, turning these treats into art.
Pastila package designed in collaboration with Hermitage. Photo courtesy of the author
Online, you can find even more unexpected options, like apple cheese made in Vologda or spicy ready-to-eat dough from Kaluga. Those aren’t widely known even across Russia, so give them a try if you’re looking for something unique.
For practical people: 10x of your favorites
Stock up on something you love: snacks, skincare, art supplies, socks, or whatever else makes your daily life better. You’ll thank yourself later!
By the way, this might also work if you’re trying to cut back on something. For some people, simply having 10 packs of their favorite chips is enough to no longer feel the urge to eat them as often. This can also backfire, though, so stock up wisely.
For your inner child: crossing items off your childhood wishlist
Think about the small things you always wanted to have as a child but never had the chance. It could be an extravagant toy, a huge set of marker pens, or a coloring book themed around your favorite cartoon.
It could also be an experience, like swimming in a ball pit, visiting an amusement park or a planetarium, and so on. Even if it’s not your current obsession, it’ll still feel great, and your inner child will appreciate it.
For your inner teen: merch, stickers, and posters
Adulthood sometimes convinces us that buying merch from your favorite band, movie, or TV show is childish. But if seeing a poster of your favorite character above your desk makes you happy, who cares?
This is especially therapeutic if you weren’t allowed to decorate your space as much as you’d like growing up.
For fashion icons: nostalgic trinkets
If neither toys nor posters sound like you, but you still want to invoke that childhood wonder, get some perfectly conventional adult stuff like accessories – but with a nostalgic twist. Think pendants or keychains featuring a minimalistic toy, animal, or a sweets you loved as a child. For those who grew up in Russia, this could be a nevalyashka (a classic wobble toy) or a Rotfront candy-inspired necklace.
Looking for more inspiration? Discover more local brands in our other stories: on jewelry, clothes, or other items.
