Sauce’s Diwali Gift guide
There is no doubt that Diwali is a special celebration at Sauce HQ. As a South Asian-owned business, and with three in-house team members of South Asian heritage - Zeenat, Anahita, and Liam - it’s safe to say - we absolutely LOVE Diwali. If you’re looking to partake in the celebrations this year, a thoughtful gift for your friends celebrating is the way to go. Anahita and Zeenat have curated a gift guide inspired by the essence of festivities.
PS — It's worth noting that globally, New York City has officially recognized Diwali as a school holiday. It's time for us to elevate our celebration!
Byredo Chai Candle
It's the festival of lights, and nothing says light quite like the warm flicker of a candle. Add in the spicy scent of chai, and you've got the perfect scent in the air on a November evening in New Delhi.
Scapegrace Gin
Gin is to Diwali what beer is to an NZ Christmas. Absolutely essential! Diwali is all about hosting and spending quality time together well into the night. A solid G&T is a welcomed accompaniment.
Seedlip Spice 94 Non-Alcoholic Drink
As a low-level drinker, I think it's always a good rule of thumb to make sure we don't make assumptions by only providing alcohol. A non-alcoholic mixer is always a great idea for absolutely anyone's hosting repertoire.
Aesop: Geranium Leaf Duet
Diwali marks the start of the New Year in the Hindu calendar. There's no better way to mark the occassion with a "new year, new me" mindset by gifting self-care. A bundle of bathroom goodies is always such a treat because it's not something you'd buy for yourself, but thoroughly enjoy when gifted!
1864 Poker Deck Card Game
Just like every other Indian celebration, Diwali is never about celebrating just the day. It's about the lead up in festivities and quality time, usually marked by nights of playing cards (with & without the cash). It brings out a bit of healthy competition, banter and all around good vibes. Gifting a card deck is sort of your way of saying, I want to be a part of it (and you should because it's a serious treat!).
Tsu Lange Yor Oil Burner
There's something very olfactory about Diwali. You can smell it in the air about a month before, it's festive and fresh and everyone's house is always packed full of the warmth of sandalwood and frankincense. Gifting anything light-related is always 10/10, but light and scent together is the winning combination!
Simon James: Form Teapot in Brass
Bringing your host something for their home is always a good idea. After the Gin has gone down, Diwali is about sharing pots of chai (generally around a fire because it's winter in India). A statement teapot is a beautiful gift to enjoy during the hosting season but also well after.
Bordallo Pinheiro: Cabbage Oval Platter
Following on with the home-theme of gift-ideas, a large platter for hors d'oeuvres is a requirement in every host home. It brings everyone around the central feast and is such a lovely way to appreciate their hospitality while cheekily implying you're looking forward to the next time!
Forth St Brass Egg Sculpture
Owned by Syndey-based founder of South Asian Muslim heritage, Rukaiya Daud, Forth St Home has some of the most beautiful home decor ornaments including the Egg Sculpture that can be used as an ornament for shelf or coffee table.
Ver Oil
Inspired by Ayurvedic rituals and created with the highest quality ingredients, Ver Oil is a nutrient-dense face oil acts as a foundational layer to elevate your skin. A potent yet lightweight blend of active botanicals containing an array of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and essential omega-rich fatty acids. The perfect gift for a skin care girlie.
