2024 Taiwanese American Gift Guide: Shop your community!

By popular demand, we’re bringing back our annual gift guide, highlighting Taiwanese American small businesses, brands, and creators. This year, our nomination form included space for these folks to share any community affiliations (such as with the Taiwanese American Foundation summer conference of Taiwanese American Professionals chapters), and it warms our hearts to see all the connective networks throughout! See our past gift guides here.

We’re also so proud of the flourishing Taiwanese American literary canon – please consider purchasing books this season through our Bookshop, which fulfills orders through independent bookstores and allows us to earn affiliate income at no additional cost to you! Happy shopping!

Cukimber Designs | Blue Plaid Puffer Scarf

What makes them special: Cukimber is a bold, colorful, and fresh lifestyle brand that aims to inspire people to have fun! Starting from paintings, self taught artist and designer Kimberly J. Wong expanded her creations encompassing statement jewelry, abstract paintings, clothing & more: “The reason why I started it is I wanted to fulfill my childhood dream of being a fashion designer :). Through schooling I just didn’t think that I was going to be able to go outside of a more traditional job route and turns out I got here anyways :). I always knew I was different in my approach to clothing or fashion but never studied it – and sometimes an idea just has to be released. Back in 2019 I pitched my brand before I had even produced a collection to a mall and that’s how the brand got born by having a commercial popup! My brand encourages people (mainly women) to be their chic and fabulous selves and to be confident in wearing colors! “

Shop All: https://www.cukimber.com/

Instagram: @cukimberdesigns

Use code TAORG for free shipping through 12/15/24

Formosa Chocolate | Bopomofo Fine Chocolate Bar

What makes them special: Whether you call it bopomofo, zhùyīn fúhào, or ㄅㄆㄇ ㄈ, children of the Taiwanese diaspora learned these phonetic characters in order to pronounce Chinese words accurately. A fun and delicious callback to those long Sunday afternoons. . . 65% dark chocolate and rice croquante. Vegan. Contains soy.

Shop All: https://www.formosachocolates.com/

Instagram: @formosachocolates

Use code TAORG10 for 10% off through 12/25/24

Dae Tea | Journey of Taiwan Collection

What makes them special: Dae Tea, better known in Taiwan as Hwa Gung Tea 華 剛 茶 業, is a five generation family-owned business that has won several international awards, establishing itself as one of the finest teas in the world. This tea collection recently won the Grand Gold Prize at the 2022 World Green Tea Contest held in Japan. Tea drinkers will discover classic oolong teas from the most prominent tea regions in Taiwan, from the time-honored Dong Ding region to the premium LiShan high mountain region. Each tea leaf is strictly plucked by hand from the highest quality tea gardens. All of them epitomize timeless tasting profiles that take oolong tea connoisseurs on a palate journey through Taiwan.

Shop All: https://daetea.co/

Instagram: @daetea.co

The Formosa Coffee | Bagged Coffee Beans (8oz/227g)

What makes them special: Our diligently Hand-picked and Exclusive beans are produced in the YunLin province of Taiwan (East Asia) from Arabica plants and processed by the natural, dried-in-the-whole-fruit method. This process results in a sweet structure with brisk acidity, is medium-bodied, with a velvety-smooth mouthfeel to finish. Truly, the gentle nature of this process creates a unique and complex yet balanced cup of coffee with notes of raisin and lemon or brown sugar depending on how it’s prepared and consumed.

Shop All: https://www.theformosacoffee.com/

Instagram: @theformosacoffee

GaMaDiam Goods | Breakfast 早餐 Woven Blanket by Breakfast Shop

What makes them special: What started as an online provision and home goods concept shop eventually grew into IRL food pop-ups that share generational Taiwanese flavorscapes in creative forms such as a deconstructed Taiwanese ice cream – through the diverse variations offered I hope to assert authentic Taiwanese flavors, and through experiencing the food people can establish their own vocabulary in describing Taiwanese food, as opposed to only be able to name well-known dishes: something Taiwanese food have not achieved the understanding of, unlike other Asian cuisines, just quite yet. 

Under this umbrella I also work with many Taiwanese artists and creators to highlight their art and creations, through art shows and mini markets I either pull together or am a part of. The sole mission is to amplify Taiwan’s voice, so we may finally be recognized as our own identity and country. 

Shop All: gamadiamgoods.square.site

Instagram: @ga.ma.diam_goods

Use code 888YEAROFSNAKE for 10% off through 12/15/24

A Jar of Pickles | Taipei Pin Set of 4

What makes them special: A Jar of Pickles is a Bay Area small business that creates playful products to inspire endless celebration. Celebrating can be an everyday occurrence – whether it’s an impromptu boba date, putting on an old favorite shirt, or getting some extra cuddles from your dog. Above all, it’s always better when shared with those we love. Our small team is proudly made of AAPI women who design, source, and package all our products in-house and are committed to giving joyful customer connections.

Shop All: https://www.ajarofpickles.com/

Instagram: @ajarofpickles_

 

The Asian Snack Box | Build Your Own Snack Box 

What makes this special: The Asian Snack Box, founded in 2024 by New Jersey-based Taiwanese American Victoria Yu, brings a delightful taste of Asia with a special emphasis on Taiwanese snacks straight to your door. Inspired by Victoria’s favorite childhood treats, our curated selection features beloved Taiwanese classics like Chuang’s Salted Egg Yolk Square Cookies, 3:15pm Roasted Milk Tea, and Want Want Rice Crackers, alongside popular snacks from across Asia. Whether you’re treating yourself or looking for a unique gift, our subscriptionless customizable snack boxes can be tailored to fit any taste—perfect for holiday gifting! 

Shop All: https://theasiansnackbox.com/

Instagram: @theasiansnackbox

Use code TAORG for 15% off through 1/15/25

Half Sugar Less Ice | Only Rice Tote Bag

What makes this special: Do you eat rice with every meal? This is the tote bag for you! Half Sugar Less Ice was born out of my homesickness during the pandemic. As a Taiwanese American who grew up in Taiwan but now lives in California, I couldn’t make my usual trip home due to travel restrictions, so I started designing products that would bring a little piece of the homeland to me.

Shop All: halfsugarlessice.com

Instagram: @half.sugar_less.ice

Use code TAORG for 10% off through 12/31/24

Nimble Made | Men’s Actually Slim-Fit Shirts

What makes this special: Nimble Made is an online brand specializing in men’s Actually Slim Fit shirts. Founded in 2018 in New York City, the company offers high-quality dress shirts in uniquely tailored slim sizes based on height and weight, inspired by the needs of slim Asian Americans. Co-founder Wesley, an immigrant from Taiwan, launched Nimble Made after facing challenges finding a true slim fit in off-the-rack clothing for his slimmer physique while working in a corporate environment. The brand has garnered praise from outlets like HuffPost, Forbes, and Men’s Health for its “”slim fit that actually fits!”

Shop All: https://www.nimble-made.com/

Instagram: @nimblemade

Use code TAORG for 15% off dress shirts through 12/15/24

Woshi Cat | Metro Daydreams 5:06 Train Shirts

What makes this special: WoShi Cat (我是貓) was founded as an exploration into the pocket where Taiwanese-inspired streetwear, frustration with the cyclical nature of corporate life, and a love of cats can intertwine. “”Wǒ shì,”” or “I am”” in Mandarin, is more than a self-introduction; it encompasses limitless multifaceted identities that can exist in tandem, whether professional or personal. No one is confined to playing only one role in life—not even a cat. Our team comprises a group of college friends now faced with navigating the workforce. We wanted to design clothing that playfully sympathizes with the difficulty of the post-grad life shift, and above all, to make something we’d have fun wearing. As a result, our mascot Yoyo sprang forth to champion our 9-to-5 struggles. Yoyo and friends are newly-minted adult cats tackling their first full-time jobs. Confronted with corporate trials that feel worlds apart from his college party days, Yoyo finds his routine unfulfilling and begins searching for something new. As a salarycat in a human world, it won’t be easy to forge a path outside the cycle, but he believes the journey is worth it.

Every product has a backstory. The Morning Commute showcases the dullness of routine before an eight-hour workday. Struggling to fit into the subway carriage, Yoyo says a prayer every morning in hopes of making it to work in one piece. His favorite time of day, however, is when the clock strikes 5 PM. Rushing to the subway station, he’s the last passenger to hop on the 5:06 Train. As he gazes at passing clouds and flocks of birds flying home to roost, he’s washed in relief at the day’s work coming to a close, but he already dreads the next one.

Shop All: woshicat.com

Instagram: @woshicatofficial

Use code YOYO10 for 10% (no expiration, subject to availability)

Dear Botanicals | Black Sesame Soap

What makes this special: Dear Botanicals is an all-natural, handmade artisan soap company based in Winchester, Massachusetts. My products are made in New England and inspired by my Taiwanese heritage. From the oolong tea in the high mountains of Taiwan to the scent of North American cedarwood, I transform the essence of plants and flowers into beautiful objects that we can use to elevate our daily routines. I started this business after working for over a decade as a television producer in Toronto/Boston. After years of executing other people’s visions, I wanted to produce something for myself — I wanted to create something tangible that would celebrate and elevate my culture and heritage. Creating Dear Botanicals has been both an exercise in entrepreneurship as well as a way to explore my roots. It has allowed me to dig deeper into my identity as a Taiwanese-American (technically Canadian), as well as create a product that gives people a wonderful experience. I love talking to my parents and relatives about their scent memories, researching different Taiwanese ingredients and plants, and creating something that highlights the things that make our culture unique. 

Shop All: https://www.dearbotanicals.com/

Instagram: @dearbotanicals

Use code TAORG for 10% off through 12/18/24

béo | lülala⌇basil + mandarin Artisanal Handcrafted Soaps

What makes this special: Growing up in Taiwan, exploring creativity through the playful mind and hands has been a motivating way to experience life. As a kid, I have memories of observing my mama always finding ways to put things together, and seeing what’s around, available, and most importantly less wasteful. She showed me the art of alchemy is always possible. With creativity, and improvisation at my core, I have trained in dance all throughout my school years and currently a dance movement artist in the Bay Area. Navigating the world of scent, visual, design, shape, dance, movement, and storytelling, I imbue my crafts with all things felt, sensed, and remembered.

About béo:
béo soaps are handcrafted in small batches and made to order in San Francisco. Our soaps are composed of only natural minerals to enhance the cleanse experience while bringing natural earthy colors. The aromas are infused with essential oils that lift, calm, and balance mood. béo aims to accentuate delightfulness and joy.

Intertwining organic and geometric shapes, our artisanal soaps are handcrafted only in small batches & made upon order. This allows us to be certain with our quality and care. Our goal is to bring appreciation into everyday life and everywhere possible. lülala 嚕啦啦 – it is a delightful way to say “shower” in Taiwan. The shape provides a pleasant sensation on our hands and body while using the soaps; In each lülala soaps, we highlight a variety of natural ingredients such as barley and black sesame from Taiwan. All to offer senses of admiration and playfulness into our daily washing routines. (Plus, our website photographers are also Taiwanese: Zoe Kao & Connie W. Chen!)

Shop All: https://www.beoissue.com/shop

Instagram: @beoissue

Use code TWFELLOW for 10% off through 12/15/24.

Mumu Bath | Osmanthus Flower Body Oil

What makes this special: Unlock radiant skin with our bestselling Osmanthus Flower Body Oil. Infused with antioxidants from osmanthus flowers native to Asia and sourced from Mumu Bath founder Sasha’s hometown, this oil detoxifies, enhances skin tone, brightens your complexion, and rejuvenates your glow for optimal skin health.

Shop All: https://www.mumubath.com/

Instagram: @mumubathshop

Ash Chen Ceramics | Inquire for pricing and craft fair schedule

What makes them special: I am a trans/queer ceramic artist and educator based in Brooklyn, NY exploring the dialogue between the refined and unexpected, moments of play, and considers things that are often overlooked or hiding in plain sight. At it’s core, my processes emphasis and revisits the curiosity around playfulness, a kind that we often experience as kids: one that is often fleeting when we are adults. I have a background in Industrial Design but pivoted into running my own ceramic business after working in puppetry out of college. My time and work in puppetry allowed me to further tap into the playfulness that is reflected in my products and my practice. I have been working with ceramics for about 7 years, mostly creating home goods and anthropomorphic bud vases that are stocked both in the US and abroad. I hand build all of my products and cherish that each piece is different from the other, echoing back to the curiosity of form, glazes, stories, and experimentation. The tripod vases are special to my heart because its a form of stability that i’ve returned to for many years. My tripod vessels are imaginations of what household objects could be: seeping with character!

Browse All: https://www.ashchen.com/

Instagram: @ashehle

Ilha Candles | Plum + Amber Handpoured Candle (Holiday Collection)

What makes them special: The name ‘ilha’ comes from my parents’ native country of Taiwan. When Portuguese sailors came upon the island in the 1500s, they named it ‘Ilha Formosa,’ which means “beautiful island.” I wanted to give a nod to my heritage while connecting it to my life on another beautiful island, New York City. ILHA Candles is an Asian American, female founded company. We proudly create fragrant soy candles and a variety of home fragrance products using natural ingredients and toxin-free fragrances. To ensure each candle is handled with care, our candles are hand-poured in small batches, packaged and shipped from our home studio. We hope to bring a touch of warmth and light into your home. Our Plum + Amber scent is one of our fan-favorites from our Winter Collection. It is fruity and sweet, with notes of black cherry, amber, and freesia. It’s a comforting and warm scent for the most festive time of the year. 

Browse All: https://www.ilhacandles.com/

Instagram: @ilhacandles

Yun Hai Taiwanese Pantry | 台灣手工鮮果醬組合 Taiwanese Fruit Jam Bundle

What makes them special: Our Taiwanese fruit preserves are just that—Taiwanese fruit and not much else. They’re so fresh, we almost wouldn’t call them jam; they’re closer to a fruit sauce than to jelly. They feature large chunks of fruit, are lower in sugar than conventional versions, and are prepared in micro-batches to ensure the gentlest of processing.

We work with Dolly and Chin, jam makers in Taipei, who make these by hand in small quantities (we’re talking stockpot size) to preserve the nuances and aroma of the fresh fruit.

Shop All: https://yunhai.shop/

Instagram: @yunhaishop

Formosa Chocolate | 12 Bonbon Box

What makes them special: Taiwanese American chocolatier Kimberly Yang took her first chocolate class about 5 years ago, as a stress-reliever from a busy career in medicine (psychiatry). She quickly became obsessed with the art and science behind making chocolates, and when she decided to leave my job at Kaiser, she thought she’d try her hand at starting a chocolate company: “I named the company Formosa, as a tribute to my family heritage. As I grow increasingly connected with the Taiwanese-American community, I have been adding more Taiwanese and Asian-inspired flavors to my lineup, including tie guan yin oolong, Kavalan whisky, longan, pineapple cake, black sesame, Taiwanese guava, etc. The 12 Bonbon Box is our signature set, with something for everyone!”

Shop All: https://www.formosachocolates.com/

Instagram: @formosachocolates

TAORG10 for 10% off now through 12/25/24

Eight Treasures | Sample Pack

What makes them special: Eight Treasures was started to make traditional Taiwanese flavors more accessible and easy to enjoy. I was born in Taiwan and came to the US at a young age, missing the flavors of home and craving belonging. As someone with food allergies, intolerances, and a sensitive stomach, it was hard for me to find safe foods that were delicious and reminiscent. I started Eight Treasures as a treat and tea company to uplift Taiwanese farmers and flavors by sourcing ingredients directly from Taiwan and local producers, and creating vegan, allergen-free treats that more people can enjoy. 

This means avoiding top allergens (no dairy, gluten, soy, or peanuts), sourcing directly from producers and family-owned businesses, using earth-friendly packaging, and using traditional ingredients. 

I’m also so grateful to collaborate with Taiwanese American artist friends on the tea and chocolate packaging – with artist Felicia Liang on chocolate bar packaging and dear Jessica Lin from Nikoniko on tea packaging. 

Eight Treasures is fully volunteer-run. To support child nutrition, 100% of proceeds from Eight Treasures are donated to Foodwise.

Shop All: https://www.eightreasures.com

Instagram: @eightreasures

Use code TAIWAN for 10% off now through 12/31/24

Laiberry | Jia You, Add Oil Double Sided Acrylic Keychains

What makes them special: You got this!! In Mandarin Chinese, Jia You (加油) is an expression of encouragement and support. Its literal translation means “Add Oil”! These guys are here for you whenever you or a friend need a little extra encouragement!

Shop All: https://www.etsy.com/shop/laiberry

Instagram: @laiberry.art

Radical Family Farms | Chrysanthemum Tea 

What makes this special: I started Radical Family Farms to explore my 1st generation Taiwanese and German heritage. I grow certified organic, culturally meaningful produce and herbs. Our chrysanthemum tea is certified organic, no-spray and grown in Sonoma County, California

Shop All: https://www.radicalfamilyfarms.com/

Instagram: @radicalfamilyfarms

Use code TAORG for 8% off through 12/15/24

Erleia | Have You Eaten Yet – Card

What makes this special: Erleia is a Taiwanese American woman founded natural skincare brand designed to help you take care of yourself. My journey started 4 years ago, when I became my dad’s primary caregiver when he was hospitalized. During this time, I stopped taking care of myself and the stress impacted my skin. When I couldn’t find accessible, plastic-free skincare options to treat my skin, I decided to create them and Erleia was born.

Our mission is to create accessible, eco-friendly skincare and self care products for all. Our focus on self care is deeply rooted in our origin story and my experience as a young caregiver. This experience highlighted the importance of self care and inspired the creation of products that make it easier for everyone to take time for themselves. I recently did a collaboration with my friend Sadie, who runs a stationery brand called Twentysome, and the greeting cards and stickers we created are based on self care and my own experience with caregiving. “Have you eaten yet” or “Chia̍h pá bōe?” is how my family greets each other, and how many of my friends & family within the TA community greet each other. With this card in particular, I thought it was a great opportunity to design something that would speak to our community and how we show care for each other.

Shop All: https://erleia.com/

Instagram: @erleiaskin

Chroma Rex | “Dumplings” Kitchen Towel

What makes this special: The home goods I design are meant to be multi-purpose and crafted with eco-friendly materials. The artwork on each product is painted & hand drawn by me, in watercolor and acrylic paint marker. My art is inspired by happy memories with the people & places I live, as well as my Taiwanese heritage, to make everyday routines more fun! 

Shop All: https://www.ChromaRex.com

Instagram: @chroma.rex

Use code TAIWANESE 15% off through 12/31/24

Helena Pocket | Transparent Fruit Stamps Sticker Sheet

What makes them special: Hi! I’m a Freelance Illustrator in the DC area. When I’m not working in video games or doing other Client work, I attend small artisan markets in my area! My art and merch can be described as: dreamy colors and nature vibes (with a subtle side of Asian pride and rock climbing). My products include: prints, postcards, stickers, sticky notes, bookmarks, and wood burned keychains. I like trying to find new ways to make my art feel more usable than just visual, but since I’m just one person juggling many gigs at the same time, I’ve been slowly building my market game for the last 2 years. What makes these fruitt stamps so awesome is that they have transparent backgrounds, so they really mesh with wherever you choose to put them on! This could be your journal, laptop, or even water bottle! They’re highly durable and water resistant, so they’ll be able to take quite the beating. If you think they’re too pretty to use, then hang it on your wall, it’ll still look fantastic 🙂 Fruits/flowers in order: Blueberries, Pineapple, Mango, Plum Blossom, Strawberries, Sunflowers + Baltimore Checkerspot, Persimmons, Dragonfruit + Lychee.

Shop All: https://www.etsy.com/shop/helenapocket

Instagram: @helena_pocket

Felicia Liang | Taiwanese Homecoming Book Illustrated Travel Journal

What makes them special: I make art and risograph prints celebrating Taiwanese American identity, local Chinatowns in the Bay Area and New York, and all things food. I started illustrating to make art that I wanted to see in the world, and I’ve been lucky to have collaborated with cool clients on commissions and making prints sold at craft markets and via wholesale at amazing small business in California and New York. Taiwanese Homecoming is a replica of my travel sketchbook during my time in Taiwan in 2022 and 2023. The book has 20 vibrant colored pencil spreads of favorite foods all around the island.

Learn More: https://www.taiwaneseamerican.org/2024/08/felicia-liang-interview/

Shop All: https://www.etsy.com/shop/byFeliciaLiang

Instagram: @byfelicialiang

Leichacha | Green Tea Leicha

What makes this special: Christina and Olivia here – your foodie guides on a quest for healthy, delicious drinks! From Taiwan, we grew up surrounded by amazing vibrant flavors – the creamy nuttiness of leicha, the refreshing tang of fruit teas, the sweetness of bubble teas and the fun chewy texture of boba. While fruit teas and bubble teas have gained more traction, but authentic leicha? It’s been impossible to find in the US…until now! That’s why we started Leichacha! We want to share the unique flavors and benefits of leicha with everyone. Leicha is a Ground Tea Latte made from a wholesome blend of 20 carefully selected grains, legumes, beans, and tea leaves. Leicha is a tea-based treasure with centuries of history, created by the Hakka people. They take tea leaves, crunchy nuts and seeds, healing herbs, and grind it all up into fine powder (that’s why it’s also known as pounded tea!). Then add hot water and whisk it up for a frothy cup of tastiness. Our premium leicha powder blends are a labor of love, meticulously crafted by a Hakka family business in Taiwan using the finest ingredients, including tea leaves sourced from artisanal Taiwanese tea makers. It’s the perfect, healthy, and flavorful addition to your daily drink routine.

Shop All: https://www.lei-cha-cha.com/

Instagram: @lei.cha.cha

 

JaneLi. Co | Boba Enamel Stickers & Keychains (sold separately)

What makes this special: My name is Jane Li, and I’m a Taiwanese American designer and illustrator known for embracing creativity with a distinct blend of humor, wit, and charm. As the founder of JaneLi.Co, I specialize in making stickers, prints, enamel pins & keychains, cards, totes, and other illustrated gifts inspired by my Asian American heritage, snarky sense of humor, and playful (dgaf) attitude towards life. Growing up, I always wanted to be an artist, but was discouraged by my parents due to the lack of financial security in that career, so I did the next best thing and became an art director instead. After years of doing that as a 9-5 while making my own art on the side, I realized that it was impossible for me to give up on my childhood dream, so I worked hard to save up, gain experience, and grow my business.

After seeing how determined I was, my parents gradually came around to support my creative dream. And this year, I finally quit my corporate job and took the leap to be a full-time artist, so I’m excited to continue making art to share with the world!

Shop All: https://janeli.co/

Instagram: @janeli.co

The Ponnery | Bubble Tea Pom Pom Earrings

What makes them special: The Ponnery designs and creates playful pom pom accessories inspired by Asian American food and culture. To be Asian American is to be part of a multi-ethnic community composed of diverse cultures, foods, and histories – and that is something worth celebrating.

Shop All: https://www.etsy.com/shop/ThePonnery

Instagram: @theponnery

Miss Modi | White Cap Boba Enamel Earrings/ Bracelet/ Necklace

What makes them special: After almost two decades as a corporate interior designer, I left my 8-to-5 job in 2017 to start my own business to create beautiful, whimsical, and colorful enamel jewelry. Miss Modi designs are an embodiment of my childhood memories growing up in Taiwan, personal stories, inspirations, and all things unique about Taiwanese and American culture. From day one, our customers have noticed our cute designs, beautiful packaging, our attention to detail, and a personalized note with every purchase.

Shop All: https://missmodi.com/

Instagram: @missmodi2018

Half Sugar Less Ice | Boba Time Glass, Embroidered Hat

What makes this special: Half Sugar Less Ice was born out of my homesickness during the pandemic. As a Taiwanese American who grew up in Taiwan but now lives in California, I couldn’t make my usual trip home due to travel restrictions, so I started designing products that would bring a little piece of the homeland to me.

Shop All: halfsugarlessice.com

Instagram: @half.sugar_less.ice

Use code TAORG for 10% off through 12/31/24

Twrl Milk Tea | Special Edition Taiwan Style Black Milk Tea

What makes this special: As a brand deeply rooted in Taiwanese culture, we take great pride in honoring the birthplace of milk tea. To us, this beverage represents far more than just a drink—it embodies our family traditions, values, and the centuries-old craftsmanship of the tea artisans and farmers we partner with. We recently went viral reacting to Simu Liu on Dragon Den regarding boba’s cultural appropriation. We turned this opportunity to focus on the positive light of highlighting AAPI owned businesses and were featured in AP press, ABC, South China Morning Post and many more.

Pre-order our deluxe holiday gift box for $88.00 (discounted from $110).

Learn More: taiwaneseamerican.org/2022/04/treat-yourself-meet-the-powerhouse-women-of-twrl-milk-tea/

Shop All: https://twrlmilktea.com/

Instagram: @twrlmilktea

Olivia Shih Designs | LGF Curve Hoops

What makes this special: Born to immigrant Taiwanese parents, Olivia Shih translates emotion into jewelry. Originally trained as a writer and artist, she begins her design process by crafting a singular emotion into a narrative of precious metals and gemstones, vulnerability and strength. In her studio, Olivia and her assistant practice ethical metalsmithing and encourage conscious consumption. We only offer finely-crafted objects that can be passed down as modern heirlooms. All collections feature recycled precious metals and ethical gemstones when possible. These hoops were hand carved in wax, then cast into recycled sterling silver. Lightweight and effortless everyday earrings. Perfect for gifting!

Use code TWPRIDE for 20% off through 12/10/24

Shop All: www.oliviashih.com

Instagram: @oliviashihdesigns

A Touch of Hue | Milky Way Oval Hoop Earrings V.2 

What makes this special: Mixing precious freshwater pearls with delicate lapis lazuli beads, adding luxurious details to your whole outfit! Each piece is designed and slow-made by me, with the core value of accessible, high-quality craftsmanship in every design. Made with 14 karats of gold-filled wire, a luxurious mix of semi-precious healing stones, and Japanese silk thread.

Shop All: https://www.atouchofhue.com

Instagram: @a_touch_of_hue

Dream Fields Indigo | Cloud Pattern Gradient Scarf

What makes this special: 100% Taiwanese cotton yarn hand-crafted with Taiwanese traditional Indigo plant-based dyeing techniques. My name is Nina, and I am from Taiwan. With a passion for traveling and exploring new things, I re-examined my career path after a period of rich overseas experiences. In 2014, after working and living in London for a year and a half, and traveling through Europe for three months, my journey into indigo dyeing began to take shape. I found my life’s calling through my mother’s handmade dyed fabrics. Every time I see a piece of fabric naturally dyed with indigo, it sparks my endless enthusiasm for the craft. This passion led me to deeply explore Taiwan’s traditional indigo dyeing techniques.

For those in the SF Bay Area, follow @dreamfieldsindigo to learn more about her in-person Taiwanese creative workshops, which range from Dragon Boat Festival sachets to Indigo dyeing to gemstone seal carving. Private workshops available! 

Shop All: https://www.dreamfieldsindigo.com/

Instagram: @dreamfieldsindigo

The Wax Apple | Mary Jane Flats – Satin Navy

What makes this special: With 40+ years of experience, Mr. Lee has mastered the art of making theater shoes. He apprenticed from the master shoemaker who made shoes for Madame Chiang Kai-shek. Working and selling his shoes from a tiny shop in Tainan, he believes in the quality of his products and has never felt the need to expand beyond his capabilities. We had these solid satin styles made especially for The Wax Apple!

Shop All: https://thewaxappleshop.com/

Instagram: @the_wax_apple

Our Little Mando | Taiwanese Eats Books + Black Bear Plushie & Jumbo Stinky Tofu Felt Toy

What makes this special: My name is Maryann and I am a Taiwanese American author from New York. My mission is to make share more of my language and culture with the world through children’s books! As a mom, it is very important to me that my daughter and kiddos like her have a strong sense of self and be proud of where they come from. Hence, Our Little Mando was born- to shine a light on our cultural heritage so that children can see themselves better reflected in the books that they read and in the world around them. Most of my books and toys are Taiwanese-themed due to personal interest as well as feedback from my customers. It’s been wonderful receiving messages from families who were so excited to find books with Bopomofo, and that feature their favorite foods to eat and places to visit in Taiwan. With Our Little Mando, I hope to increase Asian (particularly Taiwanese!) representation in the literary world, so that our community feel more seen and appreciated. I also hope to spark people’s interest in learning more about Taiwan by showcasing some of the best parts of our culture!

Shop All: https://www.ourlittlemando.com

Instagram: @ourlittlemando

Use code TWAMER15 for 15% off through 12/31/24

Music and Tales | Learning Songs with Colors: Lunar New Year

What makes this special: At Music & Tales, our mission is to empower kids through music. We believe in using music to promote social-emotional wellness and resilience. To date, we have 4 singable children’s books published and numerous resources available online.

Learn More: https://www.taiwaneseamerican.org/2024/09/next-gen-parenting-isabelle-engler/

Shop All: www.musicandtales.org/books 

Instagram: @musicandtales

Use code TAORG for 10% off through 12/11/24

The Mindful Peach | I Want a Popsicle! A Story About Dealing with Anger

What makes this special: My husband, Victor, and I co-founded The Mindful Peach to support Asian American families in cultivating emotionally healthy relationships. As a psychologist specializing in the Asian American community, I have observed a recurring challenge among my clients: many struggle to name, understand, and express their emotions. This difficulty often stems from the emotional skills that were not passed down from previous generations. To address this gap, we wrote a children’s book aimed at empowering parents to teach their children about emotions, fostering a new generation of emotional awareness and connection. As we raise our own children, we also recognized the lack of bilingual resources that include language about socio-emotional skills. To address both of these needs, we decided to write our own story. Our first bilingual book is called “”I Want a Popsicle!: A Story About Dealing With Anger.” It is about an Asian American child who must handle her anger about not immediately getting the treat she wants. Through this story, parents are shown practical coping skills to teach their children (and help themselves!) manage frustration and anger. Our book is available in multiple languages including Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Cantonese, Korean, and English only.

We started working on “I Want a Popsicle!” in July 2023, and this past year we launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund it. We were overwhelmed by the support we received, and our project was backed to almost 300%! Many people have reached out to tell us how necessary and helpful this book has been in addressing both their desire to grow their children’s emotional and Asian language vocabulary.

We are already hard at work on our second book. Our hope is to write a collection of children’s books to address all the core emotions, and then continue to develop children’s literature that focuses on building socio-emotional skills.

Join Eden on a colorful journey through a world filled with emotions! In this heartwarming Traditional Chinese-English bilingual children’s book, young readers will follow Eden as she experiences anger when she doesn’t get what she wants.

Through vibrant illustrations and engaging storytelling, children and parents alike will learn how to work through the emotions of sadness and anger, in both English and Traditional Chinese. Each page is a delightful adventure, sparking conversations about emotions in a fun and mindful way.

“I Want a Popsicle!” is a must-have addition to any family’s bookshelf, offering a playful yet thoughtful approach to understanding and expressing feelings. Let Eden guide your little ones on a journey of self-discovery and emotional growth.

Shop All: https://www.mindfulpeach.co

Instagram: @mindfulpeach.co

Use code 10TAORG for 10% off through 12/15/24

Bitty Bao | Wooden Hot Pot Toy

What makes this special: We look forward to showing you highlights of our labor-of-love book making process, road to publishing, and all the fun we have along the way. (Mostly in the middle of the night after all our bitty babes are in bed and our houses are finally quiet!) We are so proud to announce our book series (in its infancy), #BittyBao – bitty books for bitty babes!

Shop All: https://www.bittybao.com/

Instagram: @bitty.bao

As always, shop Taiwanese American literature across all age groups and genres at our Bookshop, which fulfills orders through independent bookstores and supports us through affiliate revenue, at no additional cost to you at bookshop.org/shop/taiwaneseam_org

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