Before I veer too far off topic, let it be known that this post isn’t about bipolar disorder, per se. Now, the reason I’ve tested products from all of these small businesses may be thanks in part to my mania… but now I’m going to introduce these small businesses to you, just in time for the holiday mayhem!

^{Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with any of these businesses.}

Elie’s favorite small and small-ish businesses:

• Genki

Genki is a small business focused on nifty tech and gaming peripherals. I first got into the Covert Dock, which functions as a travel-friendly Switch (original) dock as well as having very useful charging ports: it has USB-A, USB-C, and HDMI ports. Being able to fast charge my iPhone (through the USB-C port) is quite useful, and I can also charge my Bose headphones or my Apple Watch simultaneously through the USB-A port. I also loved that I got converters for international outlets with it — I’m uncertain if they still do that. Later on, I invested in a Moonbase (dark and teal lighting), which is a power strip with decorative lighting. It has 3 power outlets and 4 USB-C ports. It’s definitely helped to reduce the appearance of clutter on my desk. And it looks great.

• 8BitDo

Recently 8BitDo did a collab with Genki, and I highly recommend that controller as well as others sold by 8BitDo (I’ve tested the SN30 Pro model that was a collab with Genki as well as the Pro 2). They have a retro feel, an actual D-pad, and they come in fun colors with details like translucent casing. The only downside is they can be a bit finnicky when trying to connect them to the Switch. Pay attention to the instructions.

• SlickSwitchShells

SlickSwitchShells is an Etsy shop, and they do amazing work reshelling joy-cons. My original Switch has translucent joy-cons from them and they work seamlessly and look great. And guess what… they JUST started selling Switch 2 joy-cons! I literally just ordered mine and I couldn’t be happier.

• Groove Life

If you’re bipolar, you understand the merits of a belt that is comfortable, adjustable, and secure. Few belts live up to all 3 of those qualities, but the Groove Life Belt does. These belts use rare earth magnets to snap securely shut. I particularly like the one I have with the wooden belt buckle.

• Mokuyobi

I know what you’re thinking… everything on this site is expensive! And I won’t lie to you, it is. But I’ve had a crossbody from Mokuyobi for years and it’s one of my most used bags. I’d like to get a full size backpack from them… someday! Beware, if you’re plus sized, the clothing (cute as it is) will not fit you.

• Kids Kippot

Have you ever wanted a yarmulke/kippah that you don’t have to clip onto your hair? Meet Kids Kippot! They used to do licensed character patterns (I have one that is Poke Balls on one side) but they still have tons of fabrics to choose from, you get to choose 2 since every kippah is reversible, and you can choose between the regular Kids Kippot style (no clips!) or a traditional “saucer” yarmulke. Highly recommended for all of my Jewish friends.

• Ekster

Also a bit pricey, but I feel cool when I whip out my wallet and eject the cards at the push of a button. Note that if you want to use an Apple Airtag you need to buy the wallet that specifically says it’s for use with an Airtag. Ekster also sells their own trackers, but I’ve found them to be less useful than an Airtag.