Finding Calm in the Chaos: 3 Everyday Essentials That Got Us Through
It’s hard to believe it’s been over 130 days since the world seemed to hit pause. Like so many others, we’ve experienced the full range of emotions—stress, gratitude, exhaustion, reflection, and renewal. While this period has certainly brought its challenges, it has also given us the rare opportunity to slow down, reset, and reconsider what really matters. At Small Batch Gallery + Goods, that’s meant returning to what keeps us grounded and well. Through this time of uncertainty, three daily essentials have become part of our routine: Sweet’s Elderberry Syrup, Nina’s Olive Oil, and the beautifully inspiring book "Simply Living Well" by Julia Watkins.
Sweet’s Elderberry Syrup has been a staple in our home for over a year now, and during the months leading up to the pandemic, we noticed a significant difference in our family’s overall health. With so many around us catching seasonal bugs, we stayed well—and we attribute that in part to our daily spoonfuls of Sweet’s. Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, elderberry is known to support immune health, fight off infections, and even reduce the severity of cold and flu symptoms. Best of all, it tastes amazing—making it easy to stick with as part of a wellness routine for the whole family.
Then there’s Nina’s Olive Oil, a beautiful discovery we didn’t expect. We met Nina when she visited our shop while in town with her daughter, who was starting an internship nearby. What began as a casual conversation quickly blossomed into a partnership, and now her rich, flavorful olive oil is flying off our shelves. Aside from being incredibly delicious, this olive oil is packed with health benefits—from reducing inflammation and supporting heart health to improving cognitive function and aiding in weight management. It’s the kind of product we love: rooted in purpose, crafted with care, and shared through connection.
Finally, Julia Watkins’ Simply Living Well has been the gentle guidebook we didn’t know we needed. It’s more than just a collection of healthy recipes and tips—it’s a call to slow down, live more intentionally, and make space for what truly matters. The book is filled with calming photography, DIY tutorials, and thoughtful suggestions for low-waste living. As we’ve embraced a more mindful lifestyle at home, we’ve also started integrating those same values into our shop—from the products we carry to the stories we share.
These three items—Sweet’s, Nina’s, and Simply Living Well—form the heart of our Essential Collection. Whether you’re looking to reset your own wellness routine or send comfort and care to someone else, we can’t think of a more thoughtful gift. We hope they’ll bring as much calm, clarity, and connection to your life as they have to ours.
