It's that time of year again, when our bank accounts slowly wittle down to pennies, but it doesn't have to be that way — especially this year, when there are so many non-monetary things to be thankful for, like the health and safety of our loved ones, the extra time we all got to spend together (silver lining?), the lessons we learned about our capacity to grow, stretch and adapt, the life skills we gained - like bread making (guilty), mask sewing and learning how to cultivate a vegetable garden.
While one of the most difficult years we may face in our lifetime; I've tried my hardest to go into this season of giving with perspective. It's not about the newest or most expensive gadget but rather, finding gifts tailored to loved ones and helping small businesses when you can. Though my spending this year will be far less than in previous years, I still plan to spoil my loved ones by getting some reasonably priced gifts and maybe even making a few (maybe a DIY blog post on that later).
Here is a short list of some of my favorite gifts this year:
DW Home Signature Air Fresheners DW Home has been my go-to candle companies for years - my favorite scent being their Warm Tobacco Pipe, which is warm and rich and just simply the best dang scent ever. So, when I saw a few weeks back on their Instagram page that they were releasing air fresheners, I jumped on it and bought a bunch. At just $5/each they make a really great stocking stuffer. Unfortunately they sold out of the Warm Tobacco Pipe air freshener really quickly, so they won't be restocked till the end of December - beginning of January. However, if you are interested in that particular scent, I strongly suggest the candle - which comes in a variety of sizes.
Custom Chess Set
Just as in our household, I'm sure you binged The Queen's Gambit in record time as well. Due to the shows' record breaking ratings (99% on Rotten Tomatoes) it's no wonder that there has been a recent surge in the interest of chess. With my husband and son being fans of the game, I thought this Custom Travel Magnetic Chess Set with Leather/Felt Cover was a wonderful gift. It is very well crafted with attention to fine detail on the pieces as well as the board. Additionally, I love that you can get a small personalized plaque engraved on the side of the board, making it all the more special.
Egyptian Magic
A few years ago I stumbled upon Egyptian Magic while shopping in Target for something to help with my suddenly dry winter skin. I took a chance and man, did I get lucky! I started adding it to my nighttime routine and within a few days saw a noticeable difference in my skin's hydration. It didn't feel dry or tight anymore. I even started using it in the Summer to get that dewy glow. You need so little to make a big difference; and at just over $20, it's a skincare routine staple.
Tovolo Ice Molds
If you have someone on your list that enjoys a good Old Fashioned like me, or a cocktail, then Tovolo Ice Molds is a lovely gift (maybe with a bottle of their favorite liquor). I love that it's unfussy yet, dare I say, sophisticated. The best part, aside from the price tag, is that it doesn't water down your drink, keeping it strong and smooth the whole way through. Is there anything better, especially this year?
Recycled Canvas Bags
We all have a plant lover in our lives and these adorable Recycled Canvas Bags from Explorganics Plant Shop, are a great addition to any plant addicts accessories; you can even use the bag AS the gift bag. Fill it with a cute little potted plant, some leaf spray, maybe a book about plant care — the possibilities are endless. Plus, supporting small business is always a bonus!
Handmade Accessories by M&E Jewelry
I stumbled upon M&E Jewelry while checking out our new local plant shop - Explorganics. I am obsessed with this designers work. Her pieces are simple, fun and unique. She handcrafts her accessories from lightweight polymer clay and resin. They are also hypoallergenic and nickel free. Anything from her collection would make a great little stocking stuffer. If you're local, make sure to stop in Explorganics Plant Shop and see all the wonderful artisans, beautiful plants and handmade goods they offer.
Cuddl Duds® Plush Sherpa Throw
This blanket is easily one of my families favorite gifts every year. I am usually able get one for each person, as Kohl's runs some decent sales this time of year— also, if I don't, we will fight over them. This 50"x60" throw comes in a variety of patterns and features faux fur and is simply the best blanket to snuggle up with, have a hot chocolate (or bourbon) and watch a good holiday movie. As an extra good deed bonus — this year we will be donating our throws from previous years to the local humane society, because all animals deserve a special blankey while waiting for their forever home.
Atlas Obscura
I know we're all going a bit stir crazy with not being able to travel. I was actually going to visit Europe for the first time in 2020, which obviously didn't happen and I was super bummed about it. I love traveling and more specifically finding all the strange nooks and crannies wherever I visit. If you have someone on your list that enjoys taking the less beaten path, then this book is a perfect gift. Atlas Obscura "celebrates wonder all around the world and in our backyards, now in an updated second edition with more than 120 brand-new destinations to explore, new city guides, and a full-color gatefold map." I have gotten lost in this book so many times this past year, charting and planning all the unique places I want to visit when I feel safe enough to do so.
Refillable Leather Journal
Finally, to cap off my list is this wonderful, Handcrafted Refillable Leather Journal by AddStyleCo on Etsy. Journaling has become an important part of my life over the years, especially this year. I spent quite a bit of time trying to make sure to document the things that were happening around me, the things I thought and felt, and how I was coping with all of the challenges that 2020 brought with it. I want to be able to look back one day, when I may be struggling, and be reminded that I can do scary and difficult things, even when the circumstances are out of my control. To also keep in mind that "this too shall pass" — the good, the bad, all of it; and that being present throughout, will serve as valuable lessons to each of us now, and in the future. It comes at a great price for a personalized and handcrafted gift, that will cherished for years to come.
I hope this guide helps inspire you to gift with intention this year. Have a warm, happy and safe holiday; whether it be cozied up with your immediate family or from many miles away via Zoom happy hour with friends. It's been a rough year for all of us, but remember...this too shall pass.
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