uncategorized / November 19, 2019

Christmas Gift Guides 2019

Christmas is one of my favorite holidays, but sometimes picking out the perfect gift can be stressful! Over the last couple years, I’ve started shopping super early (as early as January this year!) for gifts, and since I’m basically done, I thought I’d share some gifts that might help you out. Unfortunately, I couldn’t share any gifts I’ve gotten others this year due to nosy friends and family (haha), but I’m sharing gifts that were a close second choice or that I thought were great, just maybe not for the specific person I had in mind. I have gift categories broken into several sections below. Please note that this blog post is not sponsored and these are my opinions of what may make great gifts.

For Him

Gifts perfect for any man in your life: dad, brother, boyfriend, husband, best guy friend, etc!

  1. “I Like Pig Butts and I Cannot Lie” Grilling Apron – If you have a man in your life who loves to grill, chances are he can’t pass up this punny apron! $14.95
  2. Monty Python and the Holy Grail Black Knight Deluxe Talking Premium Motion Statue – most guys I know are obsessed with the movie “Monty Python and the Holy Grail”. This cute little figure has detachable arms and has funny sayings! Unfortunately, it is only available for pre-order and delivers in January 2020, so it would be more of a late Christmas gift. I considered getting this for Tom, doubted myself, showed it to him, and he LOVED IT. I shouldn’t have showed him and just trusted my gut. $49.99
  3. Dirt Paths Banner – if any man in your love loves adventure, hiking, and decorating, this gift is perfect for them! Help them show their love of adventure through their decorating. $35
  4. Better Sweater Quarter Zip Jacket by Patagonia – This is a very flattering jacket, perfect for chilly days. The color shown here is “Stonewash”. This jacket would be great for outdoor activities or just walking around the town. $99
  5. Standard Original 58mm Aviator Sunglasses by Ray-Ban – Help him look cool while protecting his eyes with these sunglasses. Can’t go wrong with a pair of aviators! Color shown above is “Gunmetal”. $153
  6. ThinkGeek Star Wars Death Star Waffle Maker – I got Tom one of these a couple years ago and we both love it! It’s fun to make cute waffle shapes, and it also gives your waffles the perfect crispiness on the outside. Great if you have a Star Wars fan in your life! $44.99
  7. Novel Duffel Bag by Herschel Supply Co – This bag is perfect for any man who travels a lot. Perfect for those short trips! Both functional and classy looking, it would make a great gift. I seriously considered getting this for Tom this year, but he is soooo picky about gifts and would probably tell me he already has a suitcase (lol). $90 currently on sale for $71.90
  8. Star Wars Darth Vader with Red LED BBQ Tongs – I got these tongs for my dad for fathers day either this year or last year (can’t remember), but he laughed when he got them in the mail. They make lightsaber sounds when you open the tongs or if you swing them around. They also light up! $21.99
  9. Matthew Slipper by Nordstrom Men’s Shop – If you know a man who likes to chill around the house and be comfortable, these slippers would be great! Due to the rubber sole on the bottom, it can also be worn outside if they want to run out to get the mail or just make some quick trips outside. $39.95
  10. Darth Vader BBQ Grilling Apron – Another Star Wars gift! Star Wars gifts are always easy. This one says, “Luke, I am your father. Eat your vegetables”. A great gift for your dad or your husband if you have kids! $27.99
  11. Soft VII Lace-Up Sneaker by ECCO – This is a sophisticated take on a classic sneaker. This leather shoe would be great for any man who is into fashion. $159.95 currently on sale for $99.90
  12. Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag – I stole this one from Tom’s wishlist, haha! This travel bag is great, because you can hang it up on the back of a door and it will fit everything you need. Additionally, it’s waterproof! $12.99
  13. Classic Ebony Walnut Theo Watch by Treehut – I love these watches! I bought one for somebody years ago and they look even better in person and are high quality. Additionally, you can get the back engraved! These are great for men who are into a more natural look or want something unique rather than your typical metal watch. $95 without engraving, $120 with engraving

For Her

Gifts perfect for any lady in your life: Your best friend, mom, sister, girlfriend, wife, etc.

  1. Dorotea Space-Dyed Hacci Tunic – This is something I’ve got on my own wishlist! It’s super soft and flattering, just warm enough, but also just thin enough that you can keep wearing it as we transition from Winter to Spring. $78
  2. Tuscany BlingSling Tangle-Free Travel Jewelry Organizer – I have this in this print and I LOVE it! It’s perfect for traveling and preventing all of my necklaces from getting tangled. It also keeps my earrings safe. The magnetic strips hold the jewelry in place, or you can zip it up in a pouch. This comes in mutliple prints as well, so be sure to check the others out! $99
  3. Neewer Ring Light Kit – I have this ring light and love it! This would be perfect for anyone who is big into their Instagram, Youtube, or just loves to take good quality photos. I used this at my sister-in-law’s bridal shower and it was a HUGE hit. It comes with clear and orange filters for standard or warm lighting, as well as a carrying case for convenience. $99.99
  4. Crystal Bar Soap Winds of Duality Soap – For anyone who likes having a pretty bathroom or just loves soap, this is great! I’ve seen this soap in person at a craft fair and made a mental note that it would make a great gift. $14
  5. Scallop Frame by The Little Market – This cute scalloped frame made from pearl white bone would be cute in any place! Make it even more personalized by putting a picture in the frame before gifting it. $34
  6. Fuchsia Baby Dangles by Muchacha Los Angeles – I love this LA local jewelry company! I have a pair of these earrings and get complimented on them all the time. They look cute and feel super soft against your neck! $20
  7. Framed Keshi Pearl Earring by Hahn Jewelry – Another local LA jeweler, I love all of her pieces! These gold dipped earrings with keshi pearls are so cute and high quality! Since they’re from a local jeweler, you can count on them being a unique gift. $84
  8. Genevieve Print by Arielle Vey – Arielle Vey is a photographer based in California and has beautiful work! This gorgeous flower print from the Carlsbad Flower Fields would look great in any woman’s home. Definitely check out her other prints too! Prices start at $20
  9. Beanie with Genuine Fox Fur Pom by Kyi Kyi – This cute beanie is perfect for winter and the neutral color makes it easy to match with any outfit! Especially great for those who live in the snow. $90
  10. Well Done Crystal Facial Roller – This beauty tool is great for waking up your face in the morning and getting blood circulating! Facial rollers are all the rage right now and would make a great stocking stuffer! $28
  11. Giant Capri Blue Mercury Glass Candle – Anthropologie sells the cutest, best smelling candles! This particular candle is one of their nicer candles, therefore more expensive, but you can definitely find a smaller one for the same quality at a lower price. $98
  12. Gymshark Slounge Leggings – These leggings are SO soft and cute! I have a pair and wear them all around the house and also to the airport (lol). These would be a great gift for those girls who like to be comfortable and cute at the same time. These also come in a muted green and medium gray. $35
  13. Matterhorn Sweater by Anthropologie – This adorable sweater is perfect for Winter and so so cute! Just make sure you gift it to someone who doesn’t have sensitive skin as the reviews note that it’s very itchy. $140
  14. Arden Cove Full Anti-Theft Waterproof Cross-Body Bag – At a first glance, you’d never know this cute little purse is anti-theft! Most anti-theft bags aren’t stylish at all, so this would make the perfect gift for someone who travels a lot or lives in a busy city. With multiple types of protection (slash-proof, locking zippers, RFID blocking materials, etc) this makes a very thoughtful gift. $149
  15. Smeg Toaster – 2 Slice – This adorable coaster comes in multiple colors, such as black, red, gray, cream, pastel blue, and pastel gray (in addition to the pink seen above). I actually have this toaster on my wishlist as well! This would make a great gift for those who love to cook or even those who like to keep cooking simple! It’s also great for those who love a retro look or pastels. $159.95
  16. Large Welcome Bowl in Aqua by The Little Market – Another great gift for home decor lovers! This bowl is both functional and cute. This would also be great for those who are very ethical since each purchase empowers artisans in Rwanda. $68

For Dog Lovers

These gifts are perfect for dog owners or anyone who has a general appreciation for dogs!

  1. Doug the Pug: The King of Pop Culture Book by Leslie Mosier – Why not get a book about one of the most famous dogs in the world? Doug the Pug is arguably the most relatable dog out there! This would be perfect for any Doug the Pug fans. $10.74
  2. Dapper Dog Cookie Jar – for those who like to incorporate their love of dogs into their home decor, this would be perfect! This could be used as a cookie jar or a jar for their dogs treats. $68
  3. Corgi Planter by Likha – This adorable corgi planter is perfect for dog lovers who also love plants! Help their porch (or interiors) stand out with this adorable planter with the likeness of a dog! $65
  4. Custom Plush Cuddle Clone – This is an extremely thoughtful and very original gift. This company will make a plush clone of your (or a friend’s) pet! I had one of these made a few months ago of my mom’s french bulldog, Louie. She loved it so much she cried! This gift helps people hold onto their furry loved ones forever. Starting at $249
  5. Dog Biography Canape Plate – This adorable plate comes in 3 colors with 3 different dogs and descriptions. Another great gift for those who love to show their love of dogs through their home decor! $12 currently on sale for $9.60
  6. Sparkling Paw Print Charm for Pandora – If you know a dog lover who currently has a Pandora bracelet (or you plan on buying them a bracelet as well), this charm would be the perfect addition! $65
  7. GH Dog Push Toy Dog Interactive Activity Toy – This would be perfect for those who have hyperactive high energy dogs! It can suction to the floor or any piece of furniture and the dog will essentially play tug of war with itself. Give your dog loving friend a break with this gift! $8.97
  8. PupRug Runner Faux Fur Memory Foam Bed – Another great gift for those who own dogs! Because of the style of this dog bed, it will blend more nicely with home decor and won’t be an eye sore like your typical dog beds. This one disguises itself as a faux pelt rug. Plus it’s extra soft for the puppers! $199
  9. Matching Pet Owner Set for Pets – If your dog owner friend is obsessed with their dog, get them these cute matching outfits! They will feel extra close to their pup. Starting at $20
  10. Rescued Best Breed Patch – This gift is great for those who love patches (very “in” right now) and those who love saving dogs! Help your dog lover display their pride in rescuing dogs. This would make a great stocking stuffer. $5
  11. Breeds: A Canine Compendium by Fenella Smith and The Brothers McLeod – This adorable book has watercolor drawings of 100 dog breeds with adorable descriptions! Perfect for any dog lover who loves a little whimsy. Here is an example cute excerpt from the book: “Schnauzer – Schnauzer literally means mustache. The female of the breed is a little embarrassed about this.” $16.99

For Kids

These gifts are geared towards younger kids and babies, so they’d be great for expecting mothers and young nieces and nephews!

  1. Small Nod Heart Chair Cover & Insert – An adorable little chair for the little one to sit in and read their books! This would make a great addition to a nursery or little kids room. $99 currently on sale for $79.20
  2. Donsje Koala Kids Backpack – know a kid who is starting Kindergarten soon (or maybe started a few months ago)? Get them this adorable backpack! I’m a bit biased since Koalas are one of my favorite animals, but this backpack will foster the youngin’s love of animals! $88
  3. Baby Moccasins in Tan by The Little Market – This gift is great for expecting mothers or those who recently had a baby! Adorable and stylish, a purchase of these moccasins supports survivors of sexual violence. Buy something cute while supporting a great cause! They also come in black, blue, and pink. $54
  4. Baobe Washable Animal Ottoman – Another great addition to a nursery or kids room! Support the kiddo’s love of animals (maybe even a favorite animal?) with this adorable and comfortable ottoman/foot stool! $29.99
  5. Rufus the Tiger Pendulum Clock by Birch Robot – I am OBSESSED with this company and their clocks! They are perfect for kids since they are so whimsical and cute, but I won’t judge if you get one for yourself (I got the koala one for myself haha). The tail sways back and forth and the battery life is long! Plus, for every purchase made they will plant one tree! Be sure to check out their other clocks as they have lots of cute options! $65
  6. Elliott the Fawn by Cuddle + Kind – Another company doing good for the world! These adorable (and VERY plush) stuffed animals would soon become a young kid’s best friend and sleeping buddy. Every purchase provides 10 meals to the hungry! I personally have bought 2 of these for 2 baby showers and they’ve been a huge hit. Be sure to check out their other animals – they have mermaids too! Starting at $55
  7. Alpaca Stuffed Animal – Sheep by The Little Market – another adorable and SUPER soft stuffed animal! This may be better for those 6+ since it won’t stand up to drool very well. You can never go wrong with a typical stuffed animal gift! $46
  8. Mandi Smethells Sunny Days Purse – another cute gift for 6+ year olds! When I was around that age, I started becoming interested in “purses” and being extra girly. This will help show the sunny side of the little one you know and give them an extra boost of confidence! $24
  9. Baghera Classic Pedal Car – Another gift probably best for 6 and up. If you’re willing to chalk up the dough, help the little one you know look bad and boujee in this retro 1930s style car! Definitely a one up on Fischer Price! $260

For Techies

For those who love high tech gifts, the latest gadget or game, these gifts will be sure to please!

  1. VIZR Heads-Up Display – This gadget allows you to put your phone flat on your dashboard while it projects up your GPS so you can drive and navigate hands free! Additionally, it’ll show traffic conditions and your speedometer. This is great for any techie friend who drives a lot! $39.99
  2. Nikon AF NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4D Lens – A coworker who does professional photography in his free time suggested this lens to me. It’s perfect for anyone who is learning photography or is already great at it and for those who already own a Nikon! This lens is perfect for capturing portraits. $339
  3. PhoneSoap 3 UV Smartphone Sanitzer & Universal Charger – Great for those who use their phones a lot! Help your friends keep their phones both clean and charged with this nifty device! It’ll be sure to make a unique gift that they will appreciate. $79.95
  4. Ring Fit Adventure for Nintendo Switch – The latest and coolest game from Nintendo! This is great for techies who are also trying to get some fitness into their routine! I personally have this on my own wishlist as well. It’s definitely going to be a hot gift this year! $79.99
  5. Echo Dot 3rd Generation – Alexa – These gadgets are all the rage these days and it’s basically necessary to have one in your house! For those who like to turn on/off their lights, their music, and set reminders and timers, this gadget would be a perfect gift! $59.99 currently on sale for $44.99
  6. Samsung Galaxy Buds, Bluetooth Wireless Earbuds – These earbuds are amazing! In my opinion, they are much more comfortable than air pods by Apple. For those who love to listen to music anywhere hands free, this would make an amazing stocking stuffer! $129 currently on sale for $116.90
  7. Oculus Quest All-in-One VR Gaming Headset – 64GB – Definitely a gift for someone special at it’s price point, this would be sure to make the gift-receiver VERY happy! VR keeps improving and this is the latest in VR technology! $399
  8. Robert’s Radio from Wayfair – This cute little vintage-looking radio runs on batteries and can be taken anywhere! It comes in pink and red. $149.99
  9. Beats Solo3 Wireless Headphones – Mickey’s 90th Anniversary Edition – for those who love to listen to music and also love Disney, these headphones would be perfect! They are wireless, so like the samsung ear buds, they are hands free. $299.95

Hopefully these gift ideas are helpful to you! Merry Christmas and happy shopping! 🙂