Bestie Boxes and Man Baskets

My office area really does look like Santa's workshop at the moment! Can't believe we are so close to Christmas! Who is an 11th hour shopper? I totally am but don't sweat it, we still have time for the perfect gift. This year I am making super fun, cute and yes, some are "manly", baskets and boxes for friends, family and co-workers. They are unique, affordable and so much more personable than something like a gift card. I'll show you a few I have created and give you some ideas!

 

For the "bestie boxes", these are for my female friends and a really sweet way to give a one of a kind gift to thank them for always being there. Here is an example of a few items that can be included.  For one box, I stuck with a pink palette and ultra girly. All of this came from either Target or Paper Source. I also really like Swoozies for these boxes. A tip though, Paper Source and Swoozies have really fun things but can be a bit pricy so stick to smaller items like the unicorn gum and get your bigger items like the Tinkerbell notebook and the Frozen ornament at places like Target (both are under $10).
 

For the guys, I decided to do "man baskets and boxes", this all became about over a discussion whether or not a gift basket could be manly or not. I took this as a challenge and I think I was pretty successful! Give a few "big" items that are budget friendly such as a local beer and $10 gift card to a food place then add other items like Pringles, tools, ear buds, car wipes, etc. that you can find at places like Target, Wal-Mart, Dollar General and so on.

These were some of the finished "man baskets" I made for the guys at the station and they LOVED them! They are some of my favorite people so I was happy that they enjoyed them. You know it's a hit when the baskets start getting opened and food is involved!
 

This is a box I created for one of my best friends from college, choose interest or a theme for the box. Most of the items have a symbolic meaning from our friendship and others are just fun. This mug was a steal at Anthropologie, under $10! It makes it more personal to add fun touches and things that can jump start a memory. 
 

I got the boxes at my go-to store, so obviously it was Target. I also tied a ribbon around to keep the box in tact and to keep it festive!
 

This is one of the boxes I made for one of   

my coworkers, I work with all guys so food is always a good bet. I also know each of their interests and tried to incorporate that into the boxes.  

My second round of boxes are ready to go and I can't wait to hear what each person thinks of theirs! This has been really fun to do for the holidays and I can't believe how easy it was. It is particularly a good option if you are on a budget, you can make a really great box for under $20 or $30 and if you want to spend more or less it's all up to you. I'm going to feel like the jolliest little elf tomorrow delivering these and yes, a tacky sweater might be involved. 

Happy Almost Holidays!

xoxo,

BFF Gift Guide

Hello everyone! Hope we are all having a fabulous Sunday. I am finishing up a fun road trip to Nashville, it was a pretty awesome trip and I can't wait to share the recap with your guys! First things first, Christmas is 11 days away...if you have done all your shopping, I am impressed! If you are like me and have barely even started then we have some work to do. But don't worry we still have plenty of time and today's focus is the BFF's in your life. That means friends, mom, grandmother, cousin, sister, whoever is your bestie I've got you covered!

1. Eat Cake for Breakfast Mug- I love this adorable Kate Spade mug so much that I own it. It's a great gift for the coffee lover or anyone that needs that extra boost to get going in the morning. At only $20, this mug is a great deal and if you feel the need to make it a little extra special, add a packet or box of their favorite coffee, tea, hot chocolate,etc.. You could also put a Starbucks or local coffee shop gift card inside the cup! ($20)

2. Leopard Print Fringe Scarf- This scarf is sure to be on repeat the rest of the season and is light enough for spring and cooler summer days. The print is on trend and you can't beat the price of $20, a piece that has longevity and can be used multiple times during the year is sure to be a hit! ($20)

3. Oversized Pom Keychain- These little "poofs" as I like to call them or "poms" if you will were the surprise hit of the fall for accessories. They add a bit of whimsy and character to your purse, travel bag or keys (you can't miss them in your bag!). I love this soft, baby pink colored pom! ($15)

4. Hi Y'all Bye Y'all Mittens- How cute are these mittens?! Embroidered with an ever popular southern phrase by the super stylish brand of Draper James. They are currently sold out online but should be getting shipments back in soon, they do have them at the store located in Nashville so drop by or give them a call to get this gift! ($75)

5. Free People Mini Mott Crossbody- Free People is always a good idea and this bag in not only budget friendly at $48 it is stylish and can be used no matter the season! It can fit all your essentials and easier than a clutch but not a huge cumbersome bag. I have one of these and love taking it to football games, concerts, traveling, basically whenever it's best not to have a huge purse. Easy and cute! ($48)

6. Horse Shoe Key Fob- Have a friend who needs a little extra luck? This key fob is for them! Great detail and classic, southern design. This would be great for a little extra design on a basic purse or luggage. These Key fobs and key chains like the pom mentioned earlier are great ways to make your purse look more creative and different when you don't want to change out your bag! ($38)

7. Elwood the Rainbow Unicorn Mug- How can someone not want their own unicorn? As you can probably tell I love some coffee mugs and this one is so unique that it is sure to put your bestie in a good mood no matter how early they get up. ($38)

8. Evelyn Henson Prints- I love Evelyn's prints! They are as unique as they are colorful, the print maps might be my favorite. They have so many cities to choose from but the rest of her prints are just as bright and fun! Any bestie would love to have one of these prints in her home. ($26.50)

Hope you enjoyed this gift guide for the best friends in your life! Time is ticking, get out there and get shopping! :)

xoxo,

Holiday Gift Guide for the Guys

Hello on this happy hump day! This week is flying by and I can't believe we are only a couple of weeks away from Christmas. I have been so busy with class, writing and work that this holiday season has kind of snuck up on me and I'm sure many of you are the same way. Don't worry if there's someone who can get ready to shop and have gifts ready, it's me!

Today's gift guide is for the special guys in your life whether it be a boyfriend, dad, husband, brother, friend, or whoever I have some special picks ready for your selection!

1. Fitbit Charge HR Wireless Activity and Heart Tracker- The Fitbit is not only eye-opening to see how much (or in some cases how little) you walk during the day. Great gift for a health nut or if your guy is looking to get in shape. You will be surprised how much you will try to get in all your steps after you have set them. Bonus: wear it to see how many miles you walk at a park, on a hike, nature preserve, or theme park (we walked 13 miles at Universal Orlando in October...in a single day!). ($149.95)

2. Hoverboard- It's like the gadget from Back to the Future became a real thing! It might be described as more of a hands free scooter but Hoverboard just sounds more legit. This is great for your son, nephew, cousin or maybe even your boyfriend (or husband) let's face it, we all want one. ($349.99)

3. College Football Championship Tickets- Tickets to the second annual College Football Championship Final (as well as the two semi-final games) will be a hot commodity for college football fans this year. This is guaranteed to be a good game whether your team is playing or not! Definitely a good pick if you live in or around Glendale, AZ or just want to attend a large sporting event. If you want to see your team play be sure to check out all the Bowl Games to see what tickets you can find for you and your guy! (Prices depend on seating)

4. The North Face PrimaLoft Thermaball Full Zip Jacket- When it gets cold out this jacket is sure to keep someone warm. While it is quilted and puffy it is also very light, so it doesn't feel bulky or heavy on the body. Perfect for any guy in your family plus right now it's 30% off! ($138.90)

5. Netflix Gift Card- Yes, we have heard about "Netflix and Chill" all year but this is for the guy who genuinely loves movies and TV. Winter is the perfect time to binge on TV shows, movies you may have missed this summer and awards season favorites. If you would rather go out to the movies, I highly suggest a gift card to your favorite theater in town! (Gift card based on selected value)

6. City Map Glass- A unique and creative glass showing off your own or a favorite city! Pair with your guy's favorite drink and you have a two-for-one gift that is ready to go. There are tons of cities available and the price is great too. ($12.50)

7. Favorite Team Shirt- If your guy has a favorite team then go find a jersey, sweatshirt or tee that will get him ready to make every day feel like game day! For NBA go here, NFL here, MLB here and NHL here. (Prices vary)

8. Ballpark Blueprints- These are beautiful and cool even if you aren't into baseball. If someone on your gift list then the will love these blue prints of some of the most famous baseball parks in the country including Fenway Park, Wrigley Field and Dodger Stadium. ($185.00)

9. NFL Game Tickets- Maybe I'm just really excited to be going to my first NFL game in a few weeks but I think this would make an awesome present. If you have a local team make the trip to see them or if you live in an area with no NFL team but have one y'all cheer for then make a weekend trip. There are so many teams that you can most likely find one within driving distance! Nashville to see the Tennessee Titans? Atlanta to watch the Falcons? Denver to watch the Broncos? Charlotte to cheer on the Panthers? Those are just a few exciting road trips you could take. Great idea for couples, families and friends to take on the weekend and game together! (Prices vary)

I hope you enjoyed this guide and that you find the special guys in your life the perfect Christmas presents! Look out for another gift guide coming tomorrow as we movie forward to the jolliest holiday around! (Sorry, I've been watching too many Christmas movies.)

Happy Shopping!

xoxo,

Hostess Gift Guide

Hello everyone! I hope we are all enjoying this lovely Tuesday and everyone is in the holiday spirit, yes? The holiday season means holiday parties, whether that means work parties, friend parties, family parties or the ever popular tacky Christmas sweater party. You may have more than one holiday get together to attend so it's understandable to want to keep host/hostess gifts on a budget.

Do you have to bring a gift to the party? Not necessarily but maybe it's me being "southern", I don't like to show up to holiday parties empty handed. I think it's a nice gesture and it's a little something special to thank the host(s) for opening up their home and I know that cleaning, cooking and prepping for a party can be a whole ordeal so a little thank you is always nice!

Here are a few unique options instead of bringing a bottle of wine (trust me there will be plenty) that will be sure to land you an invite next year and make you the hit of the party this year.

1. State Aprons- This is something that can be used during the party as well as after. These aprons are so cute and unique (they have all 50 states available!) that your hostess will probably run and put it right on when it's time to get those treats out of the oven. I mean no one wants anything spilled on their cocktail dress, right? ($36)

2. Agate Coasters- Bright and colorful, these agate coasters will add some color to any dining/living room and those throwing the party will appreciate not having any water stains when party guests put down their drinks! (Four Piece Set for $64)

3. Scented Candle- One of the more classic gifts, I love these Kate Spade candles which if your hostess loves designer she will swoon over these beauties. The gold and white polka dots get my holiday pick.  ($40)

4. Woodland Park Reindeer Ornament- Kate Spade does it again. The designer brand known for their whimsical designs created some of the most creative ornaments for the season. Love, love, love this adorable reindeer which is sure to find a spot on the host's tree! ($25)

5. Mug Set- I might be biased since I love my coffee (or in my case, tea) mugs and I think they make an excellent gift choice. This red gingham set with the southern saying of  "give me some sugar" written across them is sure to be a hit. The Reese Witherspoon created collection of Draper James brings the southern charm so you don't have to (or you can too). ($38)

6. Porcelain Zebra Dish- I actually got one of these for my house warming party and it is so fun and in their own terms, groovy. This gold striped little Zebra dish can hold rings and other jewelry plus it's a fun piece of décor to add to the hostess's home. ($32)

7. Eyelash Jewelry Tray- Kate Spade makes another appearance here but for good reason. This tray with the lovely eyelashes (so glam!) is great for keeping little necessities (rings, car keys, etc.) in check. The print is fun and reminds me of 1930-40's Hollywood or NYC. Totally flapper lashes, right? ($30)

8. Mi Casa, Su Casa Pillow- This pillow lets your hosts know that you feel right at home! A cute pillow that is both creative and unique plus adds a little sparkle to the room. ($39)

9. Piglet Soaps- Maybe my favorite pick on here. Surely I'm not the only one who thinks piglets are adorable? These soaps are not only useful but with a fun design and good price these are a win! ($25)

Hope you guys enjoyed the first gift guide! There are more coming this week so don't stress about holiday shopping. We got this!

Happy Tuesday!

xoxo,

Instagift and Buying Local for the Holidays

Happy Tuesday! I am shock it is December 1st, I mean where did this year even go? By now we have already started our Christmas shopping and one thing I would love to make a point of doing this year is buying local. Coming from Birmingham, AL we have so many new restaurants, breweries, boutiques, everything you can think of that is unique to this city. I love it!

Ok, I shop at department stores like Nordstrom, Belk, Macy's, etc. and some chain restaurants are my favorites, let's face it who doesn't love P.F. Changs? But as more and more local options become available, I prefer those so much more than the clothing, food, drinks, whatever you can get anywhere. Local businesses are thriving but still take a ton of effort (believe me I know) and it's really crucial that people choose local so they can keep growing!

That's why for the holidays, I love the idea of Instagift. They are electronic gift cards that are all local options. Check out the Birmingham gift cards here! Some of my favorites include The Heavenly Donut Co (y'all know how I am about donuts), La Paz (please eat the cheese queso for me), The Track Shack (my favorite local running store), The J. Clyde (my friends and I love this local restaurant/bar) and if you want a really special treat definitely go to the award-winning Hot and Hot Fish Club (the chef is amazing and the food is some of the best in town). Hey, this is partly a fashion blog so I can't forget about my favorite local boutiques in Crestline Village and Elle! Oh and there are a few Cyber Monday sales that are still going on today right here for these cards :)

Even if you don't live in Bham check out the local options near you and Instagift that might be near! Seriously BUY LOCAL this season, I love visiting unique and special restaurants, shops, and everything when I travel as well as choosing my favorites here in my own hometown. Get out there and see what's happening in your town!

Happy December 1st (go ahead and get those decorations up)!

xoxo,