The Ultimate Holiday Shopping Guide + PayPal Giveaway

It’s that time of year! To start talking about the holiday season. I seriously love the holidays and it is the only thing that is making me get through the cold days. Chicago becomes magical with all its festive decor and I just love doing our annual traditions.

This season is also a time for giving gifts to special people in our lives. For us, it is our families since they have supported and loved us in so many ways. But sometimes, they can be the hardest to shop for! Am I Right?! So if you’re struggling to find the perfect gift and need gift ideas, I hope that by sharing a guide on how to shop for the holidays will make it easier this year!

I will continue to update this holiday shopping guide throughout the holiday season. So be sure to bookmark this page. I’ll be sure to share the updates on Instagram and Facebook.

Holiday Shopping Guide

So this year’s holiday gift guide will be different from the past years. I used to have a separate blog post for each specific type of person i.e. holiday gift for her, holiday gift for him, holiday gift guide for the traveler, etc. But this year, you will see it all in one post. Hopefully this will make it so much easier for you! Best part of this year is that you don’t have to wait until Black Friday to get the best deals. Most retailers have already started their holiday sales.

Gifts For Parents and Gifts For Parents-In-Law

1 Our Place Perfect Pot

This pot does everything – boiling to baking, crisping to steaming. It’s made with the same ingenuity as the popular Always Pan.

2 Handwritten Recipe Tea Towel

This is a great way to cherish a family recipe. They can take an old and worn out recipe and transfer it to a tea towel or flour sack. It’s such a sweet gift.

3 Gardening Folding Seat With Tools

Know a garden lover? This gardening seat makes it easier to get work done, it folds up, and comes with all the gardening tool essentials.

4 225-Piece Custom Puzzle

This is such a fun way to recreate a photo. It comes with a sweet little gift box too.

5 Wine Chiller

You can chill a wine or a bubbly without an ice bucket. There’s several colors to choose from and keeps your bottle chilled for hours.

6 Chappy Wrap Blanket Herringbone

Who doesn’t love the Chappy Wrap Blanket? It’s won the Good Housekeeping’s Best of Bedding Award 2021. Here are other prints & colors.

7 Microwave Soup Bowl Cozies

Even I want this! Every time I warm up my soup in the microwave, it is scorching hot. These cozies are a genius idea!

8 Aura Digital Photo Frame

Not only is this a photo frame, but it can capture photos from your smart devices and display it AND provides unlimited storage.

9 Vertuo Next Nespresso Machine

I swear by Nespresso because I always get the perfect cup of coffee. This one is a great deal because it is priced well and it comes with a frother!

Gifts For Her

1 Villa Coat In Italian Stadium Cloth Wool For Women

Who doesn’t want a chic and well-tailored wool coat?! This Italian wool coat comes in several beautiful colors.

2 Birdies The Blackbird Flats

I’ve been a big fan of Birdies since it launched a few years ago. I owned the Songbird and they’re just perfect. Now they have created chic flats that are machine washable.

3 Slip Silk Sleep Mask

I didn’t understand the hype of the slip silk mask until I was gifted one. Oh my they’re the best. It’s one of those luxury pieces you didn’t think you’d want until you have it. For sure a great gift!

4 Hill House Home Nap Dress

I never met anyone that owns a nap dress that doesn’t love this dress so much. Here is my review of the nap dress. I’m so obsessed with it that I own five. It’s one of those feel good dressed. They’re also bump-friendly and breastfeeding friendly. The sizing does run big so I recommend sizing down.

5 Monogram Pendant Necklace

This is the necklace I wear all the time and almost always get a compliment about it. It’s affordable and for sure a bestseller.

6 Hill House Home The Desk Sweater

The details of this sweater is gorgeous. It can easily be work casually or dressed up.

7 T3 Twirl Trio Interchangeable Clip Curling Set

Instead of having 3 curling irons with 3 different sizes, this set has interchangeable barrels with different sizes. It comes with 1″, 1.25″, and 1.5″ barrels.

8 Loeffler Randler Emilia Pleated Knot Mules

These slides are GORGEOUS! They’re also super comfortable. The ones I’m showcasing have 2-inch heels. They also come in 3.25-inch heels, ankle straps heels, or flats.

9 Everyday Italian Leather Crossbody Bag

This crossbody bag is the perfect size – not too small and not too big. Yet it has a style of a satchel bag which I think makes it look more sophisticated and workwear appropriate. You can easily personalize this bag by adding a monogram.

10 Lake Pajamas Pima Bundle 

Love that this lake pajamas set! You can easily switch out the pajamas bottom. This bundle is so worth it that I want to add it my Christmas wishlist!

Gifts For Babies

1 Lovery Play Kits

We look forward to Lovery’s Play Kits every couple months. Carter loves all the toys and they’re super educational and helps him work on his fine motor skills. I also love that it comes with activity book so it explains the purpose of each toy and different ways you can play with them.

2 Activity Baby Push Walker

There’s so many fun things going on with this activity walk with out the overstimulation of the lights and music. The black and white colors palette immediately gravitates Carter’s attention and gets amazed by all the gadgets.

3 Rey to Z Baby Baseball Hat

Rey to Z hats are the best! The initials on the front are too adorable. You can personalized it even more (with additional cost) in the back. There’s hats available for all family!

4 Personalized Baby Puzzle

Not only are these personalized name puzzles cute but they help baby learn to spell their name!

5 Mushie 8-Piece Stacking Cups

These are the simplest toys yet Carter can’t stop playing with them. There’s different cut-out shapes at the bottom of each cup which makes it fun to look at it and great to play in the water too.

6 Sushi Sorter Toy

Instead of your classic shape sorter toy, I love that they use sushi. It’s too cute!

7 Magnetic Me Footie Pajamas

We swear by Magnetic Me. The magnetic snaps are a lifesaver!!! We gift these to every new baby  we know and every parent is thankful for them.

8 Sandra Boynton Board Books Set

Sandra Boynton books are not only cute but very educational with all the rhymes and repetition. I recently learned from Big City Readers that Boynton books are the best book for babies. This set is great because it has all of board books so you don’t have to buy each one individually.

9 Tummy Time Mirror

This is an adorable tummy time mirror. Carter loves to grab the tentacles and the attached fish rattle and it encourages him to crawl and reach.

10 Safari Beats Musical Drum Toy

Another Carter favorite. Haha can you tell this guide was based on Carter’s preference. But he just loves slamming his hands in each drum and loves the music and lights.

11 Ingenuity Reversible Activity Gym

This activity gym is incredible because it is easy to store away. It folds up so nice so its great for small spaces. Also the playmate is reversible!

12 Linkimals

We have been hearing great things about Linkimals and after checking them out, I know Carter will love them. I’ve heard the sloth is a favorite among babies.

13 Sophie La Girafe Teething Toy

I’ve never met a baby that didn’t love this teething toy.

Gifts For Him

1 Allbirds Wool Runners

These sneakers are comfortable, washable, and so lightweight. Tre loves it so much that he owns 2 pairs! I own a pair of women’s wool runners too, and they truly are an incredible everyday sneakers.

2 Nordic Shirt Jacket

Not only does this jacket look sharp, it is also designed to keep you frost-free during blizzard days. With the purchase this coat, they will donate $1 to to the organization One Warm Coat.

3 Beats By Dr. Dre Fit Pro

These earbuds are designed for androids and iPhones. You can use them to talk on the phone, during your workout, or for everyday use. They’re even noise-cancelling.

4 Travel Tie Storage Case

My husband loves these! Whenever he travels for work, he says this tie storage keeps his ties (and tie clips) all in one place and doesn’t have to worry about them wrinkling.

5 Cashmere Beanie

Who doesn’t love to wear a beanie during Winter. Why not level up with a cashmere beanie that’s only $60.

6 Theragun Elite Percussive Therapy Massager

This device works deep into the muscle and relieves muscle tension and soreness. A few people I know owns this and raves about it all the time.

7 Convertible Briefcase Backpack

This is another product my Tre loves! He uses this as a backpack when he commutes to work. But if he’s on a business travel and wants to look more sophisticated for his meeting, he switches it to a briefcase. It also has a slip through back panel so it can attach to a luggage handle.

8 HydroFlask Coffee Cup

This bottle can keep your coffee hot for 12 hours or keeps it cold for 24 hours. It’s leak proof with flexible strap.

9 Merino Wool Sweater

Maybe it’s just me but I always love to gift a good sweater. I know it’s something rarely bought but always used when gifted.

Gift Guide For The Movie Lover

1 Letters From Hollywood: Inside The Private World of Classic American Moviemaking

Rare notes, letters, memos from iconic Hollywood stars such Frank Sinatra, Audrey Hepburn, Alfred Hitchcock, etc.

2 Cinephile Game

This game is for all the movie buffs. It’s card game testing your knowledge. There are different levels – start easy with ‘movie geek’ level or go expert level.

3 100 Movies Scratch Off Poster

Scratch off each bucket list films that are truly iconic.

4 Projector Movie Screen for Indoor and Outdoor

Enjoy an outdoor movie with this 4K screen. This screen can easily be set up in 5 minutes.

5 Anker Nebula Capsule Screen Projector

Project your favorite movies anywhere with this screen projector. It has up to 4 hours of playtime and wifi capabilities.

6 What To Watch Streaming Decider Dice

If you’re family is like mine, we can never decide what to watch. Use these set of dice to make an unbiased decision.

7 Scalloped Melamine Popcorn Tub

It’s roomy like a popcorn tub but more durable and reusable.

8 Movie Popcorn Kit

Create movie theater popcorn style with this kit. It comes with 16 oz popcorn, movie theater popcorn seasoning, and sweet caramel seasoning.

9 Eat What You Watch Cookbook

Re-create 40 dishes that are seen in iconic films.

10 The Blockbuster Party Game

Omg, this game is so fun! We played it with my family one Christmas. It’s like charades with movie titles. Trust me, it’s more fun than you think!

11 Stovetop Popcorn Maker

You can’t make popcorn without a popcorn maker! Something about making popcorn on the stovetop makes eating popcorn more fun on movie nights.

12 Oversized Rib Knit Throw Blanket

I don’t know about you, but I always need to throw on a blanket while watching a movie. This throw blanket is so cozy and soft!

Gifts For The Working Woman

1 Somerset Blazer In Houndstooth

Who doesn’t love a good, well-tailored blazer?! So chic, classic, and a confidence booster (in my opinion). J.Crew ALWAYS has the best blazers. Want something more feminine? The pink herringbone blazer is the perfect one!

2 Calpak Kaya Laptop Backpack

This backpack is perfect for anyone who is working in a hybrid role (part work from home, part in the office). It’s so rare to find a chic laptop backpack.

3 Blue Light Glasses

Staring at the computer screen? These blue light glasses will protect your eyes.

4 Birdies The Blackbird Shoes

So glad Birdies came out with a cute and comfortable flats that’s also appropriate to wear to work. They’re washable and versatile.

5 Weekly Planner

This weekly desk planner is a great way to keep track of all your to-do’s for the day and week. Once the week is over, tear it off for a new planner.

6 Carter Everywhere Travel Mug

How sleek is this travel coffee mug? You can enjoy your morning brew anywhere and anytime with a leakproof lid.

7 Personalized Phone Case

Customize your phone by switching up the colors and adding your monogram.

8 Portable Monitor

This monitor is amazing because you can create a double monitor with a laptop that is portable. So you don’t need to lug around a giant desktop monitor around to get work done.

9 Commute Clutch

Keep all the tech accessories organized with this clutch. There’s compartments for phone, cards, chargers, etc. Personalize it by adding a monogram.

10 Wireless Charging Block

This block makes it much easier and convenient to charge your electronic devices. You can personalize it by adding a monogram.

11 Fillmore Vegan Leather Phone Strap

Use a phone strap to keep your phone steady while texting, reading, or taking photos.

12 Slim Wireless Keyboard / Bluetooth Keyboard

Not only is this keyboard slim, but it will also connect to your iPhone, iPad, or anything that allows bluetooth connection.

13 Phone Stand

It works for cellphones and tablets and the stand’s heigh is adjustable.

Gifts For The Cook

1 Always Pan

I use this pan all the time. It’s so multipurpose and it is a true nonstick pan. I personally think you only need this pan in your kitchen.

2 Cookbook Stand

Cookbook stands makes trying out a new recipe so much easier. I don’t need to worry about spilling on the book, etc.

3 5-Piece Utensil Set Crock Set

You can never have too many spatulas in the kitchen. These are great because it comes with a crock, so you don’t need to worry about how to store them.

4 Silicone Oven Mitt

These are great because they very durable and extend to your forearm. So you never have to worry about potentially burning your arms. I’m a big fan of longer length oven mitts.

5 Red Clay Hot Sauce

These hot sauces are all the rage lately. Not only are they spicy but they’re delicious! This variety set will please any cook.

6 Airtight Silicone Lids

These lids are great for sealing your leftovers and are heat resistant. This is a set with a variety of sizes.

7 Molino Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Ask any cook, and they’ll tell you that the quality of the EVOO makes a difference. Not only is this a high quality Spanish olive oil, but the bottle is beautiful too.

8 Cordless 5-Cup Chopper

This is cordless!!! Any kitchen appliance or tool that is cordless is the best thing ever. It makes prepping in the kitchen so much easier.  This chopper can chop up 40 onions with full charger. That’s amazing.

9 Staub French Oven

This French oven is 3.75-QT. It’s oven-safe and durable. I personally think this one is better than the Le Creuset and it’s more affordable.

10 Truffle Salt

Anything truffle is delicious. Having truffle salt in your kitchen is a luxury. But when it’s sprinkled onto dishes, it elevates the food.

11 Estelle Colored Wine Glasses (Set of 6)

I’m a big fan of Estelle’s glasses. They’re so beautiful and unique. The colorful glasses always inspires me to cook a meal to go with these stunning glasses.

Gift Guide For Book Lovers

1. Book Of The Month Gift Card

Most of my books are from Book Of The Month (BOTM). BOTM is a monthly book subscription. Here’s a thorough review of their service. Trust me, any book lover will be so happy to receive a gift card from them. They have an incredible selection of books.

2 White Floating Bookshelf

Not only can this bookshelf hold a lot of book, but it as a wow factor. I own of a couple of them. It looks like your books are floating AND you can use your books as a home décor element.

3 Tiled Monogram Mug

Who doesn’t love a monogram mug. Sipping on coffee or tea while reading a book during a cold winter day is one of the best way to spend a day.

4 Rechargeable Blue Light Blocking Booklight

I’ve tried a lot of booklights and they all suck. This one is SERIOUSLY the best. It clips onto the book easily without falling off. They’re blue light blocking lights and it has 3 different light settings. What’s great is that the light is bright enough to read but it won’t bother your partner. You also don’t need battery! You just have to charge it and it’s good to go. My booklight has gone a month and a half without charging and it is going strong.

5 Audible Subscription

Audio books are becoming more and more popular. What other book lovers have told me is that listening to an audio book is a great way to “read” another book simultaneously. I know I totally would listen to audio books if someone got me an audible subscription.

6 The Book Lover’s Journal

This journal is a great way to document the books you’ve read. This set comes with the cutest journal cards, bookmark, and book log.

7 Just One More Chapter Mug

This mug could not be more accurate!

8 Monogrammed Leather Bookmark

There’s something regal about a leather bookmark. Personalize it by adding monogram.

9 Bathtub Caddy

This caddy makes it possible to read a book (without potentially getting your book wet) and drink wine while soaking in the tub. Sounds like my perfect evening.

10 Homesick Book Club Candle

It’s a soy-based candle with notes of warm nutmeg, amber, and sandalwood. Doesn’t that sound like you just want to curl up and read a book!

Gift Ideas For Your Friends

1 Colorway Monogram Mug

Who doesn’t love a monogram mug? Love this colorful version.

2 Crystal Skies Beanie

A cute beanie is always a winner. You know they will be used the entire Winter season.

3 Cashmere Touch-Screen Gloves

Cashmere and touch screen gloves?! Similar to the beanie, it will be loved and used all the time.

4 Charging Bracelet

This bracelet is genius! Not only is it cute (and you can add a monogram to it too!) but it can change your smart phone too!

5 Capri Blue Volcano Candle

I never meant anyone that didn’t love Capri Blue candles. The scent is versatile and adds vibrance to a space.

6 Ruffle Sock Pack

Cute socks are always have to receive.

7 Commute Zipper Pouch

This pouch is similar to the commute clutch but slightly smaller so it fits well into a purse. It’s a chic way to organize all your tech devices – phone, charger, etc. You can also add a monogram to it too.

8 Oversized Satin Bow Hair Band

I mean look how cute this hair band is!

9 Shashi Blossom Earrings

These earrings make a statement without being too loud. They’re the perfect pair of earrings to gift!

10 Mongoliam Cashmere Sweater

I can’t believe this cashmere sweater is only $50 and it’s made with 100% Grade A Mongolian Cashmere. It’s the real deal and you can’t find this price anywhere! I couldn’t help but buy myself one.

11 Estelle Colored Wineglass Set of 2

Estelle Colored Wineglasses are the prettiest wineglasses I have ever seen. Get this with a bottle of wine and I bet your best friend will be the happiest.

12 Knot Headband in Liberty Print

I am obsessed with all of J.Crew’s Liberty Print. Anyone I know can use a headband (it does wonders on a bad hair day) and these liberty print ones will for sure be a hit.

Gifts For Fitness Lovers

This guide is meant for anyone that is into fitness and or wants to get started on their fitness. All the products are perfect for at home workouts!

1 Resistance Bands Set

I highly recommend resistance bands especially if you want a workout equipment that takes up less space. It comes with 3 different resistance: Light, Medium, and Heavy.

2 Neoprene Dumbbells

I personally love using neoprene free weights. They’re easier to grip, non-slip, and doesn’t scratch the floors.

3 5-Tier Storage for Hand Weights

If you have dumbbells just lying around then I recommend this tiered storage. It helps keep them all in one place.

4 Resistance Loop Bands

I use these frequently and prefer these loop bands than the traditional rubber loop bands. They’re non-slip and won’t ride up which is key because the rubbers do and it makes it harder to have a smoother workout. I also love that they don’t dig into the skin.

5 2-Pack Jumprope for Workout

Using a jumprope is awesome for cardio workouts. A fitness jumprope is different than the ones kids use because they’re made specifically to be durable, smooth, and comfortable handles.

6 Exercise Step

Another great tool to add more variety to your daily workouts. These steps are non-slip which is key if you are doing quite a bit of cardio with it. You can also use it as bench. It is lower in height compared to your standard bench but it is easy to store under your bed!

7 Resistance Body Band Set

These are also known as pull-up assistance, but I love to use them for total body workouts. I specifically love this one because the fabric won’t snap or break. I have the traditional body band sets (the ones made with rubber) and there are instances where they snap onto my body. OUCH!

8 AirPod Pro

Who doesn’t love AirPods?! I especially love them during workouts because I don’t need to worry about wires or making sure my phone is on me.

9 Yoga Mat / Fitness Mat

Having some type of mat is essential to working out. I love this one because it has high density, non-slip, non-skid, and thicker. It also comes with a carry strap and in several colors.

10 Exercise Ball

There’s so many benefits and different types of workouts you can do with an exercise ball. This yoga ball is easy to inflate and it comes with a foot pump.

11 Kettlebell Adjustable Portable Weight Grip

This grip turns any dumbbell into a kettlebell! I love this because it means less equipments to buy. Working out with kettlebells are awesome but it also requires you to buy more sets. This grip saves space and money!

12 Stationary Exercise Bike With Monitor 

So if you’ve been eyeing the Pelton but want a more affordable option, I recommend this one. Personally, I’m not into stationary bikes, but my friend Lauren (from Lakeshore Lady) purchased this bike and raved about it. I always trust her recommendations. It comes with a monitor/tablet holder so you can do at home workouts with it too.

 

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