Gifting Simplified
If you’re one of those organized individuals who begins gathering holiday gifts in July, you have my deepest respect. Really, that’s so very smart. Spread your spending out over six months, save yourself the last-minute shopping, crowd-fighting angst that defines December for so many people.
The reality for many of us, however, is that we’re so overwhelmed with life’s daily to-do list that working to get ahead of the game continues to elude us. Suddenly, it’s several weeks before the holidays and we begin to realize that our gifting list is a mile long. No time or desire to go to the mall, combing every store for the perfect gift for each person on our list, what do we do?
Forgive me for sounding so sales-pitchy, but it’s time to shop LYB! For those who are shopping with a specific budget in mind, please check out our delicious gift guides that are teeming with our top picks for practically everyone on your list. We offer an awesome one-stop-shopping experience, and shipping is free. So, instead of scavenging for parking and enduring long lines, grab a mug of hot chocolate and your computer, and sit back, relax, and let our wonderful staff at LYB take care of you!
For those of you who could use some extra help and inspiration, below is a sampling of my personal gift list this holiday season (I hope none of these folks are reading this—lol!):
Husband
Bed Stu Thames Satchel ($325)
So, this is cheating a bit—my husband actually came in yesterday and I gave it to him on the spot. That’s how much he literally felt he couldn’t live another second without this gorgeous, weathered leather bag from Bed Stu.
Mom ($170)
Soia & Kyo Fringed Junie Wrap
This Canadian line just nails it when it comes to combining warmth-inducing functionality with timeless style. This grey shawl is perfect for both indoors and outside, is the ultimate accessory with its fringe detail, and is cut so it actually stays on your shoulders. It also doesn’t go overboard on fabric, so will look awesome on my mom’s petite frame.
Dad ($98)
Threads 4 Thought Men’s Sherpa Plaid Shirt in orange/navy
This new arrival from super-soft, uber-conscious designer Threads 4 Thought is perfect for my dad who is “Mr. Practical.” A Coloradoan, he’ll love toting this plaid shirt, with its soft sherpa lining, on ski trips throughout the winter.
Daughter ($69.99)
Bearpaw Youth Krystal
My 6-year-old budding fashionista is beginning to discover her own flare as a stylist, and every good stylist knows that boots are the best part of winter! I love the color, quality, and especially affordable price of these adorable pink boots that will go with the dozens of pink pieces hanging in her closet.
Best friend
Bloomingville Ceramic Josephine Teapot ($25); Bloomingville Ceramic Emma Cups (2 of each color) ($5/cup)
Bloomingville’s creations for the home just inspire happiness, exactly like my best friend brings so much joy to my life. The cute saying on this teapot reminds me of some of the best conversations she and I have shared over the years over a nice cup of tea. I know she’ll adore the dainty mix-and-match cups that complement the teapot (and if one of her toddlers knocks over a cup and breaks it, she can easily afford to replace it at $5!)
Employees
The LYB gift card. Nothing is more fun for folks who love fashion than to let them peruse our fabulous treasure trove themselves. (Every birthday, anniversary, and Christmas/Hannukah, my husband knows that I, too, want a LYB gift card!)
Hairstylist
Skinny and Co Soap Kit ($34)
For anyone who works in the realm of beauty/wellness, Skinny and Co products make a fantastic gift. Beyond their cool packaging, the products boast some of the purest coconut oil in the world, along with carefully crafted essential oil blends. This year, the company has come out with a delicious array of gift sets to make shopping easy, and self-care a total treat.
Teachers
Rifle Paper Co Pair of Joie de Vivre Notebooks ($14); Bearpaw Knit Infinity Scarf ($25)
Perhaps it’s because I feel I owe these amazing individuals the world for how much they do for my kids—I always want to give them a whole goody bag of gratitude. Alas, I have three children and the budget is limited, so I try to find just a couple of gifts that are both fun and practical. Rifle Paper Co’s designs are so colorful and inspirational, and who needs a place to jot down notes more than teachers? And Bearpaw’s infinity scarf is absolutely perfect for having to stand outside and assist with carpool line in subzero temperatures.
Me
Cleobella Romy Tote ($259)
I’m a big advocate for acknowledging ourselves for all of our hard work at the end of the year! The minute this bag came in, I knew I had to have it! Now, I can justify my splurge since we decided to take the kids to Florida in January. This bag is not only beautiful, but so sturdy and well-constructed that I know it can stand up to having to tote all of the family’s i-devices, books, toys, blankies and more. Its edgy versatility allows it to go from carry-on to beach bag to evening bag in an instant.
So, this holiday season, save your energy for meaningful fireside chats, baking with your kids, fun travel, and catching up with old friends. With LYB’s help, keep your gifting simple and enjoyable, even if you’re on a budget or in a time-crunch.
Happy shopping!
Lisa Berry