Gift Guide

I’ve been going back and forth with how to present a gift guide this year. Many influencers are rounding up massive lists with overwhelming options and prices that don’t seem appropriate. 

But, 2020 seems like the year to give a simple, useful, thoughtful, maybe even handmade gesture. So today I’m highlighting my favorite gifts to give, for neighbors, family members, friends, teachers or co-worker, all for under $50. 

Great Gifts for Under $50

 

My family usually buys gifts for everyone, but we decided to stop this year. My brothers and I are at a point in life where we don’t need anything, and the gifts we’ve started to give like tickets to shows, a trip to the spa, or a gift card to a new restaurant, aren’t going to work. 

We’re still giving gifts to the kids, and Santa is coming for Vivian since she is turning two –  I am having too much fun restarting holiday traditions with her. 

Other than that, I plan to take care of everyone who takes care of us and give money. Tipping well during the holidays is more important than ever. I’ll also drop off a few of the items below to neighbors and friends. 

 

13 Simple Gift Ideas for Everyone On Your List 

Leather Wallet

Leather Envelope, $17

My mom taught me if you give cash as a gift, try to put it in something that can be opened and used later. If you are also planning on giving money this year, consider picking up this lovely, handmade leather envelope. Available in several colors and under $20 from Etsy. It’s affordable, can be beautifully wrapped and used later to store coupons or receipts. 

Clean Beeswax Candle

Beeswax Candle, $25

Early this fall I shared my affection for the Pumpkin Spice candle from Basic Bee Candle Co. Well, their Christmas Tree scent doesn’t disappoint either. It smells heavenly, is totally clean, handcrafted and burns perfectly. I just ordered another five to have on hand for the season. 

Hot Chocolate

Belgian Drinking Chocolate, $22 

Terrain is a gorgeous nursery and gift shop with locations in PA (local to the Philadelphia area), Connecticut, Maryland, and California. It transforms into a sparkling wonderland during the holidays, and their gift shop is full of special and unique finds. I stopped in earlier this week and picked up a few things, including this indulgent drinking chocolate as a treat for my kids. It’s a “sweet” gift you can wrap in a ribbon and leave on a neighbor’s door step. 

Everything Beautiful In Its Time 

 

Everything Beautiful In Its Time 

Everything Beautiful in Its Time, by Jenna Bush Hager, is a real treat. It has no political agenda, but rather, it dives into the lessons she and her family learned from both sets of grandparents. In a year that’s shown us the importance of family, it was a beautiful reminder of why family is everything, how important it is to live with intention and remember that what we do today creates a lasting legacy for the people we love most.

Hand Painted Oyster Shell 

Oyster Shell Ring Holder, $44  

Obsessed. The most overused word on the internet, but that’s what I am, obsessed with these hand painted Oyster Shells. You can keep them by your sink, bedside table, or on a stack of books on your coffee table. You have your choice of dozen of blue and white patterns to go with almost any decor. 

Personalized Stationary 

Custom Stationary, $15.50

One of my favorite gifts to give is customized stationery. It’s one of those things you may not think to buy for yourself, but are always happy to receive. And what’s better than sending a thank you note on a custom card? Great for friends, kids, or teachers. 

Silk Sleep Mask

Silk Sleep Mask, $50

I’ve given this to so many girlfriends, and every time it’s opened with such genuine excitement. It’s another indulgence you would probably not buy for yourself but happily use when you have it. It comes in nine colors and, if you order it from Nordstrom, opt for a gift box to make your life easier. 

Personalized Cable Clip

Personalized Cable Clip, $8 

“Where is my charger?!?!” Literally, every day of my life, this is screamed a dozen times from one side of my house to another. So I ordered these personalized cable clips (along with extra cords) as stocking stuffers for all of us. 

High-End Hand Wash 

Hand Wash, $39 

Listen, I know $40 is an absurd amount of money to spend on hand soap, but the scent is divine. Since 2020 was the year of hand washing, why not go out with a bang? I have this in my guest bathroom, and even my kid’s friends comment on how wonderful it smells. It’s a thoughtful hostess gift if you’re looking for something other than (or in addition to) a bottle of wine.

Pine Tree Cutting Board

Pine Tree Cutting Board, $33.50 

Another special hostess gift, this Pine Tree Cutting Board is handmade, under $40 and so sweet. You can use it for a small cheese board, or leave it on an open shelf as seasonal decor. 

Truffle Honey, $38 

If you’re looking for a gift for the foodie in your life, you can’t go wrong with Truffle Honey (or Truffle anything). It makes everything better, especially drizzled over warm brie on a holiday cheese board.

 

Cozy Blanket, $94 ( on sale 50% off)

This is a dupe of the always popular Barefoot Dreams blanket (that retails for $180). Right now it’s on sale for 50% off. It makes a great gift for a new mom, your best friend or your teenage daughter. 

 

Rainbow Tunnel, $38 

Finally, I can’t say enough good things about this Rainbow Tunnel by Grimm’s Spiel & Holz of Germany. If you have a baby or toddler on your list, there is nothing better than well made, open-ended play toys. And as a parent, receiving something that doesn’t require batteries or turns on randomly in the middle of the night is the real gift 😉 

---

Our Style Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers. 

Recommendations are based on my experience as a personal stylist and wardrobe consultant for over a decade. I worked with busy, down-to-earth women who wanted to look chic and feel confident but were often confused by so much of retail. 

Some links are affiliate links, which means if you purchase via our site, we receive a small commission.

If you enjoy our content and would like to help us grow, please consider following on Instagram and join our Private Facebook Group to access more advice and exclusive in-depth conversations with other like-minded women.

 

 

If there was ever a year to celebrate moms, it would be Mother’s Day of 2020.

We have taken our jobs to another level.

We are killing it. 

And we are beyond tired. Personally, I’m operating at a new level of exhaustion. It’s like I’ve moved through exhaustion to an entirely different realm, where I’m so, so tired, but it doesn’t matter, you have to keep going. 

It feels similar to having a newborn, but worse and without the joy of snuggling a baby. 

Us mamas need a break. But without the typical plans of Mother’s Day visits, brunch, or a nice dinner out, our families are going to have to get creative. 

I’ve already set the expectations that I will be taking a nap in a quiet house and ordering take out from my favorite local restaurant for dinner. Ideally, the weather is nice and in between napping and eating I can read a book outside. No one is allowed to bicker and I already ordered myself a gift (see below).

So I thought, for this gift guide, I would put a twist on it and feature some of my favorite things you can go ahead and purchase for yourself. 

Because this year, especially, we should get whatever we want. 

Mother’s Day Self Purchase Gift Guide 2020

 

 

 

Spin Mop

 

Spin Mop, $120

Meet my Mother’s Day Gift to me. The Bissell Spin Mop. Housekeeping has become too much with all of us home all the time. Between 400 meals and snacks a day, the girls tracking in dirt, and a baby, my floors are a disaster. This mop, which gets rave reviews, gets them extra clean and looking new without the back-breaking exercise of managing a bucket and traditional mop.

To put this in context, I asked for a power washer one year, and it’s still one of my favorite gifts every. 

Yeti Mug

Yeti Mug, $25 

This is a more affordable alternative to my favorite Ember Mug. I use them both. The Ember is my first morning cup, but these days who knows how many cups of coffee I’m downing. I like this Yeti Mug as a more durable option, for sipping outside on a bright but chilly morning. 

Fashion Watch

Watch, $495

I want a new watch at some point this year – something chic, timeless, and affordable. But I find most watches in the under $500 category are cheesy looking.

Recently, however, I discovered that Michele, a brand that usually runs in the several thousand, has a more affordable line called Deco. You get the same great styling at a fraction of the price, and the bands are interchangeable. The watch above is available in gold, silver, and rose gold, and additional bands run about $80.

Cozy Cardigan

Cardigan, $114

Barefoot Dreams makes a line of luxurious loungewear absolutely perfect for our current lifestyle. Yes, they are a splurge but I can tell you the quality and comfort is outstanding. You’ll wear it all the time. I have this cardigan and wear it over leggings and a tee, often grab it instead of a robe in the morning, or have a glass of wine outside when the kids settle for the night. 

Under $100 Pearls

Studs, Small: $68, Large $98

These pearl studs, by Julie Vos, are a gorgeous, everyday earring for under $100. I love the luminous pearl wrapped in gold leaves. I’m partial to the small size; they are a better size if you want a simple piece you can wear daily. The large is big and bold so it will definitely make a statement. (Be sure to look at them on the model.)

Game Changing Serum

Serum, $198

By now, you probably know my devotion to Vintner’s Daughter runs deep. I’ve been using it for years and credit it for solving almost all of my skin issues. I once said, if I was stranded on an island, this is what I would bring with me. These days are as close to that as I hope to get in my lifetime. I just placed another order.
It’s especially lovely to wear on these days when we may not be doing our make up as much. I put it on morning and night; just a little bit goes a very long way. It soaks into the skin, giving you tons of goodness and provides a beautiful, healthy glow.

Funny Book

Do You Mind if I Cancel?

Do You Mind if I Cancel is a series of personal short stories by humorist and writer, Gary Janetti. If you follow him on Instagram, you know he has an irreverent and naughty sense of humor. I read this one night in bed and laughed myself stupid. I found it so funny I kept waking up my husband to read him quotes. It was the first, only, best and most cathartic laugh I’ve had since this whole mess started in March. 

Spring Vest

Vest, $68

Bri and I try to go for early morning walks around the neighborhood before the kids wake up, to get some fresh air and have a minute to hear ourselves think. I ordered this pretty vest from LL Bean, which is quilted and lined in fleece, as an alternative to a coat, which is sometimes too heavy. This fits over a cotton turtleneck or long sleeve tee and gives just enough warmth to keep off the morning chill.

---

Our Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers. 

Recommendations are based on my experience as a personal stylist and wardrobe consultant for over a decade. I worked with busy, down-to-earth women who wanted to look chic and feel confident but were often confused by so much of retail. 

Some links are affiliate links, which means if you purchase via our site, we receive a small commission.

If you enjoy our content and would like to help us grow, please consider following on Instagram and join our Private Facebook Group to access more advice and exclusive in-depth conversations with other like-minded women.

---

The best way to describe life in my house right now is occasionally controlled chaos. Most nights, though, I fall asleep thinking we didn’t do half bad, and given the current state of the world, I think that’s more than good enough.

I’m learning it’s simple pleasures, and small moments to look forward to that make the days more comfortable. They don’t take the stress and worry away. Instead, they pause it and help you live in the moment.

So I thought it would be fun to share some of the small things I’m using that are helping me, and my family, make the most of ordinary moments amid the most abnormal situation imaginable.

And I’m wondering what has given you a few minutes of joy in all this uncertainty. Tell me in the comments below!

Ember Mug, $100

Since the day we were married Bri has brought me my first cup of coffee in the morning. Now, we try to have a cup together before all the kids get up and our day starts. I picked this mug up early last year and I love it so much.  From the first to the last sip your coffee is the perfect temperature. 

Weighted Blanket, $60

Whether your cozying up on the sofa with a movie, or sneaking in a nap, this weighted blanket is incredibly comforting. 

Wine Tumbler, $25

This tumbler doesn’t need much of a description if you’ve followed me for any length of time. Who knew when I bought this for our shore weeks that it would get so much use during a global pandemic. Now, I use it for nighttime, socially distancing happy hour walks around the neighborhood. 

 

Candle, $32

I have these candles around the house and light them after the baby goes to bed and the big girls settle into the rec room for the night. It helps separate the day from evening and brings the energy level back to peaceful before bed. 

 

Ring Light, $48

I bought this to keep on my desk and use for Facebook Lives. But it turns out it works for Zoom conference calls too! Just a little light on your face helps you look rested and prepared which none of us are right now. 

Moleskine Notebook, $15

Have you noticed that planners are becoming more and more complicated? The last thing I need is another system to learn. But with so many balls in the air I do need to write things down. This simple notebook is my favorite. Every morning I write down all the things and try to cross off as many as I can. 

 

Apples to Apples, $14.50

I bought this at the request of my older girls (who are almost 13 and 10), and they are obsessed with it. I have been super lax with electronics time during this, but at dinner, we have to put all of them away, and we play this together.

Popcorn Bowls, $17

We do a family movie night one night over the weekend to help define the week from the weekend. We grab blankets, pick something new to watch and Bri makes popcorn with M&Ms and puts them in these fun bowls. Even now I know it will be a sweet memory when all this is over.

Ugg Slippers, $85

I bought these for myself when I was in the hospital having Vivi, and they remain one of my favorite everyday pleasures. They are soft, cozy, and allow you to go in and out of the house with ease.

Hair Mask, $8

I wish I could tell you I’m indulging in all sorts of self-care, but the truth is I have less time than before. It’s a lot easier to get some in if you can multi task, like this hair mask. This only takes a few minutes while you’re in the shower, or you can slather it on before bed and give yourself an overnight super charge of moisture and repair. 

Drunk Elephant, $52

Stress takes it’s toll on our skin, as does wine, which I am not giving up. Another overnight, easy self-care option is this hydrating “mask.” Put it on before bed and wake up with soft skin that looks bright and fresh.

Book 

Finally, a real book and something to look forward to. I’m currently reading Evvie Drake Starts Over as part of our first ever Virtual Book Club. I bought a hardcover book so I can make sure I stay off social media. Can’t wait to chat about it with all of you!

---

Our Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers. 

Recommendations are based on my experience as a personal stylist View Post and wardrobe consultant for over a decade. I worked with busy, down-to-earth women who wanted to look chic and feel confident but were often confused by so much of retail. 

Some links are affiliate links, which means if you purchase via our site, we receive a small commission.

If you enjoy our content and would like to help us grow, please consider following on Instagram and join our Private Facebook Group to access more advice and exclusive in-depth conversations with other like-minded women.

---

Growing up, my dad was my first Valentine. Every year he brought me home a card, a box of candies, and a stuffed animal. He worked shift work (he was a police officer) and would often be at work when I came home from school, so he would leave it on my bed, or our dinning room table. 

I looked forward to it every year. But, of course, it wasn’t until I was older that I realized just how special it was. 

These days, Bri does that same for our girls. It’s such a sweet way to use a rather insignificant holiday and show our daughters how much they are cherished and respected,  just like my dad did for me. 

Personally, I like to use it as a chance to send something small to my friends. Life is extra busy right now, and I don’t get to see them as much as I use to. So I pick a little treat and mail it out. 

This year, try flipping the script on a day that focuses so much on romantic love, and instead celebrating all the different kinds of love that fill our lives.

Today, I rounded up some of my favorite self purchases, and those that I love giving out. There are plenty of options here whether you send a token of love to your best friend or mom, need the perfect birthday gift, our just want to splurge a little on yourself.

These are all sure to delight with my personal stamp of approval. 

Great Valentine Day Gifts 2020 

Himalayan Salt Scalp Scrub, $42  |  Eye Mask, $50  |  Reusable Nails, $14  |  Rose Petal Petit Fours, $55  |  Nightgown, $130  |  Cheese Knife, $14  |  Cuff Bracelet, $85  |  Crossbody Bag, $248

Himalayan Salt Scalp Scrub, $42

This salt scalp scrub by goop is my divine – DIVINE. I buy it for myself and am on my third jar. It’s expensive, but you don’t use it every day, and with three kids, and a full life all I have are the little things right now. 

It’s very effervescent – and gives your scalp a deep, powerful clean. I use it at least once, sometimes twice a week and feel like I walked out of a spa when I step out of the shower. 

Eye Mask, $50 

I’m a big fan of Slip Sleep products. I use the their silk pillow case and this eye mask every night. They are decadent, yes, and make fabulous gifts. Most recently I gifted them to two of my girlfriends on a recent weekend away in Austin. They were big hits, perfect for that $50 gift price point when you really want to treat someone. 

Reusable Nails, $14 

I re-discovered press on nails in 2019. While the Target/Drugstore versions are fine, they feel a little  heavy on my fingers. These, by Static Nails, are not only lighter, but reusable, so a win win all round. You can still apply these in under 10 minutes, and they cost just a few dollars more than drugstore brands. 

Rose Petal Petit Fours, $55

These Petit Fours by LA based chocolatier Valerie Confections are insanely delicious. I send them as thank you or holiday gifts all over the country. Since Valentine’s day is a lot more low key than it used to be, I’m ordering a box to celebrate with a glass of bubbly, in pajamas, while watching some Netflix. 

Nightgown, $130 

Back when I was cute and didn’t have so many kids, I made a decision to splurge on one gorgeous piece of lingerie a year. Over the past few years, being pregnant, and then postpartum, I didn’t. So I’m using this year to get back in the habit. After almost two decades of marriage, I have a lovely collection. Natori makes incredible, high quality pieces that last as long as they fit – so while the upfront cost seems steep, it’s really all about quality over quantity. 

Cheese Knife, $14

After sharing a cheese board for dinner at a girlfriends house, I discovered this phenomenal cheese knife. It cuts through anything so you can chop and serve quickly. A few days after that dinner, my friend sent me this to me, and I squealed with delight. (I’m officially in the phase of life called “squealing over cheese knives.”)

Cuff Bracelet, $85

Net-a-Porter is a go-to for me for gifts because their product assortment is beautiful and their packaging is even better. That makes a big difference when you are looking for a high impact gift in a price range. This simple gold plated cuff bracelet by Jennifer Fisher is ideal for layering or to wear on its own. It’s a jewelry wardrobe must have if someone in your life likes sleek, classic pieces. Be sure to sort their site by price, you’ll find lovely items well under $50 too.

Crossbody Bag, $248

I left my Lo & Sons Pearl crossbody bag in a hotel somewhere – I can’t even remember where. So I finally picked up a new one, this time in tan. It will go with everything, from early morning softball games to our next big trip – Santorini in the summer! 

If you need a “going out” option, or want to give a truly versatile and generous gift, check out their entire selection of bags.