A day later than promised, but here we go with my tips for simple holiday gift shopping! I will provide you ideas for thoughtful and affordable presents, links to some local vendors I recommend purchasing from, and encouragement to start shopping now, and have it all "wrapped up" by early December so you can enjoy a peaceful, relaxing couple of weeks around Christmas.
My first tip is this...keep it simple and heartfelt! Give some thought to the person you are picking a gift out for, and choose something that:
- you know they will love, but would not purchase for themself
- you see, and it makes you think of them
- is something that represents who they are to you
- they can add to a collection
- would be an indulgence they would not typically get to have
As much as everyone enjoys receiving a gift, opening it, seeing what they've received, we all can think of instances where the joy really lasted only as long as the opening of the present. So often, it's a trinket, a token gift that we aren't really sure how to use/where to use/if we'll use. Don't get me wrong, all gifts should be appreciated, but when it feels like we've only been gifted because it was the "expected thing", we lose some of the enjoyment, and it takes away from what could be an opportunity to really show someone that you care for them. Take the opportunity of Christmas and gift giving to show those you care how you feel by picking out a heartfelt, thoughtful gift that they are certain to know how/where/when to use, and will truly appreciate and enjoy receiving it!
That said, if you have a difficult time coming up with gift ideas, stress no more, I am here to help! I strongly encourage you to visit your local bazaars, which offer up a huge variety of handcrafted items, small vendors with direct-sales businesses that have fantastic gift options, and tasty snacks and treats. You can get ideas for putting together your own gift baskets, making your own baked goodies, or you can purchase ready-made presents and wrap up your shopping, while supporting these local business people and crafters! It's such a win-win! If you don't have time to spend browsing bazaars, or you prefer to do your shopping from the comfort of your living room, or you're just not sure where to start, please keep your eyes on my blog as I highlight some great ideas, and link you directly to the retailers you can purchase from!
Today I offer you 3 of my top gift ideas for the gals on your list...
A truly unique, one-of-a-kind, customized, wearable gift is easy to put together by making an Origami Owl locket. You choose the locket, charms that tell the story of the person you're gifting, and so many other options! I get so many compliments when I wear my locket! There are several locket choices, chain options, adorable dangles, and new products that I haven't had a chance to explore yet! Visit one of my O2 ladies on their websites, and get started in creating a gift that will be appreciated by any woman who receives it!! You can purchase online for direct home delivery, or can host a living lockets party in your home and receive credit towards your purchases while sharing the O2 fun with your friends!
In Oregon/Washington, visit Jamie at www.jamieb.origamiowl.com,
In California, visit Mary at www.marythomas.origamiowl.com.
I have purchased from both these lovely gals, and recommend them highly!!
If you have a little girl on your gift list, consider a handmade and truly adorable skirt! My friend has perfected a simple but beautifully detailed skirt pattern, and offers a fun assortment of patterns and a variety of sizes. All her skirts have an elastic waist, making them easily resized for a perfect fit! She also makes cute hair clips/bows, and coffee cup cozies. Email her today! chiapetdiz@yahoo.com 
Every girl likes to be warm on cold winter days! You have so many options for handmade scarves, hats, gloves and such when you hit up a bazaar, so if you're looking for knit and crochet items, I encourage you to try to get to a bazaar or two! If you aren't able to though, then check out this gal's beautiful crochet items! She will customize to your liking, and has many varieties of scarves, as well as gorgeous hats, boot warmers, and more! I purchased a warm and pretty cowl from her recently, and it's so nice on chilly fall mornings! Super cozy and beautifully made, definitely a quality product! You can find Valerie on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aims.ftw?fref=ts&ref=br_tf#!/Simplycrochetwithluv
You're such a sweetie! Love your ideas ♥
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