goop’s gift guide

Over the next few weeks, I will be sifting through the clutter to find the best holiday gift guides out there so that you don’t waste your time or money. In case you didn’t see it today, GOOP, a site carefully curated by Gwnyneth Paltrow, sent out their 2011 gift guide and I wanted to share it. The guide spans a wide range of prices and offers some very cute, creative and unique gifts. In case you want more, there is a link to view the 2010 recommendations for even more great ideas. Happy gift idea generating!

maya brenner designs bi-coastal necklace - starting at $165

hello baby

Recently, a lot of my friends and siblings have given birth to adorable babies. Not having kids myself, I am always torn on what makes a great newborn gift. Obviously clothes are always fun, but I’m always looking for other thoughtful and easy gifts that cover multiple price points. The Silvery Gallery has a teething ring that’s beyond practical and can be monogrammed with the newborn’s initials (this has my three child sister’s approval). It’s not meant to be on display – it’s actually a great solve to teething (so is Sophie the Giraffe). Another idea is a tote bag or duffel from LL Bean with the baby’s name embroidered. New parents can never have too many bags to lug all of their belongings around. The customizable burp clothes from Moonbeam Baby are also a great find. You can create a set of three with different patterns and fonts. They come with a nice ribbon around them and shipping is reasonable. Parents will love cleaning up after their children with these adorable clothes. Plus, you will save them from having to wash their only burp clothes so often!

moonbeam baby burp cloth $8.95

treat youself

As much as I love giving gifts to others, I am also a big believer in remembering to treat yourself sometimes. I can’t think of a better opportunity, than a J. Crew 25% AND free shipping sale (code: STAYWARM), to do this. I wanted to share my recommendations for giving yourself a little something, something. For the ladies, this is the perfect time to buy practical staples that you know you’ll wear time and time again, and of course, induldge in one item. The best part is that you won’t have to feel as guilty since you got such a steal! I’d recommend a go-to statement necklace, a blazer to add instant sophistication and style, a pair of the uber-versatile Minnie pant (I bought two of these since I live in them – perfect with boots, flats, for work, for dressing up…opportunities are endless! They tend to stretch so I’d get a size smaller than usual), and an always needed button down. This is also your chance to get that cashmere sweater that you’ve been lusting and a cute pair of pumps or boots that are usually way too expensive to justify, but now you barely can. I went with the MacAlister wedge boots for my indudgence. I’ve been eyeing them for a while. What’s the worst case? If something doesn’t fit or you’re having buyer’s remorse, then easily return with the label provided.

For the men, I’d recommend going with staples such as tees and everyday half-zip sweaters.

For the little ones, get the holiday outfits so that it’s off your list and all sizes are still available! You’ll be very thankful when the holidays are here. Also, a little secret.  Even bridal is 25% off. So if you're like me, have your bridesmaids get those dresses! 

Treat yourself quickly because the sale ends tonight!

j. crew minnie pant in bi-stretch wool $72 (originally $98)

signed, sealed, delivered

A friend introduced me to the wonderful world of tinyprints greeting cards. They have a wide selection of cards for any occasion that can be personalized with names, copy and photos! The best part is that they handle the shipping directly from their facility. So say goodbye to rummaging through your bag to find a stamp, and upon finding it wondering if the postage is still the correct amount. They make showing you care a cinch. I’d recommend these for newly engaged couples, new homes, birthdays, anniversaries, baby births and my favorite, just because. Tons of families use tinyprints for Holiday cards and they have a sister site, Wedding Paper Divas, which is dedicated to all things wedding and offers fantastic prices.

I also wanted to share another easy and meaningful gift that can be customized and ordered with ease. Recently, for a friend’s engagement, I wanted to show my excitement while not breaking the bank. I found an adorable Boatman Gellar notepad online that I could put her soon-to-be new name on. She received it and loved that I had put so much thought into giving her a personalized and beyond useful gift. Not only did she have to order more, but it’s become her go-to gift for her newly engaged friends. When I got engaged, she sent me stationary from Paper Source with our initials on it - I was thrilled! So simple, yet so practical and perfect. 

boatman gellar notepad - $26 for 2 

paper source notecards - starting at $50

away we go

I headed to warmer weather for the weekend, so I thought that it would be helpful to share some of my top picks for your beach or weekend bag. With the holidays approaching, these all make excellent stocking stuffers as well! LL Bean has great monogrammed totes that are very reasonable and hold tons of stuff. Alternatively, Bric's has a wide selection of bags that come in a plethora of colors and can be found for discounted prices through deal sites such as Gilt or at a department store such as Bloomingdale's which typically has good luggage sales. Now the good stuff, what to put in the bag...A kate spade iPad cover, iPhone or Kindle case is perfect to keep the sand out of your devices. They come in very cute, colorful designs. J.Crew has a wide selection of scarves for any destination or climate (I’m loving my blue Ikat one for Fall and it makes a perfect plane companion). bkr bottles, created by two friends in search of a reusable water bottle that did not compromise aesthetically, are ideal for any trip. I love their philosophy and story. Who doesn't want to be green while simultaneously looking great?

bkr bottles $28

kate spade iPhone case $40

monthly splurge no more

If you’re like me, then there are certain things that you love to indulge in on a regular basis, but often times wish that they were cheaper. From overpriced exercise classes to manicures to wine. Why not help your friends out when the next gift opportunity arises? If your friend is a wine lover, there are tons of monthly, quarterly and bi-annual clubs that you can purchase memberships for. To make it personal, pick a club from a region or winery that you know your giftee loves. If your friend is into the of-the-moment workout craze, you can purchase packages. Physique 57 and Soul Cycle have great options. I promise, your friends won’t be offended. They will be beyond grateful and THRILLED not to purchase any classes for months! Drybar, a salon dedicated to just blowouts (a fave splurge), has cutely packaged single and multi-pack options. Lastly, Birchbox, a company committed to sending beauty samples on a monthly basis has three great gift offers – 3, 6 or 12-month memberships. I’ve been given this and loved getting packages on a monthly basis – always made my day and was a fun splurge that was gifted to me! 

birchbox gift package - from $30 to $110

shake it

Jonathan Adler is a sure bet when it comes to cute and thoughtful gifts. You can find something for everyone. The salt & pepper shakers come in a variety of different options and are a perfect under $50 gifts for birthdays, housewarmings and just because. I was thrilled when I got these as a gift, and I've given them many times - love them! Plus, they come in an adorable box and the employees at the store are expert wrappers. You leave ready to give. I've heard that they are coming out with a number of new options just in time for the holidays. Look for them online and at a store near you! 

Jonathan Adler Bird Salt & Pepper Sakers $48