gift guide: mother's day

gift guide: earth-friendly swaps

MY AUNT Joan is a lifelong plastic straw lover. I’m not sure if she’s trying to preserve the poppy-colored lipstick she seems to wake up wearing or has a sensitivity to cold or if it’s just an unbreakable 60-year habit, but she uses a plastic straw to drink just about every liquid that goes into her body. Last year for her birthday, my mom sent her some pretty reusable straws as both a sweet acknowledgement of her sister’s quirk, but also a not-so-subtle hint to stop using [wasting] the stupid plastic ones.

I HAVE very consciously over the last decade or so swapped out some key everyday items for more eco-friendly alternatives. Our family uses only reusable bags for lunch, snacks + travel. I stopped buying plastic straws years ago for all of our smoothies and I even travel with the metal ones for on-the-road straw emergencies, along with a few sets of silverware. I have amassed a SOLID collection of reusable shopping + produce bags so that I never need one at the store. I’ve swapped all of our body care and household cleaning supplies for natural, non-toxic versions. And there are lots of other things we do each day to reduce our impact, but there are at least a hundred more practices my family could adopt and we’ll continue to make switches wherever we can.

FORTUNATELY, there are TONS of amazing companies out there creating products that have use beyond the 5 minutes at a time that we might need them. Many are also making our favorites in new and really impressive ways that reduce our collective impact though innovative sustainability practices. So, whether your special people are already totally on board with the idea or need a little push like my Aunt Joan, there are so many options out there for gifting in a more conscious way. A bunch of these ideas would make really PERFECT gifts for the host[ess] with the mostest or teachers and ‘Life Savers’ you love. There’s no better win-win than a gorgeous gift that makes your special people AND Mother Earth smile. And if you know of some awesome products that do Mama E proud, please let me know, we’re always looking for new ways to do our part. GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS. xo

BEAUTY HEROES

ONE OF THE easiest [and most fun IMO] ways to start reducing both your environmental impact and your own body’s exposure to toxins is to make the switch to clean, sustainable and responsibly-produced beauty products. Ignore the outdated myths that cleaner products don’t work as well or that they’re so much more expensive. The industry has come SO far and there is no longer a reason to sacrifice either your own health or the well-being of the planet in the name of beauty. There are tons of amazing products out there for almost any budget that are not just effective and safe, but also GORGEOUS. And Beauty Heroes has lots of them. Beauty Heroes prides itself on having THE most stringent ingredient standards in the industry, going above and beyond what’s generally required to qualify as ‘clean.’ They not only exclude ingredients that are toxic to people, but also require that all of the skin, hair and body care that they carry is fully biodegradable so that the animals and waterways stay healthy, too. And they even have a whole selection of zero waste products to take your efforts another step toward reducing your footprint. PLUS, they ship every order certified plastic negative and carbon neutral by purchasing offsets. YES. Check out My Clean Beauty Favorites to learn more about the brands and products I love and get swapping.

Earth-friendly gifts

> Geometry has a prolific social media presence that’s made super appealing because their towels are SO pretty. It’s what initially piqued my interest, but then I saw and felt a friend’s Tea Towel…. Not only are they pretty to look at, but they’re also super duper soft, quick-drying [ie. not stinky] and so absorbent [they don’t just push the water around]. AND they’re made entirely from recycled post-consumer materials, diverting a ton of waste from the landfill. I ordered almost a dozen and am so obsessed that I now look at my ‘old’ towels sideways and am considering retiring them all to the bike wash station in our garage. Because of the enormous selection of prints, they are a seriously gorgeous gift for just about anyone. I love their Dishcloths and Fitness Towels, too. > $18
+ Use any of my Geometry links for 15% off your purchase

>Cadence is one of the greatest marriages of form + function I’ve found in a while. I’ve been searching for YEARS for good travel containers. Most reusable kinds are impossible to clean and I’m left with half a wee bottle of old, yellowing body lotion that’s nearly impossible to clean out. And if I’m lucky enough to find a travel-sized tube of something I actually use, I often end up only getting through half of it before it gets yuck and I feel doubly guilty about chucking both product and plastic. Sound familiar? These gorgeous little containers are made from ocean-bound plastic and come in different sizes and pretty colors so YOU get to decide how much stuff to put inside and how to organize them. They’re an absolute breeze to clean out between trips and are totally leak-proof, so you can put ANYthing in there. I use them for skincare, supplements, jewelry, hair goo… really, ALL the stuff. I’ve found so many uses for them and I can’t get enough of the gorgeous colors. They’re magic, LOVE THEM. > from $14

> I’ve tried a zillion different combinations of non-toxic laundry products and Dirty Labs is my favorite. It’s missing ALL the things you don’t want near your skin, but is super effective and has a subtle awesome scent. There is no plastic anywhere to be seen in the packaging either. The Sustainable Laundry Starter Set is the perfect way to test it out and you can subscribe to have it delivered monthly so it’s off the list. LOVE. > $39

> One of the easiest and most impactful swaps you can make is away from single-use plastic sandwich bags. But there’s such an easy and super appealing alternative. Reusable bags in general are infinitely useful for lunch and snacks, but also for travel, storage, food storage + prep and wrangling all the random loose stuff in your bag. In particular, Stasher’s reusable bags are the most durable I’ve found for the tough paces you want to put them through [they go in the microwave, dishwasher, freezer…] and they clean SO so easily. I use mine daily for so many things. I even saw someone making ramen in one. For real. And others using them for REALLY cool kiddo sensory play. They make a HUGE variety of sizes and colors to delight just about anyone. So help a friend [or teacher or therapist or dance instructor…] AND Mama Earth by hooking them up with some Stashers. It’ll make their lives easier and keep a literal TON of plastic out of the trash heap and ocean. Win win for sure. > from $7.99

> If you want to make your life SO easy and scoop up all of your clean, eco-friendly, non-toxic goods in one quick go, Grove Collaborative is your new BFF. They’re a one-stop shop for the best earth-friendly best for everything from cleaning supplies to skincare to art supplies to dog food. It’s an awesome solution for stuff you need all of the time and for discovering new favorites. If you’re just starting your journey to swap out your ‘dirty’ stuff for healthier versions, Grove is a perfect place to start. >

> These little discs don’t look like much, but they’re totally brilliant. Made from sturdy, yuck-free silicone, Food Huggers literally ‘hug’ all of your leftover bits of fruits and veggies so they’re preserved longer and stay fresher without wasting plastic wrap. I use mine all the time for lemons and limes especially. They also have a variety of lids to cover any little lidless bowl you want to use to save your leftovers without plastic wrap. They’re super easy to clean and nest inside each other so they take up almost no space. > from $7.99

> Nopalera is a stunning artisan natural beauty brand designed to celebrate the richness of Latina culture and the beauty of Mexico. Founder, Sandra Lilia Velasquez, was inspired by the nopales that were abundant around her childhood home near the CA-MX border. The nopal cactus is a highly sustainable + resilient crop and super nourishing, making it the ideal foundation for each of Nopalera’s super natural products. The nopal they use is all wild-harvested and the company’s packaging is entirely reusable or recyclable, though I don’t know why you’d want to throw away any of the AMAZING packaging. I want to wallpaper my dining room with it. > from $14

> We’ve been using cloth napkins forever. We still use everyday a set that a friend gave me as an engagement gift like 15 years ago. I wonder how many paper napkins we’ve saved in that time?! Cloth napkins are pretty and easy to clean and last forever [obvs] and when they get too gross for the table, my husband uses them to clean his bike. Bright Beige on Etsy makes the most awesome ones out of cotton flour sacks and hand prints them with earth-friendly dye. I’m sort of ‘dye-ing’ over her designs [sorry, can’t help it], there are so many REALLY gorgeous ones. I’ll just have to take one of each, please. > $26

> I love it when you come across something beautiful that just so happens to also be super sustainable, like Material’s reBoards and reBowls. They’re made entirely from pulverized recycled plastic kitchen scraps [75%] and renewable sugarcane [25%], so there’s no virgin plastic involved. They’re also BPA-free, dishwasher safe and SO pretty. The reBoard comes in 5 really lovely colors, it’s so hard to choose just one. There’s also an equally awesome Mini for smaller jobs. I use mine every darn day. > from $25

> Swap out typical grody plastic bath toys and chemical-laden bubbles for a MUCH cleaner and WAY more fun option. Bubbles & Joy is a subscription service that sends awesome non-toxic, cruelty-free + natural bath toys and body care once or monthly straight to your little fishies. Read more about why I love them here.> from $39
+ Use code ALLAFLUTTER10 for 10% off

> Quince is trying to turn the fashion industry on its head with their manufacturing model. They ship their timeless pieces directly from the factory to your door, eliminating the footprint of everything in between. They source sustainable materials like organic cotton and recycled polyester and use 100% compostable or recycled packaging. They also pride themselves on their fair and sustainable factories. They have a huge range of really beautiful pieces to choose from for the whole family. >

> Skip the single-use cotton pads for your skincare routine and use these cute handmade Marley’s Monsters Reusable Facial Pads instead. The soft cotton flannel pads just get tossed in the wash over and over again. There are a bunch of cute prints or solids to choose from and a pretty handmade Wood Container for keeping them stored in your bathroom. > from $10

> Jackson Hole-based Noso Patches is on a serious mission to encourage people to repair their clothes + gear instead of dumping them. They make a huge assortment of peel & stick patches [no need to sew on, hence.. Noso, get it?] that are waterproof, weather-resistant and super durable. They’re also just fun as a means of self-expression. My older son plastered a few on his backpack just because they’re cool. They have a bunch of unique designs, including a collaborative ArtFix artist series. ‘Stick’ some in your emergency stash for surprise repairs. > from $7.99

> Ditch plastic wrap in favor of something much more earth-friendly and WAY cuter. Esembly Baby’s Reusable Bowl Covers slide right on to just about any size bowl like a li’l shower cap and keep everything safely inside. They’re awesome for prep, short-term storage and I love them for bringing food to a BBQ or picnic. You just pop them into the wash or rinse them out when you’re done and there all set for next time. > $18

> Beeswax wraps are another fantastic alternative to plastic or foil to cover your food. They’re washable, reusable, compostable and can be used as fire starter when you’re finished with them. And the antimicrobial properties in beeswax actually helps to preserve your food for longer. This Olsen + Olsen version on Etsy is handmade in Canada with all natural and organic materials. And they have a BUNCH of cute prints to suit just about anyone’s taste. > from $10

> Slantt is a small Austin studio where Jennifer Rodgers hand makes really pretty, very sculptural jewelry. Some is delicate, much is dramatic, but it’s all unique. And in addition to her creative design, she’s also super dedicated to ethical and sustainable business practices. She uses recycled metals, sources only through responsible vendors based in the USA. And every order is shipped in eco-friendly recycled packaging. Learn more about why I adore Slantt here. >

> As people swap out their phone case with their outfit, more than 1 billion of them end up in the landfill each year. Seriously. Canadian-based Pela Cases [say ‘pea-la’] makes stylish and super durable tech covers out of PLANTS and they’re fully compostable and biodegradable. Yep, when discarded properly, they’ll just gracefully return to the earth and not jam up the landfill until the end of time. It’s SO brilliant. They’ve already stopped the equivalent of more than 48 million plastic bags from entering the ocean. SHEESH. They have so many different patterns + colors to choose from, including solid and clear options. There’s def something there for just about everyone, including, I dare say, your stylish teens. >

> If you want a one-stop-shop for your eco-friendly food + drink swaps, W&P has you SO covered with their Porter Collection; Mugs, Water Bottles, Bowls, Utensils, Straws, Bags + Food Containers… It’s all there in their signature simple, elegant style so you can venture out looking good AND not wasting any crappy plastic. The Porter Bowl is now almost iconic for its #lunchgoals ability to safely carry your lunch from home to work or play. And their Porter Mug has a ceramic-coated interior so it doesn’t hold on to lingering flavors [ie. your tea won’t taste like your coffee]. They have lots of cool, modern colors to choose from to make just about anyone smile, including the Terrazzo Collection [heart emoji]. Choose one or hook your special person up with a little collection. > from $15

> Caldera + Lab is a men’s skincare line and with THE highest sustainability standards. They use all super potent wild harvested and organic ingredients, they have the most advanced certifications and transparency standards available in the industry and they’re a Certified B Corp. The list of ingredients they DON’T include in their products is longer than the list of ones they do. Plus it works really well. My husband loves this line and just asked for more of The Good. > from $28

> Packing up leftover pizza is always so awkward, not to mention wasteful when you chuck the foil or plastic wrap the next day. These (Re)Zip Pizza Savers are so brilliant. You can use them in the fridge or freezer or a lunchbox. They’re completely reusable and washable so you can stash them away for the next pizza night when your eyes were bigger than your stomach. > $24.99

> Contribute to the health of our planet by gifting your special person a subscription that offsets their carbon emissions. Wren funds specific projects around the globe that are helping to reduce the impact of climate change. This is a fantastic gift for the minimalists in your life who don’t want more stuff or people who have ‘everything’ and will feel great about supporting meaningful environmental projects. > from $25

> Anytime you buy something handmade instead of manufactured overseas, you not only eliminate the carbon footprint of that item’s journey, but you support someone’s sincere PASSION, which makes it a gift to the earth, the artist AND your special person. I mean, a 3-in-1 is pretty impressive. This stunning Haand Cloudware Mug was handmade in Burlington, NC by a real person and not a machine. All of Haand’s materials are lead-free and ethically sourced. And gorgeous, obvs. > $31

> There’s no need for a big pile of plastic produce bags with these Organic Cotton Mesh Reusable Produce Bags. This set of 7 comes with three different sized bags and are totally machine washable. I use mine all of the time and feel so good about skipping those impossible-to-open plastic bags at the store. > $26

> Toss the single-use dryer sheets and chuck in these handmade 100% New Zealand Wool Dryer Balls instead. They help things dry faster naturally, making everything more efficient. I put a little dab of lemon or bergamot essential oil on mine to make the laundry smell super fresh. > $17

> I LOVE my Nomadix Original Towels for adventuring and the pool. They come in a bunch of pretty patterns, are quick-drying, absorbent, odor-resistant and pack up super small. Plus they’re made entirely from post-consumer recycled materials and Nomadix is now part of 1% for the Planet. And because the towels are quick-drying, they use fewer resources when laundering. It’s a huge win-win. They also make an Ultralight version for when space really matters and a Mini that’s awesome for gym and golf bags [I keep mine in my car for post sweaty hikes + runs]. They all make an absolutely awesome gift. > from $27.95

> Skip the wrapping paper and go for a reusable Furoshiki Gift Wrapping Cloth instead, like these pretty ones from Olsen + Olsen. They have a huge variety of great colors to choose from. Your gift will look gorgeous and then your special person will have a beautiful piece of cloth to either reuse as gift wrap for someone else or repurpose as a napkin, bandana or anything else they can dream up. > from $10

> To know me is to know how much I love my Baggu Reusable Bags. Aside from coming in about 100 amazing prints, they’re the most durable reusable bags around. I’ve had some for like 7 years and they look brand new. They can be machine washed and hung to dry, which I’ve done literally 100 times, and there’s nary a tear or pull in a single one of them. Also they hold SO MUCH stuff and pack down tiny for travel. They come in 3 different sizes for all of your needs and make a fantastic gift for almost anyone. > from $10

> Save both your gorgeous hard cheeses and a bunch of plastic wrap with this stylish silicone Capabunga Cheese Vault. It’s designed to wick away moisture and allow your cheese to ‘breath’ so it’s preserved properly. It’s reusable and cute and it comes in 5 pretty colors to suit any cheese-lover’s taste. > $34

> Eliminate a mound of plastic bottles with HiBar Solid Shampoo + Conditioner. It’s totally plastic-free, gross chemical-free and fuss-free. And they make a version that’s fragrance-free, too. > $26.50

> LA Relaxed is unique in the fashion industry. They make EVERYTHING in downtown LA with sustainable, vegan and cruelty-free materials. They are also emphatic about fair wages, safety and fostering a collaborative environment for their employees. And we haven’t even gotten to the clothes yet… they all inhabit a stylish, ‘relaxed’ vibe perfect for everyday. So stock up on cozy for the season ahead and sport it proudly knowing that it was ethically made from start to finish. >

> These Animal Friend Silicone Straws from Amalka + Albert are THE cutest. They’re made from food-grade silicone that’s non-toxic, BPA-free and odorless. The cutie dolphin, whale, fox and llama help kids know which drink is there’s and are just SO adorable. Click here for lots more fun reusable straw ideas. > $13

> Ditch your grody sponge AND those massive rolls of paper towels and replace them all with Papaya Reusable Paper Towels. These babies are made from totally natural materials and are antimicrobial, super absorbent, quick-drying, machine washable and completely COMPOSTABLE when you’re finished with them. Each one replaces 17 rolls of paper towels. WAH?! And they’re obvs super cute. AND they even come with a little hook for drying in between uses. These would be fantastic gifts for the host[ess] with mostest or the ‘Life Savers’ you love. > from $18

MORE IN… gift guides

gift guide: tweens + teens

PEOPLE OFTEN feel really stumped trying to find gifts for teenagers and I totally understand why. They’re just at a funny crossroads between kiddo and adult that makes it challenging to peg them. And the range of their interests feels endless. Obvs that’s true at any age, but somehow with teens it’s really magnified. Some are super happy to build Legos at home while others are trying desperately to exercise some independence at the mall with friends and still others are focused entirely on their chosen sport. Some couldn’t care less what they wear and others wouldn’t go anywhere in anything that doesn’t have a brand name. Oh, plus ALL THE OTHER kids in between. Not to mention the fact that what’s cool one day is SO NOT the next. So it’s no wonder that people feel intimidated. What I think IS pretty universal about teens is that most of them are just trying to connect, to express themselves and to find their place in the world in their own unique way. And there are some really awesome ways to help them do it.

WHILE I CAN’T promise that I’ve hit every one of those diverse interests here, there should be something for just about everyone. I’ve chosen to stick with *mostly* analog gifts here that inspire teens to take a minute or to get outside or find creative ways to express themselves. I also LOVE the idea of gifting unique experiences [at any age], like concert tickets, trips, cooking classes and museum memberships that open your teen’s eyes to something new or create lasting memories. If you really don’t know your gift recipient well or they’re saving up for something big, a thoughtfully chosen gift card is a totally ok way to go, especially if you put in a little effort to make it feel extra special.

THERE IS SO much fun stuff in this category, I could go on and on and on… so if you don't see anything that strikes a chord for your teen, reach out, I’m always here for you. As with all of my Gift Guides, check back often, I’ll add to this list as I find stuff that’s too cool to keep to myself. And enjoy every non-eye-rolling moment you get with those amazing + funny creatures. GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS. xo

Gifts for Tweens + Teens

> Have a teen who’s obsessed with their furry BFF? Get them a super cozy, fuzzy Custom Pet Art Blanket with their pet’s adorable portrait. They come in several sizes and colors and are so darn cute. Your teen can snuggle two versions of their favorite love at once. For sooo many more awesome personalized gifts, check out the Etsy Holiday Hub. .> from $28 

> Alo Yoga has a giant collection of coveted, very hip sweatshirts, sweatpants and jackets that teens adore. They’re all super on-trend and designed to take you from school to your workout to going out and come in both Women’s and Men’s styles. This cropped Muse Hoodie is made with a soft, ribbed knit that’s pretty and cozy. Their Leggings and Sports Bras are also totally ‘on the list.’ > from $98

> Make sure they’re always powered up on the go with an Anker Magnetic Portable Charger. This version has 10,000mAh for max charging capability and a little kickstand to prop it up and it comes in 3 cool colors. There’s a 5,000mAh version, too, and lots of other super handy products in Anker’s MagGo line-up. > $54.99

> Everyone needs the perfect travel bag and the  Tobiq Washable Travel Duffel may be your teen’s new BFF, especially if they like to have everything in its place. Designed by a fellow Colorado mama, it has 4 separate zippered compartments for max organization. It can be carried with the shoulder strap, handles or the stowed backpack straps and is totally MACHINE washable. It comes in this 60L or a 30L ‘size [awesome for sports or weekends] and both are TSA approved on most airlines. Plus it comes in a few really cute colors. They also make a Convertible Roller version that looks super cool if you want wheels. > From $199

> Here to Slay is a strategic role-playing adventure game. It’s fast-paced and easy to learn, but takes time to win. It’s one of Kickstarter’s 50 most backed projects of all time and the cards are cute. But fearsome. But, like super cute. > $20

> Give your teen the snuggliest hug with a Sophie Faux Fur Throw. It’s THE softest blanket and so perfect for getting cozy [or hiding out] and it comes in 13 really pretty colors and a few prints. My whole family LOVES ours so much. > $98

> I gifted these awesome handmade Ramen Bowls to my boys lastyear and they use them just about every day. There are a bunch of cool designs to choose from and they all come with a set of reusable chopsticks that slide through holes at the top of the bowl for easy storage and all are handcrafted with lead-free glaze. So cute. > $24

> Take cozy and stylish to whole other level with a pair of super popular UGG Mini Ultra Platform Boots. They’re a combination of classic and new hip styling and the inside is lined with their signature soft shearling for fuzzy comfort. They come in 3 cute colors, too. > $160

> Beanies are SO not just for keeping warm, they’re a fashion statement all their own. Tilly’s has a HUGE selection of Beanies in styles and colors to match just about any teens’ ‘fit. > prices vary

> Art Spot Airbrush’s Custom Airbrush Balls are such a cool decorative keepsake and will make your athlete feel like a super star.They do all types of sports balls from baseballs to volleyballs to soccer balls. Because they’re custom, they take a bit of time to be delivered, so factor that in to your plans. For lots more cool personalized gifts, check out the Etsy Holiday Hub. > $60

> You’re never too old for Legos, especially when they come in super cool sets like the Speed Champions series of hot super cars. They may never have a real McLaren, but they can build one out of Legos and dream big. There are some very cool cars in the Technic series, too, if that’s more their jam. > from $19.99

> Get those bodies moving and with proper form on this cool Wooden Push Up Board. It’s easily adjustable and color-coded to target 4 different muscles and ensures you’re properly positioned for each exercise. It can be folded up and chucked under a bed when not in use, too. Win. > $43.99

> If you have a teen who wants a signature scent, but you don’t want them wallowing in a cloud of Axe Body Spray, check out Abbott. They have a gorgeous line of squeaky clean unisex scents inspired by nature and they are bright and fresh and balanced. We ordered the Exploration Set and my son landed on Mojave, but there were several that we really liked, some more ‘masculine’ and some more ‘feminine,’ but all really nice. They also offer a travel size so you don’t have to commit to a whole big bottle. See LOTS more awesome self care ideas in The Gift Guide to Self Care for Tweens + Teens. > from $31

> For 25 years Jellycat has made THE cutest, softest and most clever stuffed toys and they are making a serious splash with the teen crowd right now. From adorable bears to bok choy, they have a huge range of Animals and ‘Amusables’ to choose from, including a really adorable Sports collection. The Bag Charms are a hit, too. Now that’s a trend I can get behind. > from $22

> The North Face ThermoBall Slippers are so rad,  they’re like a little sleeping bag hug for your feet. They’re fuzzy and squishy on the inside and have a fully-tractioned rubber sole so you can wear them indoors as house shoes or outside to walk the dog or to school. They come in fun colors, too, in both women’s and men’s sizes. > $59

> If your teen is itching to start spinning, check out a Pioneer DJ Controller designed for beginners. There are a few options to choose from and they’ll all have you mixing those beats for your buddies in no time. > from $279 

> Love a teen who’s into faeries and kingdoms and witches? Swedish illustrator, Hanna Karlzon, has a really cool collection of super detailed Coloring Books that any creative fan of fantasy art would love. > $16.99

> Don’t let the rainbows fool you, Mantis is a cutthroat card game where you ruthlessly steal cards from your opponents and then they steal them right back with equal spite until somebody wins. It’s fun for a group. > $25

> Up your teen’s game with a Vew-Do Balance Board. Its multi-directional and so awesome for upping your balance, strengthening your core and practicing board sports. They have beginner to advanced models and it’s made in the USA. My boys both love ours and often hop on it while watching TV. > from $109

> This Hydrenalite Down Hoodie is a super cute slightly cropped bomber-style puffer. It has the updated styling teens want and ALL of the features you’d expect from The North Face, making it kind of a perfect combo of form and function. It comes in some cute colors, too, and in Men’s.> $220

> This JBL Clip 4 Portable Bluetooth Speaker is compact, waterproof, dust-proof, portable and has an integrated carabiner for easy travel. You can even fire it up in the shower. It gets 10 hours of playtime and also has a noise and echo-cancelling speakerphone for super clear calls. And it comes in 16 awesome colors. You can also add a cool Hard Case to protect it. > $64.95

> Help your teens express themselves with a Collage Kit that can be installed in any way they like. There are a ton of different ones to choose from depending on their aesthetic and come either already printed or as a download. > $22

> Klask was voted the #1 party game in Sweden + Norway, so… It’s a hugely popular, fast, frantic combo of foosball and air hockey that sounds so fun. I know my guys would love this thing. > $59.99

> I love the styling of this The North Face Retro Denali Jacket. It’s super soft, cozy and warm, but you’ll look way cool. It comes in 5 rad colors, too. And there’s an equally squishy Women’s version for the gals. > $180

> Protect that shiny tech with a case that looks cool AND does a serious solid for Mama Earth. Pela Cases are completely COMPOSTABLE and will return to the earth when your teen is done with it. They come in a zillion cute prints and solids to please just about anyone. And they can cover your tablet or AirTags, too. I LOVE the feel of mine. Find other great Earth-Friendly Swaps for eco-conscious teens here. > from $39.95

> Keep all of that bling organized with a DreamGenius Jewelry Stand. It has so many options for storing your treasures, including a velvet ring holder. It comes in 3 sizes and some cute colors to match your decor. > from $24.99

> Fans of dragons and beautiful strategy games [and Wingspan] will love Wyrmspan. You get to build a dragon sanctuary, excavate caves and exercise your imagination. And it’s just really pretty to look at. Note that it’s an entirely separate game from Wingspan, not an extension, so you’ll get to learn a whole new strategy. > $65

> There’s nothing more important to a teen than their friends. Honor that bond with a Custom Illustration of up to 7 of their besties. For so many more super meaningful gifts, check out the Etsy Holiday Hub.. > from $26

> The Good Karma Tarot Deck is geared toward beginners looking for guidance and personal development in an empowering, different way. The deck is inclusive and super positive [nothing creepy or dark here]. It includes a book to explain the meanings of the cards and how to use them, too. > $24.95 

> There seems to be a new 'it’ water bottle every year and right now it’s the Owala FreeSip. They come in a bunch of super fun color combos, some bright and some neutral and 'aesthettic.’ But their shining feature is the combo built-in hidden straw and wide mouth opening in one AND it has a flip-top that keeps all of it clean and protected in between sips. Rad. > from $27.99

> Great Jones’ Bakeware is more than a SUPER pretty face for your baker. It’s scratch-resistant, dishwasher-friendly, PFOA-free and designed to release your goods with ease. They make bright, fun Cake Pans, Loaf Pans, Pie Dishes, Muffin Pans and more all in fabulous colors that would appeal to stylish tweens and teens. I love mine. See more ideas for the bakers you love in The Gift Guide to Baking Stuff for Kids + Teens .> from $30

> Whether your teen is feeling crampy, has sore muscles or just wants a warm hug, Heatable Huggable Heating Pads are cute and effective. Just pop it in the microwave and set it where it hurts. They come in lots of styles from avocados to llamas to pizza, too. Now that feels better. For more self care ideas, check out the Gift Guide to Self Care for Tweens + Teens. > from $17

> This book is so cool. A History of Basketball in Fifteen Sneakers tells the story of this beloved game through the iconic sneakers that have defined each era. It’s such a great gift for basketball fans + sneaker heads alike. > $35

> The Love of Colour on Etsy has stunning beginner Natural Dye Kits that are perfect for crafty teens. There’s a Natural Dye version that includes various botanicals and an Indigo Kit. Both look incredible. They also have gorgeous Block Printing and Clay Resist Kits. So fun. > from $22.95

> Blow some music-loving minds with a pair of Beats Studio Pro Headphones.They’re wireless, Bluetooth enabled, have 40 hours of life and can be set to noise canceling or transparency mode. Plus the music quality you’d expect from Beats, of course. And some rad colors.. If it’s better for your budget, there’s also the Beats Solo version that has fewer bells and whistles but doesn’t skimp a bit on the impeccable sound quality. > from  $169.99

> Keep that precious tech protected in the cutest way with a super cool Baggu Puffy Laptop Sleeve. They come in some really awesome prints and are sized for 13” or 16” laptops. They also have cases for your tablets, AirPods and glasses. > $32 

> Tilly’s has a bunch of cool graphic hoodies for just about everyone in both Kids and Adult sizes. They’ll keep your kids feeling warm + super cool all at once. > prices vary

> Jax Kelly makes a whole line of beautiful, hip, intentional jewelry that’s both timeless and totally on-trend. She has launched a collection of Rings that are super beautiful and perfectly priced for gifting. She also has a ton of Studs + Huggies that would make an awesome present. > from $15

> Spark your athletes’ or budding filmmakers’ creativity [and become an instant VIP] with a GoPro. It’s super compact, waterproof, easy to use and stable. There are also a bunch of accessories you can add depending on what it will be used for. > from $249

> Don’t just scroll through all of those amazing photos on your phone, print them out with a li’l palm-sized Kodak Step Instant Printer. It spits out mini ZINC sticky-back paper pictures for your walls or journal or to share with friends. There’s no tonor or ink to replace and it’s Bluetooth enabled to connect to your phone or tablet with no tangled cords or cables. So fun. > $69.99

> More than just pretty pictures, The Science of Supercars goes in-depth about the history of supercars and the innovative mechanics of how they work and influence the whole car world. It includes interviews from 3 of the top pros in the supercar industry, too. This is an awesome gift for gear heads and hot car lovers. > $29.95

> If you have a skincare lover on your hands, Tower28 is perfection. It’s a super cool + clean skincare and makeup brand [they’re the first to have a product endorsed by the National Eczema Association] with some really fun products in their lineup. I have gifted their ShineOn Lip Jelly and Lip Softies to several teens and they’re always a hit [for me, too]. I also love their MakeWaves Mascara and SunnyDays Tinted SFP. See LOTS more fun clean beauty ideas in The Gift Guide to Self Care for Tweens + Teens. > from $15

> The Console Chronicles is a tribute to 50+ years of console gaming and the shared history it has inspired. It presents the history from a unique perspective that any lover of gaming history would appreciate. There’s also A Handheld History that honors handheld consoles and the iconic games that go with them. > $40

> How stinking cute is this big Kawaii Sherpa Volleyball? It’s roughly the same size as an indoor volleyball, but is pure handmade squishable adorableness for your fan of the sport. You can even get one with a li’l graduation cap if your athlete is moving on. Because it’s handmade, the lead time may be a bit longer, so plan ahead. > $32

> Light up your teen’s room with Daybetter 50’ LED Strip Lights. You can change the colors and set a timer with a smartphone or included remote and can even synch them to music. > $19.99

> Based on the popular YouTube channel, Dope or Nope is a funny card game where players use the cards they’re dealt to create and pitch an invention to the ‘buyer’ who then decides who’s invention is the coolest. The cards have totally random things like toilet paper, tacos, bubble gum, boxing gloves and motorcycles on them, so you can see where this might go. So fun, especially for a crowd.. > $24

> It doesn’t get softer or more luxurious than a Barefoot Dreams Throw. It’s basically like snuggling with a fuzzy baby bunny. They’re lightweight, machine washable and come in colors and prints that would please just about anyone. You’re never too old for a blankie. > from $147

> Add another level of challenge to a classic with a Rubik’s Phantom. The cube appears all black, but has thermoohromic technology that temporarily reveals each square’s color with the warm touch of your hands. Good luck! > $32

> Pop Charts are high-quality, beautifully designed infographic posters covering just about any obscure passion you can imagine. Anything from Hockey Jerseys to Sneakers to Broadway Costumes to Video Game Controllers to Cats. Some, like the MLB Ballparks or NFL Stadiums are even scratch-off so you can keep track of how many you visit or Horror Movies you watch. > from $21.99

> Marvel by Design is a super in-depth look at the franchise’s distinct design process and iconic creative language. It features logos, fonts, color pallets and more throughout the 80+ year history. It’s an awesome gift for aspiring artists, designers, comic book lovers and serious fans of Marvel. > $69

> Poppy & Pout makes amazing super natural, nourishing, delicious, sustainable + super cool handmade lip balm and lip scrub [it’s my fav]. Pop one on top of a gift or grab a few so you can stash one in ALL the spots. They have a few Tints, too.  For more clean beauty, check out the Gift Guide to Self Care for Tweens + Teens. > from $9.95

> Set your skier up with a MountainFLOW Eco Wax Green Circle Kit so they can maintain their own gear. It comes with a wax iron, a scraper, a carry case and some of MountainFLOW’s unique plant-based biodegradable all-temp wax. The petroleum-free wax is better for the snowpack, so they’ll be doing both Mother Nature and their fellow skiers a solid. > $74.95

> Give your teen the moon and stars with a telescope to explore the night sky. Celestron has a wide variety of models + price ranges, including one designed for travel so you can bring it adventuring. We love staring at the moon with ours. > $54.95

> If you love a teen with patience and curiosity who loves to work with their hands, I’ve got a gift for you. ROKR 3-D Puzzles are challenging to put together and yield the coolest machines, like this Marble Parkour set. Some are less involved than others and there are lots of themes [cars, boats, trains, musical instruments…] to choose from. They’re a very cool way to unplug. > prices vary 

> Help relieve tension and tightness and foster muscle recovery with a Theragun Mini. It’s quiet and powerful and super portable for on-the-road games, matches or races. It comes in a few pretty colors. > from $149

> Do some serious multitasking with a 3-in-1 Mag-Safe Charging Station that’ll power up your iPhone, AppleWatch and AirPods all at once. It eliminates a whole tangle of cords, too, and comes in a few pretty colors. > $49

> Birdie is a personal alarm that unleashes a deafening 130 db sound and bright flashing strobe light when activated. It’s designed to be super cute, compact and lightweight so it can be easily stashed on a keychain, water bottle, belt loop or bag..> $29.95 / Use code AFLUTTER10 at checkout to save 10%

> Crafty teens can create their own ‘aesthetic’ room decor with a pretty Punch Needle Kit. It’s designed for beginners and comes with everything you need to complete the project. It’s such a nice analog way to chill. See the Gift Guide to Art Supplies for Kids + Teens for TONS more creative gift ideas. > from $29.99

> Gift unlimited access to millions of books with a Kindle Paperwhite. It’s waterproof and has adjustable warm light. It comes available with our without Kindle Unlimited loaded. There’s no greater gift than the whole library. > $139.99

> Caitlyn Minimalist has a TON of simple, pretty, totally on-trend jewelry pieces that are perfect for teens. This dainty Zodiac Necklace combines a little cosmic love, style and bling all in one and makes a really sweet and personalized gift. > $37

> My son LOVES mochi and we had so much fun with this Mochi Ice Cream Kit. It comes with everything you need [except your favorite ice cream] to make 4 whole batches of mochi balls. A fun analog activity + a super yummy treat; that’s a serious win to me. They also have a Churro Kit. Double yum. > $34.99

> What happens when a rocket scientist, an alternative energy expert and a New York Times bestselling cartoonist get together to create a game? Valence, that’s what. It’s a game where you build new molecules out of elements to earn points. There’s also Valence Plus, which includes additional elements, molecules and reactions to play with. > from $24.99

> If you have a golfer that cares about both performance and style, they’ll love a box of Vice Golf Balls, like this rad Drip Version. They’re the same high quality as standard Vice Pro Balls, but with a seriously awesome looking upgrade. The Ice Blue and Shade versions are also way cool. > $37.99

> Telestrations is SUPER fun to play in a group with friends or family. It’s kind of like a combination of classic telephone and Pictionary and it’s hilarious. We’ve had fun with this with a wide range of ages from 7-78. > $31.99

MORE IN… tweens + teens

gift guide: tailgaters + sports fans

NOT MUCH in life evokes the level of fevered passion, rabid loyalty and fierce dedication as sports. Families stop speaking because of them. Best friends get in fist fights over them. Couples get engaged in their stadiums. Newborn babies drive home from the hospital in tiny li’l fan gear to honor them. They unite and divide and inspire us like [almost] nothing else. And if you’re a die-hard sports fan in America, whether it’s for the NFL, MLB, NBA, NCAA, MLS, NHL or ALLLLL of the above, there is likely to be some tailgating that goes along with it, either in your tiny apartment, in the backyard, at the pitch or in the parking lot at the big game. It’s a unique ritual that combines passion for the game, food and tradition into one special kind of gathering.

TAILGATING is a unique kind of entertaining for sure and no matter where you celebrate, having the right tools for the job will make it all more fun. So if you love a dedicated tailgater or are lucky enough to be invited over by one, there are lots of things out there to honor that passion and they make great gifts. I’ve rounded up just a few elevated things that really stand out and will make YOU the real MVP of the game. I’ve also included a little section of awesome books for sports fans of all ages so they can geek out even in the off-season. And if football is where your passion lies, check out Gifts for Swifties and Football Fans for even more ideas. Sko Buffs! GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS. xo

Gifts for Tailgaters

~~ This is so cool. HitchFire is a hitch-mountable, super powerful propane grill that can go anywhere your vehicle can; tailgating, camping, skiing, the park... This beefy F-20 model has two burners for feeding the whole crew and the handy swingarm feature provides easy access to the car’s contents. There are a ton of cool accessories for it, too. My husband would LOVE this thing. ~~ from $499

~~ Take your tailgate to the next- next-level with Yeti's Custom Collection, which allows you to fully customize your drinkwear and COOLER with NFL, NHL, NCAA and MLB logos. ~~ from $20

~~ If you need a little extra surface for drinks, condiments, dessert, food prep or party favors, the Tire Table is a perfect solution. It mounts easily to your tire with zero tools and is nice and stable ‘even’ if the ground isn’t. It comes in two sizes depending on how much room you need. So clever. ~~ from $140

~~ If you’re lucky enough to get to go to the big game, you’ll need a Clear Stadium Bag for all of your essentials. This one is super cute, on-trend and comes in just about any color combo you’d want to show your support for your favorite team. Choose a simple coordinating canvas strap or a blingy sequin one. ~~ from $49

~~ Don’t feel like being your own pit master? You can order THE best of the best BBQ from around the country, delivered straight to your door from Goldbelly. There are tons of options, like a full brisket from Franklin Barbecue that you just heat, serve and take all the credit for. Sounds like a win-win to me. ~~ prices vary

~~ Serve your snacks in style with a set of Bamboozle Mixing Bowls. They can do double duty for prep and serving and come in a set of 5 useful sizes and in two pretty color ways. ~~ $59.99

~~ As if your Solo Stove weren’t awesome enough, they’ve now added a Cookout Kit that adapts your fire pit into a charcoal grill complete with a frame and cast-iron grill top. Super cool. They’ll also etch a custom design into the side of a new Solo Stove, so you can rep your team while you grill [like this]. That’s gifting MVP right there. ~~ $299

~~ Stay on-theme with a personalized bamboo Football Charcuterie Board. You can include any message or leave it blank. This would also be a fantastic gift for a foodie football fan or the host[ess] who’s always inviting you over for the big game. ~~ $20

~~ Every good party needs music or to be able to hear the game. Turtlebox Speakers are loud, crazy durable, portable and waterproof so you don’t have to worry about it when the sleet starts coming down at halftime. They come in a bunch of colors, too, one might even match your team. ~~ $399

~~ This Homesick Game Day Candle is meant to evoke the scents and feels of being at the big game; to transport you through memory to those super exciting days, which is a pretty awesome gift if you ask me. ~~ $38

~~ Crow Canyon Enamelware Trays are perfect for serving your favorite tailgating snacks or dragging a bunch of stuff outside. They’re durable enough to stand up to any rowdy crowd [and pretty, too] and come in several sizes and colors. They also have bowls, cups, plates and other beautiful things for serving. ~~ prices vary

~~ Nothing quite feeds a crowd like a good blue ribbon chili or stew recipe and you might as well make the cooking totally hands-off with a GreenLife Ceramic Slow Cooker. It’s free of PFAS, PFOA, cadmium and lead, so you can feel good about what you're serving your favorite crowd. And it comes in 8 pretty colors, so you can rep your team while it simmers, too. ~~ $59.99

~~ Whether you’re hosting or adding to the spread, Hydro Flask’s Outdoor Kitchen Collection is a game-changer. Their Serving Bowls will keep your salad cold and your taco meat hot for the duration and it’s so easy to transport them to and from with the tight sealed lids. I love mine. ~~ from $24.95

~~ Be the envy of the tailgate with the PARKIT Voyager. Not your average flimsy camp chair, this thing has a built-in, detachable cooler [seriously], the most versatile cup holder around and hands-free carry straps so you don’t have to put down your drink to drag it to the best spot. Plus it’s pretty. There’s also a cooler-less version if you’ve got that covered. ~~ from $170

~~ If chips + dip are on the menu, you might as well serve them in something GOREGOUS like this Handmade Chip and Dip. She has several glazes to choose from and one just might match your team’s colors. Or not, and that’s ok, you’ll be forgiven for going with stunning instead. ~~ $120

~~ Keep all of your condiments handy and in one place with a handmade Personalized BBQ Caddy. It comes in 3 different sizes and you choose what it says to honor your favorite pit master. ~~ from $65

~~ This is so cool. Tidbyt is a handsome, retro display that you can connect to 100+ apps to show real-time weather, sports stats, stock tickers, Spotify tracks and tons more. It can give you a ski report, quiz you about sports trivia or tell you when the next bus is coming, all without having to look constantly at your phone or laptop. So you can enjoy yourself and still get the info you want in real time. It comes in beech or walnut to match any decor and you can even personalize the top panel. Such a cool gift. ~~ $199

~~ Popcorn is always on the menu for my tailgaters and we rely on our Dash Hot Air Popper to do the job. It comes in 4 colors and makes a surprisingly large bowl of popcorn with one go. There’s also a little dish on top that melts the butter while the popcorn pops. ~~ $21.99 

~~ I love this Hand-Stamped Vintage Football Spoon for hosting or for the host[ess]. Each spoon is hand-stamped with your own message on a vintage tablespoon. It’s such a unique and special touch to any tailgate and a great gift for any football fan. ~~ $16.99

~~ In your yard or at the field, keep the party going with a team-repped handmade Cornhole Set in every NFL and MLB style. You even get to choose the colors of the 8 bags that come with it. ~~ $235

~~ Keep the game going even after dark with TossBrightz LED Cornhole Lights in a bunch of colors to match your set. ~~ from $24.99

~~ When the toppings are the best part, keep them super fresh with an Ice Cooled Condiment Server. Whether you’re home or at the field, just pop some ice in the bottom and keep your dressing from drooping before it’s time. ~~ $28.99

~~ Honor your hardworking host with a Personalized Apron to keep their fan gear clean while they grill, sauté, braise and boil your game-day grub. It’s made of sturdy cotton canvas and has several options for the types of pockets you like.  Plus the apron comes in 8 different colors with about a zillion thread color choices to personalize it in any way you want. Chef, yes, Chef. ~~ $34

~~ Chances are it’s going to get  chilly [or downright freezing] at some point while you’re tailgating and nothing takes that chill off like a Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket. They’re warm and cozy, water resistant, packable and machine washable and come in a zillion cool prints. ~~ $99

Books for Sports Fans of All Ages

~~ Remarkable Football Grounds highlights some of the world’s most memorable places to play the game from stunning to quirky. ~~ $34.99

~~ Sportopedia is a super fun, beautifully illustrated book that will introduce your little fans to all kinds of popular and lesser-known sports around the world. ~~ $24

~~ There is a ‘Legends Alphabet’ book for lots of major sports and some specific teams, too [plus Taylor Swift, Fashion, Hop Hop…]. It’s a fun way for any age to honor your favorite pastime. ~~$19.95 

~~ NBA 75 takes you on a journey through the history of the sport and the great players and moments that define it. ~~ $35

~~ Sports Illustrated’s The Story of Baseball in 100 Photographs documents the full history of America’s favorite pastime through beautiful images and storytelling. ~~ $26

~~ There are 115 Little People, BIG DREAMS books, including a bunch about favorite athletes [MJ, Pele, Billie Jean King, Simone Biles, Patrick Mahomes… you get the idea] like this one about Leo Messi. They’re awesomefor any age fan. ~~ $15.99

~~ NFL 100: A Century of Pro Football provides a beautiful visual history of America’s most watched game and includes a forward by Peyton Manning. ~~ $55

~~A History of Basketball in Fifteen Sneakers tells the story of this beloved game through the iconic sneakers that have defined each era. ~~ $35

~~ In The National Baseball Hall of Fame Collection, readers are treated to biographies, stats, peeks at rare memorabilia and photos of 175 members of this elite group of athletes. ~~ $40

~~ Learn about the history, rules, equipment and star players of 10 of the most popular sports in The Origins of Sports ~~ $17.95

~~ Fabric of the Game provides a unique peek for fans at how each NHL team got their name and logo ~~ $24.99

~~ The Stanley Cup chronicles the passion and history of hockey through the iconic photo archives of Sports Illustrated. ~~ $45

~~ Fans learn about the true GOATS of basketball throughout the history of the game in NBA Legends. ~~ $29.95

~~ Sports Illustrated’s The Story of Football in 100 Photographs traces the history of America’s most-watched sport through the images that have captured it through the years. ~~ $30

MORE IN… gift guides

gift guide: self care for tweens + teens

IT’S NEVER too early [or too late!] to adopt solid self care and hygiene rituals. It’s just SO important at every age + stage to spend a minute each day taking care of yourself, body + soul, whatever that may mean for you. And we can totally inspire our tweens and teens to get into the habit, too, with the ‘right’ tools for the job. Just about everyone, even the most rumpled of the bunch, can appreciate being spoiled once in a while with some solid pampering.

IF YOU have reluctant adopters of ‘extra’ personal hygiene, like face-washing, just start with something super simple [like Revy Skincare] that won’t overwhelm them with 23 steps. And If you already have a full diva on your hands, there are lots of options for taking that self-care love to the next level.

AND BECAUSE I’m super picky about the things I’ll slather on my own precious babes’ skin [and mine], the products I’m sharing with you are all squeaky clean [obvs make sure they’re right for your family]. There’s nothing grody in them, so count that as one less thing you need to worry about with your teen. You’re welcome.

SO HERE are some RAD ideas to get you started with your Self Care gifts. Pick one or two for a sweet present or stocking stuffer, or bundle a few into a dopp kit for a baller gift. And check out My Clean Beauty Favorites for more ideas. GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS. xo

Ursa Major

photo / Ursa Major

Ursa Major is a Vermont-based company that’s dedicated to super clean, effective products that don’t require a ton of steps. They make no-fuss fantastic, effective products for all genders and skin types, designed to get you clean and out the door so you can move on to bigger and better things. Which is why it’s such a fantastic choice for teens who are always on the go or are just not super psyched about ‘extra’ hygiene steps. But don’t let the ‘simplicity’ fool you - these nature-inspired products are expertly made with powerful, intentional ingredients, so your minimalist routine will be just as effective as any. It’s a fantastic gift for anyone you love who doesn’t want to spend all morning getting themselves ready for the day.

SELF CARE + GROOMING GIFTS for Teens

+ Tower28 is a super clean, super cool brand made specially for sensitive skin. They’re the first brand to have a product endorsed by the National Eczema Association. The Essentials Set is a fun way to try all of their best sellers or try one or two pieces. I have gifted their ShineOn Lip Jelly to a several teens and it’s always a hit. I personally LOVE their MakeWaves Mascara and SunnyDays SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen, too. + from $15

+ Nodpod Weighted Sleep Masks are super soft and block the light, but add the benefit of gentle pressure, too, ‘like a hug for your head.' ’They’re perfect for just taking a sec and for headaches. Plus, they’re unscented and come in a bunch of cute colors. They also make Nodpod Body, a wee weighted blanket, perfect for travel. + $34

+ My son loves this BYRD Texturizing Surfspray for styling his ‘wings’ and it smells yum. BYRD Hairdo Products are free of all major yuck, too, so you can feel good about that daily giant mist cloud in the bathroom. + $15.99

+ Whether you have a reluctant flosser or a full-on hygienist, Cocofloss has the best, cutest clean refillable floss in tons of fun flavors. Read more about why I love it here. + from $10

+ Skip the wasteful single-use cotton pads and rock these cute handmade Marley’s Monsters Reusable Facial Pads instead. They come with their own little mesh laundry bag, so you just pop them in the washing machine. + from $10

+ Washing your face is just more fun when you have a SUPER cool towel to dry off with. Geometry Luxe Hand Towels and Washcloth Sets are quick-drying, soft and won't get all stinky when they’re left balled up. They come in a zillion prints to strike anyone's fancy. They're awesome for travel or sweaty practices, too. Use any of my links for 15% off your Geometry order.+ from $16

+ Inspire both calming deep sleep AND some princess vibes on the side with this Kitsch Satin Sleep Set that includes a pillowcase, eye mask and scrunchie. + $36

+ Dry your hair while you carry on with your routine with Dock & Bay’s Turban Hair Towel. It’s a super absorbent turban made with 100% recycled materials and comes in like 40 colors. + $21.99

+ Smooth that unruly mane with the OG brush made for pain-free detangling. The Wet Original Detangler Brush comes in a zillion colors and prints. + $12.99

+ Whether you have a newbie or practiced shaver, Billie Razors are SUPER cute, award-winning and refillable to reduce waste. I love mine. Billie also has a line of clean beauty essentials like Shave Cream, Dry-Bye Body Lotion, Wax Kits and Sudsy Body Wash. + $35

+ Claw Clips are totally back and Anthropologie has a massive collection of sets in different sizes, shapes and colors. + from $18

+ Herbivore’s Cocoa Rose Body Polish is one of my favorites. It has a distinct, but not overpowering scent and leaves your skin super smooth. + $40

+ If you have to drag around and use hand sani all day, you might as well make it super cute. Touchland’s Hydrating Hand Sanitizer is adorable and comes in 3 fruity scents, so you don’t smell like the doctor’s office. + $30 for 3

+ Keep all essentials tidy for travel or home in this rad, durable nylon Topo Designs Dopp Kit. The triangular shape keeps it upright, plus it just looks cool. See a bunch more rad dopp kits here. + $34

+ Beauty Blender makeup sponges are super popular. They’re designed to absorb minimal amounts of product so it gets on your face instead of inside the sponge. And they come in like a million pretty colors. + $20

+ Ella + Mila polish is '17 free,’ meaning it doesn't contain the top 17 most toxic ingredients found in most polishes. Plus it's vegan and cruelty-free [and certified by PETA] AND it comes in a zillion awesome colors. Choose one or two or go for a big set to really inspire. + from $7

+ I love this deck of Morning Mantras designed just for teens. They have messages of empowerment, positivity, confidence, strength and love; things like ‘I hear the drama. I see the drama. I fire up my jetpack and blast away from the drama.’ A little daily reminder that you’re empowered is about the sweetest gift and the illustrations are just super adorable. + $11.95

+ This Kosas Wet LIp Oil Gloss hydrates, soothes + softens with a touch of color so you can glow on the outside like you do on the inside. Love this stuff. + $22

+ Whether your goal is to keep things SUPER simple or save the planet, HiBar Solid Shampoo + Conditioner has your back. It’s plastic-free, gross chemical-free and totally fuss-free. And they make a version that’s fragrance-free, too. + $20

+ When your tween or teen starts noticing some fuzz and is ready to start their life-long shaving journey, the Philips OneBlade Shaving System is perfect. It’s totally waterproof, so can be used wet or dry, even in the shower. It’s fully rechargeable and has a special anti-fiction blade to keep them safe while they perfect their technique. + $30

+ Talking Out of Turn has the cutest Scrunchie Sets in Metallic, Velvet, Animal Print and more for wrangling wild tresses. + $12

+ My guys love Boulder-based Alpine Provisions’ grooming products. They’re organic, cruelty-free, vegan, plastic-free and sustainably produced. And the fantastic scents are bright and fresh and just a touch masculine in the best natural way. + from $8

+ Whether you’re crampy, sore or just want a warm hug, Heatable Huggable Heating Pads are cute and effective. Just pop it in the microwave and set it where it hurts. They come in lots of styles from avocados to llamas to pizza, too. Now that feels better. + from $17

+ Miles Deodorant is formulated just for teens in 3 scents inspired by nature; Fresh, Clean and Rugged. They all sound really nice and it has no yucky stuff in it. + $9.99

+ Keep the water from dripping down your sleeves and all over your hair while you do your ‘routine’ with a super soft and cute Bubble Spa Headband and Wristbands. They come as a set in a zillion colors. + $9.99

+ Friends LOVE these Axiology Balmies that go on lids and lips. They’re super nourishing and smooth, come in a bunch of colors and in zero-waste packaging. Total win. + $26

+ There’s no better way to take care of yourself than by keeping safe. Birdie is a personal alarm that unleashes a deafening 130 db sound and bright flashing strobe light when activated. It’s designed to be cute, compact and lightweight so it can be easily stashed on a keychain, water bottle, belt loop or bag. + $29.95 Use code AFLUTTER10 at checkout to save 10%.

+ Poppy & Pout Lip Balm is awesome. It’s super hydrating and comes in 10 subtle, natural scents. it’s made in Idaho with 5 ingredients and poured into a cardboard tube that’s totally recyclable. I’ve gifted a bunch of these beauties and everyone loves them. + $9.95

+ This The North Face Base Camp Voyager Toiletry Kit is the perfect size for a teen who ‘needs’ some extras, but not the whole medicine cabinet. It’s durable and has several compartments for organization, comes in two cool colors and looks rad, so a total winner. + $40

+ This One Love Organics Cleansing Sponge is gentle, but exfoliating and will last up to 3 months if used properly. Plus it’s just cute. + $10

+ I’m calling for a mic drop on this Bowie-inspired Lightning Eye Mask. I mean, you can’t feel anything but super cool in this thing. This Etsy shop has some other amazing styles, too. Like this Game Control one. + $21

+ Dabble & Dollop makes super natural, adorable bath stuff for kids, but there’s nothing babyish about their Tropicals Bath Bombs. They’re super fresh and yummy smelling, super moisturizing and they don’t have any weird chemicals or dyes in them. + $28

+ Indie Lee is a super clean beauty brand with several effective options for targeting your skin’s particular needs. Plus it’s just pretty. They also have lovely body wash that would make your teen feel super special. + from $10

+ These ESW Beauty Raw Juice Cleanse Masks will make your teen feel super pampered and fresh, plus there’s no yucky stuff and they're totally compostable.  There are a bunch of yummy ‘flavors’ to choose from. + from $4.99

+ I have it on good authority from a bonafide cool teen that this Le Mini Macaron DIY Gel Manicure Kit is awesome. It has everything you need to do your own pretty and lasting gel mani at home. It’s a perfect sleepover companion, too. + $38

+ Routnines don’t get much easier than Revy Skincare’s. They only make 3 super clean products, which is likely all your teen needs. Plus Revy donates a % of all sales to the Children’s Tumor Foundation in honor of their son. Read about their beautiful mission + philosophy here. My son uses this whole line and it’s great. + from $29

+ Lily Lolo is a British company that makes squeaky clean mineral cosmetics and this Lip Gloss that comes in 5 really delicate, pretty colors. It’s perfect for just about any age. It’s filled with Vitamin E and organic jojoba to keep lips happy. I love it because it doesn’t have a taste and isn’t sticky. + $16

+ Keep all of that awesome self care tamed at home or on-the-go with endlessly useful and reusable Stasher Bags. They have a size for almost every need and just launched a Quart size that’s TSA-friendly for travel. I use mine EVERY day for something. + from $7.99

+ A super soft Plush Hot Water Bottle can be really soothing when you’re feeling crampy or blah. The cozy cover comes in 8 different colors. + $12

+ Help relieve tension and tightness and foster muscle recovery with a Theragun Mini. It’s quiet and powerful and super portable for on-the-road games, matches or races. It comes in 3 colors, but when you buy any (Product) RED product, 2% of proceeds are donated to HIV/AIDS programs around the world. Win-Win. + $199

+ Pretty soft curls while you sleep? Yes, please. Robe Curls Heatless Curling Headbands are comfortable, easy to use and leave you with bouncy tresses in the morning. + $27.99

+ Three Ships is another awesome super clean line for teens [or anyone]. They have a range of products for different skin types, including blemish-prone. It can be unfussy if necessary or super luxe for skincare mavens and it’s relatively affordable. + from $15

+ Herbivore relies on the power of nature for their line of skin and body care. These Calm Soaking Salts will help take things down a few notches and bring a sense of peace, which is a fantastic gift for anyone. + $18

+ Treat those inevitable pesky blemishes magically with these small but powerful little Mighty Patches. Just pop one on before bed and voila! Clear skin in the morning. + $12.99

+ My older son and I both use Native Deodorant and love it. The scents are all lovely and subtle. There’s no aluminum, talc, phalates or parabens and it works great [I think…nobody’s told me otherwise]. + $15

+ If you have a serious skincare maven on your hands, they’re probably asking you for one of these for their treasures. The Cooluli Mini Fridge is super compact, cute and can be powered in 3 different ways for max convenience. + $69.99

+ I love these RMS Beauty Lip2cheek beauties. Just like their name suggests, you can swipe them on lips or cheeks, so you kinda get two for one and they leave you with a pretty glow. + $36

+ If you have a tween who’s not quite ready for full-on makeup, check out Yawn. They make the cutest little line of skincare, nail polish and ‘makeup’ that’s super duper clean and doesn’t show much. it’s adorable. + from $18

MORE IN… clean beauty + wellness

gift guide: art supplies for kids + teens

JUST ABOUT everyone who sets foot in our house has something to say about my boys’ art table. I mean, it’s impossible to miss since it’s right smack in the middle of our open concept, but it’s also kind of inspiring. Not in a stylish, beautifully staged Instagram-ready kind of way, UM, NO. It’s much more ‘lived in’ than that and is usually a straight hot mess, littered with about a zillion drawings, paper scraps, hot glue balls, broken popsicle sticks and 113 iterations of someone’s origami project. It’s not exactly pretty. BUT, underneath that disheveled heap of creative madness [genius?], you’ll find a baller collection of markers, pens, pencils, pastels, how-to-draw books and just about every other RAD art supply a kid [or adult] could hope for. My little guy especially has a truly magical imagination and is super into drawing and creating and I am a GIGANTIC sucker for art supplies. It’s a weakness for sure, but one I don’t mind indulging because I can’t think of a greater gift to my boys than to foster their creativity and wonder. And I selfishly just love to see what they come up with.

THE RANGE of amazing art supplies that exist in the world is seriously ENDLESS, but I wanted to share with you some of our very favorites, plus a few other really clever gifts that might speak to the wondrous creatives that you love. Gifts that spark creativity and imagination are not only super fun, but they also might inspire a lifelong passion, which is probably the greatest gift you could give a kiddo [or anyone else for that matter]. So put a few of these things together for a truly fantastic gift OR grab some little bits for travel, party favors or stocking stuffers. Maybe you’ll even get some amazing free artwork out of it. Also check out Kids Books About Art for resources for furthering your creative kiddo’s curiosity and inspiration, there are so many incredible resources. GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS. xo

+ TAKE A HAPPY scroll through all of the supplies, or JUMP to these categories…
Paints + Markers + Pencils / Open-Ended Art Supplies / Craft + Supply Kits / Art Games + Activities / How-to-Draw Books / Art Supply Storage

Ooly

photo / Ooly

OOLY MAKES THE most imaginative, inspiring and straight fun art and school supplies for artists of ALL ages. Truly. Every magical thing that this woman-owned business puts out there is so colorful and bright and creative and the sheer variety of amazing products they offer will make your head spin [in the best cartwheelie way]. It’s also SUPER giftable; it’s just born to bring big smiles before you even get to what’s inside the package.

WE HAVE LOVED so so many Ooly products over the years that I couldn’t possibly list them all here. But I’ll tell you that the Silver Linings Outline Markers are on the list for my own boys, they just look SO fun and right up my older guy’s alley. I have gifted several sets of Rainbow Sparkle Watercolor Gel Crayons always with rave reviews. I know you’ll have SO much fun exploring all of Ooly’s inspiring supplies, but if it feels a bit overwhelming, try starting with the Bonus Boxes, which are all ready to make absolutely awesome gifts. They also have some amazing little bits that would make fantastic stocking stuffers or party favors.

Paints + Markers + Pencils

+ Poscas are some of my boys’ hands-down favorites. They’re water-based pigment ink that’s waterproof, lightfast and non-toxic. They write on anything from rocks to sneakers to water bottles and come in a ton of awesome varieties. +

+ These Prismacolor Scholar Colored Pencils are made for beginners and have strong cores to reduce breakage. +

+ I’m gonna go out on a limb here and say we’ve had just about every type of Sharpie Marker they make. My boys love them, pure and simple. +

+ When the tiniest details matter, Sakura Pigma Micron Fineliner Pens are perfect. They come in sets of all black with different size tips or in color. +

+ Paper Mate Flair Felt Tips Pens are my absolute favorite for list-making and writing cards. They’re smooth and clean and I swear they make my handwriting better. I’ve gifted them to several teachers for writing those smily faces on all the kids’ papers. +

+ Oh I love a Gelly Roll. These are the best gel pens and they come in neon, sparkly and metallic and just regular awesome. These are a great gift for t[w]eens who like to add a bit of bling to their notes or planners. +

+ My boys LOVED ‘painting’ with Do.A.Dot Art Markers when they were little and I loved them because they’re not super messy. They’re like a marker and paint in one and they’re so fun to use. And they’re made in the USA. +

+ You can’t beat the reliability of Crayola Washable Project Paint and we’ve loved this Neon version. It’s not completely dayglow, but the colors are vibrant and fun. +

+ Learn a new art form with Prismacolor's Hand Lettering Beginner Set. It includes all the tools you need to get started with this popular craft. +

+ Is there anything more fun than finger painting?! You might as well stick with Crayola Finger Paint for the most reliable washability for that project. +

+ This Prismacolor Manga Colored Pencil Set has specially designed colors specifically for manga and comics. Pair them with a copy of How to Draw Manga for a great gift. +

+ A friend gave my 9-year-old these KingArt Watercolor Brush Markers for his birthday and he loves them so much we’ve now gifted them to several other kiddos. They’re vibrant and easy to use. +

+ These Bianyo Alcohol-Based Dual-Tip Markers are awesome. They’re non-toxic, low odor and double-tipped, so there’s a broad chisel on one side and fine point on the other. The color coverage is fantastic. +

+ Bianyo also makes this set of 12 Skin Tone Alcohol Markers for perfecting your portraits. +

+ My son loves these Tombow Dual Brush Pens The set comes with a colorless blender pen that creates a watercolor effect. And they’re dual-tip, so a brush on one side and fine point on the other. +

+ Pastels provide such vibrant, smooth color and are so fun to use. Sakura's Junior Artist Sets are made for kids and come in several different sizes, they even have a ‘chubby’ version for smaller hands. They’re also allergen-free. +

+ Crayola Super Tips are still in full rotation at our house. There are so many colors and, of course, you get that reliable washability that’s everything, especially for littles. +

+ The Crayola Colors of the World series of markers, pencils and crayons give kids an inclusive range of skin tones to work with. +

+ Get all the beauty of painting with none [or less] of the mess. Perfect for little littles. Ooly Chunkies are super smooth, bright and portable and they come in such a fun variety of vibrant colors, neons and metallics. +

+ Supply your serious sketchers with the ‘right’ tools for the job. This Faber-Castell Graphite Set comes with break-resistant pencils in 6 degrees of hardness for nuanced drawings. +

+ Smencils Colored Pencils are just fun. They’re scented colored pencils made out of recycled newspaper. They all have cute tops with different themes and they have graphite sets, too. They’d make a super cute party favor. +

+ You’ve gotta love the old school Mr. Sketch Scented Markers. They smell just like you remember and they’re bright and chunky and just plain fun. +

Open-Ended Art Supplies

+ Elmer's has THE coolest collection of glues for slime-making and all kinds of other creative projects. Check out the Glow in the Dark, Glitter and Color-Changing Glues. Very cool. +

+ Modeling clay is awesome for true open-ended creativity. This Faber-Castell World Colors Modeling Clay 15-color set includes inclusive skin tones so you can make a whole sweet group of friends. +

+ Googly Eyes are an essential part of any kiddo's art supply stash and this set comes with a bunch of different colors and sizes for endless fun. They're self-adhesive, too. + 

+ My boys have created everything from cabins to skateboard jumps to funny little dudes with simple popsicle sticks and I love these Rainbow Popsicle Sticks for a little extra fun. + 

+ Stickers are such a fun and versatile addition to your supplies and Fashion Angels 1000+ Sticker Books are awesome. They come in about 1000 different themes to delight any little artist. + 

+ I went through a serious Mod Podge phase as a young adult and made some really cool collages on all types of surfaces. It's really fun to work with and a great option for older kids + adults. + 

+ Washi Masking Tape is so fun to work with at every age and is an awesome little gift or stocking stuffer. My boys used to make 'drawings' with it. + 

+ Plain, Unfinished Wooden Peg Dolls invite so much open-ended creativity. My little LOVES them. This is a huge set with different size dolls to make a diverse range of characters. +

+ You can never go wrong with Pom Poms and I love the variety in this set. +

+ My little has made some truly creative things with Crayola Air-Dry Clay and you can paint your creations, too. + 

+ Craft Scissors in different patterns are a super fun addition to your projects + 

+ I love the endless possibility that exists with these People Popsicle Sticks, a super open-ended and fun option + 

Craft + supply kits

+ Klutz has an ENORMOUS variety of very cool and adorable craft kits for kids of all ages and almost any interest. Their kits are usually super thoughtful and easy to follow. You sort of can’t go wrong, like with this Klutz Sew Mini Animals Kit. +

+ Craft-Tastic makes really colorful, inspiring craft kits for any age artist. They have some really fantastic options for harder-to-shop-for t[w]eens, like this empowering 'My Very Own Wall Collage’ kit. +

+ Woolbuddy Needle Felting Kits come with everything beginners need to learn this sweet skill and there are lots of fun animal themes to choose from. +

+ Faber-Castell has some very cool kits and supplies for a wide range of ages, like this Coloring with Clay set. +

+ Bright Stripes Paint by Numbers Kits provide a creative project and framable artwork in one and come in several themes to appeal to lots of kids. +

+ Woobles are ADORABLE crochet kits for all levels. They have a zillion super cute ones to choose from, including some really epic collaborations. +

+ This Kid Made Modern Arts and Crafts Library is completely overflowing with all the supplies you need for TONS of open-ended creativity. +

+ Discover the wonder of the photographic process with a Cyanotype Kit, complete with everything you need to make art with the sun. +

+ Creativity For Kids has a bunch of fun kits to choose from, many that include a science or nature component. +

+ Pott'd Home Pottery Kits come with literally everything you need to make cool air-dry clay projects at home. It's perfect for tweens + teens or adults who want to unwind with creativity. +

+ We love Hey Clay. Each set comes with air dry clay and access to an app that teaches you how to make the most adorable creatures. My little has done just about every set and they’re all clever and easy to follow. +

+ STMT [Simple Trendy Modern Touch] has some really interesting kits with things like jewelry, room decor, candles and bath bombs. They're a great choice for tweens and teens. +

+ The Love of Colours on Etsy has stunning beginner Natural Dye Kits that are perfect for crafty teens. There’s a Natural Dye version that includes various botanicals and an Indigo Kit. They also have gorgeous Block Printing and Clay Resist Kits. +

+ I’m a little obsessed with this Heishi Beads Case myself. Make It Real has a very BRIGHT and fun assortment of kits for all ages and stages, especially jewelry-lovers. +

+ This Spinny Punch Needle Kit comes with everything you need to learn a fun new skill and create some super sunny coasters. + 

+ Up their game at home or on-the-go with a professional level, super complete Caliart Drawing Kit that has everything you need to experiment or create beautiful art. +

Art Games + Activities

+ Omy Giant Coloring Posters are 40x28” of fun. There are a TON of different themes to appeal to just about anyone of any age and the illustrations are awesome. +

+ Open This Box and Make Some Art provides 40 activities to get your creative juices flowing and have fun, too. + 

+ The Createures Drawing Deck can be used as a fun cooperative game or as a solo drawing exercise and it’s super clever. Flip 5 prompt cards and let your imagination wander, either on your own or in a round-robin with friends + family. It’s funny and creative and provides endless possibilities. +

+ Part brain game, part art history lesson, Sleuth & Solve Art is a super fun activity for lots of ages. You’ll learn about specific artists while also trying to solve a riddle. +

+ Doodle Heist combines drawing with code-cracking for a unique and fun family game +

+ Graffiti Alphabets: Street Fonts from Around the World is more inspiration than how-to, but it’s a really awesome resource for older kids who are interested in street art and might like to try designing their own tag. +

+ Race to draw 10 things from a single category in one minute in Six Second Scribbles. It's fast-paced and super fun for all ages and abilities. + 

+ Art Dice provide endless creative inspiration for teens and adults of all skill levels by prompting artists in a hundred different ways. They also have Writing Dice for creative writing prompts. +

+ Picablo is a shape-based drawing game that can be played competitively or cooperatively. No drawing skills required for this one, just a willingness for silly fun. + 

+ In This Book Will Make You an Artist, you’ll learn about 25 groundbreaking artists from around the world and then try their unique techniques. +

how-To-Draw Books

+ We love ALL of Angela Nguyen’s How to Draw Cute... books. They really are just super CUTE and have easy-to-follow instructions for just about any age. My boys especially love ‘Food’ and ‘Beasts.’ +

+ Oh Ed Emberley. We just love you. This classic Great Thumbprint Drawing Book helps you learn to draw all kinds of cute stuff with just your own thumbprint and a few strokes. My little loves it. Make sure your artist has an inkpad to use with it. We love all of Ed Emberley’s Drawing Books. +

+ How to Draw Fantasy Art & RPG Maps is such a cool book for the gamers you love. It has step-by-step instructions for creating different types of elaborate maps + worlds. +

+ Ralph Masiello has a whole series of Drawing Books that span a wide variety of popular interests from Robots to Oceans to Fairies to Ancient Egypt. He shows you step-by-step instructions to draw some really neat stuff. He also has a few versions in Spanish. +

+ Fans of Dav Pilkey and Dog Man will love learning how to draw the silly book characters with this Dog Man Guide to Creating Comics in 3D. +

+ Rachel Goldstein has a really giant selection of drawing books for older kids, like Drawing Emojis and How to Draw Word Cartoons. There are 19 books in her series and they all look like fun. +

+ These Young Artist Series drawing books are fantastic for slightly older kids who can follow detailed directions. There are tons of themes to choose from. +

+ Star Wars Doodles is a book of prompts that ask kids to finish the drawing, like ‘What did Yoda lift out of the swamp with the Force?’ It’s a fantastic imagination spark and awesome for any Star Wars + art lover. +

+ What to Doodle? Dinosaurs! is a book of prompts that asks artists to fill in the missing part of the drawing. It’s super clever and would be a hit with any dino lover who already loves to draw their faves. There are a TON of other Doodle Books in every theme under the sun. +

+ How to Draw Unicorns, Mermaids and Other Magical Friends uses a grid method to teach you how to draw, focusing on one square at a time. +

+ If your more experienced artist wants to learn to draw comics, you might as well go straight to the source. In this classic 1984 edition of How to Draw Comics the Marvel Way, artists learn to draw legit comics straight from the OG, Stan Lee. +

+ Alli Koch has a variety of really interesting drawing books, like this How to Draw All The Things or Modern Flowers, for both kids and adults. The subjects will interest kids + teens of all ages and abilities. +

+ We love Heegyum Kim’s ‘Draw 62…’ Books. Her style is less kawaii and more goofy and it’s awesome. There are several fun themes to choose from. My son especially loves the Magical Creatures. +

+ Learn How to draw Manga: Basics and Beyond from actual legit professional manga artists. You’ll learn to draw heads, faces, bodies and poses. +

+ Adventures in Cartooning is a funny book that teaches you how to create cartoons by reading a cartoon. There are several follow-ups, including Characters in Action and Christmas Special. +

+ Drawing Dragons is a stunning book to inspire more experienced artists. The drawings are really detailed and beautiful. +

+ The How to Draw Book for Kids has a huge variety of stuff to draw that will interest just about any kiddo. The steps are easy to follow. +

+ Tap into and strengthen the right side [creative side] of your brain by learning How to Draw Upside Down.Easy-to-follow instructions make it fun to shift perspective and try something new. There’s also a Christmas edition. +

+ Usborne ‘Step-By-Step’ Drawing Books teach you how to make simple line drawings in just a few easy steps. There’s also space in the book to practice, so it’s great for travel. There are several themes to choose from. +

+ How to Draw Anime Faces is the first in a 4-part series of books about how to draw anime that’s designed for all audiences, so no buxom broads in this series. +

Art Supply Storage

+ These Blue Ginko Caddies are pretty and come in a several sizes and colors. They’re perfect for storing markers, pencils, scissors and glue on an art table or desk. +

+ ArtBin has a huge range of configurations, including the classic ArtBin Tray Box. +

+ I love this Iris Craft Cabinet Organizer for keeping wee little bits together and easy to find. There are several different configurations you can put together. +

+ ZIPIT has THE cutest collection of pencil cases, boxes and pouches, including this Monster Pencil Pouch in a zillion cute colors. +

+ Keep your pens + pencils close at hand with the Clear Pen Organizer. It also has a little drawer for keeping other loose stuff together. +

+ Keep your pencils organized and easy to spot at home or on-the-go with a handy Pencil Wrap. +

+ We have something like this 3-Tier Rolling Cart to store our art supplies. We use glass jelly jars to keep markers, pencils, glue sticks, etc together and it’s awesome. I love the cups hanging off of this one for extra storage. +

+ If you have the space for this 10-Drawer Rolling Cart, you can really geek out organizing your supplies and creating a system so you can always find what you need [and makes it super easy to clean up]. It comes in a bunch of fun colors, too. +

+ This CityLife Storage Box looks awesome for specific projects or types of supplies, like coloring books + crayons or clay + sculpting tools. It keeps everything you need in one place. +

+ This Rotating Pen Holder has 5 different compartments for keeping things straight and spins fully around for easy access. It comes in a a ton of pretty colors, too. +

+ With removable, non-slip cups and fun bright colors, this Gamenote Rotating Art Supply Organizer is perfect for littles. The bottoms of the cups have rubber tabs to keep them from scratching your table, which is awesome. +

MORE IN… little kids + big kids

gift guide : baking stuff for kids + teens

bake me a cake as fast as you can

MY BOYS used to spend hours making me ‘special treats’ out of playdough, sand, mud, grass, bath water, pine needles and any other nondescript material they could find. I think all kids do, it seems to be a built-in instinct to tinker with ingredients, mixing and smoothing and stirring and then popping it all in the ‘oven.’ So it’s no surprise that as kids get old enough to mess around with legit ingredients, this love for baking and cooking can develop into a real passion. From edible slime to doggie cookies to super elaborate cakes and pies, there’s just something so satisfying about making super yummy creations to share with friends and family. It’s such a FUN mix of science, art, math and SUGAR that keeps kids engaged and coming back for more. Plus, it’s a fantastic activity to do with buddies or loved ones.

WE LOVE several kids of varying ages who LOVE to bake and the gift options for these aspiring pastry chefs is kind of endless and so fun. AND you get to support an emerging passion. PLUS they might make you something delicious with their shiny new gadgets. Bonus. There are a few tools of the trade that every baker just ‘needs’ and lucky for us, there are SO many adorable ones to choose from. There are also awesome Cookbooks for Kids + Teens, so make sure to scroll all the way through [or click to jump] to check out a few.

Brands I love: Hedley & Bennett

photo / Hedley & Bennett

THE FIRST ‘tool’ that any legit baker or chef needs is a good apron. I mean, you don’t want to mess up your favorite outfit with blobs of gooey chocolate or melted butter. And if you’re talking seriously about aprons, you’re probs seriously talking about Hedley & Bennett. H&B is THE gold standard in aprons for both industry and home chefs. Known for their attention to detail and high quality craftsmanship, they’ve taken the same principles and scaled them down for little sous chefs, so the kids can have pro kitchen cred, too. They also have identical adult versions in some prints, so you can mix and match your little kitchen helpers. Order up!

baking gifts for kids + Teens

+ Great Jones’ Bakeware is more than a SUPER pretty face. It’s scratch-resistant, dishwasher-friendly, PFOA-free and designed to release your goods with ease. They make bright, fun Cake Pans, Loaf Pans, Pie Dishes, Muffin Pans and more all in fabulous colors that would appeal to stylish tweens, teens and adults. I love mine. + from $30

+ The Kids Set from Material Kitchen is just the perfect gift. It includes a sweet mini version of The Air Whisk and The Spatula, plus a super cute Cook Deck [a kids’ recipe card game]. The tools come in two colors and sport the same high quality and style as their biggie cousins. + 45

+ Combine two things they love with a set of Custom Oven Mitts featuring their fuzzy BFF [or their real one, it can be a photo of anything]. So cute! + from $21

+ Every legit baker needs a Chef Hat, right?! This one is adjustable, machine washable and just super cute. Your little chef will look and feel like a pro. + $9.95

+ Make it personal with an Alphabet Cookie Cutters set of letter and numbers to customize their sweets. + $30

+ Every baker needs a good set of oven mitts and Laura Michelle on Etsy makes adorable ones that are handmade, totally functional and sized for kiddos. She has some other super cute stuff, too, and some of it can even be personalized. Such a sweet gift. + $16.99

+ GIR’s Silicone Baking Cups were designed in conjunction with a professional pastry chef, so you know they ‘got it right.’ They’re reusable, easy to clean, dishwasher safe and have a fill line for even sized muffins or cupcakes. The set of 12 comes in 2 really pretty color ways. + $16

+ Supernatural makes a super fun line of sprinkles, sanding sugars, melting morsels and other bright, cute baking treats that are totally DYE-FREE, vegan and made in the USA. They have such a clever variety of products, you def won’t miss the junky stuff. + from $7.99

+ If your baker is also a Swiftie, they’ll love this In My Baking Era Tee. It comes in a bunch of colors and sizes from toddler to adult. So cute. + from $15

+ Give your little bakers a worthy way to display their hard work with a pretty Bamboo Cake Stand. It’s super cute, sustainable, reusable and comes in 3 different sizes. They’ll feel so special. + from $32

+ More inspiration than tool, this adorable Palm Pals Claire Donut is too cute to leave out and could be an awesome sous chef for your little baker. It’s sooo soft and sweet. + $9

+ Make perfect-sized cookies every time with a stainless Oxo Cookie Scoop. You can also use it for ice cream, sorbet or to nibble the cookie dough right out of the bowl. + $16.95

+ Your little bakers can whip up a batch of their favorite poochie’s favorite treats with this Nordic Ware Dog Treat Pan.It has space for 16 adorable bone-shaped cookies at a time. WOOF. + $23

+ Honor your bakers in a different way with these adorbs Birthday Cupcake Earrings. Lilliput hand-makes the cutest little studs in New Orleans and they have a fun collection of Food + Drink themed pairs. + $12

+ This pretty Joseph Joseph Nesting Bowl Set has all the stuff in a compact little package. It comes with 3 mixing bowls, a sieve and 4 measuring cups. The non-slip bases and easy-carry handles will help avoid accidents. They have a coordinating Measuring Cups + Spoons Set, too. + $49.99

+ Baketivity makes some fun cooking sets, including this Hot Pretzel Kit. It comes with all of the dry ingredients you need, pre-measured and ready to roll. The kits are great for a rainy day or to introduce a new technique. + $36.99

+ Fancy Sprinkles has a range of really fun Silicone Baking Molds to make super clever desserts, along with some super inspiring ideas on how to use them. Oh, and AH-MAZING Sprinkle Blends, too. + from $12

+ Sharing your homemade treats with friends is the most fun part and Personalized Baking Stickers will have your final product looking super professional. There are lots of designs to choose from and they’re all adorable. + from $10

+ Meri Meri makes THE cutest party + baking accessories in a broad range of themes. They have Cupcake Kits, Cookie Cutters, Cake Toppers, Candles and more to create super adorable treats for birthdays or regular old Tuesdays. + from $4.50

+ If your special person is still dipping their toes in the water, try this Klutz Magical Baking Kit. It has everything they need, including 25 recipes, to get them started. + $21.99

+ Flour Shop founder, Amirah Kassem, has built a whole big magical rainbow and sprinkles empire from her iconic Explosion Cake and it’s SO fun and inspiring. Her collaboration with Williams Sonoma is just as sunny and fun as the cakes she bakes and has sooo many adorable gifts for any lover of sprinkles and joy. + from $7.95

+ Dash makes a whole huge line of super cute machines to make Mini Donuts and Mini Waffles in a bazillion adorable shapes. They’re priced perfectly for gifting. + from $14.99

+ Swiss brand Kuhn Rikon makes a super cute ‘Kinderkitchen Kids’ line of kids cooking tools like this adorable Pig Mixing Bowl. It has wide feet and a non-slip base to keep it from tipping and handles for easy carrying. Super sweet. + $16

+ When the baking is done, wrap up your goodies in crazy cute Bakery Boxes and gift them to your friends. CherCake on Etsy has a massive collection of super colorful, unique and FUN bakery boxes to glam up your baked goods. + from $2.99

+ Handstand Kitchen makes a bunch of really cute baking sets for kids of all ages, including some adorable themes that aren’t all about rainbows and unicorns [they have those too!]. + from $10.99

+ Your little baker will feel super special with a Custom Cookie Stamp with their name, their ‘bakery’ or a sweet phrase. There are 3 different fonts to choose from to match their style. + $8.99

+ Measuring liquids is part of the process and Oxo’s Beaker Set makes it both accurate and fun. They come in a set of 7 pieces from 1 tsp through 1 cup and are super stable and easy to read. Plus they nest to make them easy to store. + $22.95

+ It’s easy to see why GIR’s Baking Mats are so popular. I mean, they’re cute as pie, made with pharmaceutical grade silicone, so no gross BPA or BPS in your cookies. And there are lots of fab colors to choose from, including these Sprinkles. They also have a whole collection of Mini Tools sized perfectly for smaller hands [or big hands with smaller jobs]. + from $8.95

+ If you love a full-on cake artist [or aspiring one], this 55-piece Wilton Cake Decorating Set will give them all the piping tips they need to make next-level creations. + $35.99

+ This Metallic Edible Art Paint is next level and will make your creations super wowie. There are 24 colors to choose from and it won’t rub off most edible surfaces. Art project + baking = huge creativity. + $7.80

+ If you have a little baker that wants to keep cooking even after the kitchen is closed, get them their own Custom Wooden Cookie and Mixer Set. It’s all made with natural wood and non-toxic paint, so there’s no yucky stuff in the ‘cookies’ and comes complete with your li’l baker’s name. + from $24

+ If you love a massive Star Wars fan like I do, this Williams Sonoma Cakelet Pan is the cutest. I used it for my son’s birthday treats last year and it was a huge hit. + $39.95

Baking Cookbooks for Kids + Teens

+ Milk Bar founder Christina Tosi’s Kids Only cookbook is a treasure trove of creative and over-the-top fun recipes for everything from Fluffernutter Cookie Sandwiches to Corn Dog Waffles to Popcorn Shakes. + $22.99

+ The Ultimate Kids’ Baking Book is beautifully photographed, instructive and uniquely put together with sections that call ou specific holidays and special occasions, including things like Gotcha Day, Grandparent’s Day and Snow Days. Plus the recipes sound so yummy, of course. + $22.99

+ I have it on good authority that this American Girl Baking book is one of the best cookbooks for young bakers. They also have a Holiday edition or a My First Baking Collection that would be fantastic gifts. + $19.95

+ Kawaii means ‘cute’ in Japanese and YouTube sensation, Rachel Fong, will teach you how to make 75 super adorbs treats in her Kawaii Sweet World Cookbook. + $24.99

+ Baking Class has won a bunch of awards for its awesomeness. There are 50 easy-to-follow sweet and savory recipes for more experienced bakers. Check out Cooking Class, too. + $18.95

+ Celebrity chef, Duff Goldman, host of ‘Ace of Cakes’ and ‘Kids Baking Championship,’ teaches kids how to make super fun treats in Super Good Baking for Kids. + $21.99

+ This Baking Cookbook for Teens is a beginner-friendly book for older kids. It has 75 sweet and savory recipes to help them chef it up. + $18.99

+ 5,000 kids tested the recipes for America’s Test Kitchen’s The Complete Baking Book for Young Chefs. I feel pretty darn confident that it’s a good one. + $19.99

MORE GIFT GUIDES FOR … tweens + teens

gift guide: blankets

hug me

WHEN THE shorter days settle in, it becomes more and more tempting to snuggle up with a cozy blanket and hot cup of tea and just chill. Like in the middle of the afternoon. And watch maybe *just one* episode of Bridgerton. But… then I would never get back up again and everyone would starve, because impossibly soft, cozy blankets have a way of sucking you in like a comforting warm hug and who wants to let go of that to make dinner? Which is precisely why blankets make SUCH GOOD GIFTS. Sorry, I had to yell at you because I’m guessing you’re still thinking about hugs and Lord Hastings.

PEOPLE HAVE been knitting, sewing and quilting blankets for their special people since the beginning of time, as a beautiful, tangible and huggable symbol of their support, love and affection. Super luxe soft blankets make really lovely, loving, heartfelt support, sympathy or get well gifts. They envelop your special person in the feeling of a comforting warm hug from you, which is especially meaningful if you can’t give one IRL. The same goes for babies of course, whether brand spanking new or growing bigger each day.

BUT THEY also make awesome gifts for just about ANY occasion and ANYONE on your list for those very same reasons. My boys LOVE a good cozy blanket and carry them all over the house for spontaneous snuggling. We bring our awesome Rumpls camping for extra toasty campfires. We have little tugs of war over the ridiculously luxe-feeling faux fur Anthropologie one while we cuddle during movie night. They just feel good. And there are SO many adorable, gorgeous, weighted, luxe, impossibly soft, handwoven, recycled, amazing, snuggly, chic blankets in the world that your only struggle will be choosing one (Oh wait, I can totally help with that). Here are a few that we have and love and some that I’m just totally drooling over. You can never have too many, right?! So go snuggle one up and dream about Lord Hastings. Er, I mean, meditate about world peace. GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS. xo

blankets make the best gifts

> All of Seek & Swoon’s super soft, pretty throws are inspired by beautiful places around the world, but proudly made here in the USA entirely from recycled yarn. There are so many different designs to choose from to match any decor. They also make absolutely darling Baby Throws. > $175

> If you’re looking for straight luxurious coziness, look no further than Barefoot Dreams. Their whole line of throws is designed for maximum cuddliness and style. Pair it with one of their plush accessories or lounge pieces and you may never want to leave the house again. They also have some really special collabs with Disney, the MLB, Star Wars and Barbie. to maximize the personalization of your special gift. > from $158

> Faherty makes a really lovely collection of beautiful blankets, most of which are organic cotton and some of which also have super soft sherpa lining on the back. I’ve washed mine 100 times and it still looks perfect. There are a bunch of unique, cool prints to choose from. > from $128

> Sunday Citizen is dedicated entirely to making things that are insanely SOFT, spreading comfy and coziness wherever they go. Their throws are super plush and SO fluffy and come in a bunch of fun prints + colors. > from $65

> These super soft, lightweight Lands Downunder Herringbone Throws at Anthropologie are artisan-made in Italy and New Zealand. They’re all machine washable and come in an eye-popping 15 gorgeous saturated colors to match any decor. > $128

> If you fancy a bit of whimsy, Baggu’s Puffy Picnic Blankets don some funky and sweet prints. They’re made entirely of recycled materials and can be chucked right into the washing machine if you dribble a bit of jam on them. > $70

> Love the pretty texture of these beautiful Lumi Living Rib Knit Throws. The texture gives them a bit of weight, while still being super breathable. And those soft, neutral colors would be at home in just about any decor. > $78

> You could never go wrong with a classic, meticulously crafted Pendleton Throw. There are so many cool designs and color ways to choose from, like this gorgeous slightly less-traditional Agate Beach Throw.> from $139

> This is the crazy soft Anthropologie Sophie Faux Fur Throw throw that my little family is always fighting over/snuggling up together with. It’s just SO cozy, we might need a few more. > $98

> I love my soft Trek Light Peace Blanket. It’s made lovingly by a local Boulder company and is handwoven from 100% post consumer recycled materials. Plus they plant a tree for every blanket sold. And all of the fun print choices are really pretty, there’s something for everyone. > $165

> These pretty Gauze Throws are made from 4 layers of soft, crinkly organic Turkish cotton. They’re also reversible with a different pretty color on each side. They’re super lightweight, breathable and totally machine-washable. > $73

> Rumpl Original Puffy Blankets are amazing for camping, traveling, sporting events or sitting outside with friends. They’re super warm and totally machine washable. I love jamming mine into my sleeping bag on chilly camping nights for an extra layer of cozy. And they make so many great prints. We love ours. > from $99

> Anything Garza Marfa is always on my wishlist. These blankets are hand-spun and hand-woven in India through fair-trade co-ops using Garza Marfa’s designs. And they are STUNNING. > $200

> Sunday Citizen’s Crystal Weighted Blanket has taken the incredible health benefits to another level by adding thousands of bits of healing amethyst, clear quartz and rose quartz crystals to their insanely soft version. So you get the feeling of a snuggly hug with the added bonus of nature’s powerful healing energy. > $269

> I love my now-classic Pia Wallen Cross Throw. It just looks pretty in my living room. *Plus* It’s 100% organic cotton and comes in several pretty colors to match any decor. > $232

> Don’t forget your fur baby, they love cozy blankets, too, so you might as well get them one they can call their own. Geometry’s Plush Dog Towels are super soft and come in lots of adorable prints. Plus it’s ok if your pup has muddy paws when they’re snuggled up, you can just pop it into the washing machine. > $20
+ Use any of my Geometry links for 15% off your whole purchase +

blanket gifts for babies + kids

> Oh my goodness, if you want to wrap every precious little inch of your babe [or anyone else] in THE most snuggly softness, you need Barefoot Dreams. They have a huge selection of super luxe blankets, plus some adorable loungewear, that will keep your little snug as a bug anywhere you go. Such perfect baby gifts. > from $46

> Have a kiddo or teen who’s obsessed with their furry BFF? Get them a super cozy, fuzzy Custom Pet Art Blanket with their pet’s adorable portrait. They come in several sizes and colors and are so darn cute..> from $28 

> Seek & Swoon makes their gorgeous, soft blankets in a petite size for babes + kiddos. They feature the same sophisticated, pretty prints to elevate your decor, but are just as snuggly as their. All of their throws are made in the USA from recycled yarn, so that’s a win-win, too. > $90

> I love these simple, pretty little 100% cotton Waffle Baby Blankets from Sugar House Swaddles on Etsy. They’ll just get even softer and smushier with use. > $29

> Sackcloth & Ashes was created entirely to provide blankets to homeless shelters. The kids’ recycled blanket comes with a copy of the book ‘Everyone is Someone’ and when you purchase the set, another is donated to a child in foster care. A gift doesn’t get much better. > $65

> These fun, sunny Talking Out of Turn Puffy Blankets are perfect for a sleepover or serious hangout session. They even come with their own carry bag. They’d be an especially awesome gift for tweens + teens. > $75

MORE IN… gift guides

gift guide: women

OK, THIS was WAY too easy because I’m really just sharing with you things that I already own and totally LOVE or that are on my running wishlist. I have included lots of the artists and makers who’s work I adore and inspires me; the little treasures that just make me smile everyday. After all, that’s what thoughtful gifts are all about, right?

SO THIS list is kind of a little peek into my heart and all of my passions, from adventuring to cooking to clean beauty to art + design. I hope it resonates with your special people, too. And if you don’t see THE thing that’ll make your special person smile, reach out for more advice, I’m always here for you. xo

Gifts for Women

> Your glass of wine at the end of the day should feel special no matter where you are. Fellow’s Ruby Wine Tumbler is luxe and gorgeous and ready for anything. It’s ceramic-lined so you get no odd taste mixed in with your rose and has a sleek thin lid that you can use for on-the-go. It comes in 4 pretty colors, too. > $30

> Kate McCloud’s Body Stones are super popular for good reason. They’re chock full of super nourishing ingredients and it literally melts into your skin on contact leaving you glistening and hydrated. All of her gorgeous things would make a beautiful gift, but if you’re new to the brand or to solid lotion, try the Mini Sampler Set to test out a lil bar of their 3 most popular Stones. > $34

> There’s LOTS to love LOVE about Vuori Clothing, starting with how insanely soft and comfortable it is. I live in so many of their pieces for working out and just life. I honestly wear at least one piece just about everyday. I love the Daydream Crew. It’s SO lightweight, soft and breathable, has UPF 30 built-in and is a perfect length for my shorter frame [looks cute with jeans, too]. I also love the Halo Crew for walks and layering, it’s super easy and comfy. The Studio Pocket Legging is a fierce, favorite and I also adore lots of their Jackets. My husband LOVES his Vuori, too. You just really can’t go wrong. > prices vary

> Aleksandra out of Lithuania designs THE most charming, delightful Custom Family Portraits in several really super cool styles. You can choose a Couples Portrait or a Family Portrait that can include up to 10 people and pets. You’ll receive a digital download that you can use as you wish, from holiday cards to wall art, making it a super versatile gift. LOVE all of them. > from $39

> Sunday Citizen is ALL about the cozy and their Robes + Loungewear take the mission seriously. They’re so plush and soft and come in several cute weights and styles, like this Naked Modal Robe. It’s soft and lightweight and totally machine washable and it comes in a few really pretty neutrals. Bring on the comfy. > $115

> Le Cruset’s Petal Braiser combines their signature heirloom quality with a special design inspired by the French anemone flower. It looks delicate, but the enameled cast iron is totally bomber and will last a lifetime. It comes in 7 super pretty colors to match any decor. > $300

> Boulder-based The Tea Spot has an incredible selection of really nice, clean teas and tea gifts [love their Sencha]. This Craft Cold Brew Kit is just a perfect little warm-weather gift for just about anyone, especially iced tea-lovers. It includes 6 pouches of delicious tea and a Cold Brew Filter that fits on any mason jar, no boiling water required. > $45.95

> Love these pretty Crate & Barrel Ribbed Glasses, they’re such a good combination of classy and fun. They come in 3 sizes and 5 colors so you can mix it up or go for a matching set. They have an equally gorgeous matching Pitcher, too. > from $5.95

> Give two gifts in one with a gorgeous Paint by Numbers Kit. Let’s Paint Anywhere works with their favorite artists to create sophisticated and beautiful paint by number kits. There are tons of pretty landscapes to choose from, all colorful and beautiful. You get an inspiring and fun project that yields a perfect piece of custom artwork for your wall. That’s a serious win-win. > from $40

> Wowza, how stunning is this Clare V. Grande Fanny? It’s big enough for more than the essentials and can be worn crossbody, on your shoulder or on your bum. The straps are interchangeable, too, so you can mix up the look. And it comes in 20+ different GORGEOUS colors and textures. Ooh lala, l'amour. > $385

> Jones + Co is one of my very favorite boutiques in Boulder [or anywhere], they have the most stunningly curated collection of housewares, decor and accessories you could hope for. It’s the first place I stop when I need a gift or even just a little hit of beauty. Stop in if you’re in town or shop their gorgeous site if you’re not, there’s always something new and special to see. >

> Spoil your favorite gal with a super soft and super cute Pima Ruffle Shorts Set from Lake. It comes in stripes and solids and just looks so breezy. Lake has perfect robes, pant sets, nightgowns and loungewear, too. > $94

> Everything you love about Hydro Flask is now in a pretty and super functional Shaker Bottle. Fill it with your favorite protein shake, electrolyte water or anything else that needs a good jiggle and to be kept icy cold while you do your thing. It comes in 9 beautiful colors, too. > $34.95

> You already know how much I love my Geometry Tea Towels, but did you know they make SO much more? Like Yoga and Fitness Towels?It’s true and they’re equally awesome. They’re both made with post-consumer recycled material, but in a micro-loop fabric perfect for soaking up sweat. They’re quick-drying and anti-stink, which is pretty key in workout gear. The Yoga Towel has a slip-resistant bottom and the Magna Fitness Towel comes with a little detachable magnet so you can stick it to the gym equipment rather than leaving it on the grody floor. So good for your favorite athletes. > from $20

> Ok, I already LOVE Jiggy Puzzles for so many reasons. They promote women artists from around the world, which allows them to offer the most gorgeous and unique puzzle designs around. They provide a little bottle of glue with each puzzle so you can keep and frame your gorgeous artwork when you’re finished. Now they’re inviting YOU to be the artist and Make Your Own Jiggy, which is SO cool. Just upload any original photo or artwork and they’ll print either a 500- or 100-piece puzzle for you to love. Such a special gift for kiddos and adults, alike. > from $39.99

> How cute is this li’l Solo Stove Mesa Tabletop Fire Pit? It creates such a cool ambiance, throws a bit of heat and is smokeless like its bigger siblings. You can use two different fuel sources [either wood or wood pellets] and can totally roast some marshmallows with it. It comes in two sizes and 6 really pretty colors. > from $79.99

> Boulder local, Avery Lee Design, makes stunning jewelry that’s both totally grounded and unexpected. She combines recycled metals with earthy semi-precious stones to create contemporary but timeless pieces. Her Mini Calliope Earrings are some of my absolute favorites, I love them so much I bought two pairs. Read more about why I adore her here. > from $45

> Haand makes really beautiful functional ceramics by ‘hand’ in NC. I absolutely love this Hestia Nesting Set, it’s super useful art. I am kind of obsessed with their Cloudware collection and this adorable Olive Tray. Any of Haand’s gorgeous pieces would make a really special gift. > $160

> This W&P BYO Lunch Bundle is such a sleek, pretty zero-waste solution to lunch at work or on-the-go. The bento-inspired lunchbox has an optional divider and removable tray for endless configurations, so nothing gets all soggy + yuck on the way. The Bundle also includes a stainless Porter Utensil Set in a cute silicone sleeve to keep everything tidy. > $40

> Latin American Artists: From 1785 to Now is a beautiful book that features 308 works by historic and living artists, some well-known and some less so. It features a broad range of art made in this rich, diverse area of the world. It’s a gorgeous gift for any lover of art or Latin American culture. > $69.95

> All of Seek & Swoon’s Throws are inspired by beautiful places around the world, but proudly made here in the USA entirely from recycled yarn. They’re soft and snuggly and they have some really beautiful prints, like this Diana Throw. > $175

> Keep drinks super toasty [or freezing] with a beautiful Fellow Carter Move Mug. It’s so much more chic than the average industrial travel mug and this Move version comes with a splash guard that keeps you from dribbling all over your clean shirt. I LOVE mine. It comes in 3 sizes and tons of beautiful colors and they have an awesome Artist Series with really unique designs. > from $27.50

> I love these beautiful + interesting Together Coasters designed by artist and director Dan Covert. The brass-plated interlocking shapes explore ideas of connection and I think they’re so pretty. > $45

> Let’s Get Lost is a pure visual escape to some of the most stunning and far-flung places on the planet. With gorgeous photos and words from 21 different photographers, it might inspire you to get out into the world or to ‘get lost’ in your dreams. Such a beautiful gift for lovers of travel, nature and photography. > $36

> Opinel is one of the oldest knife factories in France, so they know a bit about making a quality product. This Essential Small Kitchen Knife Set perfectly combines their proven craftsmanship and classic design with a bright modern twist. The set includes a paring knife, vegetable knife, serrated paring knife and peeler for home or on your adventures. And they come in super fun color combos. Love. > $44

> Hydro Flask’s Insulated Tote is perfect for toting lunch, snacks, cold drinks or chilly groceries. It’s lightweight and can fold down for easy storage or for traveling, but keeps stuff chill for 4+ hours [or longer with a few ice packs]. It’s waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about splashes and the inside has welded seams, so clean up is a breeze. The exterior pocket holds utensils or napkins or any other essentials you need on hand. $64.95 >

> Using a silk pillowcase shields your delicate hair and skin while you sleep. And Lilysilk’s Pure Silk Pillowcases are not only super luxurious, but also OEKO-TEX certified, so you can rest knowing you’re not laying on gross chemicals. Pure silk is less absorbent than other natural fibers, like cotton, so it doesn’t suck up your skin’s natural oils or your overnight products. And because silk is a bit slippery, there is less friction and less tugging on your hair and skin. Plus they just feel really good. They come in a TON of colors to match any decor and you can even have a whole bed full of Silk Sheets if that’s your fancy. Ooh la la. > $89

> These Recycled Sari Bird Houses are so stunning and inviting they’re sure to attract a sweet little tenant. They’re hand-crafted with seagrass and recycled saris, each one made unique by the artisan who weaves it. Hang it in a sheltered area any season of the year to provide a cozy nesting ground for wee bird friends. > $28

> I obsessed over this Fellow Corvo Electric Kettle for a looong time before receiving it as a gorgeous gift and it does NOT disappoint. Aside from being super beautiful, it’s also perfectly functional. It has easy temp control, heats quickly, shuts off automatically after 15 minutes. And it is SO pretty. Add a Carter Move Mug and drag your perfect tea with you. > $195

> I LOVE my Caraway Cookware and have been obsessing about the Square Griddle Pan and Grill Pan for months. Not only are they super useful pieces, but they have the same non-toxic cooking surface and gorgeous ceramic outer shell as the other pans I love. You can buy them separately or as a set and they come in 8 pretty colors. > $145

> The Stylish Life: Tennis takes you on a tour of the sports’ fashionable history. Tennis is a sport where fashion counts both on and off the court and this book documents athletes and spectators alike through the years. So fun for any fan of the game. And if you’re more into Golf or Skiing, there’s a book for you, too. > $55

> Oooh I love this ½ & ½ Melamine Dinnerware. It’s safe for outside, but pretty enough for inside, too. It comes in 4 really stunning color combos and there are dinner plates, salad plates and bowls available in sets of 4. They’re also dishwasher safe. So fun for summer entertaining. > $75

> I treated myself to a Baggu Medium Crescent Bag for a trip and it’s just perfect. It’s a great in-between size that fits more than just the basics and the adjustable strap makes it simple to switch from crossbody to your shoulder. It’s totally machine washable and zips all the way shut, making it an AWESOME bag for travel. And it comes in a bunch of pretty colors and funky prints. There’s a Small and Large size, too, if that better suits your needs. I also LOVE my Baggu Cloud Bag as a carry-on for travel. > $52 

> Amsha Baskets are hand-crafted in partnership with 6 women’s co-ops in Kenya that provide training, fair wages and economic independence. They have a huge variety of stunning baskets that can be used for a thousand decorative and functional uses. I love the gorgeous Planter Baskets as gifts with a pretty plant already inside for a double awesome present. > from $14

> If chips + dip or veggies + hummus are on the menu, you might as well serve them in something GOREGOUS like this Handmade Chip and Dip. The artist has several glazes to choose from and they’re all really pretty. She has lots of other lovely pieces in her shop, too. > $120

> Leela Inspired is a super lovely husband + wife team that designs and hand-makes really pretty, intentional jewelry right here in Boulder. They have a gorgeous selection of sparkly bracelets and necklaces that are so perfect for layering, but look stunning all on their own. I LOVE my pretty stack and can’t wait to add to it. > from $45
Use code allaflutter15 to Save 15% off your whole order.

> LOVE my Material Salt Sphere. It has a magnetic lid to keep that precious mineral safely inside when you’re not using it and the removable fluted base doubles as a little pinch bowl for other salts or pepper. It comes in both maple and walnut and would elevate any kitchen or table. > $50

> Give the gift of your child’s [or your own] special artwork perfectly preserved in a book or a framed mosaic. Artkive helps you curate the amazing masterpieces of prolific little artists by photographing and printing their collection into tidy keepsakes. So you get to preserve your kiddo’s beautiful works in a beautiful way that you can actually access and enjoy without the clutter. Total win-win. > from $75

> Concrete Poppy in Denver combines form, function and sustainability in such a cool way. She hand-pours super clean candles into beautiful ceramic vessels that are meant to be used as planters when the wax has gone. Each candle comes with a little vial of seeds, completing the cycle. She has lots of pretty designs and scents to choose from and you can get your favorite in a diffuser or room spray, too. > from $30

> Brightland makes gorgeous California-grown, pure olive oil, vinegar and honey and they’re all divine. Their infused flavors are unique and so yummy. Gift a single bottle with a Spout or choose one of their beautiful Capsules, like this Luminous Capsule that looks and tastes like a little bit of California sunshine. > from $24

> Ok, I’ve been obsessing over this Tobiq Travel Duffel for a bit. Designed by a fellow Colorado mama, it has 4 separate zippered compartments for maximum organization. There are even pockets inside the pockets. WHOA. Whether you’re sharing space with a little or hoarding the whole thing for yourself, every darn thing can have its own place in this genius bag and is totally MACHINE washable. It comes in this 60L, 45L or a 30L ‘Tiny’ size depending on your needs and all are TSA approved to carry on most airlines. Plus it comes in a bunch of really cute colors [part of the reason I haven’t ordered yet, I can’t decide which I love most…] They also make a Toiletry Bag, which I own and love for all of its clever little compartments. If you love to organize the pants off your stuff while on the road, this bag may be your new favorite travel buddy. See the Gift Guide for Travel for more globe-trotter ideas. > from $199

> Nomadix Towels are awesome for travel, camping, yoga or post-sweaty workouts. These quick-dry beauties are made from recycled bottles, resist odor, sand + pet hair AND pack down super small and light. There are a ton of really pretty prints to choose from, including the National Parks Collection. They also make a Mini for your gym or tennis bag and a Festival Blanket that’s useful for sooo many things. I LOVE mine. Check out the Gift Guide for Outdoor Lovers for more ideas for your explorers. > from $27.95

> Alpyn Beauty is a stunning, super effective natural beauty brand that uses wild-harvested plants from Jackson Hole as the base for all of their gorgeous products. I LOVE so many of their things and they’d all make a great gift. Learn more about My Clean Beauty Favorites and which Alpyn products I can’t live without. >

> Courant makes super sleek, functional wireless chargers that blend perfectly into your decor, like the pretty MAG:3 Dual Device Charging Tray. It has been updated with both MagSafe and Qi technology, plus it has a USB-C port on the back so it can charge ALL the things AND function as a pretty catchall for your other essentials. Just set your devices down on the gorgeous Belgian linen or leather pad and carry on while it powers up. So pretty and useful for your office, kitchen, entryway or anywhere else. > $150

> Hedley & Bennett is the industry gold standard for high quality aprons, awesome for home chefs, bakers, artists, tinkerers and general mess-makers. They have a variety of styles and fabrics depending on what it’ll be used for and some have a matching kiddo version for your little sous chefs, too. I LOVE mine and wear it EVERY day. > from $75

> A dear friend gifted me Collective Wisdom and it’s such a beautiful book. It features more than 100 women over 50 who share what they’ve learned along their journey. It’s super inclusive and inspiring and such a pretty gift for any age woman. Grace Bonney also wrote In the Company of Women, which looks equally awesome. > $35

> This unassuming little box may not look like much, but it’s your ticket to winning the VIP award for gifting this year. The Detox Box subscription curates the ‘holy grail’ of clean beauty to send each month and it’s awesome. Choose one month or 12 and get ready for big props from your lucky gift recipient. > from $39.95 per month

> FarmSteady DIY Kits provide all the materials and guide you through the process of making all kinds of yummy stuff from Hot Sauce to Fresh Cheese. This is such a great gift + experience in one, plus you might get to try the yummy fruits of their labor. > from $25

> One of my most prized possessions is a brass Canopy Mobile from Austin-based Circle & Line. I love it so much I designed my whole living room around it. For real. Circle & Line Design hand-fabricates stunning mobiles and wall hangings, combining ‘simple’ shapes into complex and elegant art pieces. Their wall hangings are one of my favorite gifts to give because they just look so beautiful in any space. > from $150

> Free the Tipple is a celebration of cocktails and amazing women from the 20th Century on through history. It features 50 iconic women from Missy Elliott to Joan Didion and pairs a drink recipe with each one that’s either inspired by them or that they love[d]. Such a fun gift. > $15.95

> Radiant Malas are handmade in Boulder with love and intention by two women who painstakingly hand-select each crystal bead + unique guru bead for their specific vibrational powers. They over-hand knot each one-of-a-kind necklace and make the hand-tied tassels, too. They also make beautiful bracelets and Tiny Intentions Choker Necklaces. Shop by intention or just pick your favorite color. > from $128

> Linda Hsiao makes really stunning ceramic pieces out of her Knotwork LA studio. I love her work and have a sweet little collection of her ‘creature’ pieces that makes me so happy. She also hand-makes these Daruma Wishing Dolls that are such gorgeous gifts. You color in one eye while focusing on a wish or goal, then set it somewhere where you’re reminded of your goal. When you reach it you color in the other eye and say ‘thank you’ to your Daruma. Love them. > from $36

> A gorgeous cookbook like, Cocina de Andalucía, is a beautiful gift for anyone who loves to make and share yummy food or learn about other cultures through cooking. > $30

MORE IN… gift guides

gift guide: travel

GROWING UP in Boulder was super dreamy for so many reasons, but they don’t call it ‘The Bubble’ for nothing. Suffice it to say, it’s not the most diverse place on the planet. So to counter this shortcoming, my parents always felt super passionately about getting my sister and me out traveling into the big world to see all of the beauty that exists outside our little slice of municipal heaven. Plus they both just have CRAZY wanderlust, so… We traveled by car A LOT and later on by plane, too, in the days when we would have to get gussied up to fly. We were lucky enough to see some truly spectacular things and a few that are less noteworthy, but the experiences we had and the family memories we made were all invaluable. We still have a running family joke 30 years later, ribbing my mom for making us drive for hours to slowly pass by what seemed at the time like a very lackluster statue of King Kamehameha. My sister and I were like ‘wah?’ Though in all seriousness, my sweet mom can build an itinerary like nobody’s business and we have had some extraordinary trips because of it. So, thanks, mom.

TRAVEL opens your eyes, tests your limits, forces you outside of your comfort zone, digs into those wells of resourcefulness, inspires curiosity and refreshes your soul like nothing else. I have [temporarily] conquered my fear of heights on countless adventures after my big sister dragged me [usually against my will] up some crazy old clock tower or ancient ruin or wobbly bridge. And I’m so glad she did. It builds character and opens your eyes to the world outside of your ‘bubble.’ It’s an invaluable gift to give a child [or anyone]; a gift I hope to continue sharing with my own boys as they grow, even if the adventure is just a few miles from our own backyard.

BECAUSE there are so many passionate globetrotters in the world, there are also countless products designed to make travel a bit more comfortable and fun. Let’s face it, air travel generally is NOT what it used to be, so anything you can do to enhance the experience is a huge bonus. If you’re traveling with kiddos, check out my post on Road Trippin’ for some advice and ideas that apply no matter what mode of transport you choose. And drop a comment to tell me where you’re headed next, lovelies. It’s so fun to daydream about the next destination. xo

Gifts for Travelers

>> This is one of the greatest marriages of form + function I’ve found in a while. I’ve been searching for YEARS for good travel containers. Most reusable kinds are impossible to clean and I’m left with half a wee bottle of old, yellowing body lotion that’s nearly impossible to clean out. And if I’m lucky enough to find a travel-sized tube of something I actually use, I often end up only getting through half of it before it gets yuck and I feel doubly guilty about chucking both product and plastic. Sound familiar? Then you’ll love Cadence. These gorgeous little containers are made from ocean-bound plastic and come in different sizes and pretty colors so YOU get to decide how much stuff to put inside and how to organize them. They’re an absolute breeze to clean out between trips and are totally leak-proof, so you can put ANYthing in there. I use them for skincare, supplements, jewelry, hair goo… really, ALL the stuff. And you can customize the labels so you always know what’s inside [I chose to leave mine blank and use color to know what’s inside]. THEN they all magnet together. If I’m getting on a plane, I plop them all into a Stasher Stand-Up Mid and I’m ready to GO. I have placed two more orders after my initial purchase because I’ve found so many uses for them and I can’t get enough of the gorgeous colors. They’re magic, LOVE THEM. From $14>>>

>> I love this Baggu Travel Cloud Bag for little weekend getaways with the girls. It’s lightweight when it’s empty and super roomy. I can fit all of my stuff, including shoes and toiletries in there. It has both handles and a shoulder strap for easy carrying. And the whole thing folds up into a petite little pouch [which doubles as an inside pocket], so it’s easy to chuck into a larger bag to use as a beach bag or to drag home souvenirs. They also have a Cloud Carry-On that has a trolly sleeve for slipping over your roller and a smaller Cloud Bag that I love to use as my ‘personal item.’ $78 >>>

>> Help relieve stress, tension and tightness and foster muscle recovery on the go with the Theragun Mini. It’s quiet and powerful and super portable for on-the-road games, matches, races or training. And it comes in 4 perfect colors. $199 >>>

>> Don’t get caught with a dead battery while trying to pull up your boarding pass or find that hot new restaurant. This Anker PowerCore Slim Power Bank provides 2+ charges for your iPhone 12 and is super lightweight and portable. It’s also really easy to charge back up when you get to a power source. I always bring one or two into the backcountry with us so my camera doesn’t die. Anker makes a ton of options depending on your device and needs. $29.99 >>>

>> Ok, I’ve been kinda obsessing over this Tobiq 60L Travel Bag for a bit now. Designed by a fellow Colorado mama, it has 4 separate zippered compartments for maximum streamlined organization. There are even pockets inside the pockets. WHOA. Whether you’re sharing space with a little or hoarding the whole thing for yourself, every darn thing can have its own place in this genius bag. It can be carried with the shoulder strap, handles or the stowed backpack straps and is totally MACHINE washable. It comes in this 60L or a smaller 30L size depending on your needs and both are TSA approved to carry on most airlines. Plus it comes in a bunch of really cute colors [part of the reason I haven’t ordered yet, I can’t decide which I love most…]. They also make a Toiletry Bag, which I own and love for all of its clever little compartments. If you love to organize the pants off your stuff while on the road, this bag may be your new favorite travel buddy. From $199 >>>

>> I drag this awesome 6L Patagonia Black Hole Cube with us on every out-of-the-way adventure. It’s my ‘doctor bag,’ filled with ALL the things we ‘might’ need for minor illness or injury, from ibuprofen to calendula for scrapes and sunburns to poison ivy scrub. We go to a lot of remote places where you can’t just pop into a CVS, so this is the next best thing. Its DWR finish means that nothing’s getting in or out of it, which is handy in inclement weather or if something leaks inside. Two zippered mesh compartments make it easy for me to see what’s in there. And it’s totally indestructible. It also makes a fantastic cosmetic bag for anyone who likes to carry a bunch. Love this thing. $39 >>>

>> A good laptop bag is essential for any business traveler and my husband loves a version of this Thule Subterra 2 Laptop Bag. It keeps all of his devices super secure and is very durable, but sleek enough for business travel. It converts easily from a shoulder bag to a backpack for comfort in any situation. And it has lots of good little pockets and compartments for keeping organized. $149.95 >>>

>> My husband likes to keep notes while he travels, so I got him one of these pretty Leuchtturm 1917 Notebooks for a recent adventure. It’s substantial, but compact and has nice paper inside. The elastic band will keep it shut and store leaves, ticket stubs or any other little mementos you want to bring home from your journey. They come in a bunch of sizes, tons of colors and a variety of paper options depending on what you like to document in your journal. From $10.95 >>>

>> This Cotopaxi Allpa Del Dia Travel Pack has been on my wish list for a while now. I have a similar version, but this one is just so cool. It converts from a backpack to a side carry with the simple tuck of the padded straps. The full-wrap opening reveals several compartments for organizing all of your stuff. It’s carry-on compatible and comes with a rain fly to keep everything dry on the go. As part of Cotopaxi’s ‘Gear for Good’ promise to sustainability and improving the human condition, all of the pieces in their bright ‘Del Dia’ Collection are made from industry excess fabric and the individual maker that sews each piece has full creative control over the colors they choose, so each bag is truly unique. LOVE their Hip Packs, too. $200>>

>> My globe-trotting parents hooked us on these Eagle Creek Pack-It Cubes years ago and we now have a massive pile of them in every size, shape and color. We color code our boys’ stuff in Cubes so everyone knows whose gear is whose at a glance. I pack their outfits in one Cube and their PJs, undies, swimsuits and other ‘stuff’ in another so it’s easy to find what you’re looking for. They’re essential for keeping organized. From $8.95>>>

>> Can’t live without your weighted blanket when you travel? No problem. Bearaby’s Travel Napper is designed to ease your anxiety and comfort you while on-the-go and even comes in a little duffle for easy carrying. It’s super soft 100% organic cotton and can be machine washed when you get back. Aah, that’s better. $209 >>>

>> There’s nothing greater for travel than a wardrobe piece that does double [or triple] duty. Skivvys Femme Lounge Dresses are designed to take you flawlessly from sleep to chilling [or working] to dinner without anyone knowing you’re technically wearing your PJs. A a specially-designed built-in bra that’s made for both comfort and function leaves you looking put together and ready for the day while still feeling really comfy. Then the super pretty feminine styling pairs perfectly with some jewelry and sandals so you’re all set for dinner out. It’s just the perfect travel companion. Use code AFLUTTER15 for 15% off your order. From $68 >>>

>> There’s nothing better than do-it-all pieces for travel. My husband loves Faherty clothing [and the family-owned business’s philosophy], especially these All Day Shorts that can take anything you throw at them. Made from recycled bottles, they’re equally comfortable in the surf, the jungle, the city or at dinner. $98 >>>

>> Friends don’t let friends pay extra for overweight bags. Gift your favorite traveler this Hanging Luggage Scale so they know for certain whether they should jam that 4th pair of shoes in there or take the 3rd pair out. It’s super compact, lightweight and easy to tote along so there are no surprises at baggage check either on the way there or back. $16.99 >>>

>> Topo Designs’ Accessory Bags are an organized traveler’s dream come true, elegantly stowing and wrangling all of the loose bits for travel or even just in your office. They come in 3 sizes for max organization and perfectly exemplify Topo’s signature clean, cool styling. From $15 >>>

>> If you want some good ol’ analog fun for your kiddos on the plane, these little 50 Fun Things to do on a Plane Cards have lots [well, 50] of ideas. The tin is teeny tiny so it won’t take up too much space in your bag and you can use it in restaurants and other places once you reach your destination, too. $8.95 >>>

>> If you don't want to chance the hotel shampoo, bring along the Lolavie Restore and Protect Travel Kit. It’s TSA-friendly and includes the whole 4-piece ‘system’ that I love. You can also buy them individually so if you run out of shampoo before conditioner, you don’t have to buy another whole set. Check out My Travel Beauty Essentials for more. $45 >>>

>> Boo boos can happen in some pretty unexpected places when you have littles, so be Boy Scout prepared no matter where you’re going with a Keep>Going First Aid GoKit. It’s a cute, super organized kit with 130 different items to treat anything from cuts to burns and it’ll tuck perfectly into your travel bag. It’s TSA approved and waterproof, too. There are a zillion prints to choose from and they also have a Mini or Super size depending on your needs. Super cute. $39.95 >>>

>> If your adventure calls for toting lunch, snacks or cold drinks around with you, then Hydro Flask’s Insulated Tote is your new BFF. It’s lightweight and collapsible enough to toss in your luggage, but keeps stuff chill for 4+ hours [or longer with a few ice packs]. It’s waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about splashes and the inside has welded seams, so clean up is a breeze. The exterior pocket holds utensils or napkins or any other essentials you need to have on hand. $64.95 >>>

>> Birdie is a personal alarm that unleashes a deafening 130 db sound and bright flashing strobe light when activated. It’s designed to be cute, compact and lightweight so it can be easily stashed on a keychain, water bottle, belt loop or bag whether you’re in the woods or the city. Read more about why I love Birdie here. $29.95 >>> Use code AFLUTTER10 at checkout to save 10%

>> My husband does a lot of work on airplanes and doesn’t need the curious dude next to him checking out his spreadsheets, so he added one of these Privacy Screens to his laptop. Problem solved. It’s kind of like magic, it just snaps on to any size laptop magnetically and then you really just can’t see anything on the screen unless you’re right in front of it. Pure genius. From $21.99 >>>

>> I get a bit grossed out walking barefoot on hotel and Airbnb floors, so I bring these Topdrawer House Shoes everywhere we go. They’re super compact, so you can jam them in any little nook in your bag or wear them on the plane for long hauls. They’re totally machine washable, so you can just chuck them in the laundry with everything else when you get back. They’re super comfy, totally reversible, unisex, come in a bunch of different color/pattern combos and are a fantastic gift. Topdrawer also now makes a suede version for more grip. I love them. From $59 >>>

>> On-the-go spontaneity is all yours with an awesome Nomadix Festival Blanket. They’re super durable, sand-proof, lightweight and compact for chucking in your travel pack or beach bag. The base is water resistant, so you can set it on wet grass or sand while keeping yourself dry and has anchoring corners so it doesn’t flap around while you’re trying to enjoy your charcuterie. It’s just perfect for picnics, camping, beach days, outdoor concerts and kiddo sporting events. Plus it comes in a bunch of awesome prints and is made entirely from post-consumer recycled plastic. I LOVE their towels for adventuring, too, and now they have an ultralight version. $69.95 >>>

>> Keep track of all of your meds and supplements while you’re on the go in this sleek, stylish Port and Polish Pill Box. It’s compact and comes in 4 different pretty colors so everyone in the family knows whose is whose. I have one for morning supplements and one for night and they make a perfect [and cute] system. $20 >>>

>> Sarongs are such versatile travel companions. Wear it as a beach cover-up, use it as a blanket or towel, change underneath it, wrap your chilly kiddos in it…. you get the idea. This one is block printed by hand in India and is made of thin cotton voile. It’s super pretty and comes in a bunch of gorgeous prints. They’re lightweight, dry super fast and pack up super small. $49 >>>

>> Letterfolk makes a whole series of ‘Passports’ to help you document all of your passions, from Trips to Running Races to Wine to Concerts. There are some prompts and some blank pages for drawings or mementos, plus some useful tips. They make special versions for kiddos, too. I gave my little adventurer the Kids’ Hike Passport and it’s so adorable. $10 >>>

>> Keep yourself cozy and warm on the go with Zestt Organics’ Cotton Dreamsoft Travel Scarf. This versatile, comfy 100% organic cotton scarf doubles as a blanket, makeshift pillow, shawl or impromptu picnic blanket and is SO so soft. I gave one to my mom for the holidays and she loves it. It comes in a bunch of different colors and is totally machine washable. $68 >>>

>> So… apparently the headrest on an airplane is even more germy than the lock on the lavatory. Um, so gross. NiceSeats are reusable, washable seat covers that universally fit all types of airplane, bus, train and theater seats to protect you from all of those nasty germs. The compact little carrying case doubles as a seat pocket [yep, also SUPER yuck] and makes it so easy to stash when you arrive at your destination. It comes in several sizes and a bunch of colors, even cute prints for kiddos. From $59 >>>

>> Stasher Bags are endlessly useful reusable bags in a ton of sizes for wrangling just about everything you need to drag around while you’re traveling. I use them for snacks, vitamins, chargers, cosmetics, extra clothes, art supplies, toys… really anything you need to keep together. And they’re super easy to clean, so if your shampoo explodes on the plane, it’s no problem. From $7.99 >>>

>> Avoid wasting a bunch of crappy plastic straws while you’re on the go with GIR’s Ultimate Straws.They come with a wee little travel case for easy transport and a ‘squeegee’ for easy cleaning. And there are lots of pretty colors. From $7.95 >>>

>> Keep your skin fresh and glowing on the move with Ursa Major’s super popular Essential Face Wipes. These unassuming little bamboo babies work overtime cleansing, exfoliating, soothing and hydrating on the go so you can keep on keepin’ on [but with clean, glowing skin]. They’re awesome mid-flight, post-workout, in the backcountry or any other time your face just needs a little refresh. And it’s Ursa Major, so you know there’s no grody chemicals in there. These are awesome for low-maintenance teens, too. From $6.50 >>>

>> You already know I love a Rumpl, but these Nanoloft Travel Blankets are extra awesome for traveling. They have all of the same comfy qualities of an Original Puffy, but stuff into a wee little sack the size of a water bottle for easy transport [and clipping onto your backpack or roller]. They’re just perfect for kiddos, the airplane, the car or snuggling up on those airport seats when your flight gets delayed [oh, you just know it will]. And when you get home, just chuck it in the washing machine for a refresh and it’s all ready for the next adventure. This is such a fantastic gift. $99 >>>

>> This Bellroy Hide & Seek Wallet is more than meets the eye. It’s minimalist, yet super clever design allows you to safely carry all that you might need without any bulk and has RFID protection for when you’re on the go. It also has a secret bill section for stashing cash. It comes in 5 really handsome colors, too. $89 >>>

>> I love my Aloha Collection Holo Holo Tote. It’s ‘splashproof,’ so you don’t have to worry about those wet towels and suits. It’s carry-on approved, so you can just bring it on with you or pack it up super small to jam into your luggage. If the one cute print wasn’t enough, it also reverses to another and it just holds a ton of stuff. There are SO many cute prints to choose from. And if you prefer a tote that zips closed, the Day Tripper has you covered. I LOVE Aloha’s Hip Packs, too, and their Pouches for organizing my unmentionables and little bits inside my luggage. $64 >>>

>> This little Cocofloss Rainbow Sampler [Minis] includes mini versions of my favorite Cocofloss that are just perfect for travel. Plus you get to try ALL of the popular flavors so you’ll know which one you love best. Keep them all for yourself or tuck one into each family member’s dopp kit so nobody is left with grody teeth on the go. Read more about why I nerd out hard on Cocofloss. $36 >>>

>> These bright little babies are one of my mom secret weapons and they are THE best travel toy for littles of all ages. Plus Plus is a totally open-ended toy that keeps kids entertained for hours. My boys have been using them for years and have never made the same thing twice. Chuck them all in a reusable bag and you have instant fun at any restaurant you hit along the way. Check out The Best Restaurant Toys for more awesome gems for traveling with kiddos. From $7.99>>>

>> If you need a bit of inspiration for your next adventure, The Rainbow Atlas: A Guide to the World’s Most Colorful Places will take you on a tour of the most colorful natural wonders, art installations and architectural landmarks in the world. You’ll learn a bit about each destination, including the best time to visit, so you can start planning and plotting. It looks super inspiring for lovers of both travel and color. $30 >>>

>> This super versatile Infinity Pillow has your back [and neck] no matter how or where you’re trying to rest. Its unique design allows you to put it around your neck, jam it against a window, use it as a lumbar pillow, set it on your tray table or desk or even your bed and it won’t leave you bobbling. It’s made of soft bamboo, can be machine washed and comes in 9 pretty colors. $39 >>>

>> A lint roller is a good thing to have on hand whether you’re traveling with your beloved pooch or not. Flint Retractable Lint Rollers are super compact so you can tuck them into a briefcase or purse and because they retract, they don’t get all dusty and mucky in transit and waste those sticky little sheets. $16.99 >>>

MORE IN… travel + adventure

gift guide: dogs + dog-lovers

DOGS are called man’s best friend for such a good reason. I mean, who else do you know who gets THAT excited to see you? They’re calming and adorable and fun and intuitive and they just get it. Those fur baby best friends def deserve so much love. AND, I know you all know more than one person who’d probs rather chill with their pup than just about anyone else much of the time.

BECAUSE there are so many passionate dog-lovers out there, there’s also a whole world of super creative, funny and beautiful things designed to spoil both your pooch and their proud mamas + papas in a super stylish way; things that are so beautiful, you won’t mind having ALL the doggie stuff as part of your decor. So don’t forget to pamper the fur babies in your life [as if some of you need reminding] AND the passionate dog-lovers you love, too. If you want more ideas, check out my Dog Love post and if you’re looking for gifts to commemorate a lost pet, read Lost Love. WOOF. xo

gifts for dogs and dog-lovers

>> Geometry has a whole line of adorable, super functional Dog Towels for your fur baby. They come in the same awesome prints you’d expect from geometry, but are made just for your pooch. They have a squishy soft Plush Dog Towel and a Paw Towel, too, and of course, they’re all totally machine washable. Combine one of each for a perfect gift. >> from $11
+ Use any of my Geometry links for 15% off your whole purchase +

>> Oh I love this so much. You can have your pet [or up to three] sculpted into a fully handmade Custom Mug, so with each sip, you get a little peek at your favorite furry friend. These are handmade in Germany, so the lead time is a bit longer, but totally worth it if you plan ahead. This is such a special keepsake for beloved pets, both living and passed. >> from $54 

>> Cuddle with your furry love in two ways at once with a super cozy, fuzzy Custom Pet Art Blanket with your pet’s adorable portrait. The blankets come in several sizes and colors and are so darn cute. >> from $28 

>> If you want to bathe your pup in luxury, Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Pet Beds will do the trick. They’re crazy soft and super pretty, but still machine washable, and come in 3 sizes. They have equally luxe and stylish Sweaters to match, too. Ooh la la. >> from $128

>> I couldn’t ‘love’ this Ubuntu Life Love Dog Collar any more. Aside from having the sweetest message, it also supports meaningful full-time employment for Ubuntu’s Maasai Maker Mums who hand-bead each one with care. The collar itself is constructed of soft leather so it’s comfy and durable and it comes in 3 sizes to fit almost any breed. >> $59

>> Make that pooch feel extra special with some Personalized Dog Treats. They’re handmade with all natural, healthy, grain-free ingredients, so you can feel good about spoiling your favorite K9 pal. Plus they’re just super cute. >> $23.99

>>Waggo has super stylish dog decor that you won’t mind showing off in your home. Stash Fido’s treats in one of these gorgeous Ripple Ceramic Dog Treat Jars.They’re such a beautiful disguise. They come in 5 pretty colors to match any decor and are dishwasher safe. >> $24

>> These Tibetan Yak Chews may not look like much to us, but they’re a dog’s delight and great for chewers. They’re made with just 4 ingredients in the foothills of Mount Everest by artisan farmers using centuries-old recipes. And they’re good for removing plaque and yucky buildup. So your dog sort of ‘needs’ them. >> $28.50

>> Pup toys that are both super safe and beautiful to look at are a total win-win. Wild One’s Toy Kit includes something for tugging, for tossing and for chewing and is made from 100% natural rubber and 100% natural cotton. They have no BPA or phalates and are super pretty, so nobody has to compromise. >> $39

>> Haven in Boulder has a fantastic selection of Pendleton Dog Beds in a range of gorgeous prints that celebrate our National Parks. The patterns are inspired by vintage Pendleton designs, but have been updated to be more dog-friendly. The cover is removable and machine-washable fleece. The bed itself is a made from recycled soda bottles. There are lots of sizes and prints to choose from to match any decor. >> from $99

>> National Geographic photographer, Vincent Musi, captured more than 100 dogs over the course of a year to show off their unique personalities in The Year of the Dogs. Each stunning photo is accompanied by a charming personal narrative about the pooch featured. It’s an awesome celebration of Man’s Best Friend. >> $29.95

>> If you’re short on space or just like pretty, minimalist decor, Fable’s Crate is perfect. It’s the perfect mix of form + function, doing double duty as a cozy nest for your pup and a side table for your space. It’s made of beautiful bent wood and has either a metal or clear acrylic front gate that can be tucked inside when not in use. >> from $395

>> Good Dog: A Collection of Portraits is straight up dog eye candy. It’s a book of 150 gorgeous portraits by Randal Ford that captures the spirit of all kinds of pups, from mutts to show dogs. It’s just really fun to look at. And the proceeds from the sale of this book go to Emancipet, an organization that aims to make vet care affordable to all. >> $40

>> I think these custom ‘Ugly Portraits’ are super adorable. So if your dog-lover has a bit of a sense of humor, this would be a rad gift. The artist will make a custom line drawing from your photo and provide you with a priceless treasure that's sure to bring a smile every time. I love it. >> from $15

>> Keep your pup seen and safe on those nighttime walks with a Nite Howl LED Safety Necklace. It glows super bright and is fully rechargeable and water resistant. Plus it just looks cool. >> $19.99

>> Alright dog-lovers, if you’ve ever dreamed of sporting a matching outfit with your fur baby, Good Thomas has you covered [ha]. They make PJs, Party Shirts, Sweaters, Flannels and more for all size dogs and people, ranging from Chihuahuas to Great Danes and kiddos to men. So schedule your photo shoot and get ready. Plus for each purchase, they donate to help homeless dogs, so… no brainer. >> from $38

>> This is so adorable and special. Julia in Ukraine hand-sculpts custom ‘Pet Portraits’ in ceramic. They’re just little bundles of joy. You send her a picture and whatever defining characteristics you can share and she’ll send you a li’l figurine of your pet. She can also make salt shakers, cookie jars and tiny urns for your beloved’s ashes. These are shipped  from Ukraine, so note the lead time when ordering. So special. from >> $64

>> These beautiful Laylo Modern Orthopedic Dog Beds have it ALL. They’re handmade, orthopedic, accident-friendly, machine-washable, durable, have a hidden handle for easy carrying and they’re GORGEOUS. What more could a stylish dog want?! They also sell extra covers so you can swap them out. >> from $60

>> Commission a fabulous piece of custom artwork for your pup from Pet Pop Art. You can even choose your color palette from a bunch of options to match your decor. Your dog totally deserves full Rock Star status, right? >> from $39

>> Underwater Dogs is such a charming, playful and funny book. It has 80 fantastic portraits of dogs doing their thing underwater, totally revealing their aquatic antics, hilarious faces and impressive acrobatics. It’s so cute. >> $21

>> Wild One really thought of everything when they designed this fantastic Treat Pouch. It has a built-in poop bag dispenser, space for treats and room for a few human personal items. It can be worn as a hip pack or crossbody and is made from 10 recycled water bottles. It comes in 3 neutral, pretty colors to suit any dog walker’s style. >> $44

>> Felt + Fat hand makes beautiful ceramics in Philadelphia. These Pet Sets are durable and so pretty you won’t mind having them out all of the time. They come in 2 sizes and 7 awesome colors, including their signature Confetti pattern. You can also buy individual Pet Bowls or mix + match your own set. >> from $40

>> Pela has a collection of dog or cat prints on their compostable phone cases. A phone case that shows off your dog love and protects the planet your poochie love is tops. >> $59.95

>> Really EVERYTHING that The Foggy Dog makes is absolutely adorable and beautiful. From Bow Ties & Bandanas to Walk Sets, Beds and Toys, you just can’t go wrong choosing a gift for your favorite pooch from this SF-based company. Read more about why I love them here. >> from $16

>> The adventurous dogs you love will be giddy about Yeti’s Boomer Dog Bowl. It’s crazy durable, dishwasher-safe, food-safe and has an awesome non-slip coating on the bottom so it doesn’t travel while they slurp. And it comes in 11 colors two sizes for any size eater. And you can even have it personalized for a special touch. >> from $40

>> Ok, Monsieur Acorn just makes me smile. He’s hilarious. But also pretty brilliant. He’s designed to be destroyed, but has a squeaky spiky ball ‘nut’ in the center for your dog to discover, so he’s really two toys in one. I’m also loving this Dog Ness Monster for serious chewers. >> $11.99

>> If baking is your love language, then spoiling those pups with healthy homemade treats is easy as pie with a Nordic Ware Dog Treat Pan. It bakes 16 cookies at at time, but your pup will want to eat them all in one sitting. >>$23

>> These Crow Canyon Home Splatter Pet Bowls can take anything your pup throws at them at home or on the go. They’re made of super high quality porcelain enamel on a steel base and are totally dishwasher safe, too. The fun splatter pattern comes in 4 colors and there are 2 sizes to suit any pup’s appetite. >> from $18

>> Um, how stinking cute is this Pet TeePee? It’s the perfect little hideout for your pup or kitty. Wild & Loyal hand-makes these gorgeous teepees in Canada in a few different sizes to accommodate a wide range of dogs. They’re so pretty and have a washable cushion for snuggling up. >> $65

>> Be ready for anything with this Me & My Dog Medical Kit. It has everything you need to take care of your pup while out in the wild, including a pet first aid guide and emergency leash. >> $49.99

>> West Paw has a huge variety of super durable, thoughtfully-made Dog Toys to satisfy any type of chewer, including fun puzzles. They’re also a Certified B Corp and make everything themselves, which is just an awesome bonus. >> prices vary

>> When my oldest was born 3 weeks before Christmas, my mom bought my wee newborn and pup matching Hanna Andersson PJs. They were so stinking cute that it became a tradition and our 85 pound dog had his own holiday Pet Johns that he wore for the next 10 years. And I think he loved them. Hanna Andersson makes the best organic cotton PJs for kids, dogs and adults, too, so you can have a whole family tradition of your own. They’re adorable and SO durable and come in a huge range of sizes. >> $34

MORE IN… gift guides

gift guide: teachers + 'life savers'

IF YOU weren’t feeling it before, I think home learning ‘taught’ everyone on the planet just how AMAZING and selfless and creative and dedicated TEACHERS really are. I mean, 5 minutes into our first day at home, I was like ‘yeah, there’s a reason I’m not a teacher.’ It’s hard. And at the same time I was truly inspired and in AWE of the unyielding enthusiasm, patience and commitment that my kids’ teachers displayed on a daily basis in probably the most challenging circumstances of their careers. IMHO, if anyone deserves to be recognized and spoiled at any chance we get, it’s def teachers any day of any year. So, put them at the top of your list for extra recognition. And know that ‘spoiling’ doesn’t have to = extravagant gift; a little kindness goes a long way and the sincere acknowledgement is so meaningful.

AND WHILE you’re at it, don’t forget about all of the other extraordinary people in your daily life who make everything better while ‘just doing their jobs;' the therapists, yoga instructors, housekeepers, soccer coaches, babysitters, guitar teachers, nurses and other ‘life savers’ who support you and your special people on the regular, making your life easier, better or more full.

IF YOU know what your teachers or ‘life savers’ are interested in, great, totally tap into it. If you don’t, you can’t go wrong with a little treasure that makes their day easier or more beautiful, just like they do for you. GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS. xo

+ Diaspora Co. sells gorgeous single-origin spices and teas sourced directly from farmers in India and Sri Lanka. They pay 6x the commodity rate to ensure that growers of these exquisite spices make a living wage, so you get super fresh, high quality single-origin ingredients for your favorite dishes and the farmers get supported for their hard work. It’s all sent in THE most beautiful tins, making it a perfect gift. + from $8

+ Keep your favorite Life Saver hydrated in style with a Stanley Flowstate Quencher Tumbler. I love the li’l [by comparison] 20oz size personally, but there’s a wide range of choices and they all have a convenient straw lid for stealing sips when they can. They come in a bunch of pretty colors, too. Fill it with a handful of their favorite candy for a little extra surprise. + from $20

> Nothing feels better after a long day on your feet than kicking off your shoes and pulling on a cozy, soft, luxe pair of Barefoot Dreams’ CozyChic Socks. They’re just a snuggly dream and the perfect gift for pretty much anyone [they make them for men,kids and babies, too, so…]. Buy one pair or a 3-Pair Set,you won’t be sorry. > from $18

+ Leela Inspired is a super lovely husband + wife team that designs and hand-makes really pretty, intentional jewelry right here in Boulder. They have a gorgeous selection of sparkly bracelets and necklaces that are so perfect for layering, but look stunning all on their own. I LOVE my pretty stack and can’t wait to add to it. + from $35
Use code allaflutter15 to Save 15% off your whole order.

+ Help your ‘life savers’ stay super organized with Topo Designs Accessory Bags. They come in 3 different sizes and a bunch of colors and will keep all the chargers and gum and other loose stuff together. Choose a few or stash a gift card into one. + from $15

+ Ok I LOVE Geometry Tea Towels and they are an absolutely perfect gift for almost anyone. BUT, did you know Geometry also makes awesome Dish Towels, Fitness Towels, Yoga Towels, Bar Towels and more? And they’re ALL awesome, so pretty, super absorbent, not stinky and made from post-consumer recycled materials. So, yeah, you really can’t go wrong. + from $13
> Use any of my Geometry links to save 15% off your purchase <

+ Ignite some taste buds with Mama Teav’s Hot Garlic Chili Crisp. This small-batch, family-made sauce has just 7 clean ingredients and is bursting with roasted chilis and crunchy bits of garlic. Sounds super yum to me. + $18

+ If your ‘life saver’ has a rad sense of humor or style, Happy Socks has the best collection of awesome prints for every age and they’re sooo soft. I mean, who wouldn’t want Organic Cotton Banana Socks? They’ll make everyone smile. + $16

+ Puzzles can be super calming and meditative, which is a fantastic gift to share with for anyone. But Jiggy Puzzles also support emerging female artists around the world, which is even better. The artwork curated for the puzzle collection is so unique and varied and a portion of each sale goes directly back to the artist. Each puzzle comes in a reusable glass jar and includes glue so you can frame and display your art. Love this. + from $29

+ Jax Kelly’s unique molded candles are hand-poured with 100% American grown soy wax. The Short Arch design is just perfect and comes in several really pretty colors. + $12

+ A pretty hand-painted Notebook from Moglea provides a really special place to record thoughts or memories or keep important notes. + $18

+ Lips get dry when you’re out saving the world everyday. Treat your ‘life saver’ to Alpyn Beauty’s Willow & Sweet Agave Lip Mask. It’s full of goodness and smooths out the rough spots. I love this stuff and use it every night. + $28

+ Cookbooks can make beautiful gifts and there are SO many to choose from depending on what your special person is into. Try Coconut & Sambal : Recipes From My Indonesian Kitchen for something new and different. Click here for some others I love. + $35

+ The Tea Spot is a Boulder-based company with the most fantastic selection of teas and tea gifts. This Morning Mojo is a delicious blend of black teas and has a ‘caffeine punch’ that I’ll bet your Life Savers could really use. Or maybe the Lights Out blend to help them unwind at the end of the day. They also have great Sets and Samplers that would be gorgeous gifts. + $10.99

+ Nobody likes hot Chardonnay or cold Toddies, even out in the wild. Help your ‘life savers’ keep whatever they like to drink at just the perfect temp in this Hydroflask Wine Tumbler. There are several colors to make anyone smile. + $29.95

+ Clevr Blends SuperLattes are oat milk-based blends are brimming with adaptogens, mushrooms, probiotics and superfoods to help improve brain function and boost your mood. There are 6 awesome flavors to choose from [my husband loves the Matcha], including one for supporting Sleeptime. They’re dairy + refined sugar free, responsibly sourced and just need water to blend. The Starter Kit would be a really beautiful gift for anyone who’d like to add a little delicious healthy boost to their daily routine. + from $28

+ These gorgeous Amsha Studio sisal basket are hand-dyed and hand-woven by a weaving cooperative in Kenya. Pop in a sunny plant or other treasure for a really beautiful gift. + from $28

+ Support your Life Saver in their mindfulness practice with these thoughtful Mindfulness Dice. There are 6 wooden dice, all with a collection of soothing suggestions to fin calm, peace and balance. There are also Fitness Dice and Yoga Dice that are both awesome. + $18.95

+ Baggu Reusable Bags are hands-down the cutest AND most durable reusable bags you’ll find. They hold a ton of stuff, are machine washable, fold down into nothing and come in a million [ok. 66] print and color combinations to suit just about anyone. They also work perfectly as zero-waste wrap for other gifts. Learn more about why I LOVE them here. + $12

+ If your ‘life saver’ loves to cook, Brightland’s Olive Oils are a gorgeous gift. They’re California-made and there are a bunch of really beautiful infusions to choose from. Gift a bottle with a Spout or go big with a Capsule. + from $40

+ Keep drinks super toasty [or freezing] with a beautiful Fellow Carter Move Mug. It’s so much more chic than the average industrial travel mug and this Move version comes with a splash guard that keeps you from dribbling all over your clean shirt. I LOVE mine. It comes in 3 sizes and tons of beautiful colors and they have an awesome Artist Series with some really unique designs. + from $27.50

+ Stasher makes endlessly reusable platinum silicone bags that can be used for ANYTHING you need to store or tote around. They’re freezer, microwave, oven AND dishwasher safe and come in an awesome variety of colors + sizes. Choose a stripe and a solid and fill them with their favorite candy and a sweet note. Or consider a set or stick a gift card inside. + from $7.99

+ Sometimes you just have to call it as you see it. Steamboat Springs-based Little Moon Essentials’ Tired Old Ass Bath Soak is meant to reenergize you after a long day at work, play or anything else that wears you down. Lemon and eucalyptus will wake you right up and prepare you for what comes next. Plus you might get a good laugh. + from $5

+ There won’t be a sad desk lunch in sight with W&P’s Seal Tight Glass Bowls. Yes, they’re super pretty, but they’re also leak-proof, microwave-safe and dishwasher-safe. They come in 2 sizes and several great colors, too, so you can really jazz up the lunch game. I gifted these to my husband and he LOVES them. + from $25

+ A genius Ember Smart Mug allows you to control the temp on your favorite drink all day long so you never have a tepid cup of tea or coffee [like I do right now. For real]. Use the app to change the temp depending on your drink’s ideal or just set it once to the temp you like best and forget it. It lasts up to 90 minutes on its own or all day on the charger. I got one for my dad for his birthday and he loves it. There are several different colors to choose from, including a few metallics. + from $129

+ Give the gift of a good chuckle + stress release with a silly game where players throw squishy burritos at each other. Throw Throw Burrito is like a card game + dodgeball in one and it is FUN. There’s also Throw Throw Avocado, which can be used on its own or as an add-on to its burrito cousin. + $24.99

+ Field Notes has taken the stunning artwork of 59 artists honoring our National Parks and put it on the cover of their now-iconic notebooks. The insides are filled with graph paper for sketching, note-taking, observing, list-making or day dreaming. + 3-pack $14.95

+ The Tea Spot’s Everest Tea Tumbler is a tea-infusing travel mug that steeps your brew while you’re on-the-go or on your way to work and then keeps it nice and warm for hours. Pair it with one of The Tea Spots gorgeous tea blends [I love their Organic Sencha] for a really fantastic gift. As a bonus, The Tea Spot is a certified B Corp and donates 10% of all sales in-kind to cancer survivors and community wellness programs. + $30.95

+ Help your special people reduce stress and clear negative energy with this Rituals Incense Sampler Pack. It includes Palo Santo Sticks, Mexican Copal Cones, Himalayan Cedar Ropes and Palo Santo Wood. They’ll help clear the air and bring calm, which is the greatest gift. + $28

+ These unassuming little discs literally ‘hug’ all of your leftover bits of fruits and veggies so they’re preserved longer and stay fresher without wasting plastic wrap. I love my Food Huggers, especially for lemons + limes. + from $7.99

+ Spoil your ‘life saver’ properly with Herbivore’s Coco Rose Body Scrub. I love this stuff, it just leaves your skin feeling so smooth and soft. Add some cream or lip balm, too, for a really luxurious gift. + $40

+ Nodpod Weighted Sleep Masks are super soft and block the light, but add the benefit of gentle pressure, too, ‘like a hug for your head.’ They’re perfect for just taking a sec after a long day and for headaches. Plus, they’re unscented and come in a bunch of cute colors. They also make Nodpod Body, a wee weighted blanket and the combo could be game-changing. + $34

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gift guide: outdoor lovers

MY HUSBAND and I have been adventuring together since we met, before our kids were even a thought. When our boys were born, we just kept on going and dragged our sweet li’l babes along [our youngest was 8 weeks old on his first camping trip]. There’s nothing like the perfect combo of fresh air, epic views, dirt, wildlife spotting, quiet, family + friends to make for truly lasting childhood memories; the kind that nestle into your soul and help shape your outlook on the world. We ski, raft, hike, camp, bike and generally tromp into the woods whenever we can, most often with dear friends, and sometimes with ourselves.

OVER THE years we’ve tried out a LOT of gear with varying success [do not get my husband started on the airlounj] and have found some super amazing things that make our experiences that much better. So, if you love someone who loves to tromp through the woods too, whether they’re fishing, camping, biking, skiing or anything else, I’ve put together some really awesome gift ideas for you. Most of these things we own and love, some are on the wishlist. If you have any questions about any of it, reach out, I’m super happy to help. And check out my post on Warm Weather Adventure Gear I Love and Dopp Kits That Will Go Anywhere for more ideas. Happy Trails, lovelies. GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS. xo

Awesome Gifts for Outdoor Lovers

>> Expand your camp cooking repertoire with an innovative Omnia Oven. It’s designed to work on any cooking surface and cooks food just like a regular oven, allowing you to get a bit creative away from home. There are some cool Accessories, too, to really take it next level, like the Muffin Ring for baking muffins and making egg cups. >> $69

>> Barebones Living designs and makes timeless, high quality tools for outdoor lovers of all kinds, including a collection of vintage-inspired Lights + Lanterns for all kinds of outdoor [and indoor] uses. This awesome Beacon Hanging Light is super compact, rechargeable, dimmable and portable. It lasts 200+ hours on one charge and the dimming features allows for max control over your ambiance. It also comes in 8 gorgeous colors so you don’t have to sacrifice style for function on this one. As an added bonus, Barebones Living is also a Certified B Corp and has a super admirable philanthropic mission. Win Win Win. >> $64.99

>> Ok, this is brilliant. I love carrying a hydration pack while day hiking, but drying that thing out afterward is a gigantic pain and it ends up sitting on my counter for like 3 weeks, which I do NOT love. Enter the BōnDry Hydration Pack Bladder Dryer. Its patent-pending technology magically sucks all the leftover moisture out of your bladder or bottle after you wash it, leaving your gear clean and funk-free with zero effort. And it’s ethically made in the USA from plant-based and recycled materials. Yesss. >> $24.99

>> NOCS Provisions Binoculars are compact, waterproof and built for exploring the unknown. The 8 fun, bright colors they come in belie their serious ruggedness. We’ve dragged ours down rivers and up mountains and they’re easy to use, super durable and awesome. You can also get a cool Woven Tapestry Strap to go keep them safe and secure. And they just added a SUPER cool Photo Rig Smartphone Adapter that allows you to photograph what you can see through your binoculars. SO fun. >> $95

>> While they say hunger is the best spice when you’re out in the wild, there’s really no need to sacrifice. My guys love all of the flavors of Yellowbird Hot Sauces. They’re organic, vegan, GF, non-GMO and have no refined sugar. Plus they come in a plastic squeeze bottle, so they’re safe for dragging around. YUM. >> from $14.99

>> Rite in the Rain makes super durable weatherproof writing materials designed to keep your thoughts flowing no matter the conditions. They have a huge variety of Notebooks, Paper and Writing Utensils built to survive anything Mother Nature can throw at them. Water just beads right off the paper and the pens can power through water, sweat, oil, grease and mud. Choose your own pieces or go for a Kit that includes a super durable cover. This is an awesome gift for anyone who likes to journal, take notes, sketch or make observations out in the wild. >> from $5.95

>> This Stanley Adventure Happy Hour Cocktail Shaker Set is one of the MOST used pieces of adventure ‘gear’ we own. It comes with a stainless steel shaker, 2 cups, a citrus reamer and a jigger cap all neatly nested together in a compact package. It’s easy to clean, easy to pack and indestructible. >> $40

>> The James Brand has been making really stunning Knives and other ‘essentials’ for a decade. Their attention to detail, premium materials and elevated minimalist style result in a really vast collection that defines the balance of form and function, beautifully including everything you want and nothing you don’t. I gifted my husband The Carter in OD Green + Black and it’s so stunning and useful, he loves it. They also have some super sleek multi-purpose Everyday Carry that will simultaneously bump your style points and provide you with the right tool for the job. TJB is a really solid gift for anyone you love who likes to set out prepared with style. >>

>> This little AeroPress Go Portable Travel Coffee Press has a bit of a cult following in the outdoor world [and almost 8000 5-star reviews]. It’s an all-in press, mug and lid in-one that’s super compact for traveling. Its rapid-immersion method brews hot [or cold], smooth, not-bitter coffee in one minute and takes a fraction of that to clean. And it’s made in the USA. YES. The AeroPress Original is also wildly popular if you want a version made for home use >> $39.95

>> There’s a solid reason why enamelware dishes have been a popular choice outdoors for so long. They’re almost indestructible, easy to clean, can be popped in the oven, on the stovetop or onto a campfire without a care and they clean up easily [at home you can chuck them into the dishwasher]. Plus, they’re just pretty. Crow Canyon Home is a family owned business that’s been hand-making super high quality enamelware for generations and they have a fantastic selection of dinnerware to choose from for all kinds of adventures. If you need service for 4, go for a 16-Piece Splatterware Set in one of 7 different awesome colors or make up your own from their rad Dinnerware Collection. >> from $16

>> Regular bocce is fun, sure. But Playboule LED Lighted Bocce is so much cooler. Each ball has a little light inside that can be turned on and off with just a push. We’ve used ours out camping for extreme terrain smackdowns and it’s super fun for the whole family. >> $72.95

>> No need to sacrifice style while you’re out in the muck with Australian brand, Merry People’s Bobbi Rain Boots. They’re a classic Chelsea-style boot reimagined in natural rubber with a neoprene lining for comfort and protection. And they come in a bunch of super cute colors. Wear them for gardening, camping, tromping through the mud, festivals and anywhere else you might encounter some mucky muck. They have a mid-calf version, too, if you’re going deep. << $129.95

>> Arcade Belts are purpose-built to be comfortable and move with you no matter where you’re headed. The buckle design insures a perfect custom fit every time and it’s slender, so it doesn’t add any bulk to your ‘fit. They come in a mind-blowing number of styles, colors + designs, including some really cool collabs with The Grateful Dead, Jimmy Chin and some really unique artists. And they have a lifetime guarantee, so you have nothing to lose here. They also have Youth sizes and my boys love them. >> from $22.95

>> Topo Designs makes a huge variety of super stylish + functional Bags + Packs and the Rover Pack Classic is ideal for day hikes, travel and commutes. With its recycled nylon construction, it’s super lightweight, but durable enough to take whatever you throw at it. It has several organizational pockets and huge side pockets for full-sized water bottles. And it comes with the rad styling you expect from Topo. They also have a ton of Accessory Bags to really dial your organization. >> $179

>> Give yourself and your loved ones piece of mind with a Garmin inReach Mini 2. It’s a super compact satellite communicator with two-way messaging and SOS. We’ve used this on long river trips to let family know that we’re okay along the way and they are sooo appreciative. It also has a TracBack routing feature that helps you find your way back to where you started, a digital compass and location sharing. You can pair it with other Garmin devices, too. It’s just a really good thing to have when you’re out in the wild. >> $395

>> The VSSL Java Coffee Grinder is perfect for your die-hard, adventure-loving coffee nerds. It’s a burr grinder with 50 unique settings to get everything just right for your brew. It’s incredibly durable (made with aircraft grade aluminum) and also super lightweight. They have a few other really baller things to go with it, so you'll be SO set up for a great morning, either in the far reaches of the wild or your backyard. >> $220

>> I cannot tell you how many miles we put on our Deuter Kid Comfort Child Carrier when our boys were little. It was comfortable for both my husband and I [they also have a women’s-specific model] and babe, too. It has a height-adjustable seat, so it can grow with your little and a kickstand for easy entry and removal. A big storage pocket holds all of your ‘essentials’ while out on the trails or anywhere else you want a hands-free carrying system. It’s awesome and brings back so many sweet memories. >> from $60

>> Barebones Living has a solid collection of baller Tools for all kinds of outdoor tasks. This Pulaski Axe is purpose built for splitting wood and does a darn fine job of it. Originally designed by its namesake, a brave volunteer firefighter in the early 1900s, the Pulaski Axe is meant not only for chopping, but also for cutting roots and digging trenches. This super solid tool comes complete with a sheath and hex key for max safety. >> $179.99

>> There’s nothing quite like chilling in an Eno Hammock slung between two trees and just watching the sky. Also our boys love to swing in it and at one point, had it rigged up in our backyard, they just love it so much. Eno Hammoks are super durable, lightweight and pack down super small. They come in a DoubleNest or SingleNest size and there are several different Suspension Systems to choose from. >> from $49.95

>> Make lasting memories around the campfire at home or on the go with a Solo Stove. There’s no need for white rabbits with these because they’re totally smokeless. They come in several sizes depending on your space, including a tabletop version for intimate little fires. They now also come in some awesome colors. They’re easy to clean, easy to assemble, durable and portable. And of course, there are a bunch of rad accessories to go with them. This is an awesome gift for homebodies, tailgaters and adventurers alike. >> from $119

>> Nomadix Original Towels are so awesome I bought one for everyone in the family. These quick-dry beauties are made from recycled bottles, resist odor, sand + pet hair AND pack down super small and light. We’ve dragged ours down rivers, beach hopping, camping, hiking and to the neighborhood pool. There are a ton of prints to choose from, including the awesome National Parks Collection. They also make a Mini Towel and an Ultralight Towel for when space is an issue. LOVE these things. >> from $27.95

>> We love these little strands of ENO Camp Lights. Ten feet of little battery-powered LEDs in either white or multi-colored give off just enough light to be fun and atmospheric, but not obnoxious. There are 4 different modes depending on your mood and they also have a built-in little hook for hanging. We use them in the tent and camper as a little nightlight for the boys, but you can string them up anywhere you want a little pop of fun and light. >> $24.95

>> This is so cool. HitchFire is a hitch-mountable, super powerful propane grill that can go anywhere your vehicle can; camping, tailgating, skiing, the park... This beefy F-20 model has two burners for feeding the whole crew and the handy swingarm feature provides easy access to the car’s contents. My husband would LOVE this thing. >> from $549

>> You guys already know that I love Rumpl’s Blankets, but their Everywhere Mat is also a key piece of our gear. We use it outside the tent for shoes and dry bags and loose stuff, but it’s also awesome for picnics, kiddo sporting events, beach days and getting on your ski boots. This thing repels sand, pet hair, stains and smells and folds down into super compact little envelope for easy packing. It has loops for staking down the corners and a waterproof underside. We love it. >> $79

>> Send the kiddos of any age on a little adventure in camp with this Find & Seek Scavenger Hunt Card Game. It comes with 35 cards that encourage them to look around them and see things they might not have noticed. >> $12.99

>> So… you might argue that a portable toilet is not the sexiest gift and you would be so right. BUT, I promise you, a Cleanwaste Toilet System is one of the most baller gifts you can give an adventurer. It’s super tidy, comfortable and easy to use and the environmental impact is huge. The GO Anywhere Toilet folds up into a little briefcase-sized package that’s easily stowed for travel. The Wag Bags are super easy to use and include TP and a hand wipe for easy peasy clean up. And if you go for the whole GO Anywhere Total System, you also get a privacy shelter and easy-carry backpack. Sexy? Nope. One of the best things we’ve owned for more than 10 years? 100%. >> from $29.99

>> If your adventurer is a National Parks hound, hook them up with one of Epic Adventure Map’s Scratch Off Posters to track their progress. They have several varieties to choose from, including some for specific parks, like Yosemite. When you scratch off the little tree, there’s a pretty photo from the park behind it, so you end up with some wall art, too. Plus, Epic Adventure Maps is a family-run company and they plant a tree for each poster sold. Win WIn. >> from $29.99

>> Wondering if Yeti is worth it? The answer is a hard yes. We have a battery of Yeti products, including a giant Tundra 160 Hard Cooler for our raft and it’s baller. We’re always scheduled to use our food last because our cooler is the only one that’s still ice cold on day 6 of a mid-summer desert trip. We also have a Tundra 35 day cooler and a somewhat embarrassing collection of Drinkware that we use day in and day our at home and away. I keep wanting to buy a new one, but there’s just no need since my 5-year-old Rambler still looks brand new. Yeti just makes an awesome product. >>

Books for Outdoor Lovers

There and Back: Photographs from the Edge by Jimmy Chin

Trail Meals by Chef Corso

The Emerald Mile: The Epic Story of the Fastest Ride in History Through the Heart of the Grand Canyon by Kevin Fedarko

A Camping Spree with Mr. Magee by Chris Van Dusen [one of our very favorites]

Atlas of the National Parks by Jon Waterman

Adventure Journal Magazine

Bikepacking: Exploring the Roads Less Cycled by Stefan Amato

Let’s Get Lost: The World’s Most Stunning Remote Locations by Finn Beales

The Man Behind the Maps: Legendary Ski Artist James Niehues by Todd Bennett Ben Farrow & Jason Blevins

Wanderlust USA by Cam Honan

Epic Bike Rides of the Americas by Lonely Planet

100 Hikes of a Lifetime: The World’s Ultimate Scenic Trails by Kate Siber

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gift guide: men

I LEARNED pretty early on from Free to Be You and Me not to make assumptions about which things in the world are meant for ‘girls’ or ‘boys.’ So I usually stay away from ‘mens’ and ‘women’s’ gifts because it can be pretty limiting. Generally you want to search for and choose a perfect gift for your special people based on their interests and passions and not worry about who it’s marketed to. BUT, I get SO many requests for ideas specifically for the men in your lives that I’m giving the dudes their own special spotlight. Obvs there are as many ‘man’ gift options out there as there are crazy hobbies, passions and dudes, but hopefully this will spark some ideas. And of course, most of these things would be awesome gifts for the women you love, too, so keep your mind and heart open while you read. Whether your man is most comfortable splattered in mud on the trails or clean + dry at home, there’s something on this list that they’ll love. GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS. xo

man stuff

>> Ok this is just the coolest gift for anyone you love who’s into birding or nature or photography. Bird Buddy is a smart bird feeder with an AI-powered high-res camera that takes photos and live streams them straight to your phone so you can see and identify the little guys visiting your home. It’s solar powered and super durable, too. LOVE it. >> $299

>> Take style, performance and comfort up like 18 notches with Vuori. Their crazy SOFT performance + loungewear goes seamlessly from workout to WFH to chilling without a blink. And Vuori makes their products with ethics and sustainability in mind, so you can feel good about feeling SO good in your clothes. My husband LOVES so many Vuori pieces, like the Manhattan Button Down + Meta Pant for work or golf,  Kore Shorts + Strato Tech Tees for the gym and THE softest Joggers for lounging. You pretty much can’t go wrong with any of their awesome pieces. >> prices vary

>> Tidbyt is a handsome, retro display that you can connect to 100+ apps to show real-time weather, sports stats, stock tickers, Spotify tracks and tons more. It can give you a ski report, quiz you about trivia or tell you when the next bus is coming, all without having to look constantly at your phone or laptop. So you can enjoy yourself and still get the info you want in real time. It comes in beech or walnut to match any decor and you can even personalize the top panel. Such a cool gift. >> $199

>> Hedley & Bennett is the industry gold standard for high quality aprons, awesome for pit masters, home chefs, artists, tinkerers and general mess-makers. They have a variety of styles and fabrics depending on what it’ll be used for, including a heavy duty waxed canvas that just gets a solid wipe down when it’s dirty. And now they’ve partnered with the NFL to create a whole line of NFL Essential Aprons and Chef’s Knives honoring all 32 teams in the league to help favorite fan take their tailgating next level. GO TEAM! >> $129

>> Fly: The Big Book of Basketball Fashion tells a comprehensive visual story of the intersection of fashion and basketball. From the NBA’s inception until now, explore how the sport and its style icons have changed. >> $40 

>> Bucketgolf is a cross between mini golf and golf, but you can play it anywhere; yard, beach, tailgating,  camping… any place you have enough space to set up a rad course and it comes with a handy bag to drag it around in. It’s super easy to set up and you can design a totally different course each time. >> $114.99

>> Challenge your favorite music-lover to a game of Lyrically Correct. This cool music trivia game comes in several editions depending on the type of music you’re passionate about and will have you dancing, rapping, rhyming, laughing, singing and basically just having a blast. >> $25

>> This Topo Designs Global Briefcase is such a perfect blend of form + function whether heading across town or overseas. It’s bomber, super stylish and can be carried in three different ways, with leather handles, a detachable shoulder strap or hidden backpack straps. It also has a pass-though panel for attaching to a wheelie bag for travel and big exterior pockets for keeping essentials close at hand. >> $129

>> North Drinkware hand-blows THE coolest glasses with some of the country’s most celebrated peaks molded into the bottom using USGS data, so you know it’s legit. There are peaks from 15 states and Japan represented [this is Long’s Peak]. They also have really pretty laser-cut topographic Coasters that would make an awesome set. All of their products are made in the USA [most in OR] and your purchase helps give back to the mountains you love, making it a double whammy. Yes, please. >> $56

>> I gave my dad these Grey’s Outdoor Slipper Boots and he LOVES them. The best of both form and function, the handsome wool blend is cozy and warm, but the rubber sole allows you to leave the house so you can take out the trash or run for a coffee. They have a Mule version, too. >> $118

>> More than a cool party trick, this Cocktail Smoker Kit will infuse your favorite recipe with a unique depth of flavor [plus it does look really cool]. It comes with everything you need, including 4 different types of wood chips to experiment with. Very cool. >> $35.99

>> Love someone who loves to make their own pizza? These Dreamfarm Scizza Pizza Scissors will elevate their game for sure. They have a heat-resistant spatula base and curved stainless blades that don’t drag your toppings off while you cut. And you’ll look like a legit Italian pizza chef, so the cool factor is high. They’re dishwasher safe and finger-safe, too. Molto bello. >> $34.95

>> NOCS Provisions Binoculars are compact, waterproof and built for exploring the unknown. The 8 fun, bright colors they come in belie their serious ruggedness. We’ve dragged ours down rivers and up mountains and they’re easy to use, super durable and awesome. You can also get a cool Woven Tapestry Strap to go keep them safe and secure. And they just added a SUPER cool Photo Rig Smartphone Adapter that allows you to photograph what you can see through your binoculars. SO fun. >> from $95

>> Make lasting memories around the campfire at home or on the go with a Solo Stove. There’s no need for white rabbits with these because they’re totally smokeless. They come in several sizes depending on your space, including a tabletop version for intimate little fires. They now also come in some awesome colors. They’re easy to clean, easy to assemble, durable and portable. And of course, there are a bunch of rad accessories to go with them. This is an awesome gift for homebodies, tailgaters and adventurers alike. >> from $119

>> I love this sweet Custom Travel Map that highlights up to 25 locations of your choice. It also includes a name, date and a caption that you love to commemorate special journeys. >> from $60

>> You can go totally gourmet on your day trips or short getaways [or just have super cold drinks] with Yeti’s impressive Hopper M20 Backpack. It’s roomy enough for all you want to haul and durable enough for any type of adventure. It comes in 4 handsome colors >> $325

>> Royal Stag’s exquisite custom hats are painstakingly crafted by hand in Colorado using traditional methods with an eye toward modern styling. The result is a timeless heirloom piece that would be a gift passed down for generations. >>

>> Nomadix Original Towels are awesome for travel, camping, yoga or post-sweaty workouts. These quick-dry beauties are made from recycled bottles, resist odor, sand + pet hair AND pack down super small and light. There are a ton of prints to choose from, including the National Parks Collection. Our whole little family has them and loves them. They also make a Mini Towel for your gym or golf bag, Changing Ponchos and Festival Blankets that are all awesome. >> from $27.95

>> Bring back the old-school vinyl sound with a new-school beautiful Pro-Ject Debut Turntable. This one has a carbon fiber tonearm and comes in several really gorgeous colors to elevate any space. I gave one to my husband last Christmas and he LOVES it, it has been such a cool addition to our space and music-listening. >> $599

>> Courant makes super sleek, functional wireless chargers that blend perfectly into your decor, like the handsome MAG:3 Dual Device Charging Tray. It has been updated with both MagSafe and Qi technology, plus it has a USB-C port on the back so it can charge ALL the things AND function as a pretty catchall for your other essentials. Just set your devices down on the gorgeous Belgian linen or leather pad and carry on while it powers up. So pretty and useful for your office, kitchen, entryway or anywhere else. >> from $150

>> Give your dude the gift of timeless music on vinyl from a favorite local record shop like Paradise Found Records & Music in Boulder. You’ll very likely be supporting two people’s passions with one awesome present. >>

>> The Cocktail Atlas: Around the World in 200 Drinks is such a cool marriage of mixology and culture. You’ll learn about the origin of specific cocktails, yes, but also about the customs, topography and more about the region. Plus there are recipes for each. It’s very cool. >> $40

>> Every good tailgate or outdoor party needs music or to be able to hear the big game. Turtlebox Speakers are loud, crazy durable, portable and waterproof so you don’t have to worry about it when the sleet starts coming down at halftime. They come in a bunch of colors, too. See the Gift Guide for Tailgaters + Sports Fans for more ideas for this crew. >> $399

>> I LOVE my Japanese House Shoes. They’re unisex, machine washable, reversible, roll up super tiny for travel and are just straight comfy. I wear them at home all of the time, but I really love them for travel. Some now come with a durable leather sole, too. >> from $59

>> Fellow set out to make a to-go mug that doesn’t compromise the taste of what’s inside. Their Carter Move Mugs are designed to tick all the boxes of taste, durability, heat-retention and style. Choose from 11 awesome colors or one of their awesome Artist Series Mugs. I LOVE mine. >> from $27.50

>> Legendary ski artist, James Niehues, painted the trail maps of more than 200 iconic ski resorts. The Man Behind the Maps compiles all of that awesome detailed artwork into one beautiful place for proper pouring over. >> $95

>> Rummikub is such a fun game. We’ve played it with family ranging in age from 10-78 and everyone loves it. It’s a perfect combination of strategy and luck and it’s one of the best-selling games of all time, so… >> $21.99

>> Booze & Vinyl 2 is a follow-up to the super popular book thatcombines two favorites into one. It pairs craft and traditional cocktail recipes with classic records from the 50s to 2000s to help create a serious vibe. This version has 70 more albums and 140 more recipes, so if your music-lover already has the first volume, this won’t be a repeat. >> $27

>> Your foodie and hot pizza lover will be obsessed with Brightland’s Pizza Oil. It’s a hot, herbaceous blend of spices and their awesome California olive oil ready to give your pizza the smackdown. You can also put it on eggs, veggies, pasta… anything that needs a little extra extra..>> $28

>> The SKI Passport is part journal, part guide to the most rad US ski resorts. You can use it to find your next destination or to document the pow you shredded. Keep stickers, notes and mementos inside so you can relive and share your best days out on the hill. >> $24.99

>> Trejo’s Tacos is sooo much more than ‘just’ an awesome cookbook [which it is]. It’s also a li’l autobiography of Danny Trejo, an ex-con turned boxer turned successful actor turned renowned chef and restauranteur. It’s super interesting and inspiring and the recipes are awesome. I’ve been cooking my way through it and haven’t been disappointed yet [the Citrus Shrimp Tostadas are crazy delicious]. >> $28

>> Help relieve tension and tightness and foster muscle recovery with a Theragun. There are several different models to choose from depending on your specific needs. They’re all quiet and come with multiple attachments for different types of therapy. >> from $199

>> These Polaroid x topdrawer Supercolor 600 Cameras are all vintage 80s cameras that have been totally refurbished with analog parts. [except the cool colored moldings, which are new and inspired by 70s and 80s culture]. They use Originals 600 Color or B&W Film and are just so cool. >> $175

>> Brooklyn-based American Heirloom makes State Cutting Boards in the shape of all 50 states. They’ll even inlay a little heart or house to mark a special city or spot in the state. They’re all designed and made in the US from durable, sustainable bamboo and are all made-to-order, so plan ahead. >> from $68

>> This Stanley Adventure Happy Hour Cocktail Shaker Set is one of the MOST used pieces of adventure ‘gear’ we own. It comes with a stainless steel shaker, 2 cups, a citrus reamer and a jigger cap all neatly nested together in a compact package. It’s easy to clean, easy to pack and indestructible. >> $40

>> Boulder local, Alexa Allen, hand forms these gorgeous leather bowls and then inks unique designs on them. They’re perfect catch-alls for keys, watches, rings or any other loose stuff. >> $48

>> After All is Said and Done is a fantastic gift for super serious Deadheads. It documents in-depth the history of the bootlegs that helped define The Dead’s legacy, including the recording, trading and distribution of SO many tapes. It also features epic artwork from some of those cassette covers. >> $50

>> Charleston-based Smithey Ironworks’cast iron and hand-forged carbon steel cookware is stunningly beautiful and deigned to use for life. They call the pieces ‘Modern Heirlooms’ for good reason; they’re just gorgeous. Like all of their pieces, the Cast IronTraditional Skillets are made with a special polishing process that makes for a fantastic non-stick surface. >> from $80

>> Change up your golfer’s next round with a deck of Fore! Cards. There are 50 different suggestions for mixing up each hole, including Scramble, Best Ball and One Club. It’s a super fun way to get out with your buddies and add a bit of silly variety to your game. >> $24.99

>> Pela makes super durable smart phone and tablet cases out of PLANTS and they are fully compostable so they don’t litter the landfill until the end of time. There are lots of really cool designs for every size + model device out there. A gift for your special person and the planet. YES! >> $59.95

>> Everyone loves a snuggly blanket and all of Seek & Swoon’s Throws are inspired by beautiful places around the world, but proudly made here in the USA entirely from recycled yarn. They’re soft and snuggly and they have some great prints, like this Adventure Throw. >> $175

>> The whole crew will love being able to view the night sky through a Celestron Telescope. They make a wide variety of models + price ranges depending on how serious you want to get. We have one designed for travel so we can bring it adventuring and it’s awesome for looking at the moon. >> from $54.95

>> My husband loves his CamelBak Podium Flow Belt for mountain biking. He uses it most for mid-distance rides when one water bottle isn’t quite enough, so he has one in the cage and one in the belt. Plus it has a pocket for tools, a tube and super light jacket. And the Podium Bike Bottles that go with it are his fave. >> $45

>> Barebones Living designs and makes timeless, high quality tools for gardeners and outdoor lovers of all kinds [the Hori Hori Ultimate is one of their most loved and popular tools]. But it’s also a super cool company with a serious mission to ‘build relationships and connect community through food, nature and the pull of fire,’ which they do not only with their amazing products, but also through incredible philanthropic work. Any of their gorgeous things would make a beautiful, thoughtful and useful gift for the gardeners and outdoor lovers you love. See the Gift Guide for Gardeners for more ideas. >>

>> These Personalized Waxed Canvas Dopp Kits are so handsome. They’re handmade in Brooklyn from sturdy, water resistant waxed canvas and the inside is lined with cotton duck canvas for even more durability. They can be personalized with a monogrammed leather tab to make it feel even more special. >> $90

>> Part travelogue and part cookbook, Alpine Cooking is a gorgeous celebration of both the culture and the hearty food of the Alps. Perfect for chefs, wanderlusts and adventurers who will be intrigued by the little stubes, chalets and refugios of this unique region [like my husband].  >>$50 

>> Garmin has a whole collection of incredible tech for the golfers you love. There are several models of the Garmin Approach Smartwatch that come preloaded with more than 41,000 courses around the world to give you the most accurate information. They’re sunlight-readable, too. There’s also a cool Golf Laser Range Finder that boasts accuracy up to 10” from the flag. >> from $149

>> Goldbelly partners with a HUGE variety of small restaurants around the country to ship nostalgic [or new] food favorites to your door. They’ll send pretty much anything your heart desires from samosas to lasagna to kolaches. >> from $25

>> Elevate your ice game like a pro with W&P’s Peak Ice Molds. They have a huge range of molds that produce perfect spheres + spears and crushed + cubed ice for any cold drink you love. Or check out The Ice Box for bulk cubes that doubles as a sleek serving bucket. I gifted it and a few others to my husband and he loves them all, it totally upped his bartending cred. >> from $11

>> OneFortyThree hand-makes stunning molded plywood furniture, lighting and accessories one-by-one in their Nevada studio. They expertly combine industrial materials with natural ones to create beautiful things for your home, like this Acoustic Guitar Stand and gorgeous Office Accessories that would elevate anyone’s space. >> $155

>> At the perfect intersection of form + function, you’ll find Fellow. Self-proclaimed ‘coffee nerds,’ they work tirelessly to create home brewing products that are both gorgeous to look at and fully maximize the coffee-drinking experience for everyone from beginners to award-winning baristas. Their Ode Brew Grinder will give you the perfect grind for your favorite bean [except espresso]. It won the Specialty Coffee Association’s Best New Product Award for 2021, so… See the Gift Guide for Coffee + Tea Lovers for more. >> from $299

>> Thermoworks’ RFX is the newest innovation in professional grade, ultra-dialed wireless meat thermometers. It has a super long range and patent-pending radio frequency technology that will easily and seamlessly guide you to the perfect internal temp. If you love someone who’s serious about their grilling and smoking, this is such an epic gift. >> from $257

>> Nomatic makes minimalist travel bags with maximum organization features. They have a huge range whether you’re headed out for a few days or a few hours. From Luggage to Camera Bags to Laptop Bags,they have travelers covered. This Navigator Lite Sling is perfect for commuting, it’s lightweight, but can fit your small laptop or tablet and all of the other essentials you need to drag around. >> from $99.99

>> Regular bocce is fun, sure. But Playboule LED Lighted Bocce is so much cooler. Each ball has a little light inside that can be turned on and off with just a push. We’ve used our set in our own backyard and camping and it’s so fun. >> $72.95

>> This is so cool. HitchFire is a hitch-mountable, super powerful propane grill that can go anywhere your vehicle can; camping, tailgating, skiing, the park... This beefy F-20 model has two burners for feeding the whole crew and the handy swingarm feature provides easy access to the car’s contents. My husband would LOVE this thing. >> from $549

MORE IN… gift guides

gift guide: bakers

ASIDE FROM the obvious super delicious benefits of baking, there are so many others that make it such a sweet pastime. Baking is for sure some people’s love language [hi there]; it’s such a fantastic way to make someone’s day and let them know that you’re thinking of them. It can be super meditative and therapeutic, so totally counts as self care. It’s also a really lovely way to spend time with someone special, learning their deepest [baking] secrets, sharing memories and exchanging or making new family traditions. And there are SO many beautiful, creative, innovative things out there to help make the process even more delightful that also make just perfect gifts. You might even get a little ‘thank you’ in the form of something extra sweet.

THERE ARE bonus sections in this post just for Mixing Bowls [I love a good vessel] and Baking Cookbooks [click the links to jump there]. Check out the Gift Guide to Baking Stuff for Kids + Teens, too. There are a ton of awesome ideas there for bakers who are young or young at heart. And if you don’t see what you need, reach out, I’m always here for you. GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS. xo

+ I couldn’t love this this Graphic Pie Dusting Set any more. It’s a beautiful collaboration between Brooklyn-based AHeirloom and acclaimed baker, Erin Jeanne McDowell, and it will bring your pies to the next level. Or like 5 more levels. There are two sets to choose from and I love them both. + $33

+ Seasoned bakers and novices alike will all love Caraway’s Bakeware. Stunning to look at? Check. Every piece you could possible need? Check. Non-toxic, non-stick ceramic coating so nothing grody gets into your treats? Check and check. Plus it comes in 7 heavenly colors to delight any baker you love. Sets come in 11 pieces or 5 pieces or you can buy each piece individually to round out a collection. Plus it comes with Caraways’ unique signature storage organizer so everything has a place. LOVE. + from $40

+ If your baker is a staunch ‘measure twice, cut once’ type, then this JK Adams Lovely Baking Rolling Pin Set could be their new BFF. A sweet collaboration between Lovely: A Bake Shop and Vermont-based JK Adams, this set of extra wide, precisely measured, smoothly waxed pins will help you create perfect treats every time. And they’re hand-carved from sustainably forested wood, making them heirloom pieces that will last a lifetime. + from $25

+ GIR’s Baker’s Bundle has a sweet trio of super useful stuff that would make a fab gift. The silicone Pastry Mat has conversions, measurements and other helpful info printed right on it. The Cupcake Liners save all kinds of paper [love mine] and the Oven Mitts are just so cute. It’s all made with GIR’s awesome pharmaceutical-grade silicone, so you know it’s safe and super easy to clean. + $59

+ This Nordic Ware Stacking Cooling Rack is absolutely brilliant for big-batch bakers. It’s twice the cooling space without sacrificing your surfaces for rolling, mixing or frosting. It’s a non-stick copper surface that won’t chip or rust and is fridge and freezer friendly. Plus it all comes apart when you’re done for slim storage. Genius. + $34

+ Great Jones’ Bakeware is more than a SUPER pretty face. It’s scratch-resistant, dishwasher-friendly, PFOA-free and designed to release your goods with ease. They make bright, fun Cake Pans, Loaf Pans, Pie Dishes, Muffin Pans and more all in fabulous colors that would appeal to stylish tweens, teens and adults. I love mine. + from $30

+ AHeirloom makes gorgeous things out of wood in Brooklyn and I’ve admired their Wooden Cake Stands for a long time. They’re understated, classic, handmade and gorgeous. They’ll also personalize one for you for a stunning, extra special wedding or ‘just because’ gift. + from $80

+ Get your French on with this Staub Enameled Cast Iron Crepe Pan. The long wooden handle doesn’t get hot and the enameled coating won’t rust, chip or crack. It comes complete with a wooden Spatula and Spreader, so all you need is a good recipe [or this mix] to get started. Oui Oui. + $99.95

+ Nordic Ware has a kind of mind blowing collection of unique, intricate and elegant Bundt Pans. It’s Nordic Ware, so you know you’re going to get a super uniform, beautifully baked cake and these pans ensure that it’ll be stunning, too. I’m not sure I could ever choose just one, they’re so pretty. + from $37.95

+ Gift your baker time and perfect uniformity with this Ateco Croissant Roller Cutter. It rolls out 6 perfect croissants with each revolution. The stainless steel roller ensures there’s nothing gross being rolled into your flaky treats and it’s easy to clean. + $59.99

+ How pretty is this Agate Cake Slicer and Knife Set? The handles are natural agate stone, so will vary from piece to piece. It will add instant elegance to your bakers cake + pie presentation. These would be a pretty hostess or wedding gift, too. + $48

+ Holy gorgeous. These Estelle Colored Glass Hand-Blown Cake Stands are inspired by the founder’s grandmother, ‘Big Mama,’ who collected vintage colored glass pieces and used them to serve her fabulous baked goods. These are hand-blown by artisans in Poland and they are a show-stopping gift. + $225

+ You know I love Mosser Glass anything and these Colored Batter Bowls are no exception. The handle and pour spout make it ideal for batters and it’s microwave and dishwasher safe. It’s made in a family-run Ohio factory that’s been using the same molds + machines for decades, giving it that lovely vintage look. And it comes in 4 beautiful colors. Love. + from $65

+ Gift your favorite baker a super extra Fancy Sprinkles Decorating Kit and then sit back and watch the creativity fly. It comes with everything they need for photo-ready treats. + from $30

+ Everything’s more fun when you have pretty ‘tools’ to work with. These ceramic Goldenrod Ceramic Measuring Cups are painted with pretty, delicate botanicals from an original Isa Salazar watercolor that will bring a bit of elegance to your baking. But you can still chuck them in the dishwasher when you’re done. Set of 4. + $28

+ For the super precise bakers you love, this Zwilling Enfinigy Digital Kitchen Scale is a must. It’s accurate to within 1g, but can hold up to 22 lbs [and measures in both grams + ounces]. It’s cordless, has a handy tare function so you can measure in almost any container and the seamless glass surface is super easy to clean. $49.95

+ Crow Canyon Home is a family-owned business that has been making fabulous enamelware since 1977. I love their Splatter and Vintage collections and there is a whole big line of Bakeware that just makes me smile. All of the pieces are a porcelain enamel over steel, so they are tough as nails. You can put them on the grill, in the oven and even right on the campfire. And they’re totally dishwasher safe. They also have a bunch of Trays + Platters that would make perfect presentation pieces for your baker’s finished products. + from $16

+ This Sur La Table Ultimate Cookie Cutter Set has everything you need to bake + decorate beautiful cookies all year round. It includes cutters, pastry bags, decorating dips and more. + $34.95

+ Help your baker feel like a pro with some super beautiful Baking Boxes to showcase their delicious efforts. CherCake on Etsy has a fun collection of supplies to make any baker look legit. + from $1.99

+ These pretty Hawkins New York Simple Measuring Cups are anything but simple in my eyes. They’re so pretty with the brass finish, nest perfectly and come in a cute little cotton pouch for storage. They have Simple Measuring Spoons, too. + $48

+ Love a pandemic bread maker? Help them channel their culinary creativity with this gorgeous handmade black walnut + brass Bread Slasher. It’s crazy sharp and comes with a pine box for safe storage. There’s even a Left Hand version for your favorite south paws. + $20

+ Williams Sonoma has an exclusive magical collection of Harry Potter baking and cooking stuff. It’s all really clever and would be a fantastic gift for fans of the series or lovers of serious HP fans. + from $7.95

Mixing Bowls

+ I was gifted these Mosser Glass Mixing Bowls several years ago and I love them so much. Each piece is hand-crafted from decades-old molds at Mosser Glass in Ohio and the colors are gorgeous. I use mine for mixing, serving and as a fruit bowl on my counter and they all nest neatly together for easy storage. Mosser also makes equally beautiful Batter Bowls and Cake Stands that would all make stunning gifts. + from $83

+ I love it when you come across something beautiful and useful that just so happens to also be super sustainable, like Material’s reBowls and reBoards. They’re made entirely from pulverized recycled plastic kitchen scraps [75%] and renewable sugarcane [25%], so there’s no virgin plastic involved. They’re also BPA-free, dishwasher safe and SO pretty. The reBowl comes in 5 gorgeous colors. + from $25

+ This 3-piece Great Jones Stir Crazy mixing bowl set is so cute. The ceramic bowls are microwave, dishwasher and freezer safe. They have a handy pour spout, nest for easy storage and come in 2 different color ways. Love that retro design. + $95

+ This 7-piece Bamboozle Nesting Bowl Set is sooo pretty and useful, yes. But it’s also made of biodegradable, dishwasher-safe, sustainably grown bamboo fiber. Like when you're done with them, you can literally just compost them and return them to the earth. Awesome. + $70

+ Crow Canyon Home Enamel Bowls come in a bunch of fabulous sizes and colors that would be awesome for baking. Choose one or make your own pretty set [that Large Salad Bowl is a great start]. Enamelware is super durable, oven safe and dishwasher safe, plus it’s so pretty. + from $16

+ Is it nerdy to love a set of bowls? Like really LOVE it? Well, fear of nerding out never stopped me before. This Duralex Lys 9-Piece Glass Bowl Set is one of my favorite and most-used items in the kitchen. Everyday. They nest perfectly for easy storage, go in the dishwasher and are otherwise seriously perfect. + $38.99

+ I love these Oxo Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls. They’re roomy and durable and they have a rubber grip on the bottom to keep them from sliding around. I use the biggie one constantly. + $60

+ These Food52 x Rosti Margrethe Nested Mixing Bowl beauties were designed in Denmark in 1954 and have seriously stood the test of time. They have an anti-slip ring around the bottom, so there’s no flinging your batter. There’s a handy little handle, a pour spout and lids for each of the 3 bowls. It comes in a ‘small’ and a ‘large’ size set and 9 stunning colors. Love it. + from $75

Baking Cookbooks

Chicano Bakes: Recipes for Mexican Pan Dulce, Tamales, and My Favorite Desserts by Esteban Castillo

The Essential Book of Vegan Bakes by Holly Jade

Baking with Kim-Joy: Cute and Creative Bakes to Make You Smile by Kim-Joy

Milk Bar: All About Cookies by Christina Tosi

Pieometry by Lauren Ko

Mastering Bread by Marc Vetri & Claire Kopp McWilliams

Tava: Eastern European Baking and Desserts From Romania & Beyond by Irina Georgescu

Cannelle et Vanille Bakes Simple: A New Way to Bake Gluten-Free by Aran Goyoaga

100 Cookies by Sarah Kieffer

Sheet Pan Sweets: Simple, Streamlined Dessert Recipes by Molly Gilbert

Paleo Baking at Home by Michele Rosen aka Paleo Running Momma

Macaron School by Camila Hurst

MORE IN… foodies + chefs + bakers

gift guide: foodies + home chefs

I’M A huge believer in having the ‘right tool’ for the job. It just makes such a big difference. My sweet mom gave my husband and I some gorgeous new knives for our anniversary this year, and aside from the tiny nicks I’ve taken out of several of my finger tips, they have honestly just made my daily life that much better. The ones I had been using were a wedding gift and are now 13+ years old and no matter how many times my husband tries to sharpen them, they’re just not great to work with. The shiny new [sharp af] ones make me super happy several times a day everyday. They’re def the right tool for the job.

IF YOU love someone who loves to cook or is passionate about eating good food, hook them up with the 'right tools’ so they can feel that joy in their daily life, too. There are SO many truly gorgeous, effective and beautifully-made things out there and they make fantastic gifts. There are tons of ideas in this guide, including a whole section for Cookbooks. And check out A Few of My Favorite Kitchen Tools for more ideas. If you don’t see what you need, reach out, I’m always here for you. GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS. xo

Gifts for Foodies + Home Chefs

+ I have a tenuous relationship with meat. I like to eat it, but I’m kind of grossed out cooking it, especially raw chicken. So my Thermapen ONE is absolutely essential to my piece of mind. It’s the only meat thermometer I trust to be accurate. It’s easy to use, easy to clean and quick. My husband loves it too because I no longer look sideways at his grilling mumbling ‘are you sure that’s cooked?’ And it comes in 10 really pretty colors, making it a truly fantastic gift. + $105

+ I have several friends obsessed with this Chef'n Citrus Juicer and I totally get why. Aside from being super pretty, it also handles all kinds of citrus like a total boss, purportedly leaving not a single drop of precious juice left in the rind. And it’s easier to squeeze than the average reamer. So whether you need just ‘the juice of one lemon’ or want a whole fresh glass, this beast can handle it and comes in pretty colors, too. + from $29.99

+ Your foodie and hot pizza lover will be obsessed with Brightland’s Pizza Oil. It’s a hot, herbaceous blend of spices and their awesome California olive oil ready to give your pizza the smackdown. You can also put it on eggs, veggies, pasta… anything that needs a little extra extra.+ $28

+ Whether your home chef is seasoned or just starting out, they will LOVE Caraway Cookware [more than 35k 5-star reviews almost guarantee it]. The non-toxic ceramic coating makes it yuck free, non-stick, easy to clean and even to cook with. The Cookware Set comes with a super clever storage system to keep it all organized and it’s STUNNING in 6 ‘classic’ colors and now 4 ‘iconic’ finishes that will elevate any kitchen. They also just introduced two Mini’s for smaller jobs. Anything Caraway makes counts as a spectacular gift. + from $85

+ If you love a home chef who’s adamant that everything’s better from scratch, gift them this Verve Culture Artisan Tortilleria Kit. The authentic 8” cast iron tortilla press is handmade in Mexico by local artisans. The kit also includes a handmade napkin to keep the tortillas warm and a booklet with some history, instructions and recipes. You can also use this press for lots of other savory treats. It’s easy to use, easy to clean and super pretty. Pair it with some Masa Harina and they’ll be ready to start churning out fresh tortillas. + $48

+Diaspora Co. sells gorgeous single-origin spices + teas sourced directly from farmers in India and Sri Lanka. They pay 6x the commodity rate to ensure that growers of these exquisite spices make a living wage and the result is stunning. You get super fresh, high quality single-origin ingredients for your favorite dishes and the farmers get supported for their hard work. Plus it’s all sent in THE most beautiful packaging, making it just a perfect gift for chefs, teachers, neighbors or anyone else who loves a little spice in their life. + from $8

+ You already know how much I love Hedley & Bennet Aprons. Now H&B has worked tirelessly to design a set of Knives with the same incredible quality, pro chef collaboration and attention to detail. There’s a Chef’s Knife, Utility Knife and a Bread Knife, all made with 3 layers of Japanese steel and that all come in 3 colors [it’s the Shiso Green for me]. Buy one or the whole set for a really tops gift [set to deliver in early December]. + from $65

+ I’m having a terrible time trying to choose my favorite of the 6 gorgeous colors of Material’s reBoard. But, made entirely of kitchen plastic scraps and sugar cane, these sustainable beauties are way more than a pretty face. Plus a full 50% of proceeds from the sale of these eco-friendly boards goes to charity. That’s a serious win-win gift. There’s also a Mini for smaller jobs. + $35

+ Great Jones makes GORGEOUS cookware and bakeware that’s both stunning to look at AND a chef’s dream to use. ‘The Duchess’ dutch oven is lauded for her good looks and even cooking. She comes in 8 sunny colors and moves effortlessly from stovetop to oven to table, looking just lovely at every stop. I LOVE our Small Fry and Sheet Show Pans for their incredible durability and continued non-stick quality, even after lots of abuse. Read more about why I love Great Jones here.+ from $40

+ I love this pretty handmade Cookbook Holder. It’s been carefully constructed by hand in FL with a solid straight edge to keep your book open to right page. Of course, it can hold your tablet, too. There are several colors and shapes to choose from that would make a really special gift. + $60

+ I use my whole collection of these GIR Suction Lids ALL the time. They are so useful for keeping things warm, stopping butter from splattering all over the microwave, keeping the flys out of your salad… I love them. You can buy them one at a time or in a set of 5 or 10 and in 9 pretty colors. + from $7.95

+ This Everybody Timer just makes me happy. Designed by super creative Dusen Dusen for Areaware, it’s just a really funky, fun and totally analog kitchen timer so you don’t burn stuff. + $48

+ Hedley & Bennett is The industry gold standard for high quality aprons, awesome for pitmasters, home chefs, artists, tinkerers and general mess-makers. They have a variety of styles and fabrics depending on what it’ll be used for, including a heavy duty waxed canvas that just gets a solid wipe down when it’s dirty. I absolutely love mine. + from $75

+ Give your chefs a stunning canvas for their art with a handmade Dinner Set by Boulder-based artist, Bridget Dorr. I absolutely love the organic shape of the 10” dinner plate, 8” salad plate and 5” side plate. She has several color glazes to choose from. Such a gorgeous and special gift. + $105/set

+ Brightland’s gorgeous California-grown oils, vinegars and honeys are a beautiful gift for anyone who loves to cook or eat. And now they’ve added the Mini Artist Series to their their collection of perfectly curated Capsules. It features 4 of their most popular infusions in miniature so you can find your favorite. Of course, it’s stunningly packaged for gifting, too. Learn more about why I LOVE Brightland here. + from $22

+ Named after the awesome hole-in-the-wall spots in Chengdu [so good they attract people like flies], Fly By Jing took the culinary world by storm with their unique Sichuan Chili Crisp. Your spice-lover’s taste buds won’t know what hit them. + from $12

+ I love my Ekobo Recycled Bamboo Colander & Pour Bowl Set. The Colander works just as you’d expect, with nice little handles on each side. The Pour Bowl can be used for mixing and has an awesome spout for pouring batter or sauces. But you can also use it to catch the water from the Colander and then use the water for cooking or watering your plants. Brilliant. It comes in 2 sizes and 5 colors and cleans super easily. + from $35

+ Oh I love every little thing that Dansk ever made and these Kobenstyle Saucepans exemplify why. They’re just so classic and beautiful and the colors are perfection. And the lid doubles as a trivet for easy transfer to the table. I use this 1QT size to make hot chocolate and single soup servings. They have a size for every job and they’re all stunning. + from $55

+ Every chef needs a good kitchen towel and Geometry Tea Towels are my favorite. They’re so pretty, super duper soft, quick-drying [ie. not stinky], actually absorbent AND they’re made entirely from recycled post-consumer materials. I now look at my ‘old’ towels sideways and am considering retiring them all to our bike wash station. Because of the enormous selection of prints, they are a seriously gorgeous gift for just about anyone on your list. + $16 [Use any of my Geometry links for 15% off your purchase]

+ OH this is the kind of gift I can get behind 100%. Olympia Provisions in Portland, OR will send your foodie a mouthwatering selection of their authentic, handmade, artisan salamis along with some other crazy delicious little nibbles. You can choose a single Sampler or go for a Monthly Subscription to keep the dream alive. + from $21

+ Is it weird to love a compost bin? Because I do. I’ve had my Bamboozle Bamboo Composter sitting on my counter for like 8 years and I still love it. It’s pretty, doesn’t smell, holds enough so that I don’t have to go dump it out constantly. It’s dishwasher safe, has a filtered lid and comes in TWELVE really pretty colors to match any decor. If you’re going to display your compost, it better be pretty. + $40

+ Truff gourmet hot sauce blends ripe red chili peppers infused with black truffle oil with a few other high-quality, natural ingredients for a super unique flavor. Douse it on eggs, burgers or avocado toast for a next-level flavor experience. All of their sauces are GF and vegan and have no preservatives. Choose the Original, Hotter or White [white truffle infused and my boys’ fave] OR gift all three with this baller Variety Pack. They also make Mayo, Pasta Sauces and Truffle Oil with the same attention to next level flavor. + from $17.99

+ Get the most out of your precious spices by grinding them fresh. This battery-powered FinaMill Spice Grinder has a super solid ceramic grinding mechanism, a wide opening for refills and uses a pod system to keep spices from mixing together. Plus it comes in 6 really beautiful colors so you won’t mind having it out. Love it. + $44.99

+ If you love an adventuring foodie or chef, Hydro Flask’s Outdoor Kitchen Collection is awesome. There are crazy durable plates and flatware AND insulated bowls that keep food hot or cold while you’re out in the wild or at a BBQ next door. I have a set of the bowls and I LOVE them for taking food to picnics. + from $19.95

+ Season like a serious pro with Spiceology’s massive selection of unique and delicious chef-created and approved Spices, Spice Blends + Rubs. They have a huge selection of individual jars [a few you’d expect and a BUNCH you wouldn’t] or Variety Packs that would make just awesome gifts for the novice or pro pit masters, bakers and chefs you love. + from $6.99

+ With sous vide cooking, everything is perfectly tender, moist and at the right temp every time. An  Anova Precision Cooker is the only tool you need to make batch or individual sous vide meat, veg, soups and more at home. It has both manual and wifi-enabled controls so you can walk away while cooking. Pair it with an Anova Precision Vacuum Sealer for a real-deal setup. + from $149

+ Take homemade pizza night to a whole other level with an Ooni Outdoor Pizza Oven. The Fyra pictured here is wood-pellet powered and lightweight enough to drag to the campsite, the beach, your neighbor’s yard, the park or anywhere else you’d like to chill and make amazing pizza. There are several different models to choose from depending on size and how you want to cook [gas or wood pellets]. And of course, they have Pizza Peels and other rad Accessories to go with it. What a baller gift. + from $350

+ Sometimes the simplest things make the biggest difference and that is def the case with Material's Good Shears. They’re constructed of German steel with a removable silicone handle for easy cleaning. And you can chuck the whole lot in the dishwasher. Plus they’re so dang pretty. + $35

+ I love this Emile Henry Storage Bowl. It’s gorgeous, yes, but also totally brilliant. The bottom acts as a dark cellar for onions, potatoes and garlic, while the top holds all of your fruit. The cork lid absorbs moisture and keeps the flies away. It comes in 2 sizes and 7 colors. I’m so impressed with how long it keeps stuff fresh. + from $100

+ Have a chef who has everything? I’m willing to bet they don’t have a Hong Kong Egg Waffle Pan. These treats are a favorite street snack and also called bubble waffles or puffles. You can make your very own at home with this unique pan. My kids would LOVE everything about those waffles. + $75

+ Is it nerdy to love a set of bowls? Like really LOVE it? Well, fear of nerding out never stopped me before. This Duralex Lys 9-Piece Glass Bowl Set is one of my favorite and most-used items in the kitchen. Everyday. They nest perfectly for easy storage, go in the dishwasher and are otherwise seriously perfect. + $38.99

+ Send your foodie the gift of their absolute favorite food. Goldbelly partners with a HUGE variety of small bakeries and restaurants around the country to ship nostalgic [or new] favorites to your door. They’ll send pretty much anything your heart desires from samosas to lasagna to kolaches [or these H&H Bagels]. + from $25

+ Give your chef the gift of a bit more time with an Anyday Dish. You can make a legit gourmet meal in one bowl ENTIRELY in the microwave in like 9 minutes. For real. Even David Chang says so. Learn more about why I love this thing here. + from $30

+ Instantly add massive flavor to your dishes with Boulder-based Fireworks Chef’s Butters. These little ‘bursts’ of magic come in both savory and sweet flavors and are all made with hormone-free grass-fed butter. YUM. + from $6

+ This is so cool. HitchFire is a hitch-mountable, super powerful propane grill that can go anywhere your vehicle can; camping, tailgating, skiing, the park... This beefy F-20 model has two burners for feeding the whole crew and the handy swingarm feature provides easy access to the car’s contents. My husband would LOVE this thing. + from $549

+ Runamok is best known for their fabulous infused Maple Syrups (hello magical Sparkle Syrup). Now they’ve taken the same passion for creating amazing flavors and applied it to a collection of delicious Honey, including 3 uniquely flavored Hot Honey infusions. Pick one or a set of ALL of the delicious flavors. + $9.95

+ ‘Tis the season for Sur La Table to bring out their fantastic collection of food-related Ornaments. Everything from a Ramen Bowl to a Sectioned Pig to Camembert is represented and would make a fun and lasting gift for your food lover. + from $15

Cookbooks

I LOVE thumbing through a good cookbook. They’re just beautiful to look at and so inspiring. And they make gorgeous gifts. Pick an old favorite or try something outside your comfort zone. They make a fantastic gift all on their own, or pair one with a special spice blend, pretty dish towel or useful kitchen gadget for a really thoughtful gift.

Good Fish: 100 Sustainable Seafood Recipes from the Pacific Coast
by Becky Selengut

Smitten Kitchen Keepers: New Classics for Your Forever Files
by Deb Perelman

The Food of Oaxaca
by Alejandro Ruiz

The Kitchen Without Borders: Recipes and Stories from Refugee and Immigrant Chefs
by The Offbeat Chefs

Half Baked Harvest: Super Simple
by Tieghan Gerard

Why We Cook: Women on Food, Identity and Connection
by Lindsay Gardner

Salt Fat Acid Heat
by Samin Nosrat

Ottolenghi Flavor
by Yotam Ottolenghi

Sous Vide at Home
by Lisa Q. Fetterman

The Wok
by J. Kenji Lopez-Alt

Ready or Not!
by Michelle Tam [Nom Nom Paleo]

Food Between Friends
by Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Julie Tanous

The Arabesque Table: Contemporary Recipes From The Arab World
by Reem Kassis

Joy of Cooking
by Irma S. Rombauer

Cook Real Hawai’i
by Sheldon Simeon

Beautiful Boards
by Maegan Brown

Milk Street Tuesday Nights
by Christopher Kimball

The Clean Plate: Eat, Reset, Heal
by Gwyneth Paltrow

Coconut & Sambal: Recipes from My Indonesian Kitchen
by Lara Lee

In Bibi’s Kitchen
by Hawa Hassan

Made in India
by Meerah Sodha

Chinese Takeout Cookbook
by Kwoklyn Wan

Old World Italian
by Mimi Thorisson

Cook's Science
by Cook’s Illustrated

MORE IN… foodies + chefs + bakers

gift guide: coffee + tea lovers

FEW THINGS inspire as much passion and joy on a daily basis in SO many people than a piping hot cup of coffee or tea. Whether it’s in a styrofoam cup from the Dunkin’ drive through or made with near-surgical precision in your own kitchen, those first sips are pure magic. Which is probs why people have NFL-style love for their hot brew of choice. It brings friends, family and colleagues together. It’s the one self-care ritual that almost everyone makes time for. It gives space for people to seriously nerd out. And it just brings a lot of happiness. So naturally, all of the beautiful things out there to support these habits make really fantastic gifts.

I AM an all-day tea drinker. I love it hot or iced, morning and night. My husband has been intrigued by and tried just about every coffee-making method out there, from pour-over to stovetop to french pressing on the side of a river, so collectively we’ve tested out a lot of awesome products. You can shop this guide for Coffee Lovers or Tea Lovers and by Things Both Can Agree Are Awesome [click these links to jump to a section]. I have also included a few of My Favorite Ceramicists whose mugs would make a really gorgeous gift. I love functional art and there’s nothing more meaningful than seeing [and drinking out of] something each morning that reminds you of someone special. So make yourself a hot cup of something, settle in and enjoy. GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS. xo

Brands I Love: Fellow

image : Fellow Products

I LOVE nothing more than a truly brilliant intersection of form + function. It’s just a beautiful thing when something works like a dream and is also stunning to look at. And Fellow has absolutely nailed both. They’re self-proclaimed ‘coffee nerds’ and work tirelessly to create products that fully maximize the coffee-drinking experience for everyone from beginners to award-winning baristas. Their Stagg EKG Electric Kettle and the new, even more geeked-out Pro version, has reached near-cult status for pour-over lovers, earning high marks for its super dialed features and its stunning design, which comes in at least 13 different colors [I’m kind of obsessed with the Corvo EKG Electric Kettle for my all-day tea drinking, too, it’s absolutely gorgeous]. And their Ode Brew Grinder won the Specialty Coffee Association’s Best New Product Award for 2021. Fellow also carefully curates a really special selection of the best in small-batch coffee from around the country to create ‘Your Dream Coffee Aisle.’ Pair a few bags with a Carter Move Mug [LOVE love mine] for a fantastic gift for any serious ‘coffee nerd’ or casual coffee drinker you love.

Gifts for Coffee Lovers

~ The VSSL Java Coffee Grinder is perfect for your die-hard, adventure-loving coffee nerds. It’s a burr grinder with 50 unique settings to get everything just right for your brew. It’s incredibly durable (made with aircraft grade aluminum) and also super lightweight. Pair it with the popular and compact Aeropress GO and you are set up for a great morning, either in the far reaches of the wild or your backyard. ~ $160

~ Give your java lovers their morning coffee in a totally different form with Palermo’s Coffee Body Scrub. All of Palermo’s gorgeous body products are made in Brooklyn with completely natural ingredients. The smell of this scrub is just divine. ~ $56

~ Aside from looking like a stunning piece of art, the classic glass Chemex Drip Coffee Maker is lauded for producing a super clear, pure and not-bitter cup of pour-over coffee. Make sure to use the Chemex Filters for optimum function and flavor. It’s also kind of mesmerizing to watch, so you get a little meditation in, too. ~ $49.95

~ Skip all of those little cans of cold brew and make your own with this innovative, pretty and super easy to use Hario Cold Brew Coffee Bottle. Just pop in the grounds and water, put it in the fridge overnight and let the special design work its magic to make your perfect morning cup. It comes in 6 pretty colors, too. ~ $21.50

~ Ooh I love a functional art piece. These pretty Ceramic Spoons are handmade in NC and come in lots of pretty glazes. They’re the perfect addition to your coffee-making ritual and would be such a beautiful gift. ~ $18

~ This little AeroPress Go Portable Travel Coffee Press has a bit of a cult following in the outdoor world [and almost 8000 5-star reviews]. It’s an all-in press, mug and lid in-one that’s super compact for traveling. Its rapid-immersion method brews hot [or cold], smooth, not-bitter coffee in one minute and takes a fraction of that to clean. And it’s made in the USA. YES. My husband is obsessed with his and says it makes THE best cup of coffee. The AeroPress Original is also wildly popular if you want a version made for home use ~ $39.95

~ Aerolatte’s Steam-Free Frother will give you perfectly frothed milk of any kind without any cords or a big ol’ espresso machine. It’s portable, battery-operated and froths in 60 seconds or less. ~ $29.99

~ Learn how to artfully combine two decadent favorites with The Art & Craft of Coffee Cocktails. It teaches readers a bit about craft coffee and has more than 75 recipes for all kinds of cocktails, from classics to new soon-to-be favorites. ~ $16.99

~ My husband loves his Breville Bambino for starting each morning with a coffee shop-quality cappuccino with almond milk. The Bambino is super compact [my favorite part], easy to clean and consistent. It’s designed to pre-infuse the grounds for more even extraction, giving you a super rich cup every time. ~ $299.95

~ One of my favorite ceramicists, Linda Hsiao of Knotwork LA, hand-sculpts the most awesome ‘bird’ series of Pitchers and Creamers. Each one is completely unique and they all just make me smile. They would be a such a special gift. ~ from $48

~ Italian’s have been using the iconic Bialetti Espresso Maker since 1930 and the Moka’s 2-part stovetop design still produces perfect, rich espresso. Several friends [and apparently 90% of Italians] swear by this low-tech, super high performing classic. It’s easy to use, easy to clean and comes in several pretty colors sizes from 3-12 cups. ~ from $34.95

~ The perfect little hand-held burr grinder for home or travel, the Hario Skerton Pro Manual Coffee Grinder will yield precise, uniform grinds in a full range of sizes. My boys love cranking this thing, it’s like a little morning workout. ~ $60

~ Save a trip to the coffee shop by making your own fancy barista drinks at home with this Breville Milk Cafe Electric Milk Frother. It uses induction heat to make the perfect bubbly froth with any milk you choose and has an auto shut-off when the milk is done. You can also use it for hot chocolate and chai. Yum. ~ $159.95

~ The Hario Original V60 Pour Over Dripper has been carefully and intentionally designed to make the perfect cup. The 100-year-old Japanese company has strategically designed the Dripper with a 60 degree cone angle and special curved ridges for smooth flow and optimum filter grip, coming together to produce a super delicious cup of coffee. Plus it takes only 3 minutes to brew and I love the peaceful, minimalist, analog process. ~ from $25

~ The World Atlas of Coffee: From Beans to Brewing is a super comprehensive guide to all things coffee, from the most famous coffee growing regions of the world to detailed brewing techniques. Written by James Hoffman, a coffee expert and award-winning barista, this book provides your coffee nerd next-level beta to fuel their passion and perfect their craft. ~ $39.95

~ Spoil your coffee-lover with the gift of never running out of their favorite beans with a subscription to a local or loved roaster. Ampersand Coffee Roasters in Boulder is organic, fair trade and supports women’s empowerment, making your gift even more impactful. ~ from $60

Brands I Love: Caraway

image : Caraway

I HAVE been searching far and wide for a looong time for a non-toxic stovetop tea kettle that I’m excited to have as part of my everyday decor and Caraway has finally totally nailed it. The stunning new Whistling Tea Kettle is stainless steel, so nothing grody gets in your water, but the beautiful outer shell is ceramic, which allows it to come in 7 REALLY pretty colors. I had an impossible time deciding on a one [obvs not my strength], but ultimately chose Mist and it is such a pretty + stylish addition to my kitchen. It makes me smile every time I see it. The handle gets a wee bit hot, so Caraway includes an equally stylish mitt to keep your hands safe. It’s all delivered in a super elegant, well-designed package, making it just perfect for gifting.

Gifts for Tea Lovers

~ Take your tea or matcha-lover’s ritual to the next level with a stunning handmade Tea Bowl. The beautiful bowl is made by Koide Studio in Berkely and comes in several different gorgeous styles and glazes. She has loads of other really pretty bowls, mugs and tea sets, too. ~ from $45

~ You’ll feel super fancy with this Degenne Salam Insulated Teapot inspired in 1953 by Bedouin style pots. It’s a French-designed porcelain pot with a removable aluminum infuser, which is all lovely, but the real kicker is the felt-lined stainless steel cover that insulates the pot and keeps your tea warm for up to an hour, so you can enjoy [or share] all 34 oz of liquid gold. It comes in 9 pretty colors, too. ~ from $164

~ Soul Chai in Portland, OR makes sustainable, small-batch chai powder with an intentional focus on the soulful spices. It has no milk or sugar, so you can blend it just the way you like it, plus the powder makes it super portable. There’s a spicy Masala Chai and a decaf Rooibos Masala Chai, both delivered in a gorgeous 40-serving tin perfect for gifting. ~ from $19.50

~ A kettle so nice, I’m mentioning it twice. I obsessed over this Fellow Corvo Electric Kettle for a looong time before receiving it as a gorgeous gift and it does NOT disappoint. Aside from being super beautiful, it’s also perfectly functional. It has easy temp control, heats quickly, shuts off automatically after 15 minutes. And it is SO pretty. Add a Carter Move Mug and drag your perfect tea with you anywhere. ~ $195

~ If your tea-lover also enjoys gardening, Homegrown Tea will teach them how to plant, harvest and dry their own tea blends, whether they have a whole garden or a kitchen ledge. It has information on the benefits of each plant, too. ~ $24.99

~ If you like your tea with a little drip of honey, this pretty ceramic Honey Jar will keep it easy to access and beautiful to look at. It's handmade in small batches in PA and would make a really special gift. ~ $54

~ Try your tea in a totally new way with Tea Drops. They’re wee little bundles of tightly packed organic tea leaves that brew in seconds with no messy bag and no need for a steeping basket. They come in lots of varieties and are super convenient on-the-go. Note that this is not ‘instant’ tea, so there will be a few leaves floating around in the finished product that you can drink up or strain out if you’d rather. Super clever. ~ from $16.99

~ Gift your tea lover a new perspective on their favorite brew with a little selection of gorgeous Floral Blooming Tea. These pretty little balls will ‘blossom’ in hot water, morphing into both a stunning little underwater garden AND a delicious cuppa all in one. They have several ‘flavors’ to choose from, each with different benefits. ~ $24.99

~ Fans of loose leaf tea can enjoy the convenience of a perfect cuppa on the go with The Tea Spot’s Mountain Tea Tumbler [16oz] or Everest Tea Tumbler [22oz]. They’re both tea-infusing travel mugs that steep your brew while you’re on-the-go or on your way to work and then keep it nice and warm for hours. Pair one with a Loose Leaf Tea Sampler for a really fantastic gift. As a bonus, Tea Spot is a certified B Corp and donates 10% of all sales in-kind to cancer survivors and community wellness programs. ~ $33.95

~ Oooh I love these pretty Bombay Juice Glasses, they’d be just perfect for tea, too. They’re hand-blown with such delicate detail and come in 5 different pretty colors. ~ $48

~ If you’ve ever fumbled around with a sub-par tea infuser, you’ll appreciate this World Market Loose Leaf Tea Press as much as I do. It’s the perfect size for one or two and does a fantastic job of straining out the leafy bits. Plus it’s pretty. ~ $19.99

~ No need to trek to the coffee shop to satisfy your boba obsession with this Kits by Food Craft Bubble Tea Kit. It includes everything you need to brew up a perfect glass [actually 5 different flavors of them] of your favorite, plus optional fat reusable straws to slurp it with. I’ve done this with my boys and it was super fun. ~ $45

~ If you love loose-leaf tea, but don’t like all the little bits that those metal balls leave swirling around, try these clever handmade Organic Cotton Reusable Tea Bags. They keep even the smallest leaves out of your cup, are easy to clean and are an awesome zero-waste solution. ~ from $4.25

~ If your tea-lover prefers to keep things icy, try The Tea Spot’s new Craft Cold Brew Filter. Fill any wide mouth jar with tea or fruit or whatever you want, pour on cold water and let it chill in the fridge for a bit. Voila! When you’re ready to pour, the Filter perfectly strains out the floaty bits. You can use it for cocktails too, I won’t tell. Brilliant. They have a Cold Brew Tea Sport Bottle, too, if you like to take it on the go. ~ $18.95

gifts that Tea AND Coffee Lovers agree are awesome

~ Do your brain a favor and replace at least one hot cuppa a day with a Clevr Blends SuperLatte. These oat milk-based blends are brimming with adaptogens, mushrooms, probiotics and superfoods to help improve brain function and boost your mood. There are 6 awesome flavors to choose from [my husband loves the Matcha], including one for supporting Sleeptime. They’re dairy + refined sugar free, responsibly sourced and just need water to blend. The Starter Kit would be a really beautiful gift for anyone who’d like to add a little delicious healthy boost to their daily routine. They also have non-creamy Super Teas. ~ from $28

~ Well this is genius. The Ember Smart Mug allows you to control the temp on your favorite drink all day long so you never have a tepid cup of tea or coffee [like I do right now]. Use the app to change the temp depending on your drink’s ideal or just set it once to the temp you like best and forget it. It lasts up to 90 minutes on its own or all day on the charger. I got one for my dad for his birthday and he loves it. There are several different colors to choose from, including a few metallics. ~ from $129

~ Keep drinks super toasty [or freezing] with a beautiful Fellow Carter Move Mug. It’s so much more chic than the average industrial travel mug and it comes with a splash guard that keeps you from dribbling all over your clean shirt. I LOVE mine. It comes in 3 sizes and tons of beautiful colors and they have an awesome Artist Series with some really unique designs. ~ from $27.50

~ Talking Out of Turn has a whole collection of adorably-designed glass and ceramic mugs with clever quips on them. Fair warning, some of them would make a sailor blush, but they’re pretty darn funny and a fun gift for those who would appreciate the salty humor. ~ $15

~ Ok, if you want the Cadillac of airtight storage containers, check out Montana-based Planetary Designs’ Airscape Collection. It doesn’t just rely on one lid’s seal to do the job, it has a patented plunger lid that forces oxygen out as it’s pushed down onto the contents of the canister. Your precious coffee beans or tea leaves [or grains, nuts, etc…] will be kept pristine, both at home and while traveling. There are a bunch of sizes and colors to choose from and a glass version if you like to see what’s inside. ~ from $19

~ This Connected Goods Wild Olive Wood Cream and Sugar Set is so gorgeous. It’s made by hand in Kenya from scraps of native olive wood that grows in protected areas. It would be a stunning gift or such a pretty addition to your entertaining collection. ~ $42

~ No matter the season or your activity of choice, everyone needs a Yeti for hot drinks on the go and they make awesome gifts. They’ll keep your bev of choice super hot [or super cold] for almost ever and there are loads of sizes, colors and styles to choose from. Bring it tailgating, camping, après skiing, picnicking, horseback riding, soccer-watching or anywhere else you’d love to sip a piping hot cup of your favorite. ~ from $25

~ Fellow’s Atmos Vacuum Canisters use vacuum seal technology to keep your ‘valuables’ safe from oxidation. With a simple twist, the air is removed and your beans or leaves are snuggled in tight until your next cup. It comes in 3 sizes and colors to match your decor, too. ~ from $30

Mugs from Some of my favorite ceramicists

THERE’S NOTHING like sipping your favorite hot drink out of a beautiful piece of art and a special mug makes a really stunning and meaningful gift. After all, there’s nothing more sweet than being reminded of someone special each and every morning. These artists all hand-make their gorgeous wares one by one and don’t always have inventory on hand, but if you can be patient, I promise it’ll be worth the wait. If you find an artist you love, I recommend following them on Instagram or subscribing to their email list to find out first when they’re releasing new stuff. xo

Mary Carroll Ceramics

Pawena Studio in Los Angeles, CA

Mortar and Stone in Austin, TX

Knotwork LA in Los Angeles, CA

Bridget Dorr in Boulder, CO

O-M Ceramics in Los Angeles, CA

Pigeon Toe Ceramics in Portland, OR

Haand in Burlington, NC

Sandbox Ceramics in St. Helens, OR

Luvhaus in West Oakland, CA

MORE IN… gift guides

gift guide: gardeners + green thumbs

WHEN MY dad started working from home 2 years ago, he slowly and [I think] sort of inadvertently began building a little cactus nursery near a big window in the house with wee clippings from his various ‘mother’ cacti. What started as a single rescue mission has turned into a whole gaggle of little pots with shoots at various stages of growth and my dad tends to the little guys like a proud papa. It’s pretty adorable.

IT’S EASY to understand why there are so many super passionate gardeners out there. Gardening connects you to the earth and nature in a way that‘s rare in most people’s daily lives. That connection and the time spent tending to precious plants, whether in a windowsill or on an acre, can provide soothing + peaceful solace for busy lives, making space for quiet reflection, reducing anxiety and calming frayed nerves. It can also be a serious mental challenge, which is also healthy. Plus you get the immense satisfaction of watching something that you cared for grow and bloom and sometimes you even get to eat the fresh ‘fruits’ of your labor. My son inhales almost all of the potted herbs before they even make it inside. And our big old dog used to nibble each perfectly ripe raspberry off the bush, one by one, with the gentleness of a tiny baby bunny. It’s just that satisfying to pull something delicious straight from the garden and devour it.

SO IF you love someone who loves to get their hands in the dirt, this Gift Guide is for you. It’s full of beautiful and creative things, many handmade, to elevate any gardener’s practice. Enjoy, lovelies, and save a late summer ripe tomato for me. xo

gifts for gardeners + green thumbs

>> Barebones Living designs and makes timeless, high quality tools for gardeners and outdoor lovers of all kinds [the Hori Hori Ultimate is one of their most loved and popular tools]. But it’s also a super cool company with a serious mission to ‘build relationships and connect community through food, nature and the pull of fire,’ which they do not only with their amazing products, but also through incredible philanthropic work and their status as a Certified B Corp. Any of their gorgeous things would make a beautiful, thoughtful and useful gift for the gardeners and outdoor lovers you love. >>

>> No need to sacrifice style while you’re out in the muck with Australian brand, Merry People’s Bobbi Rain Boots. They’re a classic Chelsea-style boot reimagined in natural rubber with a neoprene lining for comfort and protection. And they come in a bunch of super cute color combos like Beetroot + Light Pink. Wear them for gardening, camping, tromping through the mud, festivals and anywhere else you might encounter some mucky muck. They have a mid-calf version, too, if you’re going deep. << $129.95

>> Keep that fierce sun off your face in style with this handmade Cotton Crusher Hat. It comes in 4 pretty colors, has an inner drawstring for fit, has UPF 50 and is totally packable. I’m totally in. << $36

>> These Barebones Living Classic Work Gloves are made with flexible cowhide and a keystone thumb design for maximum dexterity. They come in 3 different naturally-dyed, chemical-free colors and 3 sizes to suit just about anyone. >> $38

>> These pretty Opinel Hand Pruning Shears are the perfect intersection of form + function. Opinel has been designing knives for 120 years [their pocket knife is on the Victoria + Albert Museums’ list of the 100 best designed objects in the world] so I think it’s safe to say they know what they’re doing around a blade. Combine that with their distinctive style and you get the perfect shears for green thumbs who want their tools to be as beautiful as their garden. << $59

>> Handmade in Montana, these Plant Markers are pretty and super easy to read. They’re made from untreated wood and come in a ton of different herb + veggie options, plus they’ll make them custom if you’re into growing something more exotic. << from $1.95

>> Hedley & Bennett's gold-standard aprons can handle any kind of mess you make. There are a bunch of styles, colors and prints to choose from, including a line of Denim Aprons and water-resistant Waxed Canvas Aprons that would be a super durable choice for gardening. >> from $58

>> Grow a wee avocado tree in your kitchen from the pit of last night’s guac in this pretty glass Avocado Vase. << $48

>> Get those seeds to exactly the right depth with this thoughtfully handmade Gardener’s Dibble. It has easy-to-see markings so you know how far down into the soil you’ve reached. Each one is hand-turned in Maine from local Ash. << $25

>> Love this cute Grow With the Flow T-Shirt, it’s just happy and sunny for the plant-lovers you love. It comes in 3 neutral colors and a huge range of sizes from infant to adult. << $20

>> Learn about dry gardening pioneer, Ruth Bancroft, in The Bold Dry Garden. Her famous namesake dry garden in Walnut Creek, CA is one of the most acclaimed and you can see why in these gorgeous pages. << $37.50

>> Protect your arms from rashes, sun exposure and allergens while keeping cool with Farmer’s Defense Sleeves. They come in a bunch of fun prints or solids, are machine washable and provide UPF 50 to shield your skin from the sun. << $26.99

>> YouTube sensation, Huw Richards, teaches newbies and seasoned green thumbs alike how to grow an abundance of veggies in one raised bed year-round in Veg in One Bed. << $24.99

>> This Down to Earth Gardener’s Hand Remedy is lovingly handmade in Southern Maine. It contains all sorts of magical ingredients that not only help keep hard-working hands moisturized, but also provide anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties for warding off anything sketchy lurking in the soil. << $23

>> Love this Woven Ranch Sun Hat. It’s Fair Trade Certified hand-woven in Mexico from palm fibers. It has an interior cotton band for fit, comfort and mopping up sweat, offers UPF 50 protection and has a pretty leather adjustable chin strap. You’ll be protected from the sun and looking super stylish, too. << $68

>> This Butterfly Garden Seed Kit comes with everything you need to start a little patch of butterly-loving wildflowers to attract some pretty friends to your garden. They also have kits for Honey Bees, Herbal Tea, Cut Flowers and more and they’re all perfectly packaged for gifting. This is a sweet gift for little gardeners, too. >> $25

>> I just love this stunning handmade Recycled Sari + Seagrass Bird House. Each nest is made by an individual World Fair Trade certified artisan who chooses the fabric they like, so each one is truly unique. << $46

>> Established in 1921, Steele Canvas Basket Corp has had some time to perfect their craft. This Heavy-duty Steele Canvas Steele Canvas Garden Utility Tote Bag can handle whatever you throw at it. It has 8 (yes 8) exterior pockets to store ALL the stuff and reinforced leather handles so you can drag this beauty all around your garden without a care. << $99

>> Part useful guide and part gorgeous inspiration, Floret Farm’s Cut Flower Garden by florist farmer, Erin Benzakein of Floret Farm in Washington, would make a really beautiful gift for any flower lover or gardener. Her Year in Flowers book on floral arranging looks amazing, too. << $29.95

>> These Madison James Flyaway Sticks have a bit of a cult following. They’re a blend of geranium, Texas cedar, clove and a few other ingredients that are super effective at keeping mosquitoes, horseflies, hornets and other annoying creatures at bay. Burn them while working in the garden, camping, picnicking or wherever else pesky bugs might ‘bug’ you. << $42

>> This fabulous MQuan Marigold & Sun Birdhouse is a gorgeous piece of art that doubles as a home for your garden’s little birdies. MQuan’s work is always stunning and it’s all handmade and hand-painted in upstate NY with a love and intention that comes through in her work. This sweet little home is safe for the outdoors, has drainage holes and good ventilation. It’s assembled onto a hemp rope for solid hanging. She has gorgeous Planters, Vessels and ‘Rocks’, too, that would all make a spectacular gift for anyone who loves to spend time enjoying their garden. << $425

>> This vintage-inspired Barebones Living Harvesting & Gathering Bag is so cool. It’s made of super durable paraffin waxed canvas and has a watertight removable liner. The bottom drops out so you can easily retrieve your bounty. And you can wear it either on your shoulder or back depending on your activity and comfort. >> $79.99

>> This gorgeous Succulent Garden Jigsaw Puzzle is double-sided for an extra challenge and two puzzles in one for when your green thumb is ready to come inside for a bit. << $15.99

>> These Sunny Two-Room Pollinator Houses attract several kinds of pollinators depending on which color you choose. Leaf cutter + mason bees like the yellow house, ladybugs, lacewings, butterflies and moths like the design of the blue + salmon houses best. Whichever you choose, you’ll be attracting beneficial, non-aggressive insects to your veggies, herbs and flowers. << $30

>> Take your gardening one step further by learning to use those plants, herbs and flowers to make herbal blends and potions for healing from The Green Witch. The book also has suggestions for rituals, sacred food recipes and advice about how to commune with nature. << $17.99

>> Seriously elevate the aesthetics of your plant-care ritual with this beautiful Plant Mister. Choose an all-brass or brass + glass mister to replace that plastic spray bottle you’re using now. << $42

>> Flora: Inside the Secret World of Plantsis as fascinating as it is stunning. It’s both an in-depth botanical guide and pure work of art that anyone interested in plants, science, art or gardening would enjoy. << $50

>> Plantables & Paper on Etsy has a massive selection of seed bombs and plantable paper that would make such cute gifts or party favors. You can order a Sampler Box for a good variety or just choose your favorite. << from $6

>> Floriography is a unique, beautifully-illustrated book that teaches you about the historical significance and secret meaning of a wide variety of flowers and herbs. Alongside her gorgeous illustrations, artist Jessica Roux, tells you all about the clear messages that flowers imparted, both for love and malice. << $19.99

>> Scrub up those dirty hands after a good session with this handmade Cake Body Garden Grit Soap. It’s hand-made in small batches in TX with coffee grounds, poppy seeds and pumice for a really deep down clean after playing in the dirt. << $6.50

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gift guide: support + get well

THERE ARE some gifts you wish with all of your heart you didn’t have to give. My little circle of friends has endured some serious health doozies lately. From cancer to surgery [LOTS of surgery] to ‘just’ general illness, my gals have been through a lot. So I’ve had some good practice now at putting together packages for friends and loved ones who just really need to feel the heartfelt love and support you’re putting out.

WHEN YOUR special people are struggling with treatment or illness or any bumpy patch in their life, it’s hard to know what to say and what they might need. If you know them well and can ask, maybe they’ll tell you [if they know themselves]. Otherwise, you can never go wrong with a few heartfelt + beautiful things to pamper them. Just about anything given intentionally and with love that makes them feel extra special or grounded or cozy can really make a difference when someone is in need of some extra propping up. Pick one or bundle a few to really spoil them. Also check out my posts on Blankets and Clean Beauty for lots more ideas on helping your special person feel extra loved-on. And don’t forget about any kiddos in the house who might not be getting quite the same attention they’re used to during a family illness. A little acknowledgment goes a long way. xo

Support + Get Well Gifts

+ Sunday Citizen has taken the incredible health benefits of weighted blankets to another level by adding thousands of bits of healing amethyst, clear quartz and rose quartz crystals to their insanely soft version. So you get the feeling of a snuggly hug with the added bonus of nature’s powerful healing energy. + $269

+ Radiant Malas are handmade in Boulder, CO with love and intention by two women who lovingly hand-select each crystal bead + unique guru bead for their specific vibrational powers. They over-hand knot each one-of-a-kind necklace and make the hand-tied tassels, too. + from $128

+ SKiVYs’ soft and stylish dresses have a specially-designed built-in bra that’s made for both comfort and function. The perfect combination of feminine styling and legitimate support leaves you looking put together and ready for the day while still feeling really comfy + cozy, which can be super useful if you have lots of visitors checking in. Use code AFLUTTER15 for 15% off your purchase. + from $68

+ When skin and hair are extra sensitive, a pure silk pillowcase can make a big difference. The slippery nature of silk’s natural fibers reduce overall friction, protecting extra delicate hair and skin. Plus they just feel really nice. Lilysilk’s Pure Silk Pillowcases are also OEKO-TEX certified, so you can rest knowing you’re not laying on gross chemicals. They’re available in standard and king sizes in lots of colors. They also have gorgeous Silk Sheets if you want to be covered from head to toe. + from $39

+ Linda Hsiao hand-makes these Daruma Wishing Dolls in LA. You color in one eye while focusing on a wish or goal, then set it somewhere where you’re reminded of your goal. When you reach it, you color in the other eye and say ‘thank you’ to your Daruma. + from $36

+ The Tea Spot’s Everest Tea Tumbler steeps your brew while you’re on-the-go or on your way to the doctor and then keeps it nice and warm for hours. And to make your gift even more impactful, The Tea Spot donates 10% of all sales in-kind to cancer survivors and community wellness programs. + $33.95

+ Big Heart Tea Co sources their teas directly with a strict focus on quality, equity for farmers and environmental stewardship. You can shop by intention, choosing teas that benefit inflammation, calming nerves or soothing digestion. Or just pick the ones that sound yummiest. + from $9.99

+ Topdrawer’s Japanese House Shoes are a stylish and super soft way to keep those frozen toes away. They are totally unisex, reversible, machine washable, hand-sewn in Japan and come in lots of different color+ print + material combinations. + from $59

+ Puzzles can be super meditative and relaxing. Jiggy’s puzzles are extra gorgeous because they’re all designed by emerging female artists around the world. They also come with special glue so you can frame your hard-earned piece of beautiful artwork, so it’s really two gifts in one. You can even make a custom Personalized Puzzle with a meaningful photo or drawing. + from $40

+ Keep that nurturing + healing hot tea flowing at the perfect temp with a Fellow Corvo EKG Electric Kettle. It’s fast and has variable temps and lots of control so at least you can be in full control of something. Plus it’s stunning to look at. Add a pretty Carter Move Mug for outings, too. + $189

+ Sunday Citizen’s Robes + Wraps come in various fabrics that are all designed for ultimate super soft comfort. This Snug Ribbed Cardigan is part robe, part cardigan and just the kind of super cozy thing you want to snuggle up with when you’re not feeling yourself [or even if you are]. It’s made of extra soft microfiber, comes in 3 pretty colors and is totally machine washable, so go ahead and wear it everyday if it feels good. + $140

+ Your special person can wear your support all the time with Jax Kelly’s pretty Mineral Point Studs [love mine]. This Smoky Quartz pair is for ‘protection’ and there are several other energizing stones to choose from. Rose Quartz for ‘love’ and Amethyst for ‘healing’ and Amazonite for ‘hope.’ They’d all be a beautiful and meaningful way to say ‘I’m always here for you.’ + $34

+ Prima’s CBD Unwind Bath Gems detoxify, purify and moisturize, making them a perfect companion when you’re not feeling your best [or even if you are]. They melt away tension and stress leaving you restored and maybe just a bit more prepared for what’s next. Gift one or a bundle of four. + from $15

+ Talking Out of Turn’s Selfie Care Kits are perfect for spoiling teens or the young at heart. There are 6 different cute themes to choose from and they all include a mug with a cute saying, a stone face roller, a weighted unscented eye mask and neck wrap [love mine] and an inspirational letterpress card. It’s wrapped up all cute in a sweet box and ready to brighten someone’s day. + $70

+ When you love a little who’s under the weather, it can be so easy to bring a smile with an Ooly Happy Pack full of bright, fun treasures to keep them occupied. They come in lots of different themes to appeal to just about any kiddo. This can also be a great little gift to acknowledge a babe with an ill family member who might not be getting as much attention as they’re used to. + from $16.95

+ From joggers to hoodies, if you want comfy clothes, Vuori is your one-stop shop. The line is designed for performance, but is just as happy taking it easy, so it’ll be ready for action once your special person is up and running again. It’s unfathomably soft and made to be lived in. My husband and I are both huge fans. +

+ Le Bon Shoppe’s Cloud Socks are like a squishy warm hug for your feet. I really love them. They’ll keep all the frozen toes away. + $14

+ Ilia Beauty’s Lip Wrap Treatment Mask is heavenly. It has Papaya Enzymes to buff away the rough or flaky skin on super dry lips, which makes way for the magical moisturizing ingredients to sink in. It is also super neutral so it won’t bother people who might be feeling extra sensitive to taste or smell. + $26

+ Slumberkins are therapist-designed to help kids navigate tricky emotional challenges. Each set comes with a ‘Snuggler’ and a book that teach kids how to name and manage their stress and anxiety. Alpaca is specifically aimed at ‘stress relief’ and Fox is for ‘family change.’ They’re a beautiful gift for any child, especially those facing illness. + $48

+ Sometimes it’s tough to focus on looking at a book when you’re not feeling your best, so gift your special person unlimited entertainment they can listen to instead with an Audible membership. They’ll have access to millions of titles to keep them occupied. Gift anywhere from month to a year. + from $15

+ A Kindle Paperwhite is basically ALL the books in one for endless options. You can gift it with or without a Kindle Unlimited subscription that provides access to a million books, audiobooks and magazines. It’s great for home, on-the-go or while waiting for appointments. And it’s now waterproof, which is such a bonus. + from $129.99

+ Tending to plants is said to help people feel calm and happy. The Sill ships high-quality house plants in chic pots all around the country, making them so easy to gift. In addition to giving your special people something beautiful to look at, you’ll also be nurturing their soul, which is a gift in itself. + from $21

+ Warmies stuffed animals are insanely soft + cuddly as you’d expect. But they’re also filled with dried French lavender so you can warm them up in the microwave and they’re perfectly weighted for extra soothing. + from $14.99

+ I just love these little ceramic hearts handmade by artist, Tere Hurst, of Little Rabbit Ceramics and I love to gift them, too. They’re just a sweet little reminder that you’re thinking of your special person. They can also keep one in their pocket to rub like a worry stone when they’re feeling anxious. + $22 for 12

+ Help your special people reduce stress and clear negative energy with pretty smudge sticks from Wild Fire Apothecary. They have white sage, palo santo and sandalwood ropes to clear the air and bring calm. Wild Fire also has a bunch of really pretty cement dishes and wooden bowls to burn and display your treasures in. + from $1.99

+ Handmade in Oakland, Rheal’s Concrete Hands are ready to hold special little treasures, just like you want to hold and support your special people while they’re struggling. Pop a little treasure [like these hearts I love] inside so they know you’re there for them. + from $18

+ A pretty hand-painted Moglea Notebook provides a really special place to record thoughts or keep important notes. There are several designs to choose from and each one is unique. + from $20

+ Give your special person a wearable reminder that you’re thinking of them with one or a few colorful handmade beaded Ubuntu Life LOVE Bracelets. In addition to being super cute + sweet, they also provide meaningful work for Ubuntu’s ‘Maasai Maker Mums.’ + from $10

+ Sometimes you just want to to hide behind something soothing and beautiful and rest your aching bits for a while. Handmade in KS, these heart-shaped eye pillows are made from organic cotton and filled with organic flaxseed and lavender so you can use them hot or cold. + $29

+ A cozy wrap can be super comforting, like a soft hug. Zestt’s Organic Cotton Dreamsoft Travel Scarf is versatile and SO soft + so cozy for snuggling up at home, on the go or at long appointments. + $59

+ A friend who just had his own whole series of health journeys said reading Man’s Search for Meaning while he was down changed his life. And judging by the more than 46,000 reviews, he’s not alone. It has long been lauded as one of the most influential books of our time, sharing inspired thoughts on suffering and inner strength and perspective. There’s also a Young Adult Edition for the teens you love. +

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gift guide: jewelry for every age

I AM VERY sentimental and superstitious about my jewelry. When I was about 9 years old, my grandmother brought me a figa necklace from a visit to her family in Brazil. It was a small silver talisman said to bring good luck and I wore it for the next 2-3 decades straight. Like I literally never took it off. It might’ve been set aside for a few super special occasions [like my wedding], but otherwise, it seriously never left my neck. I guess I got used to it and then I got superstitious about its magical protective properties [no way I would’ve flown without it]. I finally [reluctantly] accepted that it was ok to set it aside after our babies were born and my husband gifted me two other beautiful + sentimental necklaces that celebrated our sweet boys. AND… then I wore those for several years straight, too. You seeing a pattern here?

JEWELRY is so personal and can be such a profound and meaningful gift, though it can, of course, also ‘just’ be pretty. It’s a fantastic means of self-expression, it [almost] always fits and it’s just a beautiful way to make a connection. The figa that my grandmother gave me wasn’t particularly ‘special’ and probs wasn’t terribly expensive, but I wore it for 20+ years because of what it represented.

I HAVE gotten better about assigning a bit less meaning to ‘most’ of my jewelry because I like to be able to swap things out more freely and play with all of the different styles I love, which is hard to do when you’re committed to a single statement piece. But I still feel strongly about the sparkly gifts I receive and treasure them all.

THERE IS SO much incredibly artistic and creative and stunning jewelry out in the world to love and connect with, it can be sort of daunting. So, at my dear friend Eliza’s request, I’m sharing just a few of my favorite designers with you here. Please share yours, too, I always love to learn about new artists and creators who are passionate about their craft. And don’t forget to #giftalittle[blingy]happiness to yourselves once in a while, lovelies. Everyone deserves a bit of sparkle. xo

Some of my favorite jewelry designers

THESE are some of the [mostly local] designers who’s work I find really special and inspiring and extra gorgeous. They’re incredible artists with unique style and beautiful intention. Many also have really admirable sustainability practices, too.

>> Boulder local, Avery Lee, makes stunning jewelry that’s both totally grounded and unexpected. She combines recycled metals with earthy semi-precious stones to create contemporary but timeless pieces. Her Mini Calliope Earrings are some of my absolute favorites. Read more about why I adore her gorgeous work here. >>

>> CLP [for Christy Lea Payne] is a local favorite known for honing an elegant + refined, but slightly rustic + badass style that’s always on point. I love SO many of her pieces I could never list them all. Her 'everyday’ earrings are truly just that - I have several pairs of her studs and pretty much just rotate them around all week long, sometimes mixing and matching them. She has a fantastic selection of customizable pieces that are just perfect for gifting. And, CLP has a fantastic collection of pieces for men, which can be so hard to find. Learn more about her pieces for the dudes you love here. >>

>> Kate Flynn of Mineral and Mine designs and hand-crafts really beautiful jewelry out of her studio in Aspen. She is a master metalsmith and uses absolutely stunning stones to create pieces that are modern with a twist. Some are delicate and many are bold statement pieces that will steal any show. She releases new collections monthly and you never know what beauties will be included, but you’ll always be delighted. >>

>> Bohemi is the vision of artist Heather Ng and I love her super definitive style. It evokes a sort of mystical, goddess-loving, super powerful sprit and it’s really stunning. I love this beautiful Moonphase Collection, especially the necklaces [maybe it’s ‘the’ piece that defines my next 20+ years] and the exquisite Sagitta pieces, too. Her metalwork is super intricate and detailed and beautiful and does not fade into the background. >>

>> Angie Star has been a beautiful fixture on the East End of Pearl Street in Boulder for almost 20 years. Aside from hand-making a diverse and stunning collection of unique, organic jewelry [these Winter Sky Studs SHINE], this little shop is also just a ray of warm, inviting sunshine. They have a passion for sustainability and use only recycled metals and ethically sourced, conflict-free stones. You just can’t go wrong with a sweet gift from Angie. >>

>> Amy Nordstrom is a Sausalito-based jewelry designer inspired by her love of the natural world. Her inspiration flows straight from her being to the metal she’s sculpting with no sketches or computer renderings in between. Her pieces are super organic and big and ethereal. And if you want someone to vouch for her gorgeous sense of style, go ahead and check in with Beyonce. Amy also works with consciously sourced gemstones and fair trade diamonds, adding an extra special layer to her pieces. >>

>> Colorado artist, Colby Fulton of Colby June Jewelry, designs really pretty pieces inspired by the wonders in nature. She so beautifully captures the subtle patterns and stunning shapes of the things she observes in nature, translating them into truly exquisite and unique jewelry pieces. They’re delicate and slightly ethereal and just so subtly evoke the real beauty of the natural world. I just love her work. >>

>> Slantt is a small Austin studio where Jennifer Rodgers hand makes really pretty, very sculptural jewelry. Some is delicate, much is dramatic, and it’s all unique. And in addition to her creative design, she’s also super dedicated to ethical and sustainable business practices. My husband surprised me with an Alder Necklace for Christmas and it’s just beautiful. Learn more about why I adore Slantt here. >>

>> Radiant Malas are handmade in Boulder with love and intention by two women who painstakingly hand-select each crystal bead + unique guru bead for their specific vibrational powers. They over-hand knot each one-of-a-kind necklace and make the hand-tied tassels, too. They also make beautiful bracelets and Tiny Intentions Choker Necklaces. Shop by intention or just pick your favorite color. I gifted my mom one of their stunning Aquamarine Malas last Mother’s Day and she just loves it. >>

>> LA-based designer, Hannah Keefe, makes exceptionally unique jewelry though a process that uses silver and brass chain and silver solder to create incredibly interesting and beautiful designs. Her pieces are kind of mesmerizing to see and touch IRL and have really cool movement because of the chain she uses. Her work is both bold and delicate and just it’s really stunning. >>

>> Liz Quan is a ceramics artist in Boulder who makes absolutely stunning, super organic sculptural pieces. Some are functional [her pendant lights are insane] and some are playful. And she also makes absolutely stunning, one-of-a-kind necklaces out of porcelain slip. They are each completely unique and gorgeous. I gifted one to my mom a few years ago and she wears it all the time. Liz’s work is such a treasure. >>

>> Boulder artist, Salihah Moore, designs incredibly intricate, striking wearable art from beads and thread. Her eye for color and pattern are truly unique and the result is always stunning. In addition to her gorgeous bold earrings, bracelets and necklaces, she also beads incredible delicate tops that are true works of art. There are lots of beaded earrings out there that mimic Salihah’s style, but you just can’t duplicate her craftsmanship and unique sense of design. >>

Easy-to-love Jewelry for All Ages

THESE are some of my favorites for more accessible or readily available jewelry. Most pieces are priced for easy gifting to yourself, your lady loves or the t[w]eens you adore.

>> Leela Inspired is a new beautiful intentional jewelry line. Their super pretty bracelets and necklaces are designed and crafted with love. The pieces are even more gorgeous in real life and combined with their sincere intention, make for really meaningful gifts. And it all arrives beautifully packaged of course. Save 15% off your whole order with code allaflutter15 at checkout. Such a beautiful special birthday or sweet ‘just because’ gift. >>

>> Thalken Mercantile in downtown Lafayette, CO is the cutest little shop you could hope to find. It’s owned by husband and wife team, William and Hana, and they make many of the things they sell, including most of the really pretty, delicate jewelry. Hana’s pieces are perfect for everyday or for layering and it’s just a pleasure to support this creative, industrious couple. If you’re local and need a gift, you’ll never leave Thalken empty-handed. >>

>> I picked up a pair of Jax Kelly Mineral Points while traveling a while back and they’ve been in regular rotation ever since. Based out of San Diego, this studio handcrafts pretty boho earrings and rings that are meant to inspire a sense of ‘peace, love and joy.’ Many of their pieces incorporate energetic crystals and I just love the simplicity of the design. They also hand-make pretty candles with crystals hidden inside and sell beautiful crystal points. Their things are a really nice price point for gifting to your Galentines or the t[w]eens you love. >>

>> Based in Marin, CA, Collective Hearts is literally all about spreading the love. Their heart-based collection embodies an outward representation of the love we all feel on the inside. I have a pair of their Love Dot Studs in both gold and silver and I ‘love’ them so much, they are in permanent rotation and sometimes I mix and match the metals. And in the spirit of love, Collective Hearts gives back with every purchase, which is such a win-win. They had a pretty sweet cameo lately, too… >>

>> My sweet aunt gifted me a Betina Roza Beaded Heart Necklace for the holidays and it’s so sweet. Betina Roza has an eclectic mix of really pretty jewelry handmade on San Juan Island, WA. In addition to the Hearts, designer Erin also makes these Zodiac Birthstone Necklaces that would be a really sweet gift and some simple Brass Cuffs with subtle, pretty details. Thanks for the love, Aunt Laurie. >>

>> Salt Lake-based Desert Rose is the unique creative vision of Malinda Fisher. She hand-makes each piece in her little studio, inspired by the natural beauty in the ‘not red’ parts of southern Utah. I love her Mix + Match Studs [such a great gift] and the pairing of shapes in the Bryce Earrings. >>

>> Tumbleweed Bead Co hand-crafts pretty, timeless, basics out of their central Washington studio. They design the kinds of pieces you find yourself reaching for constantly because they’re easy to wear and just go with everything. You know I love those Heart Studs. This is such a perfect option for anyone who prefers their jewelry a bit understated or for great layering. >>

>> Oh I just love this company. All of Ubuntu Life’s beautiful wares are made by hand in Kenya by ‘Maasai Maker Mums.’ Their employees [many of which are mothers of children with special needs] are paid a living wage and provided health insurance, which is almost unheard-of in Kenya. Their mission is really special and super inspiring. AND, the bracelets they make, like the now almost iconic ‘LOVE’ style, are fun and incredibly well-made and ripe for creating perfect, colorful, unique stacks. They also have a fantastic collection of bags + pouches that I’ve been eyeing for months. So, you get fantastic jewelry while making a serious impact, which is always a win-win, especially when choosing a special gift. >>

>> If you’re looking for super reasonable personalized jewelry, I have your gal. Caitlyn Minimalist on Etsy designs pretty + delicate nameplates, initials, zodiac symbols and little phrases in sterling silver, 18k gold and rose gold out of LA. She’ll even make a necklace from your kiddo’s awesome artwork. Her things are absolutely perfect for gifting, especially to the t[w]eens you love. >>

>> Madewell has a really pretty selection of simple, current jewelry that’s perfect for gifting to yourself, your gals or the teens you love. Like their clothing, the designs are modern classics that you’ll grab over and over again because they’re stylish and easy to wear. Their pretty, delicate rings [especially those stacks] are a fantastic way to change things up a bit on a daily basis without making a huge statement or investment. >>

Jewelry for The Young + Young At Heart

I WAS a super girlie little and loved all kinds of jewelry [including the 47 black rubber bracelets that graced my arm for the better part of probs 4th grade]. This is a collection of sweet accessories that remind me of the things I adored when I was little. They’re perfect for your own bling-loving kiddos or the young-at-heart jewelry lovers you love.

>> Founded by a legit fashion industry veteran and certified girl mama of three, Super Smalls mimics the look, feel and presentation of serious luxury jewelry and accessories, but is made just for all-out fun. They make over-the-top adorable jewelry, accessories and hair bling that all take glitz and shine to the next level. It’s just plain fun and would make a seriously SHOW-STOPPING gift for any little or t(w)een that’s dazzled by sparkle. Read more about why I love them here. >>

>> It’s not surprising that Meri Meri would have THE cutest jewelry because seriously everything they make is insanely adorable. They have the very sweetest collection of necklaces, lapel pins and hair accessories for your little loves. The Bunny Necklace with a sweet lop-eared in a wee pocket is almost too much to take in. SO cute. >>

>> Pura Vida’s Bracelet Club is about the coolest subscription you could hope to find for a boho, fashion-loving t[w]een. They’ll send a set of 3 exclusive bracelets each month along with an awesome sticker. Your teen can pick from 2 given options each month or choose to be surprised. Plus Pura Vida gives back to so many worthwhile charities. Love it. >>

>> Lilliput Little Things on Etsy hand-makes the cutest earrings in New Orleans. She has a pair for seriously almost any theme or holiday you can think of [and some you wouldn’t]. From Retro Mixtapes to Dungeons + Dragons to Pugs, this shop has you covered and they’re all super cute. >>

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