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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