I’m going to do my own thing this year and put together a gift guide I would want to look at, relates to me, what I am actually buying for the people in my life at different price points. What I will also do is give you local shops to the Grand Rapids area that I love along with some items from “big box” stores. I will try to link stuff as best as I can but some items may need to be bought at the store since it may be a small shop. I may even just recommend a shop in general. If I do this, I trust that whoever is working at the shop when you go in will be able to help you find the perfect gift for that person you are gifting.
Lakeshore Dry Goods Hair Towel
This towel is EVERYTHING. I am obsessed with it to say the least.
*PSA* I you are a guy reading this explanation – you don’t need to read any more of this- just buy it and keep looking at this post to get more ideas. Its only $24 so its absolutely in your budget to spend.
Other thinks you ladies need to know: it cuts drying time about half for my hair type. This wonder towel also helps soak the access water without totally taking all of the moisture out of your ends. I don’t really like to use a hair dryer so the less time it takes me to use a hairdryer the better for me and my hair. So, I usually have my hair in this while I do my make up to get as much water out as possible before I use my hair dryer. You will never regret using this towel from Lakeshore Dry Goods.
Anything from Mama’s Got Mugs
First of all the shop owner, Sarah, is the sweetest and hardworking mama out there! She always comes in clutch with all of my random requests or ideas I have.
Above are my favorite wine/drink tumblers. I can make a mixed drink in here TWICE with the SAME ice cubes from the first drink. It keeps your drink cold or hot. Love that it comes with a straw as well. The above order I got from her was for a bachelorette shower! She has everything from these tumblers to totes to make up bags to water bottles and everything in-between.
You can find her stuff at the following shops as well if you wanted some of her staple items/ original designs:
- Bailey and James + Rockford.MI
- Lotus Jo’s Yoga + SE GR.MI
- Michigan Pantry + Holland.MI
- Renew Mama + Plainfield.MI
- Pink Lemonade + Kalamazoo.MI
Mamas Got Mugs cut off for personalized merchandise is coming up fast (12/1).
Fox Naturals
Another local shop near and dear to my face….yup made a joke there. Anyway, it’s close to my heart too. Anyway, anyway, this place rocks.
I have switched my entire skin care to Fox Naturals. Its all hand made, organic and with no harsh irritants, synthetic ingredients or chemicals. Basically heaven for your entire life.
What makes this so great for gift giving is that they have everything from bath to body to face to hair to soaps to face masks to serums. Lets make it a little easier for you guys reading out there: they sell gift sets around $50, you can not get this wrong!
I recommend making a quick pit stop into Fox Naturals and chat with Patrick. He will be sure to set you up for success for whoever you are buying for.
My personnel favorite item you ask? Blue Tansy Serum it helps to reduce inflammation & redness, and is antibacterial. In translation- perfect for those little imperfections (aka zits) that pop up out of nowhere.
Honey Five Essential Oils Roller Holder
If you have an essential oils person in your life, look no further for a gift than this one.
This is something that is on my wish list this year. I travel with at least 6 oil blends when I travel that I want to keep secure so this is the perfect solution . Her shop is on Etsy and is all made by hand. Honey Five also has multiple different item choices for you to decide on. The 6 roller holder is $19 so very affordable for anyone on your list.
If I don’t get this from anyone this year you best believe that I am going to just buy one for myself.
Laptop Sleeve
All of these choices are from Amazon, Prime eligible and under $20. Loved all of these options because they are timeless and professional.
MoKo 13.3″ Laptop Sleeve Bag with Magnetic close
tomtoc Ultra Slim Envelope Sleeve for 13″-13.3″
Hair Iron Travel Carrier
I have one of these and its amazing for all of the travel I do. I got mine from Vera Bradley (shown above) and depending on the pattern you choose price can range from $17 up to $24.
This is great for every girl no matter the age. It’s the perfect gift they will use over and over again!
College Pride Swag
Im not sure if I am the only girl out there who has trouble finding college swag that isn’t covered in gemstones or glitter. Apologies if you enjoy this type of fashion. You do you. It’s just not my cup of tea.
I recently found that American Eagle actually has a decent selection of women collegiate were that doesn’t make me want to barf. I actually like several of the mens shirts and sweatshirts as well that would be cute to wear as more of a unisex look to them.
You can usually find some sort of sale on their site- just keep an eye out. Right now (as of 11/20) they are having 40% off their entire site.
Custom Print Art
I love something personal and unique as a gift. I have worked with two makers that you will love too!
Firs up is AP Letters. She makes these beautiful prints and even custom recipe prints of that special cookie or pie that your grandma makes. She made me my wedding vows that are now hung in our living room for everyone to see. They were the perfect addition to our home. Her print price ranges but offers digital downloads of your print for a cost friendly option too!
My other favorite artist is By His Grace Calligraphy. She made me this scroll print which is a great look in itself. It is perfect for adding something to your wall that isn’t just another picture frame. In this case I had her do my favorite music lyric! Again, her scrolls vary in price based on the size you are requesting but this one would be around the $50 range.
Letterboard
Im sure you have seen these EVERYWHERE! I absolutely love mine and may or may not have two of them- don’t judge.
My favorite shop for letter boards is Felt Good Vibes. This husband and wife team is based out of California and are total bosses! They have so many options as well in both size and color. What is even better is the price point- standard size is $29.99.
They actually have a starter kit right now on sale for $45 and is a STEAL!
Phone Case
I have been really looking into a new case- specifically a loopy case. I am on my phone…alot. Its part of staying connected with all of you! So, I have been looking into better ways of holding my phone so its better for my hands/wrist. Loopy cases have had great reviews for that specific reason.
There are so many options for colors and styles to match the person you are gifting perfectly. Its a great gift and depending on the case you select will run you about $40 or under.
I may add items as I think of them so check back in from time to time and follow me on instagram to stay on top of those changes.
