What I’m Gifting for the Holidays

Wellness — December 13, 2023

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I’m not going to try to sell you on a trendy overpriced sweater or a ridiculous $500 blow dryer…

Instead I’m sharing thoughtful, useful, and gifts that people in your life *actually* want.

You know, just in case you forgot you needed to get a gift for a work holiday party or forgot that you have to do a gift exchange with your cousins cousin… or for your own spouse and if that’s the case it is ok and no judgment or guilt because life is really hard right now. (And remember Christmas is not about things, it’s about spending time with the people you love and celebrating Jesus birthday and resting and taking things slooooowwww. We don’t subscribe to stressful holiday seasons anymore ok?)

  1. Really good sunglasses for $20
    These are actually on my husband’s wish list and for that price and quality, I think anyone would be happy to receive these!
  2. My fave skincare product right now for $15
    It kinda feels like you’re rubbing phlegm on your face but man does this work wonders in the winter! Best moisturizer I’ve ever used to be honest.
  3. Ice cream maker attachment for Kitchenaid for $70
    I get that this is more niche but this is high on my wish list because I’m tired of trying to buy ice cream that has 100 stabilizers and preservatives in it (truly, why do companies make things so difficult???)
  4. Natural wine 4 pack for $100
    Again, a niche topic but I think we all know one of two wine lovers in our lives and Maison Noir is owned by a really awesome sommelier so I trust he knows what he’s talking about. They also had a half off sale during BF so I’d keep an eye out for more sales!
  5. The cutest little toy grocery cart for toddlers for $20
    I’ve been looking for one of these, and while I don’t love everything that Target does/stands for, we can all agree that this is a pretty good deal on a toy and makes a great gift that kids will love.
  6. 1800 sticker book for kids for $9
    Keep them entertained for at least 5 minutes at a time. IYKYK.
  7. Really really good coffee for $14
    I didn’t think I’d love this celebrity-made coffee but it’s actually one of my favorites to brew at home. I’d personally love one or two of these as a gift.
  8. Dermapore extractor tool for $80
    This might be a niche thing again, but if there’s a woman in your life that loves skincare, this is THE tool. I’ve never bought facial tools that you see all over TikTok. But I recently had the best facial of my life and they used this water-based extractor. This is nearly the same tool that they used at the spa. It’s fairly easy to use and it has made a HUGE difference in my skin. At the time I’m posting this it’s on sale, but keep an eye out on other platforms for even better sales! I seriously love this thing.
  9. Magnesium chocolates (60 pieces) for $30
    These are really cute bougie little chocolates with magnesium and vitamins, and no they’re not gimmicky. I received them as part of a gift and I LOVE them. I will say I need A LOT more magnesium to be relaxed but I like the combo in the ingredients.
  10. Dog vitamins for $70
    Most of you know that I lost my sweet Obie a few months ago, and while he lived much longer than the docs anticipated, celebrating the holidays without him has been extremely painful. But I’m so grateful for the time I did have with him and I know that these supplements and incredible superfood for dogs from Doctor Harvey’s gave me more time with him. I know it’s pricey but they often have sales, and I can tell you from experience the price is worth it.
  11. A candle that you’ll actually enjoy using from a local shop for $36
    No more $10 candles as gifts, ok? If you’re going to gift a candle, make sure it’s nice. Slow North makes some of the best candles, and they’re local to Austin! It’s the perfect elevated gift for a co-worker or friend.

And that’s it! It’s not an exhaustive gift guide but I think we can all agree it’s best to keep it simple, right?

PS I have a gift guide from 2020 that I still reference because there are some goodies on there too!

About Monique

As a private chef of 8+ years, Monique loves supporting local businesses, creating, and enjoying unique cuisines. You’ll find her original recipes, in-depth reviews of restaurants, local + international travel recaps, motherhood stories, and other lifestyle finds in this blog. 

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