Nov 12

Nov 12 THM Holiday Gift Guide 2019

I must admit, I am working on this post on Halloween, which feels EXTREMELY premature to start a holiday gift guide. But since November is SO busy for Yale and me as we gear up for our honeymoon, I figured now was as good a time as any to begin my holiday gift guide for 2019. Also, this way you’ll be able to take advantage of Black Friday, Cyber Monday and other holiday sales! This list is a compilation of my favorite products, gifts and other gadgets. As always, I hope you find it useful in your search for the perfect holiday gift for everyone on your list! I tried to think of as many different broad categories as possible (that I had experience in…aka, no “New Mom” category, since I’d be utterly clueless!).

Happy Holidays and happy shopping!!

*Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, from which I may receive a small commission. It will not alter the final price of your transaction in anyway.

The Homebody

Lake Pajamas: I am truly obsessed with everything from Lake Pajamas. I have a pair of their PJs, one of their robes, and have given their PJs as gifts (a great bachelorette gift, I must say). The quality cannot be beat, and they’re the comfiest pajamas I own! This set is my personal favorite, but am also eyeing these next.

Dyson V10 Motorhead: I splurged on this vacuum a few months ago when I was sick of lugging our 15 lb Dyson Animal up and down the stairs anytime I needed to use it. I am SO GLAD we bought this vacuum. It is lightweight, easy to use and so convenient. People complained that its battery life wasn’t great, but that hasn’t been an issue for us. We use it on the low setting, which I feel does the job well, so I can use it for awhile without it needing a charge. Such an awesome gift, and keep an eye out for sales. Multiple vendor options listed below.

Barefoot Dreams Blanket: I may have posted this blanket on my gift guide last year, but I have to post it again because it is SO GOOD and we use it time and time again. It currently lives on our bed, but I am tempted to grab another (maybe one of the leopard print ones) for our guest room. They are just the warmest, softest blankets and make for wonderful gifts the recipient will cherish forever. Love that they come in so many different colors, patterns and textures…see below.

Kaia Naturals Detox Bath: As a homebody myself, there is no greater thing than a nice hot bath. I am always finding new fun things to add to my baths, but I love this detox bath formula from Kaia Naturals! Plus, it’s all natural, so you can feel good soaking in it daily!

Phlur Ceramic Candle: How incredibly beautiful are these candles? A splurge for sure, but they’d make the nicest gift. I am all about presentation, and these just look so nice and would make a great gift for your mom, mother in law, or any favorite homebody!

Hedgehouse Throwbed: We have 2 of these incredible throwbeds (one mini and one full), and they’re honestly the best. Truth be told, we use the mini throwbed far more than the full one, but I think the full would be a great gift option for someone with children (they’re easy to roll up and store, or pull out for guests/kids sleepovers). Basically a thin French-style down mattress. I love the mini for propping up on our couch and giving additional back support, or for cozying up next to the fire. Very versatile. I’ve linked a few below.

Shop Gifts for the Homebody Below

Skincare Junkie

Indie Lee Discovery Kit: You guys 1000% already know this, but Indie Lee is one of my all time favorite skincare brands. If you’re new to the brand, this kit gives you access to 3 of their top selling products, the Brightening Cleanser (my favorite cleanser at the moment), CoQ-10 Toner (another personal fav), and their Squalane Facial Oil (high on my Indie Lee to-try list). This kit would make a great gift for yourself, or would be the perfect stocking-stuffer for the skincare lover on your list.

Foreo Skincare Luna 2: I love this skincare cleansing device. Is it expensive? Yes. But I really feel like it is effective at cleaning my skin. I debated buying the Foreo device or the Clarisonic, but ultimately went with the Foreo because I heard the Clarisonic brushes can get gross, and become a breeding ground for bacteria…aka not what I want on my acne-prone skin. I also have the Foreo Luna Play Plus (funnily enough this was on my gift guide last year) which requires a battery (the Luna 2 is re-chargable), but this is a great tiny size for travel. All in all, you can’t seem to go wrong with any Foreo product, if you ask me.

Odacite Gua Sha: I’ve talked about this product several times over the past year, but I am IN LOVE with this Odacite gua sha. What is a gua sha you ask? Great question. It is a stone facial massaging and skincare tool. I use it alongside my Indie Lee Daily Vitamin Infusion (my favorite facial oil). Is it on the slightly pricier side for a gua sha? Sure. But I love how large this is compared to my other less expensive versions.

Honest Hazel Eye Gels: I’ve been using these Honest Hazel eye gels for years, and think they’d make an awesome gift or stocking stuffer for the skincare lover in your life. Hydrating and cooling, they’re a great travel companion. I love that Credo sells them in 3-packs!

Shop Skincare Junkie Gifts Below

The Hostess

Lake Pajamas Robe: I must say, buying this incredible robe was a GAME CHANGER! I am a robe addict, let’s be real. The average person probably doesn’t need 5 robes, but that’s how many I have and I’m always looking to add to my collection. I have winter robes, summer robes and everything in between! I’m currently rotating between my normal waffle robe, and my Lake Pajamas robe. I am planning on bringing it with me to New Zealand because I need a robe and this one packs down nicely.

Mini Tumbler Glasses: I bought these glasses this past spring because I thought they’d be perfect for wine, or make a nice alternative to a rocks glass. They are SO GREAT for red wine, especially if you’re accident prone like me and sometimes get nervous around stem glasses. Yale uses them for his whiskey. Want to know the best part? You get a set of 12 for under $20. Yeah. You read that right.

Reed Diffuser: Who doesn’t want to receive a luxury reed diffuser?? I know I’d be very happy with one of these for Christmas! Reed diffusers are a great alternative to candles, because they offer safe, flame-free fragrance. We have them all over.

Laguiole Cheese Knives Set: Yale and I have this cheese knife set (and many other sets from Laguiole), and they’re simply the best. Laguiole makes products that are made to last, and are super high quality. If you ask me, any hostess would be thrilled to receive one of their cheese knife sets! I’ve linked a few options below.

Ullo Wine Purifier: Ok this is one of those gifts on my list that I don’t have, but desperately want and will be asking for for Christmas. As a BIG wine lover, I enjoy a few glasses over the weekend. But those couple of glasses can really get to you if you’re sensitive to things like sulfites, and especially prone to hangovers (like me). This device is supposed to eliminate wine hangovers by filtering the extra sulfites that are typically added to the wine in the preservation process! HELLO MIRACLE! I just sold myself on this again. Adding this to my Christmas list 100%.

Custom Dog Portrait: I purchased this ADORABLE portrait of Buzz for Yale for an anniversary present, and I am obsessed with it! Such a great gift idea for the fellow dog lover in your life! Doesn’t necessarily need to be a hostess gift, but I couldn’t help but include it on the list!

Shop Hostess Gifts Below

The World Traveler

White & Warren Wrap: I am OBSESSED with this cashmere wrap/scarf. It has been an essential addition to my wardrobe, especially when traveling. Definitely a splurge piece, but the quality of the product makes it worth it. Pack it in your carry on and cozy up on a long flight, or pack it in your suitcase and use it as a scarf or wrap while on your vacation! So versatile, and it comes in a million colors!

Bose Headphones: Bose noise canceling headphones felt like another no brainer to add to this travel gift guide. Yale and I each just purchased a pair, but I have been wanting them for years. My brother (and literally so many others) swear by them for traveling. I think they will make long haul flights a little more enjoyable.

Manta Sleep Mask: I am OBSESSED with this sleep mask, and it will 100% be coming with me to New Zealand. Manta was actually so nice to send multiple masks, so Yale will have one as well. The cups for the eyes provide a completely blackout mask, and it doesn’t apply pressure to your eyeballs. Such a great travel investment (especially for long flights).

Rancher Hat: Who doesn’t love a good hat? I purchased a grey version of this hat last summer, and wore it every time we went to the beach or the pool. It was lightweight and breathable, yet kept the sun out of my eyes and off my face. Since it is so lightweight, it would make the perfect travel hat. Stuff socks in it or carry it onto the plane and you’re good to go!

Lo & Sons Hanover Deluxe Backpack: I just bought this for myself for New Zealand, and CANNOT WAIT for it to arrive. I’ve been looking for a great travel backpack and debated between the Lo & Sons as well as the MZ Wallace. What set the L&S apart was the suitcase handle sleeve. I also felt like the L&S had better storage compared to the MZ, and it was less expensive. I think it will make the perfect airplane backpack. Will report back.

Shop World Traveler Gifts Below

Husband/Boyfriend/Brother, etc.

Tile Tracker: I bought Yale and I each one of these Tile trackers to ensure we never lose our keys again, and I must say, they’ve already come in handy several times. We always seem to lose our keys, and what I love about this tracker is that it can also track your phone as well! Super useful.

Cole Haan Leather Sneakers: Yale just bought himself a pair of these leather sneakers for New Zealand. He loves his Allbirds, but doesn’t love that they don’t offer a ton of support. Cole Haan is known for making great, supportive shoes, meant for walking about. I think these are well priced considering the quality of the product.

Heavy Duty Grill Tool Set: What grill-loving guy doesn’t want a heavy duty grill tool set? I know Yale would be thrilled to receive this on Christmas morning! This one is particularly impressive because it seems to come with everything you could ever need for manning a grill!

The Dude Diet Dinnertime: I love following Serena Wolf, and love her Dude Diet concept. These books are the perfect gift for the dude in your life, especially if you’re trying to get him to cook more, or if he’s already a home chef!

Lululemon Workout Shorts: Our friend Connor had these shorts on when the boys were golfing this summer, and I really liked them! I can’t remember if he had the 7” or the 9” but either way, they’re a great, high quality short that you know will last.

Bonobos Boxers: I don’t find it remotely weird to talk about boxers or underwear on this gift guide, because in my opinion, nice underwear makes a great gift! Yale loves these boxers from Bonobos!

Shop Husband/Boyfriend Gifts Below

For Mom / Mother In Law

Coravin Wine Preservation System: Ever open a bottle of wine, only to have to throw half out because you couldn’t drink it all? Me either. But! I assume this happens to SOME people, or people are apprehensive to open a bottle of wine just to have one glass. Enter: the Coravin. I’ve heard such incredible things about this product. Basically, it dispenses a glass of wine, without requiring you to open the bottle! Genius. I personally want this for myself!

Cloverpost Knot Earrings: I recently purchased these earrings for myself, and they’re perfect. They are bigger than your average stud earring, but in the best way possible. Perfect for someone who doesn’t love wearing a ton of jewelry, or just prefers the more simple look!

Custom Stationery: I am a HUGE stationery nerd. I have way too many custom notepads, note cards and the like with my monogram/name/business name, etc. I feel like for mom/MIL, you can never go wrong with beautiful custom stationery. I own and love these.

Beautiful & Cozy Slippers: I love a good pair of Ugg slippers, but they aren’t always what you want to get your mother in law! These beautiful Pouf slippers by Patricia Green are classic and chic, and sure to put a smile on your MIL’s face!

Travel Jewelry Case: Travel jewelry cases are one of those super practical things that every woman needs, but no one really wants to purchase for oneself. I love that you can add a monogram or initials to this case! Give one to all of the special women in your life!

Shop Mom/MIL Gifts Below

For Dad/ Father In Law

Custom Cocktail Napkins or Glassware: Who isn’t a sucker for a personalized item? I know my family is! A few years ago I got my dad custom glasses with his nickname etched in them. He absolutely LOVED them, and I’d say they’re his favorite rocks glasses to this day! Going the extra mile to make something personalized makes the gift more special.

Nicely Framed Pictures: Newly married? Yale and I gave EVERYONE wedding pictures of our family as Christmas gifts last year. Cliche? Sure. But it was a great gift (in my opinion), and everyone loves having framed pictures around!! We love using Framebridge.

Wooden Catchall: Honestly, we have so many catchalls and trays around our house, and I can always find a use for them. I like that this one has two sections. It would look very nice on your dad or FIL’s desk or bedside table.

Allbirds Sneakers: I think everyone in my family owns a pair of Allbirds. They’re honestly just the most comfortable shoe! A great option for the frequently-traveling or commuting dad/FIL who you know appreciates a little comfort mixed with style.

Sous Vide: If you have a dad who loves to cook, and also loves techy gadgets, check out a sous vide! Give your dad bragging rights and something to chat about over dinner when he asks you if your steak is perfectly cooked, post sous vide-session.

Coleman Portable Grill: Is your family the kind who gets up early to tailgate before a big football game? Love it. Do you also have a grill master dad? If so, look no further than a classic Coleman Portable Grill. He will be the hit of the tailgate, slinging dogs and burgers for all! Don’t forget the propane!

Shop Dad/FIL Gifts Below

Teacher or Coworker

Monogrammed Tassel Keychain: I love everything on the Mark and Graham website, they have so many fun gift options! They especially have good little gift ideas that can be personalized for the recipient. I love these tassel keychains and they’d make a great gift for teachers or your coworkers!

Ember Warming Mug: I feel like this Ember mug is the perfect gift for teachers. I can see why it may be easy to neglect a cup of coffee while in the classroom, and this mug/warmer combo keeps your coffee or tea from getting cold! Pretty useful gift if you ask me!

Weleda Skin Food: Nothing is worse than dry hands in winter. As someone who is especially prone, I am always looking for super thick, non-toxic creams and lotions to keep my hands hydrated. The Weleda Skin Food is the ultimate in thick, clean lotion! I am hooked! A few of these tubes live around my house and it’ll be my winter skin essential for years. Fancy it up with a bow and a Starbucks giftcard for the ultimate teacher/coworker gift!

Williams-Sonoma Peppermint Bark: Is this holiday bark the healthiest thing around? No. But the holidays are about enjoying a few weeks of indulgence, especially when spent with loved ones. I think this makes a great teacher or coworker gift because it’s a great price point, and can easily be shared with other coworkers or family for the recipients’ holiday gathering.

Commute Zipper Pouch: How fun is this little zipper pouch! Perfect for your coworkers who are on the go! Would also make a great travel accessory!

Faux Fur Pom Hat: I love that this hat can be monogrammed! Takes a lovely gift to the next level! Or leave it un-monogrammed! Totally up to you!

Shop Teacher and Coworker Gifts Below

“White Elephant” Gifts

Yeti Rambler Mug: When our friends did a gift exchange last year, TWO of these Yeti Rambler mugs made it into our pile! They are THE BEST because they keep your coffee hot forever. Yale uses his at work daily! I think anyone would be happy to receive any Yeti products, but this one doesn’t break the bank.

Nest Holiday Candle: I am OBSESSED with this holiday candle! Under $50, it makes a great white elephant gift. Whenever we burn it, our whole house smells like Christmas…and what is better than that?

Polaroid Camera: What is more fun than a good ole Polaroid camera?? We recently attended a wedding that had them floating around and it was such a fun addition to the party…which brought me back to my childhood and loving my old Polaroid. This gift would certainly be a hit!

Anthropologie Coasters: Who doesn’t love an Anthro coaster? We have them all over our house! They have so many different options, at a variety of differing price points. You’re sure to find an awesome set to gift at your girls’ gift exchange!

Hilarious Adult Card Games: I really don’t think you can go wrong bringing a hilarious (adult/NSFW) card game to the gift exchange. An appealing gift for men and women alike, everyone will be fighting over your gift, or it’ll be a hit of the party later! I’ve shared a few fun options below!

Shop White Elephant Gifts Below

Gift “Experiences”

While it’s always fun to get gifts over the holiday season, that’s not what it’s about! The holidays are about spending time with your friends, family and loved ones, and cherishing that time each year. It is about enjoying delicious food, memories and the company of others. Sometimes, the gift giving season becomes too hectic, and makes the joy of the holidays less joyful. This year, I wanted to think of a list of non-traditional gift experiences to share with your friends, family and loved ones. These are mainly ideas, but hope you find them helpful!