Recently in Gifts Category

Trends come and go - we know this. So when it comes to gift giving this season, think hard about the style pieces you purchase for others.

I firmly believe that gift cards are the best route to go when it comes to holiday gift giving if the person is a) a new friend who you are still getting to know, b) a good friend but who you really have no time to shop for, c) a loved one who has specifically told you that a gift card is what he or she prefers, d) a coworker or colleague whose name you got from a gift exchange.

For the other people on your list, I would suggest turning to classic style staples that are wardrobe and/or accessory staples at a great cost; the pieces I believe you really can't go wrong with, whether that person already owns such an item. (Remember, there are variations with everything.)

As a personal shopper and wardrobe consultant, I suggest purchasing affordable, classic items that will allow you to positively impact a loved one's wardrobe. Then she can always add in fun, trendy pieces to complement the gift she received!

Here are my Top 5 Must-Give Gifts of the Season for Under $20, and some of the best online shops to check out:

    * A scarf - Target.com offers a wonderful selection of chic cold-weather scarves.
    * Slippers - Chilly mornings and evenings pair up perfectly with slipper boots from OldNavy.com.
    * Coin purses - A nice selection of cute coin purses at Target.com - 'cause every penny counts!
    * A cardigan sweater -JCPenney.com offers colorful cardigan sweaters on clearance.
    * Knit gloves - Make a winter fashion statement with ribbed gloves from Macys.com.

Happy Holidays! Remember: shop smart, save money, and hold onto your gift receipts. 

Photo Credit © Graça Victoria | Dreamstime.com

All Hallows' Even, Halloween, has always been one of my favorite holidays. I passed this quirky holiday adoration on to my children who plan their costumes months in advance.  Our yard is covered with styrofoam tombstones, fake skeleton bones and assorted things that go bump in the night. I wanted to share with you some fun Halloween treats that won't trick your wallet.

Deb DiSalvo is getting in the Halloween spirit with her goulish fused glass pendants.  You can special order one from her through her Artist Flair shop.  I, personally, own the bat with the big eyes.

For a bit of sweet Halloween holiday fun, try this layered candy corn glycerin and white soap inspired by real candy corn by Smokey Mountain Scents.

Candy Corn is scented with candy corn fragrance a warm vanilla candy with top notes of butter with a hint of almond.

 

 

A generously thick (1 in) renewable dog leash to show off the fab Candy Corn fabric by Annie's Sweatshop. Your fabric is sewn onto renewable and strong cotton webbing. Secured with a re-purposed nickel swivel loop lock. Low impact and sustainable.

 

 

 

Ciao Bella's Orange Clove scent is a smooth blend of Sweet Oranges, Cloves and Cinnamon. It will fill the room with the warm aroma of fresh oranges and Fall spices. Ciao Bella's luxurious all natural soy wax candles are hand poured using biodegradable soy bean wax and the highest quality essential oils available. Their candles are sure to soothe your senses and provide you with a wonderful ambiance for any occasion.

Hand poured, free of lead, zinc and paraffin, 100% cotton wick, made from natural soy wax. 8 oz candles burn approximately 75 hours.