Author Spotlight
Zoe Brian
Ho, ho, ho and dreidel, dreidel, dreidel; the holiday season is upon us. Or at least that’s what my radio station is telling me by playing Christmas music in November. If you’re anything like me you get a ridiculous amount of joy out of giving the absolutely perfect gift, making the holidays a great time to show off your gift-giving skills. But sometimes shopping for that special present can be more painful than pleasant. Budget, taste and a ridiculous amount of other factors all come into play during the holiday season. Here are some ideas for gifts for your parents, siblings and friends.
Parents
Scarves
For mom there is nothing more perfect than a scarf. This fashionable accessory is not only functional but can also be paired with multiple outfits. An infinity scarf does away with the hassle of tying the scarf, but if your mom is into switching up her look try a scarf with a fun pattern to spice up any outfit.
Mugs
All parents need their morning pick-me-up, so help them out with a neat mug. Whether it be a for tea, coffee or hot cocoa, a cool mug makes that morning tradition a little more fun. Some fun suggestions are a frighteningly cool dinosaur cup, a personalized Scrabble mug, or a surprise hippo attack from within their drink.
Donations
Mom and Dad will be beyond proud when you give them the best gift out there: a donation to a charity in their honor. My personal favorites include Wayside Waifs, Literacy KC and Harvesters.
Friends
Repurposed Bracelet
For the musically inclined pal in your life try this repurposed guitar string bracelet. At the low price of $10, these bracelets come in multiple colors and can be worn alone or stacked. Not only are these bracelets chic but a percentage of the proceeds go to the charity MusiCares. Buy just one or stock up and divy them out at the season progresses.
Journal
Eco-friendly, practical and even funny this journal is made of 100% recycled elephant poop. Yes, elephant poop. Only $14, each journal is handmade in Thailand and is perfect for the eco-conscious friend in your life.
Coffee Cup
Everyone has those “I’m not a paper cup” mugs but this one is a cut above the rest. For $12 you get a ceramic cup and usable chalkboard in one. Most coffee shops even offer discounts for bringing in your own mug! Give your friends a gift that keeps on giving with this eco-friendly and wallet-friendly mug.
Siblings
Socks
When in doubt, the siblings get socks. For just $10, your dear family members can be rocking some sweet ankle mustaches, have their feet be attacked by an octopus or even proclaim their love for Van Gogh’s “Starry Night.”
Book Themed Shirts
If you have a sibling that is even slightly bookish, you’ll want to hop on over to outofprintclothing.com. Out of Print sells shirts, accessories and more with iconic book covers, some of which are out of print — hence the name. The company also works in conjunction with the charity Books for Africa and for every product sold one book is donated to a community in need. Prices range from $8 for a notebook to $42 for sweatshirts.
Ninja Umbrella
Help your siblings fight the rain with this super sweet samurai sword umbrella. This $24 umbrella may scare away a few raindrops before it even needs to be used. With a handy-dandy back strap, your sibling will be ready for any sudden attack of rain.
The holidays can be jolly, yummy and, unfortunately, stressful. But don’t let the frosty air get to your attitude. Giving gifts is such a blast, have fun with it and you will soon be known as the best gift-giver around — even if you are just giving socks.
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