The Best Stocking Stuffers for Travel Lovers Under $100
Holiday shopping for the traveler in your life doesn’t have to be stressful—or expensive. Whether they’re jet-setting weekly or planning their next big adventure, the perfect travel gift is something practical, compact, and full of wanderlust. This curated guide features the best stocking stuffers under $100, including clever gear, beauty essentials, and unique experiences travelers will actually use.
From sugar-free hydration packets to global outlet adapters to adventure-inspiring scratch-off cards, these picks will help you win the holiday gifting game—without blowing your budget.
Why Stocking Stuffers Make the Best Travel Gifts
Travelers value minimalism and multipurpose items. Stocking stuffers check all the boxes:
Portable – They take up almost no suitcase space.
Useful – Great for flights, road trips, and busy travel days.
Affordable – You can gift thoughtful travel essentials without spending a fortune.
Fun – They add a little joy to a traveler’s everyday routine.
Let’s dive into the best stocking stuffers your favorite globe-trotter will love unwrapping this year.
Best Stocking Stuffers for Travel Lovers
Under $100
1. Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier® Sugar-Free – Holiday Edition
Dry airplane air, winter weather, and long travel days make hydration essential, and Liquid I.V.’s limited edition Hydration Multiplier® Sugar-Free Stocking Stuffer Pack is a must-have. These festive, holiday-inspired packets feature Lemon Lime, Raspberry Melon, and White Peach—all with 0 sugar, 0 artificial sweeteners, and 3x the electrolytes of the leading sports drink. Perfect for post-flight recovery, long hikes, or holiday hangovers. A refreshing stocking stuffer that won't take up much space but will make a huge impact.
2. Patchology On The Fly Travel Facial Kit
Know someone who always wants to look refreshed after a long flight? Enter the On The Fly Travel Facial Kit by Patchology. Packed with depuffing eye gels, hydrating face masks, and smoothing lip treatments, this mini kit brings spa vibes straight to 30,000 feet. It’s TSA-friendly, compact, and perfect for anyone who wants glowing skin on the go.
3. Pinch Provisions Bon Voyage Travel Kit
Stylish, helpful, and under $30—yes, please. If you love a practical gift, this one’s for you. The Bon Voyage Travel Kit is a chic French-inspired pouch stocked with 18 travel essentials, from an eye mask and brush to a stain remover, safety pins, breath drops, lip balm, and a phone stand. Whether your traveler is stuck on a delayed flight or prepping for a long-haul adventure, this kit is guaranteed to come to the rescue.
4. Matador Global Travel Adapter
This compact, worldwide travel adapter works in 170+ countries, making it a perfect stocking stuffer for anyone heading overseas. The Matador Global Travel Adapter powers up laptops, phones, tablets, and more, keeping travelers connected no matter where they roam.
5. HYDAWAY 17oz Collapsible Water Bottle
Hydration meets innovation with the HYDAWAY collapsible water bottle, which folds down to just over an inch thick. Its BPA-free, food-grade silicone design is lightweight, durable, and leakproof—ideal for travelers who want to stay hydrated without giving up precious bag space. Perfect for airport fill-up stations, road trips, or adventure travel.
6. Parallele Vicuna Traveller Charm
This chic mini Traveller Charm from Parallele is an elevated, fashion-forward stocking stuffer.
Designed to hold headphones and lipstick, it clips easily onto a tote, backpack, or carry-on. It’s a stylish little luxury travelers will use daily. Cute, functional, and under $100—basically the perfect gift.
7. Adventure Bucket List Scratch-Off Cards
For the traveler who loves unique experiences, the Adventure Bucket List Scratch-Off Deck is an unforgettable stocking stuffer. Each box includes 50 unique adventure cards and you can choose from just about every state—spanning all seasons. QR codes lead to updated details, making it both interactive and evergreen.
It’s a gift that inspires travelers to explore more—and check off bucket-list moments.
8. Priority Pass (Day Pass or Discounted Membership)
If you've ever sat at an airport gate wishing you were somewhere more comfortable, you know why Priority Pass is a priceless travel perk. While full memberships can be pricey, you can gift:
A one-time lounge access pass, or
A discounted basic membership (often under $100 on Black Friday)
Perfect for travelers who want to elevate their airport experience with food, drinks, and quiet space.
Why the NOW is the Best Time to Buy Travel Gifts
Between Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and December flash sales, holiday season is when top travel brands drop their best deals.
You’ll often find:
Huge markdowns on travel accessories
Bundle discounts
Limited-edition items (like Liquid I.V.’s holiday flavors!)
Free shipping promos
If you're shopping for a travel lover, the holidays are hands-down the best time to stock up on quality gifts.
Tips for Shopping Travel Gifts This Season
Before you check out, keep these key tips in mind:
1. Check Return and Cancellation Policies
Especially for travel-related memberships, digital passes, or items like tech gear.
Look for:
Easy returns
Free exchanges
Extended holiday return windows
2. Read the Fine Print
For subscriptions, tickets, or travel accessories, always read:
Country compatibility (adapters)
Bottle size limits (TSA 3-1-1 rules)
Expiration dates (passes or credits)
3. Buy from Trusted Brands
Travel gear should be durable and reliable. Read reviews and check warranties when possible.
4. If buying in store - ask for a gift receipt.
Just because you think your gift idea is brilliant, that doesn’t mean your loved one will agree. Spare them the embarrassment of having to ask to exchange your gift, or the annoyance of another thing that just becomes clutter.
You don’t need to spend a fortune to give the traveler in your life something meaningful.
These stocking stuffers under $100 are practical, compact, useful, and guaranteed to be appreciated on their next adventure.
Happy gifting—and happy travels!
24 Unique Christmas Gifts Everyone on Your List Will Love!
Are you guys ready for Christmas!
I can’t believe Christmas is just a few weeks away, and the end of 2022 will be coming just behind it. Since I’ve spent so much time traveling this year, I am really looking forward to a lazy, cozy holiday season at home with my friends and family.
This year has been a challenging one for a lot of reasons, and we are all feeling the pinch am I right? Inflation is at an all time high, supply chain issues are impacting availability of goods, and interest rates have sky rocketed, meaning you really should be avoiding credit card debt now more than ever. The holiday season can often be stressful in a lot of ways, and this massive pile-up of social issues is only adding fuel to the fire.
I am definitely keeping my gift giving list tight this year, so I have spent a lot of time scouring the internet for affordable but eye catching items for everyone on my list. I decided to share a few of my favorite finds with you, hopefully to ease the pain of all that browsing! So here are over 20 holiday gift ideas for everyone on your list, at a wide range of price points! Keep reading for my 2022 Holiday Gift Guide.
2022 Holiday Gift Guide
Gifts for the Frequent Traveler
I have been to over 10 countries this year, and all that time on a plane, I have had plenty of time to think of goods and gadgets that would make frequent travel all the more easy. I love this Work from Anywhere kit, which is perfect for anyone who still needs to be productive while traveling. And these black toiletry pouches can be filled up to the brim but still save so much more space than bottles.
If you have someone on the list that actually moved abroad or spends most of their time away, Homesick Candles have a scent for every city and can make even the most boring hotel room feel a bit more like home. Or if you are short ideas or missed the window for shipping in time for Christmas, just give the gift that keeps on giving - a Priority Pass membership!
Gifts for the Homebody
Help your friends and family create a cozier vibe at home with some stylish, chic, but functional home goods. Fluffy towels, a cooling pillow, or a cozy blanket can be perfect. I also have my eye on this surprisingly affordable baking set from Le Cruset, and you can’t go wrong with these Oofos Recovery Slippers that are the perfect thing to slip your feet into after a long day running around.
Gifts for the Fashionista
It is always a challenge picking out gifts for a fashion lover, but here are a few simple and elegant ideas. The viral slip dress from Skims will be a standout, as will this cozy longline cardigan that elevates even the most simple outfit.
If you haven’t heard of Brandon Blackwood, you need to familiarize yourself asap! The Black owned designer has become an it girl essential, and the bags still have some decent opening price points. And if you have run out of time or ideas or simply don’t have the desire to browse a few hundred web pages at various retailers, a Shein gift card will do the trick! Their assortment is enormous and prices rock bottom cheap, so anyone can find something they will love on that site!
Gifts for Him
Last but not least, don’t forget the guys on your list! Cufflinks are always a classic, and this cord organizer is an elegant solution for keeping your tech organized while traveling.
If he is a whisky lover, check out Man Crates for a selection of various types of gift boxes. Or help him step up his beauty game with some classic skin care or a high tech razor.
Best December Ever! 8 Savvy Tips You Need Before the End of the Year
How is it already December! I have been lucky enough to spend several chunks of time jetting around Europe and the Middle East, and I guess that’s how time flew so fast. One of the best things about expat life is the ease and freedom of travel, but one of the worst is the time away from home this time of year.
The holiday season here is still jam-packed, but it’s just not quite the same as spending Christmas and Thanksgiving at home. However, since I’ve been away from the intensity of life in New York and the expectations and obligations of family, I have actually had time to really reflect on what I love and hate about this time of year, and what I want to get out of the new year on the horizon. Here are 8 things to do in December to stay centered, enjoy the holiday season, and get ready for the end of the year!
Best December Ever!
8 Savvy Tips You Need Before the End of the Year
Practice setting boundaries
This time of year, you can find yourself pulled in a hundred different directions, but put your foot down! Don’t want to host this year – just say no! Not in the mood for elaborate holiday decorating. Pass! Don’t have the budget to buy gifts for every friend, cousin, niece, nephew, and coworker? Too bad for them!
Decide what is most important to you this month and focus on that. It could be more time spent relaxing with family and friends, or just ensuring you have adequate time for solo self-care. You are the boss, and you can decide how you want your holiday season to look, instead of once again being dragged along by other people's expectations of you and decisions being made about what you should do.
2. Keep your portions in check
I personally will not be over-indulging this holiday season since I’ve got a big beach trip coming in January. However, you can still find a balance in between watching your weight and still enjoying your favorite holiday foods.
Want to know the easiest strategy for watching your calories this season? Just literally use your hands! Keep protein to the size of your palm or bigger if you are focused on adding muscle, carbs the size of your fist, and vegetables to around 2 fistfuls – preferably of raw, leafy greens. And if you want to go a little harder or are actively trying to lose weight, just double down on the protein and skip the carbs and starchy foods. Feel free to give yourself a break on Thanksgiving and Christmas of course, just try to eat mindfully the rest of the season.
3. Be a morning person
It feels nearly impossible to get anything done after work these days, largely because it’s pitch black by around 4pm every day! Try to push yourself to get up earlier and start knocking things your to do list. I have taken to getting up 30-45 minutes earlier to give myself time for miscellaneous things like tidying up, paying bills, business work and online holiday shopping. And since I am someone who works out 5 times a week, twice a week I get up even earlier to get some of those workouts out of the way. Keeping a productive morning schedule ensures I get certain things done before anything else can distract me, and leaves me feeling inspired to maintain a certain level of productivity throughout the day.
4. Treat yourself.
If you think I’m only buying Christmas presents for others – think again! I have been bookmarking thing I want for months, just counting down the days for those Black Friday sales. Save some room in your budget to treat yourself – you 100% deserve it!
5. Pick some habits – one to choose, one to lose!
I haven’t set New Year’s Resolutions in ages. What I do instead is consider the things I do (and don't do) most days. Then I pick one habit I want to really focus on making consistent, and one that I really need to stop doing. Then I put them into mindful practice and see what happens! In 2021 that habit was a daily core conditioning workout for at least 5 minutes. I kept up with that, but didn’t set one for 2022, so it’s time to play catch up.
6. Make a budget/tax prep
This is a chore but trust me you will thank me later! If you have anticipate having a particularly complicated return, check in with your tax professional before December 31st! Go over your tax situation and anything you may need to do before year’s end to lessen your burden. Depending on your situation you may or may not be able to do anything, but it’s worth at least being informed and having all your documents in order.
Granted, this may not be anyone’s picture of holiday fun, but you’ll be happy to have this part out of the way!
7. Plan a Vacation
You guys know I don’t need any reason to start booking flights! But lately I have taken to adding vacation deals to cart around Black Friday! Yes, airlines, hotels and travel booking platforms all offer a host of deals and steals around Black Friday and Christmas, so take advantage of those discounts. A lot of platforms also offer flexible cancellation policies and no pre-payment so you can plan a dream trip without being on the hook to pay for weeks.
Plus booking early helps you save a lot and have your pick of the best places to stay, so do some early planning for your summer 2023 trips!
8. Reflect on last year's resolutions
If you are someone that makes resolutions, take some time to reflect on how you did with your goals for 2022. It’s hard to accurately weigh your progress considering all the external factors that may have thrown you off, but give it some thought and see where you could have improved. While not everything is in your control, some stuff actually is! Take charge of what you can control, improve and learn from.
If you fell short of your goals, don’t worry – you still have time to take some baby steps toward improvement. And if you aced every goal you set out to accomplish, go ahead and give yourself a pat on the back!
How are you feeling about the last few weeks of 2022? What are you looking forward to most this holiday season?
How to Make Holiday Entertaining Easy with Drinkworks® Home Bar by Keurig®!
This post is sponsored by Drinkworks® Home Bar by Keurig®. All opinions are my own. Content for 21+, Please enjoy responsibly.
Are you starting to feel the Holiday vibes? This one has been a crazy year to say the least. I’m planning to spend the rest of 2020 getting in some much needed pre-Holiday R&R. It’s time to get intentional about winding down and getting back to focusing on you. This holiday season may be unlike most others with all the guidelines and restrictions on travel and get togethers. While you may not be able to go to your favorite destination or have the holiday season you are used to, there are still ways to make celebrating at home special.
Every cocktail pod is filled with real ingredients and natural flavors, and yes, they include alcohol! So, all you need to add is ice and garnish. Plus, it’s a great value for at home entertaining. No need to stock up on assorted spirits and mixers, the pods are an easy crowd-pleaser! You can make a different high-quality cocktail for everyone, with no measuring, mixing, shaking or cleaning. It even adds the perfect amount of carbonation to drinks that are supposed to be fizzy! And it literally takes less than a minute to craft the perfect cocktail!
There is also a ton of versatility with the pods. They have over 2 dozen flavors, from Mojitos to Moscow Mules. And the Fireside Collection is a fun holiday themed pack, with flavors like Ginger Snap, White Russian, Pomegranate Elderflower Spritzer, and Spiced Punch. My favorite drink is the Moscow Mule, and I also fell in love with the Rose Spritz. But you really can’t go wrong with any of the cocktail flavors!
And thanks to Drinkworks Home Bar by Keurig for partnering with me on this post!
20 Holiday Gift Ideas from Small Businesses You Need to Support Now!
It’s that time of year! Have you started holiday shopping yet? I’ve been organizing my list and thinking about how to get thoughtful gifts for everyone while staying on budget. I’ve also been thinking about the economic impact of the pandemic this year, and all the small businesses that have been affected. This holiday season I decided to throw my support to the businesses that need it most – small businesses! I scoured the internet for the must-have gifts for everyone on your list from small businesses, and most of my finds are from minority or women owned brands!
Keep reading for my Small Business Gift Guide!
The Small Business Gift Guide
Wellness Themed Gifts from Small Businesses
Wellness is one of the big words of 2020! This year has been absolutely insane, so we all need to be focused on how to stay healthy and sane. Candles are a no brainer, and I love Anecdote Candles for the stories behind each scent. This crystal and sage kit is a great idea for anyone looking to bring new, fresh energy into their home, and a guided journal will help with those moments of reflection.
Gifts for the Foodie on Your List from Small Businesses
Everyone has a foodie friend! They may have been a food lover for years, or just discovered their inner chef while in quarantine. Indulge their habit with some new kitchen gadgets or foodie essentials, while supporting small businesses. You can’t go wrong with a bottle of whiskey or set of artisanal coffee from a black owned brand. I also love Whisk, a small ecommerce site and shop owned and run by Brooklyn locals. They have a ton of kitchen gadgets for any aspiring home chef or entertaining lover.
Gifts For the Fitness Junkie on Your List
Nike and Adidas don’t need your coins this season! If you have a fitness lover on your list, check out these gift ideas from small businesses! I love these workout sets from Veer Active and Eithera makes cute sports bras and accessories for the yoga and wellness enthusiast in your life. For someone looking to add some extra intensity to their workouts, the RhinoRope is a badass addition to anyone’s at home gym.
Beauty Gifts from Small Businesses
Everyone can use a little TLC right now. If you are shopping for a beauty lover on your list, focus your search on self-care themed products from small businesses. Southern Hospitality has amazing gift sets to keep your feet in tip top shop, and I’m legit obsessed with Crazy Goat Lady body products! I discovered her soaps in Sedona, and she also makes a body butter that is just divine. And since our hands have been feeling extra dry thanks for all the extra washing and hand sanitizing, pick up an extra gentle, super hydrating hand wash to keep things cleansed and moisturized.
Fashionable Face Masks for Pretty Much Every Girl on Your List
We’ll be wearing face masks for awhile, so we may as well stock up on cute ones! I have a rotation of masks, most of them I found on Etsy. I can’t wait to rock the classic lace one on date nights, and the chain mail mask for New Years, or really any special occasion!
Hope you loved this list! I know Black Friday sales from big box retailers can be tempting, but just think about how big a difference your dollars can make to a small brand. Budgets are tight all around in this economy, so if you are even able to do holiday shopping, spend your money where it really counts!
Money Moves: How to Not Go Broke This Holiday Season
Tis the season to spend money! Seriously, who else feels like time of year your wallet is just bleeding cash? Between entertaining, going out to holiday events, travel, and shopping, it’s so hard to keep your finances on track. This year I’m really being tough on my spending because I’m recovering from the cross-country move, being in between jobs, and of course wedding expenses. Even if you aren’t in my position, it can never hurt to be mindful of your spending! This year shoppers are planning to spend an average of $1,047 according to the National Retail Federation!
In the spirit of belt-tightening, I wanted to share a few ways I’m planning to keep my spending down this season so I can focus on my financial future. Stay tuned for my tips to not go broke this holiday season!
Skip the New Dress
During the holidays there are a ton of social occasions and you may feel tempted to get a new look for every event. That is going to be a huge financial strain and if you are trying to cut back that is the place to start! Shop your closet for old favorites, pick up some low-cost accessories to spice up your look, or think beyond the cocktail dress. Style your separates in a more formal way, and use hair, makeup and accessories to elevate your look. If you do happen to have a month of jam-packed events, clothing rental services like Nuuly or Rent the Runway are a great alternative to shopping traditional retail.
DIY Your Beauty
If you find yourself having regular appointments for hair, makeup, manicures etc, think about what you can do yourself before you enlist the pros. There are thousands of tutorials you can watch for free on YouTube and practice before you have to nail a look for a big event. And if you aren’t confident in your abilities, you still have options! Hair accessories are trending this year, so you can always do a slick bun and embellish it with hairclips, or pop on a chunky glitzy or velvet headband for a look that makes a statement. And you can rely on the beauty counter at most department stores or Sephora for a free makeover! Usually you’ll have to buy product or be a member of their loyalty program, so take the opportunity to pick up a gift for someone on your list.
Get Thrifty With Your Decorations
I love decorating for the holidays! I don’t go as far as a lot of other bloggers, but I like having a nice stylish Christmas tree and a few stockings. I always go for a synthetic version since it can be reused for years to come, and I keep about half of the ornaments each year. I give myself a little bit of wiggle room to style my tree based on my mood that year, and only shop for ornaments on sale! Michael’s pretty much always has stuff for 40% off and Amazon has an amazing selection of décor pretty much at any price. You can also check out your local dollar stores for some goodies on the cheap. Give yourself a budget that makes sense and stick to that! And remember, everyone cares more about the presents that are under the tree than how the tree looks!
Do Your Shopping Online
Shopping online requires you to plan your purchases more carefully and reduces impulse shopping. When you are in a store there is product everywhere you look, and they trap you even further with lines and lines of merchandise (usually at jacked up prices) as you wait to checkout. Shopping online requires a little more planning, which is critical when you are trying to stay on a budget. Plus, you can take advantage of coupons and cash back programs to maximize your savings. Almost every site offers a discount code for signing up for emails, and you can always do a quick search for codes for that site to see what works. Just be sure to double check return policies so you don’t end up stuck with something that doesn’t fit or is lower quality than you were expecting.
Limit Your Gift List
There can be a lot of social pressure on how many people get gifts and how much you spend, but at a certain point you have to draw the line. Establish what you can reasonably afford to spend on gifts this holiday season, making sure that number includes wrapping and shipping if need be! Then split it up accordingly. You can also encourage friends and family to have a secret Santa or white elephant style party instead of bringing individual gifts for everyone. Everyone knows how expensive the holidays can get so no one should be surprised that you want to keep expenses down!
If you start getting discouraged or need better direction, keep a financial goal in mind that will help you stay motivated. It can be something big or small, just make sure there is a number associated with it that you can keep top of mind. It will be difficult but worth it in the end!
Holiday Gift Guide! 10 Gifts Under $50 for the Fashionista
We’re singing deck the halls!
Can you believe Christmas is just a few weeks away! My décor has been up, complete with fake presents under the tree to make it look extra popping. I’ve been playing with holiday beauty looks, narrowing down my ideas for glam, and of course working on my gift list and wish lists! Since I’ve got a wedding to plan I’m super budget conscious these days. If you are trying to have the best holiday season possible without breaking the bank, you’ve gotta start with reducing how much you spend on gifts! Not saying turn into the Grinch, but just make sure you are keeping things in check.
If you are looking for gifts to impress at an affordable price point, check out my picks for fashion forward gifts under $50. I handpicked these items from some of my favorite It Girl websites that will get you bonus points with your friends, even though you stayed under budget.
Best Accessories to Gift Under $50
Accessories make great stocking stuffers if they are small, or can be combined into the perfect gift. Pearl barrettes have been everywhere this season and I love this set from Amazon. Super chic right?
Or go for a classic cool necklace stack or pair of earrings from It Girl fave brand Gorjana! opt for the branded gift packaging to take it up a notch. And tiny bags have blown up since Lizzo rocked one on the red carpet, and this version is super affordable and a bit more practical.
Fashionable Gifts Under $50
Picking out clothing for someone else is hard! I usually avoid gifting clothes, but fell in love with these pieces so had to throw them in. Every girl needs a slip dress and a statement one like this can be styled for multiple occasions. Cozy sweaters are a winter essential, so can’t necessarily go wrong there. And a cashmere or handmade knit from Instagram favorite brand Mum’s Handmade will definitely be appreciated! Just make sure you get a gift receipt in case they need to exchange it!
Travel and Home Gifts Under $50
Away is a cult classic brand and while a suitcase is an expensive and somewhat impractical gift, a stylish travel storage case is sure to please! The Away mini case is perfect for stashing everything from makeup to chargers when on the go, and is available in a ton of different colors. Or opt for a stylish chunky knit that only looks expensive, or an adorable silk sleep mask perfect for cozying up at home. And since every girl needs a high-end candle, you can’t go wrong with Diptyque’s classic rose scent.
Hope this helps you nail your holiday season gifting under budget! Don’t forget to take advantage of coupons for first time purchases or signing up for emails to save more. And you can leverage cash-back sites like RebatesMe or Ebates to earn money back on your purchases!
Holiday Gift Guide Part 1 - Gifts Under $100 for Everyone on Your List!
Have you started your holiday shopping yet? If you are an early bird you probably already started around Black Friday! I don’t shop a ton to be honest, but I like to keep my list pretty curated and personal. Massive sales are great when you want to just buy random cute stuff at a great price then decide who gets what later on, but I try to take a more personalized approach. Here are some items from brands I love at every day affordable prices. Most are actually closer to the $50 mark, but since I snuck in a few higher priced items, consider this your ultimate Under $100 Gift Guide!
Gifts for the Beauty Lover that are Under $100
These are some of my favorite products that you’ve seen me posting about all year. Tula’s skin care system has really changed my skin and their Starter Kits are an easy and affordable way to try them out. Love Beauty & Planet has a full range of products that are perfect for the beauty lover in your life that is also eco-friendly. Shop them at Target & Ulta! And dpHue’s ACV rinse will work wonders on all hair types!
And since beauty starts within don’t forget the vitamins! Olly has a great assortment of easy to chew gummies, including everything from a classic multi vitamin to specialized ones for skin, energy, and hair. Also CND makes an amazing assortment of polish for the manicure lover in your life. Grab a few at RiteAid and wrap them up pretty for the perfect affordable gift. And I’m loving all the gift sets at Sephora, but this TooFaced Christmas Tree set is just the cutest! TooFaced is one of my go-to makeup brands so you pretty much can’t go wrong with anything from their line.
Home and Decor Gifts Under $100
Everyone knows someone who is more or less a homebody, so give them stuff they can cozy up with all winter long! A bottle of Veuve Clicquot is always a winning option, or if they love at home cocktails, a fancy set of bitters or syrups will be perfect. Foodie gifts are also always fun, like this DIY Cheese Making Kit from Williams Sonoma. Candles are always another holiday favorite, and Anecdote Candles not only are high quality and smell great, the names are all super millenial friendly. I’m currently burning Adulting and Bottomless Mimosas, and adding Swipe Right to cart. Or go for something super cozy like a warm, fluffy personalized bathrobe or chunky throw blanket.
Gifts for the Fashionista Under $100
Shopping for your fashion forward friends is always a challenge, but here are some of my favorites from brands I love! Clarks has a great assortment of boots on sale at Zappos and Pretty Little Thing is one of my go-to sites for affordable on trend items for any occasion. I also recently discovered Violet & Brooks, who make an assortment of gorgeous jewelry. They also donate 5% of net profits to Covenant House, so this is a great choice if you want to give a gift that gives back. And you guys have seen me post about Upbra on several occasions, but they really make the bra that is the perfect finishing touch for any look. And if one of Mum’s Handmade amazing knit sweaters are out of price range, they also make adorable beanies that are a fraction of the price. And if you love the dress I’m wearing in the pic above, definitely check out LA Made Clothing! That one is actually $106, so just over $100 but it was too good not to include here! Most of their items are way less than that and the range includes fun dresses and more casual items.
Holiday Gifts Under $100 for the Boys
Even though I’m more of the whisky drinker in the relationship, a bourbon or spirit set is a classic gift for the guys on your list. And if you want to give a gift that you can also enjoy, the Manscaping Set is right up your alley! Or gift the Scotch & Porter Beard Collection to keep his scruff, well, less scruffy. Even though Jack Black is a men’s brand, this lip balm is hands down one of my faves and makes a great stocking stuffer. And this Thule backpack is one you’ve also seen me rocking, but all their products are unisex, affordable, and highly functional! And because the Little Blue Box isn’t only for the girls, give your man something Tiffany! These collar stays weren’t the only thing under $100! Think beer mugs, crystal whisky tumblers, and if you can spend up to $175 you’ll find money clips, tie bars, luggage tags and wallets.
Hope these tips help and happy shopping! And stay tuned for part 2 of my gift guide if you are looking for experiences you can gift.
All that Glitters! Bringing the Sparkle for this Holiday Season!
Sequins? For holiday? Groundbreaking!
Obviously we all know the holiday season is the time for glitz and glamour and to bring all your sparkle, but seriously! Why not bring ALL THE SPARKLE! It’s the only time of year you can get away with dressing this obnoxiously, so don’t worry about being restrained. Go all out now and save your basics for January. Blazer dresses were a major trend for Fall, and I’m still loving it now! Mixing two trends can be frowned upon, this one somehow combines the blazer dress trend and the holiday sequins trend and makes it work. I got it from Rent the Runway, which is my hero this time of year because my Unlimited membership keeps me covered for all the events and parties that pop up. If you have been on the fence about membership, I’ll be posting more about it in a few weeks, but depending on your social schedule this month you should consider taking advantage!
But back to this dress! It’s definitely one to keep all eyes on you, and I love the loose silhouette. It hides all the sins from holiday eating and you can dance all night in it. I paired it with a pair of thigh high boots because it’s just too chilly for tights and heels these days, but if it were just a bit warmer it would look great with high heeled booties as well. I finished the look with equally glam makeup – a soft smoky eye and deep red lip.
If you are still looking for the perfect standout dresses for whatever your holiday season may bring, shop some of my faves below!
Let me know what you guys have planned to celebrate the season and what you end up wearing to each. And if you want more tips for holiday makeup, check out this post here!
3 Can't Miss Activities for the Ultimate NYC Christmas Staycation
Images by AV Photography
Christmas is just 3 days away guys! Since I'm a local I usually don't have to travel around the holidays. Instead of stressful, drama filled travel, staying local helps me have some downtime to really appreciate and enjoy my city.
New York is always amazing, but there really is something magical about the holiday season here. Since I have a friend in town visiting this week, I'm getting a great excuse to indulge in all the classic NYC activities that tourists do when they come into town.
Here are a few that I'm most excited about!
The Holiday Train Show at New York Botanical Garden
I'm a member of the garden so visit several times a year, but one of the most unique events is the annual holiday train show. The lines get intense, but I have to say it's worth it! Even though the show is in the conservatory, the line runs outside, so layer up because you may be waiting awhile
Drinks at Bar SixtyFive
If you want the views that you get from Top of the Rock without the crowds and lines, head up for a drink at Bar SixtyFive. Reservations are encouraged but not required and the place is pretty swanky so dress appropriately. It's expensive but the drinks and apps are amazing, and the view can't be beat.
Taking in the holiday window displays
In my day to day, I'm rushing through the streets trying to get where I'm going in time. But during the holidays the city streets are gorgeous, and the department stores up 5th Avenue have the most amazing window displays. Spend some time strolling the blocks taking in the unique, creative displays, and maybe pop-in for a last minute gift for a friend (or yourself).
Let me know your favorite thing about Christmas in NY (or in your city)!
Last Minute Gift Ideas with No Shipping or Shopping Needed!
IMAGES BY OLIVIA KANG
Today is December 18th, which means Christmas is just 1 week away! If you were an early bird, you got all of your shopping out of the way by Black Friday. But if you, like me, were seriously slacking, you still have quite a bit of shopping left to do while stores are overcrowded and most websites will no longer guarantee delivery by the holiday. If you are in that jam, here are a few last minute gift ideas you can grab for pretty much anyone on your list, without worrying about shipping!
A virtual assistant
Everyone would appreciate having someone around to help them get things done. While you may not be able to send them a personal assistant IRL, virtual assistants can be amazing! Check out packages from Task Bullet and Zirtual, they are affordable and easily accessible from anywhere with internet access.
Spa or Beauty Gift Certificates
If there is a beauty lover in your life, or just someone who goes for the regular massage, look into a gift certificate to a spa or salon in their area. Red and White Spa is one of my faves in the city, and they have amazing Christmas specials that you can book or gift. I'm also stalking Noel New York's Instagram for their daily deals, so I can save some coin when I update my hairstyle next season. Check out options in each person's area and see what you can find!
A Online Language Course
Whether you know someone brushing up on a language before a trip or who just wants to learn something new, an online language course is unexpected, easy to use, and great for adults or kids on your list. I've got my eye on Babbel for a friend going to Spain this summer!
A Foodie Friendly Subscription Box
From Blue Apron to Hello Fresh, the options are endless! There are food subscription boxes for everyone from the indulgent foodie to the die-hard paleo dieter. Who wouldn't love the gift of an amazing meal that they can whip up in no time?
Good luck with your last minute shopping! Let me know if you have any great ideas for last minute gifts I missed!
