If you haven’t already started, it’s time to get your holiday shopping on! The sooner you check off everyone on your list the sooner you can enjoy a warm cup of hot cocoa while watching your favorite Christmas special.
My Christmas mornings have always begun with finding tiny treasures in my stocking. It was the only thing we were allowed to open before my parents woke up. So I figured I’d begin the first of my many holiday gift guides this season with my favorite stocking stuffers.
This time last year, I roped my boyfriend into creating the ultimate gift guide for men. This year, I’ve had no such luck in getting him to put together another gift guide. Since us girls need all the help we can get when it comes to shopping for the mysterious men in our lives, I decided to put together my own gift guide for guys. Here’s a few Aspiring Socialite-approved gift ideas for every budget.
P.S. – If the guy you’re shopping for is a sports fan, you can’t go wrong with tickets to see his favorite team play. It’s something you can do together and if they’re not that good this year, tickets may actually be affordable. You can find the best deals on StubHub.
Before going home for the holidays, my Mom came up to New York and we spent the day shopping at the Winter Village in Bryant Park. It’s one of the best places in NYC to find some of the most unique gifts during the holidays all made by local artisans. I particularly love the jewelry. Many of the pieces are completely handmade and one of a kind. In between holiday shopping, my Mom and I also took selfies of our reflections in the Christmas ornaments on the larger than life Christmas tree.
Holiday selfie
Holiday selfie take 2
Frozen time necklace by Vivi Sun made out of old watch parts
More fab frozen time necklaces by Vivi Sun
Bracelets made from repurposed Chanel buttons by Studio Manhattan Vintage – I’m in love!
Love, Love, LOVE!
More repurposed Chanel jewelry by Studio Manhattan Vintage
I may always know what’s next in fashion or how to get the perfect smokey eye, but aside from picking out stylish menswear, I’m stumped when it comes to getting gifts for the guys. So I asked my sports-obsessed boyfriend to put together the ultimate gift guide for guys while I wrapped gifts and decorated our tree. Here’s what Ian suggests:
For the Foodie:
Pleasing someone passionate about cooking is tough. Don’t buy them a new knife set, they still love the one they have been using for 10 years and besides, sharpening knives is fun. Here are some out of the box ideas for the foodie:
The Stocking Stuffer:
Amarula Cream is a South African Cream that is perfect not only for cocktails, but for cooking as well. Amarula is a great addition to puddings, butters, and sauces. It’s unique because it uses the ancient marula fruit indigenous of Africa. It’s also great with coffee. So concluded, this stocking stuffer with some coffee beans from Rwanda, which can be found in the Foreign Ground Coffee Collection make a perfect combination.
Under the Tree:
The Proteak Cutting Board may seem boring, but it’s a game changer for someone who loves to cook! Teak is a wood that is resistant to moisture and bacteria and is easy to clean. The teak comes from a ranch in South America and each board is hand crafted. This will surely please your Top Chef!
For the Sports Guy:
You can’t get him what he really wants…for his team to win it all, but you can get him the next best thing, sports stuff!
The Stocking Stuffer:
Sports tickets to watch his favorite team in action – the best deals can be found on StubHub!
Under the Tree:
Unless your significant other is a 15-year-old, don’t get him a sports jersey. They’re tacky and can only be worn twice a year, they are also super expensive. Instead, get him some clothes from 47 Brand. 47 Brand is upscale, vintage style sports apparel that allows him to support his team while looking fashionable. They have apparel for all major professional sports teams and most colleges.
For the Gadget Guy:
It’s no secret that guys love their gadgets. Here are two fun gadgets that he may not already have.
The Stocking Stuffer:
A Leap Motion Controller is an $80 USB adaptor that allows you to control your PC or MAC by motion sensors. Not only is it a more seamless way to get work done on you computer, its also pretty damn cool! This is a smart gift that can make anyone feel like they are in a Sci-Fi movie!
Under the Tree:
A Crosley Patriarch 4-in-1 Turntable is a great entertainment center that is nice piece to add to any room. It plays CDs, vinyls, MP3s and AM/FM radio.
How cute are we? Here’s Ian and I watching the ball drop in Times Square last New Year’s Eve! Thanks Ian for putting together this gift guide and helping girls everywhere find the perfect gift for that special guy. You’re a holiday hero!
