Holiday Gift Guide 2019

Here it is.  My first Holiday Gift Guide. I’ve never done one, but for the past few weeks, I’ve received hundreds of emails about being included in my gift guide.  No sponsored posts, no affiliate links, just my personal favorites.  In my 6 years of blogging, I’ve always done my best to keep it real, be authentic and share what I truly love.  Sure, I’ve posted some ads and accepted sponsored content; but never from a brand or a business that I would not visit or support myself.  I also believe in supporting local businesses and businesswomen changing careers.  I love telling stories and connecting like-minded people.  It’s who I am, and it’s what makes this blog what it is.

Each day, I will share one of these businesses on Instagram feed and/or stories.   Some have even offered a special discount code for emmawestchester readers.  Others have specials coming up for Black Friday and Cyber Monday, so I suggest following their IG accounts for these deals.  I have 10 to share, but I have a feeling I will add more as the days go on, so check back frequently.  Here it goes.

1. 1. 1.  It’s Personal Stuff     This is my #1 mainly because I need to share it on Day 1 of my ten-day sharing schedule.  Her things take time to produce and ship, so I figured I would make her the first one.  Ali makes Apple watch bands and iPhone wallets with repurposed designer material.  My favorite items are the Gucci Birkenstocks (yes!) and the phone wallets that the teens attach to their phones.  They can be personalized with initials or monograms too. Super cool “tech” items as well as fashion items for the girls (and women) who like designer brands.  You can find her items on her website or on her IG.  Pricing is on her site.    https://itspersonalstuff.com/  &   https://www.instagram.com/itspersonalbyali
      2. Designs HP    On the topic of “designer-inspired items” I figured I would share Designs by HP next.   Haylie is a Westchester woman, who designs and makes beautiful blankets, ornaments and clothing items.   She’s offering a 10% off code for emmawestchester readers, who buy online and use the code, GIFTGUIDE.   https://www.instagram.com/designshp/  &  https://www.instagram.com/designshp/ 
      3. Haute Shore Bags.  Hands down, the BEST.  They are fashionable, durable and affordable.   A wonderful gift item and price point.  The brand is not offering discounts on their site because they want shoppers to support the retail locations.   I’ve seen them at a bunch of places:  LOLA in White Plains and Crestwood, The Shop at Dori’s in Greenwich, Armonk and Chappaqua, Whim in Bronxville and I’ve heard they are also at Wishes Boutique in Yorktown.  Not a day goes by, that someone doesn’t compliment my crossbody camo bag.  My favorite accessory of the fall, without a doubt.  https://www.hauteshore.com/
      4.  Art.  I am not an art collector by any means, but I do love home decor that suits one’s interests and taste.   I recently purchased a beautiful striped canvas from an artist named Kim Stadin. My home office was in need of a refresh, so I decided I would treat myself to a beautiful piece once I had completely reorganized, installed a new closet wall and ordered new furniture.  For gifting, I would recommend Jessie Rubin Art, because she has something for everyone.  I love the peace signs, the “love” pieces and many are perfect for kids rooms.  Her price point is fair and she’s local and I think it’s a good way to teach kids to appreciate art, to have their first “original” piece in their bedroom.You can also find her work for sale on ArtSugar:  https://artsugar.co/blogs/news/welcome-jessie-rubin-to-artsugar
      5. The Paper Alley.   They sell a lot of cool items but I love their hats.  The puffer beanie is so cute and allows you to include a message of your choice, within reason. Think Dog Mom, Love My Boys, Pray For Snow, Dance Mom, Hockey Mom, JOMO, you name it.  Love their acrylic desk accessories and serving pieces too… But the hats are my fave for winter!  https://www.instagram.com/thepaperalley/  & https://thepaperalley.com/ 
      6.  The Ritual Jacket at Athleta.   Hands down, the nicest and softest winter hoodie.  It’s not a pullover, it has a zipper.  It’s soft and furry, unlike the sherpa jackets. I like sherpa, but this jacket has a different texture and looks a little neater and dressier. It comes in black, mauve and an off white, although the site calls it grey.  I got the black. Check it out:  http://bit.ly/34oO7K3
      7.  Holiday Sweaters.  I hate seasonal clothing and I hate ugly sweaters; such a waste.  But these ones are nice.  Pricey, but nice. Buying one of these would make sense and it would be my “holiday sweater” for five years.  Minimal, tasteful and classic….no giant Santas on these sweaters. My blogger friend offered a code to her readers so I will share it with you.  https://www.wooden-ships.com/ & you can use code: Noreenstrendycorner15
      8.  PlushBlow Gift Cards.   I have given these as gifts over the years and they are always well received.  A blowout is a treat, but it’s not cheap, by the time you are finished with tips and all.  PlushBlow has locations in Scarsdale, Rye, Yonkers & White Plains.  (Manhattan now too!
      9. Teacher Gifts.   Not because I was a teacher for 11 years…..but please….don’t give teachers JUNK.  They know junk when they see it.   A teacher does not expect expensive gifts but they also don’t want junk.  I don’t want to suggest what a junk item might be, but think- this is someone who spends 6 hours a day with your child, for 180+ days each year.  It doesn’t have to be expensive.  Lots of classes have more than one adult in the room so I get that it adds up.   Check out this cute one on IG:  https://www.instagram.com/taylorelliottdesigns/  It’s called Taylor Elliott Designs and you can find pretty pencils, pens, notepads and desk accessories, for teacher to use at school or at home.  Here are the pens.  https://taylorelliottdesigns.com/collections/pens
      10. Books.  Here’s a list of my top 10:  https://emmawestchester.com/2019/12/01/books-books-more-books/