You bought your gifts, wrapped them with care, and just when you sit down for a slice of Christmas Eve pie it hits you… the stockings! Sound familiar? Save the last-minute trip to the drugstore. We’ll deliver these small but sweet gifts so you can fill their stockings before the big day.
September’s coming, and you know what that means: September birthdays are coming, too. (It is the most popular birth month, if you didn’t know.) Don’t know what to snag your best Virgo—or Libra—pal? Worry not. We’ve got 19 suggestions, each more likely to induce birthday smiles than the last.
These soaps are so pretty, we wouldn’t begrudge you buying more than one—even if September’s all you really need. Colored completely with veggie-based dyes, they’re loaded with invigorating minerals and soothing vitamin E oil.
Birthstone Mineral Soaps – $20 Buy Now »
Handmade in Brooklyn, it’s a great way to pay tribute to your sweetest pal.
Sprinkles Heart Necklace – $52 Buy Now »
Got a friend who likes their liquor with a side of problem-solving? These wooden brainteasers require decoding before they’ll relinquish their precious vino.
Wine Bottle Puzzles – $30 Buy Now »
The stockings are hung by the chimney with care… better make sure there’s something worthwhile in them! It’s all too easy to let stocking stuffers fall by the wayside in the hustle-and-bustle of the holiday season. And by the time you remember, a quick trip to the drugstore finishes them off. Not this year! Behold 15 surprising, cool, and affordable picks that’ll rival the delight of their main gifts. There’s just one problem: You’ll earn such a sparkling reputation as Santa’s Best Helper, you’ll have to deliver again next year!
We know it’s the little things that count, but sometimes you want to show someone you care big. Putting together a DIY gift basket is a great way to combine an assortment of cool little gifts with a whole lot of love. Creating that gift basket around someone’s hobby, favorite food, or most-loved mythical creature adds another level of personalized charm. We even included gift basket ideas for kids and teens, because we know they can be even harder to shop for than that unicorn lover on your list.
Whether they have a soft spot for soft shells or prefer a crispy crunch, they’ll love these taco-themed goodies.
Tricerataco Holder – $12 | Salsa Grow Kit – $12 | Taco and Hot Pepper Stamp Kit – $12.00 | Trio of Travel-Sized Hot Sauces – $15.00 | Seedsheet Taco Kit – $35.00 | Taco Socks – $10.00
We think things make dandy gifts. After all, it’s our job to curate tons of unique designs that speak to the extraordinary individuals in your life. But sometimes, the best gifts go beyond the tangible, hold-in-your-hands item. We’re talking about the gift of experience. Below you’ll find oodles of suggestions for gifts to pair with events and adventures—like portable painting sets and art classes, soothing eye pillows and a spa day, and wine-themed card decks and a winery tour. The best part: They get to keep their uncommon good as a reminder of the special experience. Now that’s what we call a holiday win-win. Read on for more.
Giving gifts can feel great, but wrapping them? Not so much. Finding the perfect box and wrapping paper to fit your present are often the beginning of a tiresome process that often intimidates even the most thoughtful of gift-givers. We get it, more often than not, it is simpler to just throw the gift in a bag with some tissue paper and call it a day. But, it doesn’t have to be that way. Wrapping gifts can feel just as great as giving gifts if you’re armed with the right supplies, tips, and attitude.
We’ve put together some creative and easy-to-follow tips for gift wrapping that will make even the least seasoned gift wrapper excited to pull out the paper and bows.
Basic Tools of the Trade
It’s ideal to have the following supplies on-hand while gift-wrapping:
Tips for Wrapping Gorgeous Gifts
Now that your gift is wrapped, you can add some special touches to personalize your gift even more:
Origami Ornaments
We re-used pages from our 2015 holiday catalog to create these cute origami gift ornaments. For the origami heart in the video below get the folding instructions here, for other fun origami projects check out this site.
Gift Tags
Print our free gift tags here: http://www.uncommongoods.com/fun/free-downloads/free-downloads
Twine
Measure your twine so it is approximately six times the width of your gift box. Wrap the twine around the top of the package, cross it at the bottom of the package and then wrap it back around to the front to create the shape of a plus sign. Insert your gift tag or other origami ornament over the twine before tying it in a bow or a knot.
We hope these tips help make your holiday preparation a little easier, and add a little extra twinkle to your giftees’ eyes before they rip open their perfect presents. Happy holidays–and happy wrapping!
There’s one day a year that’s dedicated to all moms; this year, May 10 is that day. Mother’s Day may be a nation-wide holiday to honor the women who raised us, but that certainly doesn’t mean that there’s one gift that’s perfect for every mom. (OK, so maybe most moms are into the whole traditional Mother’s Day brunch thing, but who doesn’t love celebratory food? Treating her to pancakes is just a start.)
We rounded up all kinds of creative gift ideas to help you give mom a gift as unique as she is this year.
Give Mom a Moment
Remember when you were a kid and you watched your mom balance what seemed like a million tasks at once? Whether she was picking you up from soccer practice on her way home from a long day at work or changing your little brother’s diapers while hoping the pot on the stove didn’t boil over in the 30 seconds she wasn’t looking, it’s likely that mom had very few moments to herself. Now that you’re all grown up, it’s not guaranteed that her life has slowed down any, but at least you can give her a gift that encourages her to remember to take a moment for herself every now and then.
Mom deserves to be pampered, and the Spa Experience Tin has just what it takes. Complete with Lavender Goat’s Milk Bath Tea, Bath Truffle, Wedding Cake Whispered Shea Crème, and Hint of Mint Lip Balm, this pretty package will transform her next soak into a relaxing retreat.
There was a time when mom probably told you not to track sand into the house. While your dirty shoes used to stress mom out, this sand will do just the opposite. | Meditation Box
A hot cup of tea can be a nice start to a laid back afternoon or the perfect ending to a busy day. Either way, it’s even better when it’s drip-covered saucer free. | Tea Bag Pocket Mug
Take tea time tranquility even further with the Green Herbal Tea Kit. (Nine herbs and three types of tea further, to be more specific.)
New Mom
Whether you’re shopping for a brand new mother, or a mother who is just getting to know her second or third newborn, these mementos will help her celebrate the journey ahead!
Mom can’t control everything that happens in her baby’s future, but she will always be wishing for the absolute best. Each shimmering ball of hand-blown glass comes with 52 tiny slips of paper for her to pause once a week throughout the year and record a message of hope or gratitude. | Birthstone Wishing Balls
We all know that newborns are excited to touch everything, both with their mouths and hands! So why not get jewelry that mom and baby can cherish? The cold sterling silver ring soothes baby’s teething gums, while a gentle rattling sound keeps babies entertained. | Sterling Silver Teething Keepsake Necklace
Did you know that the gemstones we associate with our birthmonths were also believed by the mystics to carry special meanings and even supernatural powers? Any new Mom needs all the super powers she can get! (Find out what her little one’s birthstone means here.) | Birthstone Definition Necklace
I Heart You, Mom
There are so many ways to say I love you, but how many ways can you show her?
Because a mother’s love is like a spoonful of sugar, the best kind of medicine! | A Mother’s Love is Beyond Measure Spoon Set
It might be impossible to count all the ways, but this book will give you a great start. (Don’t forget to share the love with Grandma!) | What I Love About Mom By Me Book
This surprise will be sure to make this a Mother’s Day for the books! | Heart Book Box
Whatever the future holds, this pendant will always keep your love close to her heart. | What The Future Holds Love Locket
The Art of Motherhood
We probably don’t have to tell you that parenting is a pretty tough job. It’s certainly not an exact science, but it might be a bit of an art form. Show your mama that you admire her colorful personality, creative problem solving, and technical expertise with a bit of art appreciation.
Flowers on Mother’s Day will make mom smile. Wendy Gold’s Bouquet will ensure that that smile is from ear to ear.
It may be true that no one knows how to bake a pie quite like mom, but artist Kendyll Hillegas is a pro when it comes to painting them. (Learn more about the artist here.) | The Last Slice
Your mom is beautiful. Don’t let her forget it! | You Are Beautiful by Matthew Hoffman
Earth Mother
For the mothers who nurture Mother Earth, these picks will be sure to make their hearts bloom even brighter.
Just because you’ve left the nest doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate the flora and fauna of mom’s home. | Birds and Blooms Pillows – Individual States
It turns out that there are many beautiful perks to being a wallflower. | Pocket Wall Vases
That moment when you make a wish and blow a dried dandelion into a thousand little pieces | Dandelion Paperweight
Remember when mom used to read you stories about princesses who would get dressed in the morning with the help of beautiful hummingbirds? Well, you might not be able to bring her fairy tales to life, but you can give her favorite birds somewhere to sing. | Pottery Birdhouse
A stretch of window sill, abundant sun, and a little patience are all mom needs to celebrate the fruit of her labors. | Strawberry Windowsill Growbox
Do It Herselfer
For the Pinterest-loving, get-her-hands-dirty, jump-right-in kinda mom who is always up for a DIY challenge.
Because no matter what, mom is always putting her best foot forward. | Himalayan Salt Foot Care Set
With only a few DIY components, Mom can create an efficient device to monitor when the family’s toilet paper inventory is running low, amongst other applications. Need we say more? | Modular Smart Home Kit
Keep calm and knit on! | Birdie Yarn Bowl Knitting Kit
Nerdy Mom
Maybe she loves sci-fi or is always the first in line for the latest gadget. Maybe she’s ever on the lookout for another piece of great literature to add to her home library or the newest research on her favorite area of study. Whatever her preferred form of geekdom, she’ll be happy to see that she raised you to show nerd pride AND great taste.
Mom’s more of a literati than a fashionista (and proud of it!). Let her show off her classic style with a Literary Scarf printed with pages from one of her favorite classic books.
It’s easy to add a little nature to her tech-filled world, even if your thoroughly modern mommy likes to keep her smartphone nearby on her nightstand or end table. | Bedside Smartphone Vase
Mom is the brightest star on Mother’s Day, but she’s OK with sharing the sky with the constellations. | Zodiac Embroidery Hoop Art
If your science-loving mom is the first to jump in on any discussion about Pluto’s declassification, she’ll love this Sterling Silver Solar System Necklace. The “ninth planet” is present in this pretty line-up of celestial charms, making it an uncommon way to spark conversations about Pluto’s fate.
Mom Who Has It All
Whether mom is the most stylish person you know, or the most beloved hostess there is, these conversation starters won’t fail to impress!
Whether or not she has it all, the last thing any mom wants to have is a water leak to clean up. This beautifully designed vase always ensures a beautiful, leak-free presentation! | Porcelain Bird Bud Vase
Bridging the worlds of fashion accessory and art canvas, this is the piece mom didn’t even know she was missing. | Manhattan Bridge Scarf
Because she’ll always protect you and your herd, no matter what. | Recycled Glass Elephants Night Light
A party accessory that will be sure to make her heart flutter. | Bread & Butter(fly) Serving Board
Because You Treasure Her
Giving mom a bracelet or necklace might seem a little old school at first, but these new pieces put a unique twist on traditional Mother’s jewelry.
The phrase “I’m turning into my mother” gets a bad wrap, but it can be a good thing. Show her that you’re glad to be two of a kind with a Sea Glass Sterling Clasp Bracelet featuring two beautiful pieces of found sea glass.
Thank mom for encouraging you to always follow your dreams with a piece to help her catch hers. | Silver Dream Catcher Pendant
Your mama bird took care of you for a long time before you left the nest. Now you’ve spread your wings, but you’ll never fly too far away. | Mother Bird Family Necklace
You thank your lucky stars to have such a fantastic mother. We bet she feels the same way about you. | My Lucky Stars Necklace
Valentine’s Day is a chance to show your someone special that they’re always on your mind. A card with a big, red heart smack-dab in the middle is a nice place to start, but these less-conventional gifts are perfect for taking it to the next level, at any stage in your love story.
A Twist on the Traditional
We’re not saying you should skip the chocolate, because chocolate is delicious, but adding one of these more unexpected Valentine’s Day gifts is sweet AND original!
You’re in love. You want to shout from the rooftops and immortalize this epic romance by carving your initials into everything. Show your affection without excessive noise or vandalism with a stunning Personalized Love Birch Cuff instead.
Flowers are a safe bet for Valentine’s Day. But, as the old saying goes, presentation is everything! | Hanging Heart Vase
Show your partner that when it comes to love, you’re game. | Joystick Future Fossil
If you’re going to give her your heart, make sure it’s anatomically correct. | Anatomical Heart Pendant
You already tell her she’s beautiful every day, but this little message is a nice added reminder. | You Are Beautiful Earring Bowl
Send the Message
From “Hey, I think you’re cute,” to flirtatious first date banter, to deep “You complete me” conversations, relationships are all about communication. Here are a few ways to say “Be my Valentine” that blow conversation hearts right out of the candy dish.
“I love you” and “Happy Valentine’s Day” will get even bigger smiles when they come from Lil’ Mib.
Saucy texts are fun and all, but a handwritten love letter is really something special. This Love Letter Kit even comes with calligraphy instructions for those with less-than-fabulous handwriting.
And if you don’t find the right words on the first try, Crumple The Make-It-Yourself Bear is the perfect place to stuff your less-than-perfect drafts.
What better way to say “let’s get cozy together” than a little knitting? | Love Yarn Bowl
Our Love Story-A Journal, because your romance is one for the books.
Speaking of books, sometimes what’s in the pages can surprise you. Stash a little treasure in the Heart Book Box to let your Valentine in on the secret.
Pre-Date Primping
We know that you love each other no matter what, but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t have a little extra sparkle on your big date night. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
Clean up while you man up with this no-nonsense, vegan grooming collection. | Men’s Military Field Grooming Kit
If you’re planning a destination Valentine’s Day (lucky!), or looking to recreate your favorite spa experience, this portable set is a must-have to achieve that head-turning glow. | Spa in a Bag
Look sharp without rushing around trying to find those pesky collar stays! | Collar Stay Punch
Let your accessories speak for themselves. | My Heart is Always Yours Necklace
Romantic Evening In
Whether you’re cooking a candlelit dinner together, or ordering in from your favorite spot, these goods will set the mood for a delicious, cozy evening with your favorite person.
Because this special night is all about savoring “you & me” quality time. | Cheese & Crackers Serving Board
Take another little pizza my heart now, baby. | PI(Z*Z)A Stone
You might not be able to explain your bond, but you know it’s strong. Cheers to finding that allusive chemistry! | Molecular Flutes
You share everything else, so why not cozy up to your favorite snacks together? | Ooma Bowl
For all of the hopeless romantics who are guilty of being drunk on crazy, beautiful, intoxicating love. | “You’re Intoxicating” Heart Bottle Opener
Get Steamy
You know how all that romance makes you feel sort of…sexy? Go with it.
Set the mood by getting crafty together, and then ignite the flames. | DIY Soy Candle Kit
Incorporating cuisine into an intimate evening doesn’t have to be cheesy. Throw some chocolate in the Fondue for Two pot for an extra-enjoyable dessert.
Tease the taste buds with the AromaFork kit and let your senses of taste and smell have a little rendezvous their own.
Love can be a little messy, but in this case, that’s a good thing. Get a little dirty, make sweet art, and have almost as much fun cleaning up afterward. | Love is Art Kit
Wake Up Together
The stars have aligned, and Valentine’s Day is finally falling on a Saturday this year! Here are some essentials to enjoy a sweet, relaxing morning with your special someone.
Two soy lovebirds with an extra shot of espresso, coming right up! | Love Bird Coffee and Tea Cup Set
Your Valentine might not love mushy songs first thing in the morning. Here’s a more subtle way to say “you’re the wind beneath my wings.” | First Light
At the end of the day–and the beginning of the day–it’s the thoughts that count. | What I Love About You By Me Book
Happily Ever After
Whether you’re newlyweds or a self-proclaimed “old married couple,” Valentine’s Day is another chance to show that the spark is still there. (And it’s stronger than ever!)
Marriage isn’t exactly a destination, but it is a pretty exciting point in your journey together. Celebrate the Intersection of Love with personalized art.
You’ll always have each other to hold. Consider these glasses to hold your wine. | Have & Hold Stemless Wine Glasses
Now you can literally earn points with your spouse. | Marital Bliss Game
A rolling stone gathers no moss, but a happy marriage just might. | Love Grows Here Terrarium
Love a Little (One)
Cupid might not be aiming for your fur babies or newborn babies, but how could you possibly resist? These tokens will be sure to show your adorable Valentines what you mean when you gush “I love you!”
Time for your baby’s first Valentine’s Day? Cover those cute little toes with x’s and o’s! | XO Booties
More meow-worthy than Meow Mix, this sweet dessert is sure to satisfy the sassiest of kittens! | Catnip Chocolate Covered Strawberries
As if your pups needs another reason to glaze you with kisses. | Squeaky Dog Donuts
