Gift Guide: The Kiddos

There are a lot of adorable kids in my life -- my friends have lots and lots of kids, which means I get to play aunt to so many little munchkins! I'm always thinking about them during the holidays and as I like to maintain my status as Favorite Grown-Up, I definitely make sure to show up bearing gifts.

When you're not a parent, I find picking out gifts for kids is tricky. It's impossible to keep up with trends or keep tabs of what everyone has, so I often just straight up ask: mom and dad, tell me what to get your kid or I'm buying her a set of drums. But if they can't give you any guidance, I have some ideas..

WHO I'M SHOPPING FOR: my friends' kids

Most of my friends have handfuls of little ones, so often I think about buying a family gift rather than a bunch of individual ones. Most of these kids get LOTS of presents over the holidays, and part of my gift philosophy is being mindful of people having too much stuff. Family gifts can also encourage kids to share and play together...all good things!

WHO YOU'RE SHOPPING FOR: kids, pretty much

Box Creations Pirate Ship, $32

An adorable way to let the little ones be creative. This pirate ship will let them act out their swashbuckling, Captain Sparrow fantasies. They can also color and draw all over it -- I'm hoping this means that once in a while they'll stay occupied for an hour so I can have an adult conversation with their mom. Pretty please?

Mini Foosball Table, $20

Foosball is just a crowd pleaser. It's a little retro, so you may be introducing this classic to the little ones for the first time, and they'll think you're very cool. I'm giving this to my cousin's kids (I'm probably going to also add in the air hockey version as well), and I think we'll all have fun playing each other on Christmas Eve.

Darth Vader and "Ice Princess" Hooded Towels, $18+

These hooded towels are so cute and perfect for those kids who just love a good soak. There are plenty of animal characters out there, but I love these Darth Vader and Elsa inspired versions.

Minecraft Handbook Collection, $21

I don't really know what Minecraft is, but I've faked my way through a lot of conversations with young friends. If you know a crew that digs this game, they'll love this set of handbooks that will let them build bigger and better virtual worlds.

Kid Made Modern Kit, $25

Craft kits are great gifts -- all kids need opportunities to express their creativity (and a few hours aways from screens). This one lets budding architects build their own dream house.

BeanBoozled, $8

When they've outgrown Candyland, try Bamboozled. This is just silly fun - you take turns eating different JellyBelly jelly beans -- each color comes in two flavors (one nice and one naughty), and you won't know which is which until you pop it in your mouth. I'll bet they've never tried a centipede flavored candy before...

Viewmaster Virtual Reality Viewer, $30

First you'll have to explain what a ViewMaster is, but then they'll totally dig this cool virtual reality version. You do need a smartphone, so make sure your rhttp://store.metmuseum.org/art-supplies+easels/the-metropolitan-museum-of-art-94-piece-wooden-art-kit/invt/80020052ecipients have access to one they can play with (note: do NOT volunteer yours; they will break it).

Metropolitan Museum of Art Wooden Art Kit, $25

Art sets are really wonderful gifts. Any kid could use new colored pencils, markers, and paints, and just think about the creativity that you might be unleashed! This one is from The Met -- make sure they promise that you get first dibs on any masterpieces that might be hanging there one day.

Wonderful Objects Subscription Box, $54+

If you're gifting from a distance, a subscription box could be a really fun gift. Wonderful Objects sends quarterly boxes full of all kinds of fun things to discover -- most kids really love getting mail (I used to save all of my junk mail for one little peanut, he just adored playing with it), so after the box arrives the goodies inside will just be a bonus!

Inside Out, $25/Mouth Popcorn Subscription, $112

This monthly popcorn subscription is great for the family that does a regular movie night. This would make a great present along with a copy of one of my favorite family-friendly movies -- this year, it's definitely Inside Out.

Crumbs Giant Cupcake Mix, $30

I've given this before and it was a huge hit: a kit that let's you bake an enormous Crumbs Bake Shop cupcake that will literally serve the whole family. Perfect snowy day activity. (Note: check your local HomeGoods or TJ Maxx as I always see tons of these in the kitchen section, usually for about half the price).

If you need a few extras...

A giant gummy bear on a stick might just be the wackiest/coolest gift they've ever gotten.

Almost every child I encounter is eager to show me their latest "tattoo" -- these shiny ones are pretty.

Sometimes I worry about buying something that the kids already have -- I don't think that's a problem with a rainbow stripe unicorn horn.

You don't have to be a scout to want some funny patches, perfect for jackets or backpacks.

I don't really know what to do with washi tape but I think it's huge with middle schoolers.

Gift Guide: My Baby Sister

This is a fun one...next up I'm shopping for my little sister (stepsister, technically). She's a recent college grad living it up in NYC. Basically me about 10 years ago.

WHO I'M SHOPPING FOR: my little sister

She's young and fun and trying to figure it all out: her style, her job, her love life, her master plan. She's got particular tastes and tons of opinions...but not nearly enough money to make it all happen.

WHO YOU'RE SHOPPING FOR: that crazy, carefree younger sister (cousin, friend, etc)...someone who is just getting on her feet...that junior colleague you've been mentoring...anyone who is young at heart!

Street Level Faux Leather Pocket Tote, $48

This tote bag is cool and practical and timeless. It's a nice upgrade from her usual bag and she'll wear it to death.

Lucy Shasta Sequin Leggings, $58

When you are 23, you should wear sequin leggings. It's just a law or something. These are fun but just a teeny bit toned down. I may be buying a pair for myself (because life doesn't end at 23...).

Broad City Tee, $30

Abbi and Ilana are her spirit animals, and now everyone will know it.

Why Not Me?, $15/Yes, Please, $10 /The Opposite of Lonliness, $9

This is a golden age of memoirs written by smart, funny, accomplished women. Give her a mini library of kickass female inspiration -- maybe one day she'll be publishing one of her own.

Have a Gneiss Day Coaster Set, $50

A sort of grown-up thing that's made infinitely more fun by the amazingly cheery and vibrant pink hue. 

Naked2 Basics Palette, $29

A perfect little palette of pretty, wearable shades. She probably has drawers full of Saturday night makeup, but she'll really appreciate having polished shades for work, brunch with her boyfriend's parents, and other glitter-free events.

Sephora Favorites Liquid Luxuries Sampler, $65

I adore this set from Sephora -- you get to gift mini versions of ten of the most popular fragrances, giving her a chance to try them out and find her new signature scent. Then she gets a voucher to redeem for a full-sized bottle of her favorite. This is perfect for someone who has outgrown sticky sweet scents endorsed by heartthrobs and is ready for her first adult fragrance.

Twinning Emoji Print, $32

A cheeky piece of art for her growing gallery wall. I love these watercolor prints of favorite emojis. You can also find hilarious (and inappropriate) artwork on Etsy -- a naughty needlepoint is always fun.

Zara Blanket, $50

Her favorite cozy plaid, this time in a version that she can wrap herself in for hot nights in with Netflix.

Trader Joe's Cookbook, $15

She's got her dinner delivery game down, but it would be good for her to master a couple of easy recipes. I love this cookbook, which is based exclusively on ingredients you can buy at Trader Joe's. It doesn't get any easier, cheaper, or tastier than this!

Rebecca Minkoff Ava Dome Stud Zip Wallet, $145

A chic, stylish wallet is always a great idea. Even if she doesn't have much to put inside, she'll just love pulling it out of her bag.

Fujifilm Smartphone Printer, $140

This photo printer is genius, perfect for the "pics or it didn't happen" generation. 

Moon Juice Beauty Dust, $65

She doesn't really need a lot of treatment products, so how about something fun to help her keep that youthful glow? This powder is packed with goodness and perfect for mixing into all kinds of tasty drinks.

And if you need a few extras...

You can never have enough pairs of earbuds, and this set is so pretty.

An inspirational water bottle to keep her chasing the dream.

These emoticon candies are silly but they actually sound pretty tasty.

A few pretty travel essentials (even if she's still doing the hostel thing).

This monogrammed keychain is preppy perfection.

Gift Guide: My College Roommate

I got so lucky when I got paired up with my college roommate. We bonded instantly even though we are quite different people, and we're still great friends to this day. Even though we don't get to see each other all the time, I love that we can pick right up where we left off and I can't wait for a reunion during the holiday season. I have LOTS of great gift ideas for her...

WHO I'M SHOPPING FOR: my college roommate

She's an airy-fairy free spirit, an artist with a true bohemian soul. She's a girlie-girl with a big heart. She's also a total scatterbrain, in the most delightful of ways.

WHO YOU'RE SHOPPING FOR: your baby sister...someone who always has her head in the clouds....that friend who is a friend to all (animals, mother earth, lost causes)...a girl with flirty and feminine taste

ASOS Embellished Cape, $100

This sweet little capelet is like giving the gift of fairy wings. It will look great over all of those pretty vintage dresses in her closet, or with jeans and a tank for an easy night out.

You're A Mess Tray, $25

She's totally self-aware and has a great sense of humor, so this tray is perfect for her. I'd put this together with a good book: the wonderfully messy Drew Barrymore's Wildflower, Shonda Rhimes' The Year of Yes, or Carrie Brownstein's Hunger Makes Me a Modern Girl are great reads that will have her feeling great about her perfectly imperfect life.

Casetify Moroccan Tile iPhone Case, $40

She's probably shattered a screen or two, so a good sturdy case is a really thoughtful gift. This watery mermaid-esque pattern is so dreamy.

State Charm, $18

This little charm is a little bit sweet and a little bit gaudy. So of course, I love it. My roommate is a bit of a wanderlust and calls a few states home -- I love the idea of a necklace or bracelet with charms from each of those special places (Texas, Florida, Massachusetts, and California are currently available, I'm hoping a few more show up soon).

Urban Decay Delirious Travel Eyeliner Set, $29

A great artist sees a canvas anywhere, even her own eyelids. Urban Decay makes some of the best eyeliners on the market, and this set is a like a crayon box of fun vibrant colors. 

Heart-shaped Umbrella, $35

Rainy days never dull her sparkle, so how about giving her the most adorkable umbrella ever. It's big enough for two, which is great because she always has a friend or crush to stroll around with.

Scarf, earmuffs, and gloves, $13-78

My sweet friend never grew out of that childhood habit of losing her hat/scarf/gloves, so why not give her a pile of cute cold weather accessories. This scarf is the coziest, and the bright pink color is so flattering on lots of skin tones. The earmuffs and gloves are pretty, useful, and cheap (so neither of you will feel bad when she loses them again).

Do Unto Animals, $14

If you have a friend who spends Sunday mornings feeding the ducks and has named all of the squirrels in her yard, this is perfect. Tracey Stewart (Jon's wife) wrote a funny, smart, and practical book about the special relationship between humans and animals -- there are a few people on my list who I'll be gifting this to. For extra credit, try a thoughtful donation -- the World Wildlife Federation and Farm Sanctuary allow you to adopt an animal on someone's behalf, a very adorable add-on.

Ruth Bader Ginsburg Mug, $14

My girl isn't afraid to wear her political heart on her sleeve, and this cheeky mug is the perfect way for her to let everyone know that she's down with the Notorious RBG. Pair it with a few pounds of her favorite roast, a box of Keurig cups, or even a coffee subscription service.

The Blend Custom Fragrance Kit, $29

For your friend who marches to her own beat and definitely wants to stand out, this adorable little kit will allow her to create a custom fragrance. Even better, she can change it up every day and match her scent to her mood, her outfit, or her horoscope.

St. Jude Heart Leather Zipper Case, $24

A big leather pouch can be a lifesaver for someone who doesn't always have her act together. Perfect for storing travel essentials, organizing receipts, or just corralling all of the little things in her purse. (Bonus: proceeds benefit St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, which will make her love it even more)

And if you need a few extras...

Some gourmet pop tarts that she can grab on those days she doesn't have time for breakfast (pretty much every day).

A keyring that's pretty hard to lose (bonus: make her an extra set of keys, because you know she'll need them).

An extra battery for her phone -- it's practical but oh so pretty.

Rainbow-hued temporary hair dye, because she's always ready to try something new.

An astrologically correct trinket dish.

Holiday Gift Guide: Mom

Shopping for my mom is always pretty easy. I know her tastes pretty well, and since she's always thinking about everyone else's needs, it's fun to find ways to really pamper her.

When I'm ready to head out and shop for mom, I like to remind myself of the brattiest thing I ever said to her (oh, those angsty teen years), the grossest thing she ever had to clean up (when I was seven I tried to eat an entire box of Cheez-Its -- didn't go so well), and the many times she dried my tears. And then I buy her twice as many presents.

WHO I'M SHOPPING FOR: my mama

She's the best, of course. She's selfless and big-hearted, smart and funny and unbelievably kind. She has her own style and while she's not trying to set trends, she always knows on what's going on in fashion and isn't afraid to try something new.

WHO YOU'RE SHOPPING FOR: someone who deserves a unique gift...or your own mama

Custom Street Map Puzzle, $129

For most moms, home is where the heart is. This puzzle is a fun way to honor a special address (your family home, or maybe even the neighborhood she grew up in). Putting it together is the perfect activity for chilly winter evenings, and it would look great in a frame when it's finished. A satellite view option is also available.

M. Gemi Felize Custom Driving Mocassins, $198

Custom Italian loafers -- does it get more luxurious than that? My mom would be gaga over these chic loafers, especially knowing that the suede color, stitching, and tread were personalized just to her tastes. The monogram inside is a sweet touch.

Vintage Perfume Atomizer (similar), $125+

One of my favorite memories is sitting in my mom's bedroom and playing with all of the pretty things on her vanity -- piles of costume jewelry, a delicate music box, and her fancy perfume bottles. Beautiful atomizers have sort of gone out of style, but you can find some lovely vintage ones -- I loved this one on One Kings Lane (sold out now, but new ones pop up every day), and you can also find on them on eBay, 1st Dibs, etc. This would make a nice gift along with a bottom of her favorite perfume -- every time she spritzs it on, she'll be making new favorite memories of you!

Dr. Jart+ The Book of Masks, $39

Sheet masks are the hottest thing in skincare -- this collection of 8 different ones from one of the top beauty brands will guarantee many relaxing at-home spa nights (she'll probably even invite you over to join her!).

Pearl ring, $85

My mom will see me wearing something and immediately want it for herself, even if it isn't at all her taste or style. I have an enormous statement ring that I wear all the time -- it's gold with a mother-of-pearl stone and you can see it from a mile away. This ring is just as bold but a bit more wearable, perfect for mom.

Jensen Turntable, $37

OK, hear me out -- turntables have made a comeback thanks to a new generation of audiophiles who learned to appreciate their unique sound, but our parents were the original vinyl-lovers. I think my mom still has a box or two of her old albums and she definitely doesn't have a way to listen to them -- I'll be she'd get a kick out of digging them out and taking a stroll down music memory lane. 

French Blue Bureau Pitcher, $68

This sweet little pitcher is a triple threat: it's pretty and would look lovely on any bedside table. It's practical, perfect to quench that midnight thirst without having to leave a cozy bed. And it's thoughtful, hand crafted by one of the artisans who sells her goods on The Little Market (a wonderful fair trade marketplace). My mom is a principled lady -- she spent a year boycotting products made in China in protest of poor working conditions -- so she'll feel extra good about this piece.

Amazon Fire, $40

She wants to cut the cord but doesn't really know how -- this is an easy way for her to take the digital leap and learn to love binge watching. I'm going to pick one up for my mom this year. I just hope I don't have to explain "Netflix and chill" to her...

Minted Heart Snapshot Photo Art, $29 and up

My mom checks Facebook about once or twice a month, so she misses a lot of great photos. She also still appreciates the value of physical photos that she can enjoy even when she's offline. Minted has a lot of fun custom photo products -- I'd create one that includes recent snaps with some of her favorite old photos for a piece of art she'll really treasure.

Sephora Mani Kit, $30

Your mom was probably your first mani/pedi partner -- treat her to this sleek little tool set, perfect for giving herself an at-home treatment (or even bringing them to the salon -- I prefer to use my own tools for sanitary reasons!)

And if you need a few extras...

A special tea that's perfect for Downton lovers on Christmas morning.

A good sleep mask to help her catch up on all of those Zzzzs she missed when you were a baby.

A chic little key fob that almost looks like it was handcrafted by you (if you were crafty).

An excellent hand cream in the prettiest little tube (keep an eye on Sephora's Black Friday deals as this has been included for the past few years).