holiday gift guide | for the kids

The last and final installment of the holiday gift guide series for 2012 is here. This guide is for the kiddos! It was so fun compiling this list of toys, apparel, and room decor for the little ones. I am so drawn to the "old school" toys like basic building blocks that allow children to develop motor skills and imagination rather than fry their little brains in front of an Xbox. I also love gifts that incorporate lots of colors! So without further ado, I hope this guide helps you find some fun and unique gifts for your own kids, nieces, nephews, etc. xo.

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holiday gift guide | for him

Show the special man in your life how much he means to you with one [or two] of these gifts. From rustic, to techy, to sophisticated--there's a plethora of items to please even the "hard to shop for" dads, boyfriends, friends, husbands or brothers! xo.

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holiday gift guide | for her

As promised, here is the second installment of the gift guide series. Here's a few little lovelies to give to the special girl in your life--whether she's a best friend, a dear sister, girlfriend, or mother! My personal fave is the "Holly GoNightly" eye mask, a very adorable replica of Holly Golightly's sweet eye mask in the classic film Breakfast at Tiffany's. xo.

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holiday gift guide | the foodie/hostess

Guess who's back, back again? [as the song goes...]

I've sure missed the blog world! Life has gotten busy with weddings, birthdays, photography, and holiday happenings. But I had to make an appearance in order to share some of my favorite holiday gift picks! I so enjoy curating fun ideas for thoughtful, unique, and creative things to give the people you love during this most wonderful time of year. Below is the first of a few gift guides I'll be posting in the coming weeks; this one is for the foodie or party-thrower in your life! xo.

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tax free weekend!

Tax-free weekend in Texas: a "holiday" that brings hoards of shoppers out to buy clothing and school supplies sans sales tax. It's a pretty sweet deal if you want to stock up on fall essentials! Even though I usually like to avoid these types of scenarios, I think I might brave the storm this time around. However, my strategy involves going right when stores open at 10 on Saturday, armed with a bottle of water to hydrate while I shop 'til I drop!

Here's a few of my must-haves for fall that I'll be keeping an eye out for this weekend. Hope I find some goodies! If you live in Texas, you can shop for clothing, shoes, and school supplies tax free August 17-19 [items less than $100 only.] xo.

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holiday gift guide [under $10]

Whether you are searching for something to put in a loved one's stocking, a White Elephant gift, or are just keeping a strict budget this year, these little gifts will guarantee smiles from all your recipients! xo.

1. Sephora Color Wand for Lips, Sephora, $10.

2. Nivea for Men Post Shave Balm, Walgreens, $6.99.

3. Crayola Twistables Colored Pencils, Walgreens, $6.79.

4. Bird Sugar & Creamer Set, World Market, $9.99.

5. Tool Bottle Opener, World Market, $9.99.

6. French Candle, World Market, $9.99.

7. Tall Pilsner Glass [Set of 2], World Market, $7.98.

8. One Natural Solid Shampoo Hair Biscuit, Walgreens, 2/$9.52.

9. Sesame Street 6 Ct. Fizzy Tub Colors, Target, $.99.

10. Mini Pizza Stones [Set of 2], World Market, $9.99.

holiday gift guide [DIY]

This holiday gift guide is all about the DIY ideas. I've corralled the cutest, awesomest [that's a word, okay?] gift ideas from my beloved Pinterest to inspire your gifting this holiday season. Remember, it's the thought that counts, not the money you spend. xo

For the baker...

This cookie cutter fudge is the perfect combination of delicious + practical! Photo and recipe from BettyCrocker.com

For the artist...

DIY Confetti Art idea from Mint Love Social Club is adorable and so simple to make!

For the teacher...

Crayon art is the perfect gift for your child's teacher! The best part--it's virtually mess free so your child can help out with the craft. Photo and project from Creative Holiday Gift Ideas.

For the decorator...

How cute are these decorative bottles? Would you believe they were Starbucks French Vanilla Cappuccinos in a past life? Check out this simple DIY over at Kindness Matters to create this set for someone special.

The fashionista...

These bracelets are gorgeous! With a few inexpensive crafting supplies, you will be on your way to creating some serious envy-worthy jewelry for your sister, bff, or coworker! Tutorial found on Stephanie and Such.

For the hostess...

What a creative way to recycle old magazines! A set of these psychedelic coasters would make a fun gift for the friend who loves to entertain [or just a good conversation piece!] Find out how to make them on SavedbyLoveCreations.com

For the writer...

This stationery set is magical and beautiful. I love it. This would be a lovely gift for anyone who still loves the romanticism of snail mail :) Check out the tutorial at The Chocolate Muffin Tree!

For the natural beauty...

Whip up a big batch of this delicious sugar/salt scrub from deliciously organized and divide it into some cute little mason jars. Add some ribbon or fabric and voila! An easy, elegant gift.

For the coffee lover...

A porcelain paint pen and a plain white mug are all you need for this one-of-a-kind mug. Check out the easy DIY here at Wit & Whistle.

holiday party outfits

I don't know about you but I just LOVE a good excuse to get all dressed up! This time of year is usually filled with a few parties and family gatherings so I have put together a few outfits that are sure to dazzle this season! xo

Mesh Insert Sparkle Sheath Dress, New York & Company. Dimpled Geometric Bracelet, Forever 21. Mossimo Prue Satin Platforms, Target.

Off Shoulder Metallic Stripes Top, Forever 21. Classic Skinny Jeans, Forever 21. AEO Glitter Ballet Flat, American Eagle.

One Shoulder Flutter Dress, Express. Chain Fringe Earrings, Forever 21. GO MAX Suedette Platform Pumps, 15dollarstore.com.

holiday gift guide

It may be a little too early to hear the sleigh bells ring-a-linging but it's not too early to start thinking about gift ideas for the holidays! This time of year seems to fly by and somehow I always end up scrambling on Christmas Eve with the rest of America searching for the perfect gift. Avoid the mad rush this year and start a little early!

I have created a gift guide for the guys and gals in your life of gifts they are sure to love! Happy shopping! xo

1. Kindle Fire, $199, Amazon.com. 

2. Essie Winter 2011 Mini Cube, $17, ULTA.

3. Taylor Swift Wonderstruck Rollerball, $18, ULTA. 

4. Carson Trifold Wallet, $30, Fossil.

5. Babycakes Cupcake Maker, $29.99 (sale), Kohl's.

6. American Eagle Suede Moccasin, $39.50, ae.com.

7. GQ Magazine subscription, $15 one year, GQ.com.

8. Dogeared 'Sisters' Reminder Pendant, $68, Nordstrom.

9. Angled Rim Crackle Stemware, $4.99 each, Pier 1.

10. Orka by Mastrad Half-Moon Fondue Set, $38.89, Target.com.