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| Image: Jones Design Company |
I am going to admit something. I haven’t brought a single gift yet. I’m not really sure why as I’m normally so organised. Maybe because this Christmas is going to be so different for us (read more here) – I haven’t quite got into the shopping frenzy yet.
But, I can’t ignore it anymore.
So, here it is my edited Christmas shopping guide. I say edited because rather than just choose lots of lovely pieces – which is so easy to do. I have narrowed my choices with a simple gift giving philosophy: WANT, NEED, WEAR and READ.
A 4-gift giving rule that hopefully means minimal stress, less money and a whole lot more grateful recipients. The rules are you give:
Something they WANT
Something they NEED
Something to WEAR
Something to READ
It may or may not work for you or your family but either way I’m hoping my choices will inspire you to really think about what you’re gifting this Christmas – and help you think about what you’d like to receive too! I know it’s got me ready to shop…
*LADIES FIRST*
WANT: The Designers first fragrance – and how gorgeous is the bottle?
Miu Miu Eau de Parfum from £48 Debenhams
NEED: A new make-up bag is a good incentive to get your make-up sorted – and yes it’s time to clean those brushes/throw about that mascara…
3rd Edition make-up bag £32 Charlotte Tilbury
WEAR: A compact ‘seatbelt’ bag is a every busy woman’s essential – this is the must-have one of the season.
Mariel Grey Saffiano cross body bag £145 L.K.Bennett
READ: As the original supermodel turns 50 she shares what she has learnt and stories from her life at the top of her game
Becoming Cindy Crawford by Cindy Crawford £22.75 Amazon
WANT: A bit of pre-baby pampering is essential – be it a massage, facial or that all important pedicure (when was the last time you saw your feet?)
E-Gift certificates from £1 Cowshed
NEED: If getting to a spa is out of the question a few at-home treats will keep you calm before baby arrives
The mummy’s essential kit £50 (also includes a body cream) Love Boo
WEAR: This lovely little frock looks more expensive than it is – and will last way beyond the party season (mix with tights, boyfriend cardi and boots)
Poppy print dress £48 Topshop Maternity
READ: So you’re about to become a mum? Then you’ll want to read this. Not your average baby manual – this is the ‘reality’ of parenthood that only your friends will tell you about. Think of author Kirsty as your very best friend.
How to Have a Baby and Not Lose Your Shit by Kirsty Smith £9.99 Amazon
WANT: A ‘push present’ or an eternity ring. One of the nicest collections I have seen is this Circle of Life range from SWAG. Not only is it in partnership with Your Parent Guide it is also giving 20% of profits to PANDAS – a pre-and post natal depression charity (read my full post here).
Circle of Life Emerald and Diamond Gold Eternity Ring £695 SWAG
NEED: Caffeine. And lots of it. From early starts, soft play sessions and unbroken nights a coffee will become your new best friend. Having your own machine is like living the ‘new-mum’ dream – no nasty instant coffee will cut it form now on.
Inissia coffee machine with milk frother £139 Nespresso
WEAR: Not feeling like going out? Just want to snuggle up with your new bundle of joy? Then you’ll be needing some comfy pyjamas – and no harm if they are stylish too.
Tuxedo pyjama set £149 Somerset by Alice Temperley at John Lewis
READ: An inspirational book on how to be more than ‘just’ a mum – using your limited spare time to its advantage. With tips, advice and insider knowledge from the coolest mums around.
How to be Hip Mama Without Losing Your Cool by Jenny Scott £12 Amazon
WANT: Some sleep. Failing that this cashmere eye mask will at least black everything out.
Eyemask £39 Boden
NEED: Just what every mama needs – a care package that includes everything you need to take some time out for yourself. Look even 20 minutes with this little lot in a quiet room will work.
The Care package from £26 Don’t Buy Her Flowers
WEAR: Says it all really! Wear this until at least a decent hour to start drinking it…11am?
Wine sweater £105 Wildfox
READ: A much loved kids classic switched on its head when a teenager and not a tiger stops by! Perfect for parents of those curious creatures – who need a quick laugh.
The Teenager Who Came To Tea: A Parody by Emlyn Rees and Josie Lloyd £6.99 Amazon
WANT: The ultimate lip balm and just what we want to find hanging on the tree right?
Eve Lom The Kiss Lip Balm set £16 John Lewis
NEED: Adult colouring is so on-trend. So, you’ll need these fabulous 1950’s sketches to help you de-stress in style.
Vogue Colouring Book by Iain R.Webb £6 The Book Depository
WEAR: A delicate and simple coin pendant bracelet that is ideal for friends or female relatives.
Mayan Coin Friendship Bracelet £12 Z for Accessorize at Accessorize
READ: A collection of stories, pictures and memories from the actresses life. From her ‘crazy’ early years to her happy, mum-of-2 self now. A must for Drew fans.
Wildflower by Drew Barrymore £7.99 Amazon
Oh love these and such amazing gifts! Can I have them all??? I love the pendant from the stocking fillers – and all the books! Superb gift guide and you need to get shopping soon lovely!! Not long to go ha ha xxxx
Oh I want all of these things! Especially love th elip balm and the book – which I am now going to order! xx Julia @ Rainbeaubele