gift guide: father's day

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My dad is a really hard person to shop for. While I am too often tempted by something new, he doesn't go shopping unless he really needs something, and while he may admire or want something, he often doesn't have the compulsion to actually buy anything. When the women in my family do get him something for his birthday, Christmas, or Father's Day, he often says we should have just saved our money instead of spending anything on him, which makes me want to give him more things because he always puts our needs before his. I'm definitely getting him a card, but I haven't figured out an actual present. Perhaps a nice dinner or a DVD set of a tv show he loves but no longer airs. In the meantime, here's a little guide of sorts for those of you who are in need of ideas for Dad.

one ||  for the dad who always gets caught in the rain. the black is sleek, while the bamboo handle gives it a dapper touch.

two || for the dad who loves his toys. if you're splurging, go for the tablet; for a little accessory, go for the case (in monogrammable leather).

three || don't forget the card. if you think of nothing else to give, give him the words that tell him exactly how much he matters.

four || for the dad who loves the water (and comfort). the navy is as classic as it gets.

five || for the dad who loves steak, a good set of steak knives is a must (as is a good steak).

six || for the dad who's a caffeine junkie. easy and convenient, he can have his cup of joe in minutes.

gift guide: mother's day

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Can you believe Mother's Day is less than two weeks away? I've already bought my mom a present, but when I was still in need of one and searching far and wide, I came across so many things my mom would like but wouldn't actually buy for herself for one reason or the other, and I thought it would be nice to put them together for a little gift guide.

Every mom deserves a little bling. This bracelet is such an elegant statement piece without being too over the top.

For as long as I can remember, my mom has always done her nails. She's always stuck with neutral, office appropriate colors, so this red nailpolish with a lipstick to match would be a little push to live it up on the weekends.

Who doesn't need a new iPhone case? This striped case is a little nautical and fun.

This yellow case would be a compact way to hold her essential cards in a smaller purse, like this one that can be monogrammed.

These soaps are so pretty, are super moisturizing, and have a lovely scent. Bonus: they say "good mother" in French. Sitting on the matching soap holder, they'd instantly add a dose of chic to her bathroom.

Scarves are always a great accessory. This patterned scarf would be a great addition to her collection. 

Of course, the classics never get old. Flowers and a special little dessert are a great way to show your mom how much she means to you. 

Last but not least, no matter what you get her, make sure you wish your mom a Happy Mother's Day through a special card, on the phone, or, even better, in person. Tell her how much she means to you. It's the best gift!

valentine's day for her: under $100

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I have a love/hate relationship with Valentine's Day. There. I said it. Am I the only one? Sometimes it feels so silly to have to set aside a day specifically to show/tell someone you love them; we should do that every day. On the other hand, having that specific day also serves as a good reminder to pick up your game if you haven't been as loving or as attentive as you should be (it happens to all of us). My fiance tends to want to pull out all the stops on Valentine's Day: dinner, presents, flowers, chocolate. I love it because I love that he would do that for me (the presents are nice, too, but they come in second to his effort!). Even if he didn't pull out all the stops and just bought me a card or a little cute something, I'd still love it because it really is the thought and not the amount that counts.  

For the lovely ladies in your life, here are some gift ideas, all for under $100:

a candle that smells as good as it looks :: red lips and tips :: a cheery card case:: a whimsical bangle ::
 a ring that says "eat your heart out" :: an elegant case to store all those baubles :: owl and flower ear candy :: 
flowers to make her smile :: cheeky china :: a shirt that spells out exactly how she makes you feel :: 
a sweater that says it all with one image ::a scarf that shows off her love of shoes :: a subtle, feminine scent :: 
fun notebooks + awesome pens 


 Coming right up: gift ideas for him under $100.