Onceuponatime Posted October 29, 2013 Share Posted October 29, 2013 Can you help me here? What are some things that are funky, fun, unique yet not totally useless. Can you link me to any Etsy shops or other sites? I'm a clueless old lady. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AmyontheFarm Posted October 29, 2013 Share Posted October 29, 2013 :lurk5: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Flowing Brook Posted October 29, 2013 Share Posted October 29, 2013 The first few times I read this I thought you were saying you had 20 daughters and daughter in laws you needed to buy for. I was like Whaaat!? Duggar family move on over!! Please note I do not mean this as a insult to the duggars I actually like them. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lllll Posted October 29, 2013 Share Posted October 29, 2013 .. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Onceuponatime Posted October 29, 2013 Author Share Posted October 29, 2013 The first few times I read this I thought you were saying you had 20 daughters and daughter in laws you needed to buy for. I was like Whaaat!? Duggar family move on over!! Please note I do not mean this as a insult to the duggars I actually like them. Oops. I modified the title. I'm only asking for 2 people thank goodness. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Onceuponatime Posted October 29, 2013 Author Share Posted October 29, 2013 :lurk5: Me too. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jillian Posted October 29, 2013 Share Posted October 29, 2013 If you are close with them I always got silly pjs. I also always get amazon gift cards from my MIL. Do they enjoy cooking? I love getting a fun quirky cookbook. Look at thinkgeek.com Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Slartibartfast Posted October 29, 2013 Share Posted October 29, 2013 http://www.sockdreams.com/ They have so many wonderful things! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
happypamama Posted October 30, 2013 Share Posted October 30, 2013 New pajamas, if you know their tastes pretty well. I also love when my MIL gets me something that's a step up from what I would buy myself -- like slightly upscale socks or nice shirts because I will buy the cheapest stuff for myself. MIL keeps me supplied with shoes; about every two years, she buys me a new pair of the same style shoe I've been wearing for a decade, and while it's not much of a surprise, I really appreciate having them. For a while, she also picked out a new pair of earrings for me every Christmas, again, nicer than I would buy for myself. (She probably still would buy them, but I tend not to wear earrings often anymore.) If they're fairly young, perhaps there is something they would really like to have in their kitchen (or the rest of the house too) but won't splurge on for themselves -- nice plates, a good cast iron skillet, specialty dessert pan, small appliance. . . Or something for a hobby that they wouldn't buy themselves. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
PeterPan Posted October 30, 2013 Share Posted October 30, 2013 I got my mom some designer dish gloves once that were a cool color with a band of fabric and ruffle... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KatieJ Posted October 30, 2013 Share Posted October 30, 2013 Last year I made fabric boxes for each of DD and DIL's. One uses her for make up brushes, two of them in their sewing rooms, and one on her desk in her school room. I also put in some kitchen gadgets for each of them. I am making several right now for wedding gifts and am planning on putting some cloth napkins and napkin rings in them. Do a search on Etsy, there are lots of them. (None as cute as mine. :laugh: ) This year we found some gorgeous handmade wooden baskets ( Amish) and I made doubled sided cloth napkins for them. I am including other kitcheny kind of things in that gift. My girls ask for socks every year. Seriously they do. Costco has some fantastic warm ones this time of year. Have you seen the mismatched socks? Solmates. Warm and fun. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mom-ninja. Posted October 30, 2013 Share Posted October 30, 2013 Well, find out what they like to do. Do they like to read if so what do they read? Favorite author? Favorite book? Cause you can find some cool stuff on etsy based on favorite author or book. Over on the Book a Week thread a link was posted to an etsy site that has infinity scarves printed with text from different books. You can find pretty much anything on etsy based on book themes: pillows, purses/tote bags, wall hangings, t-shirts, coasters, jewelry, etc. Do they like to cook or bake? Are they interesting in preserving food or fermenting food? Do they usually have painted toenails or fingernails? Some fun nail polish colors would be cool. Do they have smart phones or tablets? You could get a funky cover for said item. Do they like purses? Are they into exercise? The possibilities for exercise related stuff are endless: running shoes, cross training shoes, clothing, dvds, yoga mat, yoga mat bag, hand weights, etc. My mom bought me yoga toe socks. You can also buy toe socks that are not meant for yoga. Are they into photography? Are they going to school? You could get them school related things. How about an insulated to go cup? They have really cool designs now for the double walled porcelain cups that have the silicone tops. I see them all the time at TJMaxx. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
helena Posted October 30, 2013 Share Posted October 30, 2013 Anthropologie is on the pricey side, but really there are great gifts in all price ranges. Here are some gorgeous hair accessories: http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/category/hair+accessories/accessories-hair.jsp?cm_sp=TOPNAV-_-JEWELRYACCESSORIES-_-ACCESSORIES-HAIR Are they readers? The Mr. Boddington series is very pretty: http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/home-books-cookbooks/E26654525.jsp This is a company that sells natural oils, they smell amazing and the look is unique. I love Onyx and Amber roll-ons the most. Here are the sample vials: http://www.sagejewelry.com/fragrance-samples/ Sephora value kits are super fun because you're bound to like something in the kit and to try new colors. Some I've bought and liked: http://www.sephora.com/pure-delights-8-piece-lipsurgence-lip-set-P382570?skuId=1553726 http://www.sephora.com/lash-stash-P382576?skuId=1552165 (I had a smaller version and loved it) I looked at these tonight and they were tempting! http://www.sephora.com/color-me-glossy-lip-glaze-set-P383114?skuId=1556752 http://www.sephora.com/dollys-opening-act-set-P383021?skuId=1547983 http://www.sephora.com/black-honey-beauty-P383549?skuId=1560697 These look and feel great http://www.sephora.com/sugar-treasures-P383130?skuId=1551365 Paper Source has a lot in the way of fun and funky http://www.paper-source.com/cgi-bin/paper/gifts/gifts-for-her.html hth :) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
tex-mex Posted October 30, 2013 Share Posted October 30, 2013 I agree with finding out what the DILs like before buying a gift. My MIL for 26 years bought me gifts that I either did not need, were in the wrong size (and unreturnable as she got them from a garage sale), or things she liked but I did not like them at all like chocolate covered cherries every year as a Christmas gift. For the longest time, I would ask MIL politely for gift cards to buy homeschooling items as that is what I really wanted. In-laws were very wealthy and she let us all know that she spent $200 a year per person for Christmas. She was horrified that I did not want clothes or perfume. It kind of got to be an annual joke in the family as even her son (DH) could expect what she was going to gift him... socks and underwear. The man now has over 50 pairs of socks still in wrappers and piles of undies, to which sonny boy and I giggle over. DH never got what he wanted for Christmas either from his mom. That being said, MIL is no longer with us... but if I had a DIL, I'd make darn sure to find out what her hobbies and likes were before buying. It kind of says a lot about the MIL if they do not take the time to get to know the DIL and be passive-aggressive with gift-giving. Hope this is not your issue, OP. I'm glad to hear you want ideas! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
hsmamainva Posted October 30, 2013 Share Posted October 30, 2013 My 22yo dd asked for an apple peeler. :) It makes cute little curly-q apple swirls and cores apples. Bed Bath & Beyond should have some good choices for both ladies. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jerico Posted October 30, 2013 Share Posted October 30, 2013 I'd recommend buying to their interests as well. My mil gives really cute gifts but I feel like she doesn't know me at all. Some things are usable others just sit in the closet for a while before moving to goodwill. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
justasque Posted October 30, 2013 Share Posted October 30, 2013 http://www.sockdreams.com/ They have so many wonderful things! Thank you for this! I found perfect things for two people on my list! Socks, pj's, and t-shirts are basics that everyone uses. I try to find unusual versions that tie in with the DIL's interests, and/or are higher quality than they would buy for themselves. There are some great literary t-shirts here. The folks who do the Unshelved comic do some great t-shirts for readers; "library schooled" is my favorite for homeschoolers and other avid readers. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kerileanne99 Posted October 30, 2013 Share Posted October 30, 2013 Have you seen the mismatched socks? Solmates. Warm and fun. Thank you for mentioning this! When I met my hubby, the joke was that he never managed to wear a matching pair of socks-in the rare occasions that he did, one would seem to be on inside out?! He is a chemist, and we laugh that it is more of an absent-minded professor kind of thing. When we got married, I gave him 20 different socks, in coordinating colors--sort of a 'I love you as you are and won't try to change your eccentricities' kind of a thing. The Solmates will be perfect! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lynn Posted October 30, 2013 Share Posted October 30, 2013 Here are a few ideas. http://www.verabradley.com/catalog/search.cmd?form_state=searchForm&form_state=searchForm&keyword=wrist+wallet&x=9&y=12 I want to get this for my college boys http://www.qvc.com/HALO-2800mAh-Pocket-Power-Charger-for-Cellphones-%26-Electronics.product.E223301.html Gift cards to movies or starbucks These seem to be popular this year http://www.bonanza.com/listings/Grace-and-Lace-Milly-Lace-Boot-Sock-in-Brown/117223835?gpid=41917063381&gpkwd=&goog_pla=1&gclid=CMfF1KnKvroCFUhk7Aod0SAADw Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AmyontheFarm Posted October 30, 2013 Share Posted October 30, 2013 Someone posted a power charger? They are on sale at Amazon right now, if you buy it now, make sure it works by charging it, draining it and then recharging it before the 30 days return policy works. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Myra Posted October 30, 2013 Share Posted October 30, 2013 These ideas would be good for your sons or daughters.... You could give a really nice cook book (one that matches their interests like desserts only or bread making) and a fire extinguisher and/or new smoke alarms to make the gift have a funny twist. A toolbox with a few beginning around the house/apartment tools just for her. I noticed that the hardware store is getting fun looking tools - hammers with pink handles, etc. - for the "women's" market! a personal recipe book with all your own "mom" recipes written out in long-hand then at the back or front cover add a gift certificate for a really nice dinner out. Myra Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Susan in TN Posted October 30, 2013 Share Posted October 30, 2013 I like to browse Uncommon Goods http://www.uncommongoods.com/ If any of them have a lot of books, you might consider buying them a personalized book stamp or embosser. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lllll Posted October 30, 2013 Share Posted October 30, 2013 .. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
laughing lioness Posted October 30, 2013 Share Posted October 30, 2013 Scarves and unique earrings. My fav places to buy them are World Market, 10,000 villages (fair trade company), an upscale consignment store in town. Crackers Barrell often has fun accessories, including hats. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
magnificent_baby Posted October 30, 2013 Share Posted October 30, 2013 Scentsy warmers. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Slartibartfast Posted October 30, 2013 Share Posted October 30, 2013 Thank you for this! I found perfect things for two people on my list! Socks, pj's, and t-shirts are basics that everyone uses. I try to find unusual versions that tie in with the DIL's interests, and/or are higher quality than they would buy for themselves. That site also has some cute arm warmers. I tend to buy several gifts there, I like wearing long skirts sometimes and I just love their big thick over the knee socks for winter. :) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Beth S Posted October 30, 2013 Share Posted October 30, 2013 I really hate just buying "something" for them to open up. I would buy something fun (like a giant candy bar or coffee mug or crazy socks) and fold up a gift check inside. If they are tight on money, it really is a GIFT to have money just to spend on yourself in that season of life (young married). You can be creative with the money--use all crisp $1, fold it in orgami, have a short treasure hunt, etc. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Slartibartfast Posted October 30, 2013 Share Posted October 30, 2013 Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab is pretty amazing. They have some lovely things. http://www.blackphoenixalchemylab.com/welcome.html http://blackphoenixtradingpost.com/ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
laughing lioness Posted October 30, 2013 Share Posted October 30, 2013 Also Element 83 (Lisa M. is on these boards and their jewlery is made from Bismuth and beautiful!) and Arhaus Jewlery. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Onceuponatime Posted October 30, 2013 Author Share Posted October 30, 2013 Thanks for all the ideas! I am now inspired. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
stephanier.1765 Posted October 31, 2013 Share Posted October 31, 2013 http://www.sockdreams.com/ They have so many wonderful things! Thanks! My son's girlfriend loves giraffes and I found a cute pair of knee high socks that will be perfect for her for Christmas. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
2_girls_mommy Posted October 31, 2013 Share Posted October 31, 2013 At that age, I had no $ for extras. I liked kitchen stuff. I liked good bath stuff like bath and body works just because it wasn't something I was going to buy myself. But I was also still into clothes, so gift certificates were appreciated. I like the suggestions of socks because if $ is really tight even those kinds of things can be a splurge, especially fun funky ones. One year my step mom gave all of us a $50 gift card to Walmart and that was perfect because I could buy stuff for my apartment and still buy something small for myself. 20s were a time of working 2 jobs just to pay for school and rent for me. ANYTHING was appreciated! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Holly Posted October 31, 2013 Share Posted October 31, 2013 PJs...if you get the right size. One side gets me too small and the other side gets too big. I'd appreciate PJs I could actually use. Kitchen stuff--when I was a newlywed, this was my favorite type of gift! gift cards--Amazon or to a store they like You mentioned Etsy, I think the Scrabble tile necklaces are cute and can be customized to their interests. Here's an example if you haven't seen them: http://www.etsy.com/listing/100712560/sale-scrabble-tile-pendant-scrabble?ref=sr_gallery_20&ga_search_query=scrabble+necklace&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_search_type=all Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dynamite5 Posted November 1, 2013 Share Posted November 1, 2013 A really random thing that only works if you have horse nuts in the family--there's an amazing woman here in town that makes jewelry out of our horse's tail. http://www.imsilver.com/ Very cool jewelry! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.