Noted :: Allyson’s 2012 Gift Guide

Happy Tuesday! We are continuing our week of Elements’ Gift Guides. Today, Allyson chimes in with some thoughtful holiday gift picks for those on your list with wee ones, those who could use a little organizational help (guilty!) and perhaps the trickiest category of all – the “Yankee Swap” gift. Yes, we New Englander’s are still big on this historic gift-swapping game – it seems to be unavoidable in these parts!

So, without further adieu, here’s a little help from Allyson …

For The Newest Addition::

Baby Keepsake Gift: 2012 has been a busy year for my friends and family – I now have a few new precious additions to spoil! Aside from the usual onesies, bottles, diapers and other essentials that new parents need, this baby keepsake kit has been a big hit. No need to struggle with ink on little hands and feet – this clay mold shapes easily {and painlessly} to your baby’s foot and you can display and personalize it as wall art!

Lincoln Earmuff Beanie: Gone are the days of pinks and blues and ribbons and bows. This little beanie is perfect for any little rocker and can be personalized to say Mom, Dad or even Auntie {if you’re an awesome one like me}.

Birth Year Shadow Box: I love this whimsical keepsake box – it’s a unique take on the baby book. You can store baby’s first shoes, toys, pictures and it makes a cute addition to any nursery.

For The Organizer::

Magnetic Picture Frame: It’s no secret that I’m a bit of an over organizer – my desk, my house, my closet – you name it. If you, or someone you know, is a super organizer, here are a few gifts they might like. This magnetic picture frame is perfect for a small space and if you can stick a magnet on it, it can go up on this cute board. I use mine for make-up. It maximizes space and adds a touch of flair to my wall.

Desk Organizer: There are hundreds of desk organizers out there – big, small, wide, short – but I love this one because it organizes your “junk.” It’s the little items on your desk that make the biggest mess and this little organizer does its job by displaying your items – without adding to the clutter!

Chalkboard Spice Jar: If there is one thing I love more then organizing, it’s labeling. These little jars are not only cute, but also functional. They have a chalkboard labels on the front so you can easily switch from flour to sugar, thyme to basil. Etc. Plus they come in multiple colors to match every kitchen.

For The Inevitable Gift Swap::
New Years Box: Earlier this month, I went to an early Christmas party with a gift swap. It’s always seems impossible to find a fun, unique and budget friendly swap gift. When one of my friends opened this gift – the New Years Box – I thought it was such as great idea. The best part is that you can make it yourself and put just about anything you want inside! Who doesn’t want a party in a box?

Lego Sketchpad: If you work with creatives (like I do), this Lego Sketchpad is a novel idea. Not only can they fill the pages with ideas and drawings – but the outside makes a perfect “I’ve got designers block” play thing.

Whimsical Animal Wine Opener: Spirits and wine accessories are always a popular gift swap items for adults. This animal wine opener is particularly fun because upon first look, most people have no idea what it is.

Happy gifting!

~Allyson