Holiday Gift Guide

Cue the holiday music, Peeps! It’s officially the most wonderful time of the year. The holiday season is upon us and we MUST make the most out of this horrible pandemic we are currently fighting through.

Obviously, things are a little different this year and majority of this year’s shopping will be done online. Since so much has changed, I have decided to put together a holiday gift guide leading you to some of this year’s trends and sales.

I’ve also decided to mix things up, guide wise. Instead of listing off random items and categorizing them “for her,” “for him,” “for teen,” etc. – I’ve decided to select gifts that go hand in hand with my brand; Book Lover, Outdoor Adventure Junkie, Cozy Countryside Home, Plus Size Fashion, & Beauty.

Anyways, let’s do this thing!

Shall we?

Book Lover

1. Audible Subscription: Might as well start strong with my most requested gift of all time; audiobooks. Look, if someone gifted me a three month subscription to Audible, I would be stoked! For $45, you can give someone a gift that will open doors to alternate universes and worlds through reading. This also works for a book lover who has a variety of interests. Plus, peeps love options.
2. National Parks of the USA – Illustrated Hardcover: I had been debating on putting this in the “Outdoor Adventure Junkie” section of this holiday gift guide, and then eventually talked myself into placing it in both sections. This might seem like a children’s book, but this book is beyond packed with information. “Brimming with facts, activities, and beautiful illustrations, the National Parks of the USA series of books immerses young people in the wonders of America’s outdoors. Learn about the wonderful wildlife, stunning scenery, and rare plants that inhabit these precious outdoor spaces. Celebrate these beautiful and rare locations, and be awed by the diversity and grandeur of the national parks’ living landscapes.“
3. The Jane Austen Society (Natalie Jenner): Calling all Jane Austen and historical fiction lovers! Boy, do I have the perfect novel for you. This book has been my absolute favorite read of 2020, so far! Natalie Jenner‘s beautifully written novel is at the top of my holiday gift guide, as many have been purchased to give as holiday gifts. I am pairing this book with a The Jane Austen Collection: Deluxe Six Volume Box Set. Furthermore, if you really want to round out this gift set, throw in a 53 card Jane Austen Tarot Deck for the divination lover in your life. This was kindly gifted me. Although I have zero clue how to read or use them, they look beautiful on my shelf. Plus, it’s a little collectors item that holds meaning towards my cozy countryside obsession.
4. Outlander 4 Copy Box Set: This box set covers a lot of bases. Outlander easily checks off boxes for both romance and historical fiction interests. From here, there are so many other fun gifts that can be tied into gifts for an Outlander fan. Sam Heughan and Graham McTavish recently published a tell all book called Clanlands: Whiskey, Warfare, and A Scottish Adventure Like No Other. This book was clever, hysterical, and extremely enjoyable. Being a major Outlander fan myself, I have the Outlander Kitchen: The Official Outlander Companion Cookbook on my Christmas list. Jeff – if you’re reading this, you know what to do!!
5. The Hobbit (J.R.R. Tolkien): Illustrated Edition: I will never forget reading The Hobbit in 3rd grade. I remember exactly what the classroom looked like and exactly how this book made me fall in love with reading. If you have a special middle schooler in your life, or a thirty year old named Sarah – this book could open their eyes to a whole new world of reading, love, and fantasy.

Outdoor Adventure Junkie

1. Sawyer Products MINI Water Filtration System: First, water is the key to life. Secondly, having clean drinking water isn’t always as easy as one might think. Third, wouldn’t you want the option to head out on any adventure and have clean water right at your finger tips? Furthermore, for an affordable price? If you know someone that enjoys hours on end in the great outdoors, then this is the prefect gift idea! For less than $20, your wanderlust pal can have access to clean water during any adventure.
2. Outdoor Vitals Dominion 2p Ultralight Backpacking Tent: Can I get a HALLELUJAH for this three pound backpacking tent? Seriously, this thing only weighs three pounds! This backpack is a godsend to all weekenders and thru hikers alike. This would make the perfect holiday gift for those who you picture going on decent, outdoor retreats. I personally own this tent and give it a five out of five stars. If I could give it a six, I would.
3. Granite Gear 30″ Packable Wheeled Duffle: This duffle is the ultimate weekender bag. Doubling as a wheeled suitcase, this duffle also has backpack straps ready to go at all times. My package duffle has been on many trips, and I couldn’t imagine a weekend away without this baby. Between this and Granite Gear’s packing sacks, this would make for an excellent gift for those craving a weekend in the mountains or at the beach.
4. Zpacks Two Person Backpacking Quilt: Two words – LIFE CHANGING! Moreover, if you’re looking for that special gift for your honey this holiday season, check out this two person sleeping bag. Think of all the romantic nights under the stars you two can add to your memory bank. In conclusion, this baby will keep you TOASTY af. If you are planning on going camping this holiday season, check out my blog on Cold Weather Camping Tips!
5. My Medic- The Solo- First Aid Kit: This packable first aid kit is the perfect stocking stuffer for an outdoor lover. This little bundle of goodies has helped save me on multiple occasions. Not only is it tiny, but it is filled to the brim with everything and anything you could think of needing in an emergency situation. I am a major fan of My Medic’s first aid kits, and will never be on any adventure without one. Above all, give yourself the gift of a peaceful mind with the My Medic first aid kit. Meanwhile, having one of these kits in your loved ones day pack can help ease your anxiety and worry. My Medic has you covered!

Cozy Countryside Home

1. Chunky Knit Striped Throw Blanket Charcoal/White – Hearth & Hand™ with Magnolia: Did someone say “chunky blanket?” Cozy, home items are some of my favorite gifts to give and receive. Plus, this blanket is under $30 – which makes for the perfect hostess gift, stocking stuffer, or added gift for under the Christmas tree. Stocking stuffer wise, you can never go wrong with a three-pack of assorted holiday scented candles. Anything with cedar and balsam makes for fantastic fragrances and aromas all winter long.
2. Pottery Barn Stewart Plaid Cotton Duvet Cover & Shams: Bedding is ALWAYS a good idea & fantastic gift idea. Seriously, who doesn’t love a duvet cover that can easily be mixed and matched depending on the season? Meanwhile, I’m over here changing our duvet covers and shams every chance I get. So really, if any of my family members are listening – this is a mega hint. Lastly, how can you ever go wrong with Stewart Tartan anything?
3. Ruggable Buffalo Plaid Black & White Rug: Bring a rustic charm to your décor with our Buffalo Plaid Black & White Rug. Simple yet stylish, this rug features a checkered, Buffalo plaid design in high-contrast hues of black and white, complementing an array of colors, themes, and decorative elements effortlessly. Rug colors may vary slightly according to your device and the lighting in your space. Thanks to our innovative Cling Effect technology, our Rug Cover can be detached and reattached to the Rug Pad without losing its grip. When it’s time for a wash, simply remove the Rug Cover from the Pad, throw it in the washer and dryer, and reattach it back to the Pad. Voilà-enjoy a clean rug all the time!
4. Crate & Barrel Hatch Glasses & Folke Plaid Mugs: Yes & Yes!
5. Tory Burch Spongeware Oval Serving Platter: The hand-painted Spongeware Oval Serving Platter is based on the 19th-century English stoneware that both Tory and her mother, Reva, collect. Mix with new and vintage pieces in the same palette — it makes things feel more interesting, less prescribed. This is the perfect gift for anyone who enjoys hosting dinner parties. Remember those? (*insert sarcastic pre-quarantine joke)

Plus Size Fashion

1. J.Crew Sophie Open-front Sweater Blazer: I can hear my mother now telling me not to buy myself anything during the holidays. Well, she’s crazy if she thinks I wasn’t going to take J.Crew up on 50% off. In conclusion, I’ll be showing up to Christmas Eve dinner looking fabulous in my new J.Crew Sophie blazer. That is all.
2. J.Crew Factory Long-sleeve Bow Top: Furthermore, I should even wear my long sleeve bow top underneath of my Sophie blazer to complete this outfit I have now planned in my head. Wow, writing this holiday gift guide really helped me come full circle here.
3. Old Navy Cozy Teddy-Sherpa Plus-Size Full-Zip Jacket: Firstly, this Sherpa is the most snuggly thing ever. Secondly, it’s on mega sale. Third, if someone gifted this to me – I would be ecstatic.
4. ModCloth x Collectif Notorious Nutcracker Pullover Sweater: Still looking for a gift to give your sister or bestie? Check out this nutcracker sweater before it’s too late.
5. Ava & Viv™ Women’s Plus Size Crewneck Pullover Sweater: Y’all, this is currently on sale for only $20! Run, don’t walk.

Beauty

1. Tatcha Pure and Pore-Perfecting Trip: Give the gift of radiant skin this holiday season. Tatcha is always a brand I gift during the holidays. Their formulas are something I stand behind and constantly obsess over. Personally, I think Tatcha skincare products are worth the splurge and I love gifting their products.
2. Benefit Superstar Wardrobe Minis Makeup Value Set: Makeup wise, I also love gifting Benefit. Once again, I personally use their brow products daily and totally stand behind their products. Every year, they put out the most adorable and affordable holiday sets. They are perfect for gifting.
3. Revlon One-Step Volumizer Hair Dryer: Earlier this year, my mother gifted these to a couple of her gal pals and everyone raves over this product. Personally, I haven’t tried it yet, but based on the real reviews I’ve heard, this sounds like a product for any holiday gift guide.
4. Crest 3D White Professional Effects Whitestrips: I’m sure you’re thinking, “Sarah, it’s rude to give a personal hygiene product like teeth whitening strips.” But come on, these things are awesome! These are life changing. Plus, now you won’t have to purchase an app to make your teeth stark white.
5. Honeybee Gardens Totally Natural Tinted Lip Balm 3-Pack: Calling all moms, sisters, queens, anyone that enjoys smooth lips with a sheer tint; these are for you. Honeybee Gardens has recently become one of my favorite sustainable brands, and these tinted lippies are perfect as stocking stuffers. Plus, they are only $9 on Amazon for a three pack. As I sit here and recommend this product, I am currently wearing the color (flavor) Cherry Crush. It gives me extra Snow White vibes that help perk me up, on command!

There you have it, peeps. A holiday gift guide filled with a variety of ideas for those special peeps in your life. If needed, I am always available for more spur of the moment ideas and accompanying gift ideas to go along with any of the listed items above.

Sending everyone holiday hugs, cheer, and extra love. Especially during this time when we can’t be with all of our loved ones. In conclusion, HAPPY HOLDAYS & HAPPY NEW YEAR, peeps!

**Disclosure: Some of the links included in this post are affiliate links. That means that I could earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you click through and make a purchase.