Gift Guide No. 1 - Monogram Gifts

(adorable bag from Crab & Cleek)

Holy present time!!! It is time to start sharing my gift picks for this holiday season ... and I am both shocked it is here (already) and super, super excited to share.  I love to pick out gifts and try to go above and beyond when I give someone a happy.  When I pick it out I have already pictured it in my mind of how they will use it and, hopefully, love it as much as I do. Since I am starting earlier than normal I plan to share one a week with you, always on Wednesday, and that way we can both knock out our shopping a little at a time and get an early start on that holiday list.  Each week I will tackle one group of giftee with great picks for a number of price points to give you ideas and point you in the area of things I love to gift others.  Since some sales have already started it will be great to grab items while you can while the prices are great. How about we all finish our shopping by the second week of December ... don't you love that idea?

I am super excited to share ... so here goes our first category, and one of my favorite to gift, a monogrammed gift. The best thing about a monogrammed gift is that it shows you took the extra time to have something made just for them. For example my dad loves flannel shirts (and anything) from LL Bean.  If I order them ahead and choose a monogram for above his pocket or on his sleeve it shows I took the extra effort to make sure they were personal just for him.  The extra effort in choosing color and style and location for a monogram is so worth the time in spades, it shows you took the time to plan. For me I love a great monogram and having something passed down to me that has a monogram on it is even more special.  We have a number of monogrammed sterling silver pieces that were passed down to us that I just adore and love to use.  In short, adding a monogram to a gift is something you can never do wrong.

The beauty of a monogram is that it instantly elevates the gift.  You can add it to a mask for a small gift for a neighbor or friend or you can add it to a cashmere sweater for your husband and create a beloved treasure he will love for years.  There are so many great companies that offer monogram services when you buy your item (J.Crew,  Frontgate, Mark + Graham to name a few) or you can take it to your local shop and have it added after you receive your gift. I can not say it enough ... a monogrammed gift is just extra special. 

If you have a giftee on your list that loves a monogram my best advice is to have one created just for them.  You can purchase a custom couture monogram from my friend Emily and then they can add it to all things they add to their home.  We have one and I love it so.  I have it on blankets in our den, sheets in the guest room, barware, plastic cups, coffee cups, napkins, hand towels, and so much more.  I love that I can order something from the Shoppe and instantly choose "custom monogram on file" to make it even better.  The custom monogram is an investment, but it is so worth it. 

All the gifts I have picked for you below are ideal for a monogram.  You can do a three letter traditional monogram, two letters (first and last name), a married monogram or a last name.  I do not recommend a single initial, it is just not my favorite choice.  If you have any questions at all or need some monogram advice, pop me an email!  If you are looking for bags, totes, travel accessories ... I can not recommend Barrington Gifts enough, they are completely customizable and so sturdy! If you have towels on your list for one of your recipients you need Weezie Towels ... hands down! 😘

Here is how I would gift the items I picked out for you ... just in case you need a suggestion, or two. 

Monogram scarf + a cute pair of gloves to complete the look! 

Monogram Ember mug + a box of their favorite coffee + a bottle of fun coffee syrup, they will think of you every single thing they make coffee. 

Travel charger roll up + a new longer cord + monogram sticker for the block 
(they won't lose it ever again)

Monogram duck boots + two pairs of amazing socks, one pair to slide down in each boot.

Monogram sheet set + a fabulous throw to add to the bottom of the bed for cozy snuggles.

Monogram throw + a great book or needlepoint project ... we all love a great afternoon of relaxing!

Monogram sherpa + a new pair of leggings ... outfit made!

Monogram cashmere sweater for him + a great button down (add a monogram to the cuff!)

Monogram slippers + cute new flannel pjs ... they will love you the most! Ps, those are the best pjs I have found from a big box store.

Monogram tumbler + Starbucks gift card 
(or a great bottle of spirits if they are old enough to enjoy)

Monogram luggage & Barrington pieces + cute and fun luggage tag and a passport cover 
(we will travel again)

Monogram charger + new cords and a monogram sticker for the set
(aren't we always misplacing theses things?)

Monogram game + cute monogram tumblers to set them up for game nights!

Monogram cashmere sweater for her + a fun printed scarf.

Monogram jacket for her + a great knit hat ... she is ready for the cold weather.

Monogram robe + some darling slippers to finish the look! If you have a couple on your list, knock them both out with this idea!

Monogram tray + ingredients to make a great cheese board (nuts, crackers, etc.) where they just have to add the cheese and spirit of their choice!

Monogram bag strap + a second for change ups, how fun are these?

Monogram sunglasses case + a cute new pair of sunnies (a great gift for that hard to buy for person on your list!) 😎