Gift Guide: For The Homebody

This week we have a fun change-up — a guest contributor, a long-time friend and client, Jenny Pate! I first met Jenny during study abroad in Vienna, Austria — an adventure that gave us a lifetime of memories. Ten years later we are taking on different adventures including parenting and home renovations. I’m helping Jenny on several home projects and I’ve asked her to contribute regularly here so you can see more real-life (and real-budget!) examples of what goes into a remodel. Today she’s kicking things off with a Homebody gift guide. //

Hi everyone! Happy to be here. My day job is *VERY* corporate and dry, so I was very excited at Krystle’s idea for guest posting. I love the creative space she fosters here and on IG. I also think it’s fitting for me to launch with a Homebody gift guide because I have really leaned into that vibe this year…like even more than the typical 2020 participant. If you relate to that, or someone you love does, here are a few ideas to end the year on a warm and cozy note.

1. Coziest Robe Ever, Nordstrom
2. Kindle Paperwhite, Amazon 
3. One Line a Day Journal, Amazon
4. Wool Blanket, Hay of Denmark
5. Gold Stacker Ring, Mejuri
6. CBD Bath Bombs, Vital You Products 
7. Breville Barista Express, Amazon,(or  William Sonoma)
8. Rose Stem Cell Mask (sign up for in stock alerts!), Walmart (or a pack of two, one for you and one for them) 
9. Brass Bookmarks, Golden Coil

1. Alright, I know it is super basic to recommend a robe on a gift guide, but this UGG robe is my most worn item of 2020. It is the perfect material, has a flattering drape, and the length is practical (read: I’m not worried if the UPS driver sees me through the window). I wear it every single day, no lie.

2. So….I know this isn’t a groundbreaker either, but I just bought a kindle this year…and it’s amazing. I actually bought it for my husband but I frequently steal it. The non glare screen is so much better than my phone! Also — quick plug for signing up for Overdrive/Libby with your local library card. GAME CHANGER.

3. Life with non-stop zoom meetings and virtual work make me crave writing by hand. My line-a-day journal is an important part of my daily sanity check. The limited pressure of a quick sentence or two means I keep up with the habit. I think it’s a great gift even for the non-writers in your life!

4. Earlier this year I was browsing in a gift shop and came across this blanket. It was so soft and delicate, despite being 100% wool. I’ve been trying to be more conscious of choosing items without synthetic materials, and I think this may be worth the splurge.

5. My jewelry collection is pretty limited, but I keep browsing these rings and a few other shops for minimal gold. I like items that help me feel like my day has started, putting on simple jewelry is one of those things.

6. These bath bombs are made by a local company that I chat with frequently at markets around Boulder. They are even more beautiful in person than in the photos, and with various CBD potency options, you can find something perfect to relax at the end of a manic year.

7. My husband surprised me with this espresso machine last year, and while it is definitely a Birthday + Christmas + Anniversary level item, it has been amazing. Making a chai latte, hot chocolate, or americano when the world is falling apart is a quick way to remind myself I am going to be OK. If you already have an espresso machine or coffee maker, consider a compatible mug or a new bean blend from a local roaster.

A few more ideas that aren’t pictured:

8. The combination of 1) a pandemic and 2) getting into my 30s and 3) paying for “laying out” as a teenager means I care about skin care now. This mask from Peter Thomas Roth is all over the internet, but for good reason. If you are lucky you can catch it at Walmart (!!) for only $25. Put it in the fridge before using if you want a real spa experience. You can also snag a pack of two here, one for you and one for them.

9. You’ll probably learn I’m obsessed with Golden Coil – a custom planner company run by two sisters.  While I think everyone needs one, it can be a tricky gift since planners are so individual. However, they do sell these beautiful brass bookmarks that could add some glam to a Christmas stocking or go along with a Golden Coil gift card!

I’m personally someone that loves gift guides, I see it like online window shopping — perusing beautiful things and fun ideas with no pressure to purchase. I hope you feel the same and maybe discovered something new!

-JP //