Class of 2014 graduation gift kit

In a couple of weeks we get to celebrate my niece Colleen's high school graduation! I've been trying to think of a fun gift for her for a while and I finally decided on a little dorm room survival kit. I'm pretty sure she's too busy studying for her IB exams and not reading her auntie's blog, so, I'm safe to share my spin on this easy graduation gift!

Dorm room survival kit:

I got everything at Target and tried to keep it in the green + yellow color scheme when possible (CSU colors)! 

1. Flip flops - for the communal showers.
2. Power strip - for charging all her new gadgets.

3. Ear plugs - for noisy nights in the dorms.

4. Emergen-c - for avoiding colds in close quarters.
5. Tide Pods - for easier trips to the laundromat.

6. Seventh Generation wipes - for cleaning up after a messy roommate.

7. Goldfish - for late night snacks.

Assemble everything in a fun storage bin or shower caddy, add a little tissue paper, and you're set! 

This is the perfect gift for all you procrastinators - just swing by Target on the way to the graduation party. I included some fun money in the card (and the gift receipt in case she gets a similar gift). 

Congratulations to the Class of 2014, especially my favorite niece! Click here to read more!

5 fun subscription boxes for the ladies on your list

Rejoice: the holidays are here! I so love shopping for presents! Subscription boxes are probably going to be a huge part of my gift-giving plan this year. No more "wine of the month" clubs -- this year, you can give a creative, curated box of delightful mini-presents to your favorite gals; everything from makeup to crafts can be assembled and shipped in a gorgeous box each month.

 

Here are my box recommendations (and present pairings) for every girl on your gift-giving list!

1. Birchbox 

Best for: Your bestie or teenage niece

Monthly Price: $10

For the girliest girl on your list, Birchbox is the perfect solution. A monthly hot-pink box will show up at their door stuffed with makeup and beauty samples. From full-size Essie nail polishes to the latest trendy hair ties, your girlfriends will love this monthly mailbox surprise. You can buy a three-month subscription for $30 – a perfect price for such a fun gift! Pair with a chick-flick on DVD, like What to Expect When You’re Expecting.

2. Julibox

Best for: Sister-in-law or favorite hostess

Monthly Price: Between $36-$40

If you have a cocktail-loving lady in your life, say “cheers” to Julibox! Each month, they’ll get enough mixers and liquors to fashion four specialty cocktails. This would be an charming gift to accompany a set of fancy coupes or champagne glasses. Think about the gal in your life who’s always hosting people for a cocktail or soiree;  maybe she’ll even share a drink or two with you!

3. Goodies Co.

Best for: Your mom or mother-in-law

Monthly Price: $7

Perfect for the foodie on your list, Goodies Co. will ship them a box filled with gourmet mini-snacks (think pumpkin souflee mix, white cheddar popcorn and eggnog tea). At less than $10 a month, it’s a steal, and your mom or MIL will thank you for helping her discover epicurean delights to share with her book-club ladies. Pair with a new cookbook or even a cooking class to round out the gift.

4. Brit Kits 

Best for: Your Pinterest-obsessed friend

Monthly Price: $20

If your friend has grand DIY dreams but never enough motivation to follow through, the Brit kit is the perfect solution. Packed with all the materials to do a 30-minute craft (such as hardware-inspired jewelry), Brit box is the brainchild of DIY maven Brit Morin. Be sure to get her the starter kit (about $30) so she’ll have the tools needed when inspiration strikes!

5. Le Parcel 

Best for: Your sister (or a gag gift!)

Monthly Price: $20

Let’s be honest here – you probably can’t get this for anyone but your sister. Choose a selection of tampons, pads and even a treat to make that time of the month a tad better (chocolate, anyone?). She’ll never run out of tampons again! Besides your sis, this would make a hilarious gag gift -- if you’re brave enough to bring it! It might be fun to pair this present with a bottle of wine!

Remember that sentiments are as important as presents -- don’t forget to include a thoughtful, handwritten card with each gift!

Which subscription box would you like to receive yourself? Let me know in the comments below!  I already get Birchbox, but would love to get Julibox (hint, hint).