Showing posts with label Gift Ideas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Gift Ideas. Show all posts

Jun 10, 2016

Not sure what Father’s Day gift to get the man who has it all or simply replies “don’t know” or “whatever” whenever you ask him what he wants? We’ve got you covered. Celebrate Dad with these fun and funky DIY presents. Don’t spend the day hopefully wandering around a hardware store, following a man who looks like your Dad, trying to see what he buys. Instead, surprise your Pa with a homemade treat. Check out the following gift ideas from some of the best bloggers out there, and get ready to wow your Dad. These sweet and simple presents are sure to put a smile on his face.

Cute Clock - Make him something fun and functioning. We love this idea from Make It & Love It; it’s like something out of Harry Potter. Grab some of your favorite family photos and remind him what he’s coming home to every day. Get the full tutorial here.


Groovy Growler - Is Dad a big fan of hoppy beers and flavorful ales? Try making him a monogrammed growler. This fabulous idea from Kristi Murphy is the perfect mix of fun and practical. Get the full tutorial here.

Image via Kristi Murphy

Sweet Sleeve - Does Dad love rich coffees, teas, and a rustic aesthetic? He’ll swoon over this leather mason jar sleeve from A Beautiful Mess. Take his morning cup of joe to the next level with this cool craft. Get the full tutorial here.

Image via A Beautiful Mess

Cool Case - If Dad’s a big fan of the iPad, we’re sure he’ll be a big fan of this case from Polka Dot Chair. With a zippered pouch for earbuds, chargers, and more it’s an ideal gift for Dads who travel a lot and love to use their iPad on the go. Get the full tutorial here.

Image via Polka Dot Chair

Superior Shave - Bearded Dads (who don’t want to be bearded any longer) rejoice! This pre-shave oil from The Merry Thought helps make shaving easier and skin smoother. With only three ingredients it’s a great last minute Father’s Day gift. Get the full tutorial here.


Creative Cufflinks - Whether your Dad dons a suit every day or just for special occasions, we’re sure he’ll love these geometric cufflinks from Almost Makes Perfect. Unique and stylish, they are sure to make your Pop’s outfit pop. Get the full tutorial here.


Terrific Tools - Treat your grilling guru to the ultimate BBQ accessories: custom tools from Brit + Co. The cook will want to kiss you after he sees this thoughtful gift. Get the full tutorial here.

Image via Brit + Co

We hope these fun ideas help inspire you to make the perfect Father’s Day presents this year. If you try tackling any of these crafts, make sure to share the finished products with us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. We love seeing what you create. And from our family to yours, Happy Father’s Day!

Dec 15, 2015

How’s your holiday baking going? If your annual shortbread and fruit cake seem a little stale, don’t fret! We’ve found some fresh and festive treat recipes that are sure to sleigh this season. Leave these sweets out for Santa and you might even get an extra gift – or two!

Marvelous Macarons – These peppermint macarons look almost too good to eat. We say almost, though, because they are absolutely worth eating. Light and sweet, they make the perfect holiday treat.

Image via Studio DIY

Beautiful Brownies – We are loving these festive little brownies. A simple squiggle of green icing, some sprinkles, and a candy cane combine with the always delicious brownie to make a fabulous Christmas tree. These are sure to be a hit at any holiday get together!


Creative Cookie Cups – Most of you have had a cookie with your hot chocolates, but have you ever had a hot chocolate that is a cookie? These desserts are absolutely adorable (we’re big fans of the pretzel handle) and are sure to delight any child (or child at heart) you’re entertaining!

Image via The Gunny Sack

Sweet, Sweating Snowman – These snowman cookies are so cute, and a breeze to make! A Dollop of white icing, a peanut butter cup, and some sprinkles make one very convincing Frosty. Strapped for time, but want to wow your guests? These guys will do!


Cool Christmas Trees – These Rice Krispie Christmas trees are fantastic (and could make the perfect prop for your Elf on the Shelf). Surprise friends, family, and neighbors with this sweet treat all December long.

Image via Simplee Thrifty

Perfect Peppermint Bark – Not sure what to serve your gluten-intolerant guests this season? We’ve got you covered. This peppermint bark is delicious and gluten free. Just because you can’t have gluten, doesn’t mean you can’t have fun!
Egg-cellent Eggnog Cookies – Finding festive vegan desserts can be a little tricky. Everywhere you look recipes seem to be calling for eggs and milk. Especially when it comes to eggnog inspired treats. So when we found these vegan eggnog cookies we had to share them!

Image via Half Full

We hope these treats add a little extra sweetness to the rest of your holiday season. Don’t forget to share your best baking shots with us on Instagram and Twitter – we love seeing what you create!


Nov 13, 2015

What’s hot and what’s not when it comes to holiday gifting? Fashion Designer and Style Expert to Mall of America, Christopher Straub says it best, “shop local for the most fun and unique gifts. Not only are you supporting hometown talent but you also can learn more about the creator and get their story of who they are and why they designed it.”

At Kansas City’s Holiday Boutique, discover beautiful, custom-made gifts by local artisan designers. These unique, artist-inspired creations and artwork can’t be found anywhere else!

CHECK OUT OUR HANDPICKED LIST OF TALENTED, LOCAL ARTISANS FOR THE 2015 HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE

Coasters to Coasters (Booth 228) - This Kansas City-based, mother-daughter team brings you beautiful and unique tumbled marble tile coasters that feature original photography of city and university landmarks. Their coaster collection features iconic images from Kansas City and surrounding areas, St. Louis, Wichita, the University of Kansas, the University of Missouri, and Kansas State University.


TYPOGRFX (Booth 330) - Custom word artwork, designed from scratch in an array of formats including gallery-wrapped canvases, luster, burlap and wood prints with standard and reclaimed barnwood frames; wood photo boards; metal prints; and keepsake blankets. From start to finish you get to choose the words, colors, style and other custom options for artwork that is truly unique.


Savory Addictions (Booth 818) - Gourmet, high-quality nuts (Cashews, Almonds, Pecans, Brazil, and Macadamia) smoked over real wood and hand-coated with all natural spice for the most sophisticated palates, with no preservatives.


Sapahn (Booth 702) - A handcrafted collection of leather handbags and wallets, silver jewelry, silk and all-natural scarves beautifully crafted by artisans in Thailand. Founder and Local, Brooke Mullins connects the two cultures while creating sustainable jobs in their villages that preserve cultures and traditions. The artisans extract natural color from various tree barks, then mix in mud minerals found at the bottom of a local pond to create exquisitely colored pieces.


Treasure by Shantrel (Booth 57) - Licensed Esthetician, Shantrel concocted an all-natural skincare formula that won’t leave skin irritated with a sticky residue, but instead with a soft and smooth finish. What began as “kitchen chemistry” in her home, later evolved into a complete line of products, including lip balm, foot scrub, and hand and body lotion.


Tommi Crystal Designs (Booth 125)—A fun selection of handcrafted, jewelry that can be created right on the spot for a custom piece. Tommi creates original pieces in her home studio using sterling silver, semi-precious stones, pure metals, and glass.


White Wind Vineyard (Booth 44) - Locally processed, aged, filtered, bottled, and labeled wines crafted to award-winning perfection.


Unique O’s (Booth 612) - Quality, handmade children’s clothing and accessories, baby blankets, pacifier clips, children’s jewelry, placemats and apron’s, sun hats, infant car seat covers, boys ties and many other children’s items made with a little bit of sass and flair.


Grace Art (Booth 601) - Fully customizable, hand-painted canvases of inspirational and personalized sayings and quotes.


Crooked Creek (Booth 1000) - Made from beads, earth substances, antiquities or fibers, each watchband from Crooked Creek is handmade with no two alike. Strong attention to detail and design, make these pieces exceptionally beautiful and unique.


Electrified Cooks (Booth 104) - Slow cookers are popular for dinnertime; however, rarely do people use them for desserts. Slow Cooker Cake Mixes are distinctive and unique, original recipes developed by two local cookbook authors. The Electrified Cooks started their careers in the test kitchen for RIVAL, the local company that first introduced Crock Pot slow cooker to the world. Since then, the Electrified Cooks have been perfecting their recipes for over 30 years.


Heartshine Jewelry (Booth 1307) - Genuine Swarovski crystal jewelry, placed with brass settings purchased from Israel. Vintage Swarovski details are frequently included in each design.


Joy’s Favorite Things (Booth 1219) - Joy uses quality silk, bamboo, cotton, and other fine fabrics combined with handmade dyes to create original scarves, ponchos, and shawls. The dying process so unique it cannot be duplicated, therefore purchases are limited to one to three items.


Jule’s Bling (Booth 210) - Handmade jewelry designed and created with only the best materials—from enameling, metal smithing, wire, and semi-precious stones.


Sticky Spoons (Booth 1230) - Locally hand-selected and picked Elderberries and Sand Hill plums grow are processed into juice to make small batches of jelly, kettle style. Quick bread mixes are made from scratch recipes with locally grown wheat flour.


The Diana Collection (Booth 301) - Geologist and Designer, Diana Abitz handcrafts one-of-a-kind necklaces and earrings. Hand selected stones, fossils, shells and pearls, which are often uncommon, are uniquely assembled to show off Mother Nature’s bounty.


Not sure what to get the person who has it all? Let Kansas City’s local artisan boutiques be at the top of your holiday shopping list to find custom and trendy gifts that can’t be found anywhere else! This year shop local, shop small business, shop Holiday Boutique and give unique gifts that also give back to the local community.


Ticket Deal Alert! Haven't bought your Holiday Boutique tickets yet? Get 2-for-1 when you connect with us on Facebook! Treat a friend or family member to the show - we can't wait to see you there.

OVERLAND PARK CONVENTION CENTER
NOVEMBER 19-22, 2015.


Nov 4, 2015

From October to January the holidays are in full swing in Kansas City. Though it is Blue October in our beloved city, Fashion Designer and Style Expert to Mall of America, Christopher Straub has all the latest trends and colors for the season at the 2015 Holiday Boutique - from what to wear and serve at a holiday party to home decor - here is your holiday guide for fall to winter.

What's in for styling your home for the holiday season?

“When it comes to getting your home ready for the holidays, do what makes you happy. The holiday season is all about warmth, family, and traditions, so I say make it your own.”

Christopher's Holiday Boutique Pick: SPC Portrait Art


Nothing says family and togetherness like the traditional holiday portrait. However, just because something is traditional, doesn’t mean it has to be typical. SPC Portrait Art doesn’t just create one-of-a-kind photographs, they create and capture memories you can display as art in your home. What better holiday decor could you have for your home than your family’s smiling faces? Styling your home for the holidays just got a bit easier!

What are the ultimate must-haves for hosting a holiday party?

"Holiday parties are an essential part of the season. When hosting, offer an abundance of food and drink options, keeping those who have food restrictions and prefer non-alcoholic beverages in mind."

Christopher's Holiday Boutique Pick: Smart Cookies


Smart Cookies are chewy, gooey, dunkable cookies that are undeniably homemade. From chocolate chunk to oatmeal, white chocolate and craisins to chocolate-dipped peanut butter, and buttery shortbread, there is something for all of your guests to enjoy! Best of all, Smart Cookies candies, cookies, and treats are made from-scratch with no mixes or preservatives, which makes these treats the smarter way to indulge during the holidays.

What to wear for a holiday party?

"Shimmer and shine are always in style for a holiday get together! Break out those sequin dresses and glimmering gems. Opt for festive colors and polished metallic - save the black and white for New Years."

Christopher's Holiday Boutique Pick: Crystal Boot Persuasions


Stay warm and light up the room with designer boots from Crystal Boot Persuasions! Each pair of boots is custom-made with Swarovski Crystals that are meticulously placed by hand. And with multiple colors and styles to choose from, these boots are perfect for the season in more ways than one. Just check out their new line of collegiate themed boots (ahem, football season anyone?). Want the ultimate conversation started for any holiday party? Head over to Crystal Boot Persuasions. These boots were made for talkin'!

Holiday gifting: What's hot? What's not?

"Shop local for the most fun and unique gifts. Not only are you supporting hometown talent, but you can also learn more about the creator and get their story of who they are and why they designed the item you want."

Christopher's Holiday Boutique Pick: Frankie and Jules


Frankie and Jules offers a combination of the latest trends in women's apparel, featuring casual classics and unique, eye-catching styles with affordable price tags. Great for saving a little moolah while finding the perfect gift for a friend, co-worker, family member, or any fashion-forward person in your life!

Styling the holidays doesn't have to be hard. All of Christopher's finds and so much more can be found at the 2015 Holiday Boutique. With Christopher's fresh holiday tips and the latest trends in style, home decor, jewelry, and gourmet food all in on convenient location, you can handle the holidays like a true fashionista!


The Holiday Boutique takes over the Overland Park Convention Center November 19-22, 2015. Don't have tickets yet? Get 2 for the price of 1 when you connect with us on Facebook. Treat a friend or family member to the show (that's one present already bought!).

OVERLAND PARK CONVENTION CENTER
NOVEMBER 19-22, 2015.


Oct 20, 2015

We're excited to have 6 Little Monkeys joining us at this year's Holiday Boutique. This local retailer offers a wide variety of clothing and accessories for dolls like American Girl, Madame Alexander, and Our Generation. If you have a little one who's a big fan of dolls, dresses, and everything pretty, make sure to stuff their stocking with a cute item from 6 Little Monkeys.


Before you visit 6 Little Monkeys in booth 710 at the Holiday Boutique, get to know them a little better in our brief interview below.

Please describe your products.

"6 Little Monkeys, located right here in Overland Park, is your one stop shop for all things American Girl! Whether you're looking for trendy, formal, causal, or make-believe doll clothing, we have you covered. We carry a huge selection of accessories including hundreds of shoes and boots! We even stock an extensive line of Disney princess costumes for your 18" dolls!

6 Little Monkeys also specializes in girl's hair accessories. From Itty Bitty bows to Jumbo size, we have hundreds of quality bows to choose from, at the lowest prices in town!"


What's your price range?

$ -- $0-$20

Will you have any show specials?

"Pettiskirts for dolls, $5.00"

Why would your products make the perfect holiday gift?

"Dolls are the perfect holiday gift. Our doll clothing and accessories help girls express their creativity and imagination through wholesome play. From today's latest trends to traditional attire, customers can find everything they want at significantly lower prices over the big name brand store."


Is there anything else you think folks should know about your company?'

"6 Little Monkeys has been in business for the last 13 years. We are a local business priding ourselves on quality merchandise and customer service. We strive to deliver the greatest range of products with the highest value in the marketplace."

The Holiday Boutique is on at the Overland Park Convention Center November 19-22, 2015. With hundreds of local vendors showcasing the latest in home decor, fashion, accessories, gourmet goodies, and more, it's the place to get something for everyone on your list - plus a thing or two for yourself!


Ticket Deal Alert - Don't miss out on the opportunity to get 2-for-1 tickets! Right now when you connect with the Holiday Boutique on Facebook you can have access to this exclusive deal. Click here to buy your tickets NOW!

OVERLAND PARK CONVENTION CENTER
NOVEMBER 19-22, 2015.


Jul 3, 2015

Not all of us have the space or time to throw 4th of July parties, but that doesn’t mean we won’t be celebrating come Saturday. Will you be a party goer instead of a party thrower this weekend? Don’t forget the hostess gift! If you want to skip the traditional bottle of wine and surprise your host with a unique, homemade gift, we have got you covered.

Think you shouldn’t DIY because there won’t be enough time? Think again. The gifts below are super easy to make and come together quickly. Check ‘em out and see which one your host will love most. 

Patriotic Planter – Don’t bring a bouquet, bring a real plant. And deck that plant out in the most patriotic planter you can. This sweet craft will add to any 4th of July party and thrive for years to come. If you’re worried about whether or not it will actually thrive because your host is not a “plant person”, put a cactus in your planter.

Image via Hands Occupied

Sensational Serving Spoons – We love the idea of bringing serving spoons. From burger and hotdog toppings to pasta, potato, and actual salads there is usually lots to serve up at any 4th of July get together. So let your host have a little fun with their utensils and surprise them with these ombre cuties. 

Image via Say Yes

Thoughtful Throw Pillow – This sweet burlap pillow would look perfect on the porch or in the house, and we’re sure it’ll be brought out for many Independence Days to come. It is the most complex craft on our list to make, so if you aren’t a comfortable sewer, we’d suggest giving one of the other projects a try. That said, if you’re happy using a thread, needle, and bobbin, this pillow really comes together nicely.


Creative Centerpiece – All you need is rice, food coloring, mason jars, and candles for this simple craft to take shape. These fun candles can be placed all around your host’s party and will add to the atmosphere and festivities. What could be better?


We hope these homemade gifts bring a smile to your host’s face and help make your 4th of July all the more special this year. 

Jun 16, 2015

Can you believe Father’s Day is this Sunday? We’ve been sharing Father’s Day gift ideas for a few weeks to help you prepare for the special day, but we know they might not work for everyone. If you aren’t a DIY-er, but would like to surprise Dad with something homemade this year, why not cook him a delicious breakfast? We’ve compiled a list of simple, Dad-friendly breakfast recipes that are sure to delight. Check ‘em out below and show Dad how much you care by making his morning.

Perfect Pancakes – Using a squeeze bottle filled with pancake batter to spell out DAD? This is one super cute idea! It’s easy to do and such a fun way to show Dad this day is all about him.

Image via Betty Crocker

Egg-cellent Egg Cups – If you think these breakfast bites look delicious, you’re right. If you think they’re hard to make, you’re wrong. Throw a little black forest ham in a muffin pan, crack an egg in it, bake, and you’re good to go.


Cool Cake – If your Dad loves bacon and beer, (and let’s face it, who doesn’t?), then he’ll love this cake! Vanilla cake mix and frosting, beer, bacon, and a waffle iron come together to create this towering treat.

Image via Brit + Co

Wicked Wookiee – Is your Dad is a big fan of Han, Luke, Leia, and Chewie? Freak out he will when you surprise him with this delightful donut.


Mighty Mix – Can’t decide what to cook for Dad? Try making a whole platter! With a hearty mix of smoked salmon, eggs, bacon, prosciutto, English muffins, and more you can’t go wrong!

Image via AO Life

Breakfast Burrito – Burritos are normally a mix of rice, beans, veggies, guacamole, salsa, and sour cream, and while they can be eaten for breakfast, they’re usually saved for a later meal. However, this wonderful wrap is perfect for breakfast. Eggs, steak, cheese, and hot sauce are the perfect morning combo. We’re sure your Dad will eat it up.

Image via Food Network

Playful Pizza – This is another type of food that’s usually reserved for a later meal (unless you’ve had a particularly long night). Again, some minor substitutions have turned it into a delicious breakfast feast that your Dad will flip for. He won’t be able to resist a slice!


We hope these delicious breakfast ideas help get your Father’s Day off to a great start. Do you normally cook up something different for your Dad? Make sure to share your Father’s Day traditions with @HomeShows on Twitter and Instagram – we’d love to see how your family celebrates. From our family to yours, Happy Father’s Day.