Gift Guide: Favorite Teachers

Dress (similar) || Wedges || Handbag || Earrings || Lip Color

I may be a few months away from the classroom, but I still know too well how stressful the job is. Layer with all of the mess that is 2020 and you have an entire workforce of tired and exhausted educators. If you’re a parent with children in school or simply a friend of a teacher, it would be so appreciative to some them some extra love this year. Feel free to use my new Teacher Gift Guide for some inspiration.

A Colorful Tumbler

It seems so funny for those in the non-education world, but teachers get so busy during the day… They don’t even have time for a water break. by gifting a large tumbler, their drinks can stay cold or hot all day long. Better still, this can be used in their off hours, away from school.

Full Hand Sanitizer Set

In the year 2020, when is hand sanitizer not appropriate? This brand makes a plant-based sanitizer that still kills 99.9% of germs and is hypoallergenic. Pick a favorite scent for your teacher and opt for the multi-pack. You truly can’t go wrong.

Fashionable Teacher Planner

Whether I’m in or out of the classroom, I live by a planner. I know so many teachers that are the same way too! This planner has a great layout and gives room to write down everything from lesson ideas to grades to parent contact information.

Monogrammed Teacher Stationary

Teachers have to write so many notes! It’s an unsung part of the job. While any piece of paper will do, the message can feel so much more special written on something personalized. The apple motif is an absolute given, but I think the monogram is such a fun touch.

Organic Cotton Mask Set

Similar to the hand sanitizer idea, face masks are the gift to give! This set, from Anthropologie, is made from organic cotton, letting you feel good about what you are gifting. These can also be easily sanitized, helping to keep your favorite teacher healthy all school year!

Cozy Oversized Blanket

No matter where you live, it can chilly in the classroom. There have been plenty of school days where I just need to bundle up to keep warm. That’s especially true when I was working with a group of students at my desk. This fun print can brighten up a classroom and total work with a nautical theme.

Special Candy Set

I cannot tell you how many days I felt desperate for a small piece of candy. Depending on the classroom schedule, the afternoons can feel like a drag. Having a little afternoon pick me up is crucial. I am a huge fan of Sugarfina candies. They are the perfect little bite and come in the cutest packaging.

Classroom Diffuser

Teachers care about their students to death, but a classroom of 20 or more doesn’t always smell so great. Candles are a no, for obvious reasons, and aerosol sprays hardly smell better. Instead, opt for a reed diffuser in a nice, clean scent.

Personalized Lunch Box

When I was in the classroom, lunch was a violent 30 minutes where I had to drop off the students, go to the bathroom, make last minute copies, eat for five minutes, and pick up the students again. Knowing that I came to work every day with a packed lunch from home was a huge relief.

Spa Day Lotion Set

Teaching is the absolute most rewarding career out there. Still, there are days where I would come home feeling like I just spent the last few hours inside a tornado. Going to the spa weekly isn’t normally in a teacher’s budget, but a deep moisturizing lotion set is a great way to unwind. 

Wine and Glassware

For Christmas one year, one of my families gave me a nice bottle of red. It’s a way of saying, “I know your job is tough, but maybe this will help.” It’s a simple and extremely thoughtful gift! Be sure to double check with school policies and teacher preferences before going with this option.

Teacher Christmas Ornament

If all else fails, an ornament is a perfect gift! For teachers, it’s always the thought that counts! This cute Apple Ornament will be here in a flash with 2-day shipping, just in case a teacher gift accidentally slips your mind.

Even as I’m writing this, I feel a huge sense of love for my teaching career. Teaching sometimes feels like both the best and most stressful job imaginable. During the holiday season, even giving sharing the smallest token of appreciation can mean so much!

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

Gift Guide: Grand Millennial

Sweater (also) || Jeans || Similar Heels ($50 off with code SARAHFLINT-BAKATIE) || Clutch || Earrings

Grand Millennial. According to House Beautiful, they define one as “Ranging in age from mid-20s to late-30s, grand millennials have an affinity for design trends considered by mainstream culture to be stuffy or outdated.” This probably the most spot-on explanation Although finding your personal style is a long journey, I’ve noticed myself creeping more and more to the grand millennial status. Am I a full on convert? Not yet, but ask me again in 2021. For those on your holiday shopping list who love rattan, florals, or chinoiserie, feel free to consult my latest gift guide!

Backgammon Set

Since so many of us have been staying home, board games have been making a comeback! It’s actually considered to be one of the oldest board games, almost 5,000 years old, but now it’s back! It’s been revamped with brightly colored and personalized sets. For the last minute gift, I just bought this baby blue set for under $25!

Feminine Teapot

On my recent trip to Palm Beach, I was reacquainted with the traditional teatime and I’ve been thinking of it ever since! A posh little teapot or tea set would be the perfect gift for your grand millennial. Perhaps include locally sourced tea for an extra twist.

Needlepoint Canvas

This has taken the grand millennial world by storm and has seen the greatest resurgence. My grandma taught me how to crochet and cross-stitch, but in 2021 I hope to give needlepointing a try. Etsy is flush with whimsical or tongue-in-cheek canvas. Pick one that suits your loved one’s personality.

Antique Julep Cups

The mint julep is such a classic cocktail, especially in the spring and summer. The drink is traditionally served in beautiful silver julep cups and that’s where grand millennials come into play. These are stunning pieces to add to a collection and are surprisingly versatile! It’s even better if you can find an antique set.

Boho-Inspired House Dress

The grand millennial simply adores caftans and house dresses. Since working from home, I’ve been wearing my little collection on repeat. Don’t worry though, because finding a perfect dress doesn’t have to break the bank. I’ve acquired quite a collection of these boho midi dresses from Amazon and the best news is that they’re only $30. They come in an absolute rainbow of colors and are so comfortable!

Reimagined Classic Books

Classic novels will always have a place in my library. From Hemingway to Dickens, it’s really worth taking the time to read a few. These cherished novels have been reimagined with the Penguin Clothbound Collection. Hardcover and absolutely gorgeous, they will make for a welcome pop of color on any book lover’s shelf.

Whimsical Cocktail Napkins

The bar cart has become an instant classic and I see no sign of slowing down. While it’s great to be filled with spirits, mixers, and glassware, don’t forget the accessories that make the happy hour feel special. Cheerful cocktail napkins have a wide range of styles and can spark conversation.

Vintage Ginger Jar

It’s just a fact, every grand millennial has an ever growing collection of blue and white ginger jars. As I write this, I have no less than five pieces at just my desk. Help add to the chinoiserie shelf by gifting a memorable piece this holiday season. You can find so many options via Etsy, but don’t be afraid to do some thrifting in your own town.

Custom Stationery

Since 2020 was the year to stay at home, snail mail seemed so special! Moving forward into 2021, my goal is to handwrite more letters to friends and family. If that sounds like your loved one, first they’ll need personalized, monogrammed stationery that really makes a statement. The possibilities are endless, my favorite is this clean card set with a traditional monogram set from Etsy.

Monogrammed Vanity Case

For the grand millennial on the go, consider a vanity case for all of their beauty products. If you can add a monogram, even better! Paravel has so many great travel pieces. Their See-All Vanity Case is an instant classic and will fit everything they need to pack along.

One-of-a-Kind Statement Earrings

Typically, finding statement earrings is a delicate balance. You may not want them to overpower an outfit, but they should still feel special. For the grand millennial, a great compromise would be anything with a cameo motif. This pair from Anthropologie has been slightly modernized with a healthy spattering of pearls. I instantly fell in love!

A New Signature Scent

Speaking as a grand millennial, she may already have a signature perfume that defines her. Still, it’s fun to add something new to the rotation. I would opt for a classic floral scent, but it shouldn’t be overwhelming. I personally love the Tocca collection. Each scent is so unique, I’m often swapping to match my mood or event. A current favorite is Cleopatra. With a combination of grapefruit, jasmine, and vanilla, it will become an instant classic.

Grand millennial style isn’t a trend, but more so a lifestyle! I promise you it’s here to stay. Shopping for the traditional set in your life couldn’t be easier. Happy gifting!

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

Gift Guide: Small Businesses

Dress || Wedges || Handbag || Bracelet

So much has happened this year. In terms of shopping, 2020 has been my year to focus on small businesses. During these unprecedented times, it’s important to remind yourself that the “big” name stores are probably going to be okay. Amazon, Walmart, and Target have wildly profited this year. To keep up with that spirit, I crafted a gift-guide of my favorite small businesses and why they would be a perfect addition to your shopping list.

St. Armands Designs Earrings

Any pair of earrings from St. Armands Designs is a must for any jewelry lover. The style is equal parts beach and chic, but still extremely versatile. I just can’t get enough of them, especially because new styles are coming almost every week. At the below $50 price point, they would make for the perfect stocking stuffer.

Krewe Sunglasses

Of course, I had to include a New Orleans company! Krewe has been my go-to in sunglasses for a few years. Nothing is more iconic than their St. Louis style. There are so many colors to choose from! The light tortoiseshell is a great neutral that will work with any outfit. I guarantee you’ll be showered with compliments.

Lili Bermuda Perfume

I fell in love with this perfumery while visiting Bermuda a few years ago. As a souvenir, I brought home the Fragrance Library. Surprisingly, all eleven scents are in my rotation. Of those, my absolute favorite is SunKiss! It smells like a creamsicle, the natural choice for a lifelong Floridian. Whether you gift one perfume or a set, it’s an easy option to bring Bermuda to you.

Amanda Lindroth Bamboo Frames

Amanda Lindroth is an interior designer who I most admire! Her eye for bold prints and island influences creates a one-of-a-kind style that I daydream to recreate in my own home. That journey is made simpler with her shop of linen and rattan pieces. For a simple and personal Christmas gift, consider one of her bamboo frames, with a favorite photo of your loved one.

Lake Pajama Set

The hype on these pajamas is real! The Pima cotton is as soft as can be and I find myself splurging on them more and more. Especially since 2020 was the year to stay at home, this would make for such a well-received gift! If you’re not sure about sizing, they also have a gift card option.

Weezie Beach Towel

This women-owned, Savannah-based company is the destination for the fluffiest of towels and robes. I practically live in their short robe! It’s perfect for lounging around the house. For an easy gift idea, you can opt for their robes, both short and long. For the hostess or beach lover, another great idea would be their beach towel. You can personalize and not have to worry about sizing.

Sunshine Style Scrunchie Mask Set

My friend on the East Coast of Florida, Katie, has created the sweetest little Etsy shop. I’m so happy to see it grow! She makes a cute collection of coordinating masks and scrunchies. Nautically inspired, in ginghams and florals, this is a great thing to throw in a stocking or gift to co-workers.

Pamela Munson Tote Bag

I have such an obsession with straw and rattan handbags! Seriously, if you look into my closet, at least 75% will have some sort of straw feature. My favorite brand for these kinds of pieces is definitely Pamela Munson. Inspired by childhood trips to Florida and the Bahamas, each bag looks perfect for a tropical getaway! More importantly, the materials used are ethically and sustainably sourced.

Sarah Bray Straw Hat

Sarah Bray is an NYC magazine writer and editor, turned Bermudian small business owner. To lessen waste in the fashion world, she launched a collection of antique and recycled pieces. She also strives to work with local artisans in both Bermuda and her home state of Texas. The result is a beautiful line of caftan, sunhat, and bags that this grand-millennial simply adores!

Estelle Colored Glass Set

This shop came onto my radar as an amazing black-owned small business over the summer. What’s offered is a simply stunning collection of colored glassware. I love the look of vintage champagne coupe stemware. This set, in cobalt blue, would be a perfect match with my Spode set.

Sarah Flint Natalie Flats

What can I say about Sarah Flint that hasn’t already been said? This thoughtful, woman-owned company offers some of the most amazing shoes on the market today. Everything about them was designed with a busy, modern woman in mind. The quality, the support, and the style are individually reason enough to invest.

Sail to Sable Tunic Dress

This sweet and festive tartan tunic dress is from Sail to Sable. Outside of the holiday season, they design fun tops and dresses that will be perfect for any occasion! From the city to the beaches, there’s something that will be right at home in your closet.

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.