My First Holiday Gift Guide:

One skill I’m determined to improve this year is my gift-giving. If I were to grade myself on my ability to give thoughtful, meaningful, and soul-stirring gifts, I’d give myself a D+—maybe a C- on a good day. I’ve had a few wins over the years, but I haven’t quite mastered that je ne sais quoi as a gift-giver just yet.

This year, that changes. I’m challenging myself to give better gifts—not perfect ones, but simply better. By removing the idea of perfection from the equation, I hope to take the pressure off and use this year to strengthen my gift-giving muscle.

At the heart of gift-giving is attunement. It’s more than just paying attention; it’s about being aware of and responsive to the people you love. When you’re attuned to someone, you can give gifts that reflect a deeper understanding of who they are and what they care about.

For example, my husband is an avid reader, gamer, sneakerhead, Bulls superfan, sock aficionado, Bears fan, and self-proclaimed nerd. Getting him a gift that speaks to any of these areas should be easy, right? The trick, though, is not overthinking it. Attunement helps here because it opens the door to creativity.

If I focus on just one of his interests, like reading, there are so many ways I can respond thoughtfully. Sure, I could get him a specific book he’s been wanting, but I could also think outside the box: Bulls or Bears-themed bookends, a custom bookmark, or even merch from his favorite bookstore. This year, I’m vowing to skip the overthinking and trust my instincts—and I hope it pays off with gifts that make my husband and two humans feel loved and seen.

Now, when it came to creating this gift guide, I took baby steps. I started with what I know and used myself as a frame of reference (so yes, this guide doubles as a “Stacey’s Favorite Things” list). My hope is that it helps both of us become better gift-givers

A Gift Guide for Your Self-Love Enthusiast

If you’re shopping for someone who loves self-care, personal growth, or just a touch of luxury, here are a few of my favorite gift ideas:

1. The 21 Questions Journal
   Give the gift of happiness with this self-reflection journal designed to help you intentionally create your life. Thought-provoking and beautifully designed, it’s perfect for anyone on a journey to self-discovery.

2. Naturium Skincare Set
   Outer beauty that matches inner beauty starts with great skincare. Naturium’s all-natural, vegan, cruelty-free, and hypoallergenic products make skin feel amazing. It’s the perfect gift for glowing confidence.

3. La Cart in Black
   A pocket-sized burst of luxury, LaVoute’s small vegan leather crocodile essentials holder is equal parts chic and practical.

4. A Color Season Analysis
   Help your loved ones declutter their closet by gifting them a personal color analysis. Knowing which colors flatter them year-round is a game-changer for simplifying their wardrobe and boosting confidence.

5. A Kibbe Analysis
   Pairing perfectly with a color analysis, a Kibbe body type consultation helps elevate personal style by teaching them how to choose fabrics and silhouettes that complement their unique features.

6. Mattie James Planner
   Add a little magic to their planning routine with this gorgeous system from lifestyle expert Mattie James. The lavender stripe is my personal favorite—functional and fabulous.

7. Skims Pajamas
   Treat your friend to the softest, coziest pajamas ever. Any set will do, but skip the holiday collection and opt for styles they can wear all year round.

8. Gravity Weighted Blanket
   Perfect for the snuggler in your life, this blanket provides comfort, relaxation, and a cozy companion for book nights or movie marathons.

This is my first-ever gift guide, so I’m not claiming to be an expert. The goal here is to document my starting point and improve as the years go by. Whether you’re shopping for a self-love enthusiast, your partner, or your best friend, I hope this guide inspires you to give gifts that are thoughtful, meaningful, and full of love.

Here’s to better gift-giving this holiday season—and for seasons to come! 🎁

What’s the best gift you’ve ever given or received? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your ideas!