Okay, so Christmas Eve is a week from tomorrow. COVID regulations set aside, we only have a few more shopping days before Christmas, and while it may be too late to have an item shipped out to your loved one, there are a few last minute gifts that you can either pick up in store, or have shipped via Prime.
Coffee Giftcards: Do they run on Dunkin’? Or do they love Starbucks? If they love coffee, picking up a gift card is such a great idea to help fuel their addiction or allow them to treat themselves.
Amazon Giftcards: You can’t go wrong with an Amazon gift card, because you can buy pretty much everything with it. What is great about giving an Amazon gift card is that you can actually have it delivered via email in any amount, so you can procrastinate to the day before the holiday if that’s what you want. I don’t recommend it, but it’s still a great option.
Pavoi Hoop Earrings: I have a few pairs of these, and these are great for anyone who loves jewelry. I have the oval ones, and they are so lightweight and comfortable. And all of their earrings have high ratings, and are great quality. They have several options and come in silver, gold and rose gold.
3 in 1 Aluminum Charging Station: I love this because it keeps and charges all of your items in one place. I have the pink one and my boyfriend has the black one. This is great because you can leave your phone on your nightstand, and everything charges overnight. Perfect.
Giftcard For Takeout: Support small businesses. Or, give them a break from cooking. No matter where they go regularly, or what they like to eat, this is a no-fail gift idea because it’s easy for you and allows them to treat themselves. Or save some money looking for something to eat.
Okay, so we have less than 2 weeks until Christmas. There is a lot to prepare, and I haven’t even begun wrapping presents yet. Yup, I’m procrastinating.
Anyways, I have a few favorites to share with you this week. Many of them are new music, but that is honestly okay. That said, here are my favorites for the week:
Evermore by Taylor Swift: It is no secret that I am a Taylor Swift fan. She dropped yet another album in 2020, and of course, I was all over it. I did purchase the vinyl as well, which is something that I am excited to get in a few weeks. I have listened to this album all of the time since it came out, and I love it. Favorite songs: Willow, Champagne Problems, Evermore, and ‘Tis the Damn Season.
Madewell Zip-Top Medium Transport Leather Tote: You all know that I am a huge fan of Madewell totes. I recently purchased the smaller Zip-Top version of my larger Transport tote. And I love it. I love it that it isn’t this larger tote, but it still fits so much. It does not fit my MacBook Air, but it still fits all of my work things with ease. I also really love having a strap on the purse, because it makes it so much more comfortable to carry things around.
How to Be Human by Chelsea Cutler: I discovered this artist by listening to Gals on The Go, and I really like her songs. They are about a breakup, but I think that they are a bit more upbeat than some of the other songs. And, the lyrics are honest and true as well. This album isn’t brand new, but I really have enjoyed listening to it. Favorite Songs: Sad Tonight,Strangers Again, and I Miss You.
JBL GO2 Waterproof Ultra Portable Bluetooth Speaker: This was an impulse purchase, and I am so glad that I got it. I’ve used it every day since I got it. This speaker is what I use when I shower, because I’ve always loved listening to music and podcasts while showering. However, my Echo hasn’t been good for when I shower, and so I purchased this. So, far it’s great. The sound has been excellent, and the battery lasts forever.
You can take it places, as well, however, I don’t foresee myself doing so until the summer when I go to the beach. If you’re looking for a great last minute gift, then I highly recommend this as well.
Wire-wrapped jewelry has always been a classic go-to, whether you wanted to get it as a gift for someone else, but is a great way to add to your own ring collection.
I chatted with Ci’ahna Battle, who is the owner of Wrapped in Essence Jewelry. Wrapped in Essence has rings, bracelets, and earrings. All of those pieces are wire-wrapped, and they look amazing. I’m doing a mini-spending freeze on jewelry until Christmas, but I am sure I will be adding a few of her rings to my collection and I can’t wait.
Ci’Ahna Battle, owner of Wrapped in Essence Jewelry. Photo Credit: Ci’Ahna Battle
That said, keep reading to learn more about Ci’Ahna’s online shop:
How did Wrapped in Essence Jewelry get started?
I always loveddd to accessorize but it always seemed like I couldn’t find exactly what I liked or wanted. One day I was looking at jewelry and I thought to myself, “You know what? Since you can never find the jewelry you’re looking for why not just make it yourself?” And off to YouTube University I went haha!
Out of all of your products, do you have a few suggestions for those looking for holiday gifts?
No piece is better than the other so I suggest them all haha!
Photo Credit: Ci’Ahna Battle
What materials do you use?
I use nickel free, tarnish free gold, silver and brass wire.
WIll there be any new pieces appearing during the holiday shopping season?
Yes! This week two new pieces are now available and more will be added in the next few weeks!
Do you have any promotions during the holiday shopping season?
Yes! There are two promotions going on. There is a 20% off your entire purchase (with code AUTUMN20) and free shipping on all orders $50 or more (with code ESSENCE50)
Seriously. Look at those rings. Photo Credit: Ci’Ahna Battle
Do you have any 2021 goals for the shop?
More of everything! More pieces, more orders, more social content, more success. The possibilities are endless!
Do you do any customized pieces? If so, what is the process for that?
In the future I do want to do custom monogram and astrology pieces. Stay tuned!
I noticed that you previously had some gemstone wirewrapped pieces. Will those be returning?
Yes! As of now I am perfecting my craft to showcase beautiful work.
More rings. Photo Credit: Ci’Ahna Battle
Finally, do you have any tips for someone who is wanting to start their own online shop?
Patience is a virtue! I know with the social media age it seems like everything happens overnight, but please trust that it is a process. DO NOT GIVE UP. Even if you make 5 sales or no sales one week keep pushing! To give and receive is the natural balance of the world. You give your business everything you will receive everything in return!
Since posting my Christmas TBR, I was approached by a few readers asking me for some holiday reading recommendations. I have been reading holiday related books more and more in recent years, and decided to create this list as a result of that.
Let It Snow by John Green:
This is an anthology of three different short stories, and they are so quick and fun to read. All of the stories are light romances, and they are amazing.
Dash And Lily’s Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan:
I just read this book this year, and I fell in love with this book after binge watching all eight episodes of the Netflix series. It is a Christmas themed scavenger series, where the main character Dash finds a red notebook asking do you dare? He follows all of the prompts, and then forges a relationship with its author, Lily. It is a really cute and a quick read, and I really enjoyed reading this one.
7 Days of Us by Francesca Hornak:
This one seems kind of relatable, especially now. A family stuck in a week-long quarantine, because the oldest daughter, Olivia has been battling a disease in Africa. The family, who must stay in lockdown and away from the outside world, has its secrets, which during a time in quarantine, eventually come to surface.
25 Days of Christmas by Poppy Alexander:
Kate used to love Christmas, however, now that she is a lonely widow, things are different. Kate is struggling financially and emotionally, and needs a miracle. I love this story because it talks more about the depression and the pressure that comes with Christmas, and tells a more hard hitting story than many of the books on here.
Snow In Love by Various Authors:
These are four Young Adult romances by four bestselling authors, including Kasie West, Melissa De La Cruz, Nic Stone, and Aimmee Freedman. This is a short read, but it’s a great one.
In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren:
I am a huge fan of Christina Lauren and have read almost all of their books. This book is about Mae, whose family goes to a Christmas house every year. However, it was announced that she will no longer be able to spend the holidays there. On their way home from the airport, she gets into a car accident and wakes up back on the plane, six days earlier. Stuck in a Groundhog Day-type situation, she eventually begins to figure out what makes her happy.
What Light by Jay Asher:
This very well may be Sierra’s last year selling Christmas trees. You see, every year she, along with her family venture to California to sell Christmas trees. She meets Caleb, a stranger with an interesting past. This read is a short one, but one I definitely loved reading a few years back.
Well, folks. Christmas is less than two weeks away and I am sure many of you are searching on Amazon to look for the perfect gift for your friends and family. Which is why today I am sharing some of my favorite Amazon purchases — some of them I’ve had for a while and others are new purchases. All of them are great for gifts and stocking stuffers though.
I’ve had the Echo Show for over a year now, but now that I am working from home, I’ve been using this more and more as a speaker. However, it can do so much more than that. I personally use it because it’s connected to my Ring Doorbell so I can see what’s going on upstairs when I’m upstairs or at the opposite end of my house. You also can use it to set timers, as a clock, watch videos and so much more. I really love having an Echo, and if you don’t love the Show, the dot is always a good option as well.
I’m pretty sure that I mentioned that I love my Kindle Oasis in the last Amazon Favorites post that I did. And, I still love it. I’ve had several e-readers before, but this one is completely different. I’ve used it for literally a month and a half straight without stopping, and I just enjoy reading on it. I like it that it has a bigger screen, but it is small enough that I can carry it in my small purses as well. Furthermore, the battery life is amazing on it. It’s not six weeks by any means, but the charge lasts about two weeks depending on your settings. While this is something that is a bit more expensive (I purchased it on Prime Day so I got a great deal), a Kindle is a great gift for anyone who enjoys reading or wants to get back into reading, and has a few different models to chose from at all price points.
I love this speaker for one reason and one reason only. I love listening to podcasts or music when I shower, and I wanted something that I can leave in my bathroom without worry about it being water damaged. And, this speaker is really great. It’s really small, but it packs a huge punch and sounds great. This is a great gift for anyone, because you can take it with you to the beach, when you travel (whenever that may be), or even for someone who wants a portable speaker for their showers.
I love this oil, and I’ve used this for everything, especially in the wintertime when my skin is dry. This skin is great for cuts and dry skin, because of the tea tree oil. The bottle is a decent size and lasts forever. I bought mine in February, and I still have almost three fourths of the bottle left. This also makes a great stocking stuffer for anyone in your life.
If you’ve been around this blog for a while, you know that I am a huge reader. I do a ton of reading, and enjoy reading all kinds of books. Thanks to my love for Booktube and Bookstagram, I know that I am not the only one who shares this passion.
That said, if you have a booklover in your life that you’re trying to figure out what to get them, check this gift guide out for ideas. You’re welcome.
Giftcard: If you have a book lover, you know this for a fact: book lovers have a ton of books on their TBR pile. And, if you know anything about books, this can be expensive. So, a gift card to their favorite bookstore, or a local bookstore, will definitely help them score some of their more desired books and check off a few books from their TBR pile.
E-reader: If you want to spend a little bit more, consider getting them an e-reader. As many of you know, I have a Kindle Oasis, and I absolutely love it. Kindles vary in price from $89 for the basic model to my $279 model. If you do choose this, make sure that you hit a sale, because Amazon does offer a lot of promotions for this.
Booksleeves: I don’t read as many physical books as I used to, but when I do, I’ve become a huge fan of booksleeves. Booksleeves are basically pieces of fabric that are sewn together, and protect your books. I love this because it keeps books prestine when you’re in your bag. That means no rips, and no water damage. And, they come in sizes for e-readers too, so this is something that is perfect for all readers.
Bookmarks: These are the best gifts to get as a reader because I seem to misplace mine all of the time. And, they are really cheap gifts too, which is also great during this time of year.
Booklight: I have an e-reader, which has it’s own light. However, I still have one and use it from time to time when I read physical books. This is great for when I read physical books, and I am reading at night. This is great for travel. This is also great for those who share a bed with someone and they are trying to sleep and you can’t. This is definitely a gift that lasts forever, because I’ve had my reading light since I got my original Nook back in 2012.
I do want to end this blog by advising you one thing: if you know someone who is a reader, do not buy them books unless you know that they really want it and don’t have it. I know there are many Black Friday sales out there, and because of that, many readers are probably stocking up already. That said, it’s a much better idea for them to receive gift cards, simply because they may already have it, and this allows them to have the freedom to purchase what they want.
If you’ve been here for a while, you know that I love jewelry. I also love finding new shop owners on Etsy to follow and purchase from.
Today’s posts features Lydia, who had just opened her Etsy Shop, Made by Aniela. She opened a little over a month ago, and has a selection of gold-plated and gold-filled jewelry. Every item in her shop is handmade by her, and gives off the most positive of vibes. If you love celestial or hamsa jewelry, then this is a shop that you absolutely need to check out. Furthermore, the prices are pretty reasonable too, with the most expensive pieces being $25. I picked up a jade Buddha necklace and it is absolutely gorgeous.
So, be sure to learn more about the woman behind the shop, and to check out her gorgeous pieces.
Here is the woman behind the Etsy Shop, Lydia, who is wearing one of her gorgeous Evil Eye pieces!
How did you get started with the Made by Aniela shop?
When Covid started I was let go, my job as a preschool teacher came to a halt. I had just wrapped up my degree in Early Childhood Education as well so you can imagine how unfortunate that felt. I looked into other jobs while painting on the side and selling pieces for cash here and there. Though that was fun and a lot of people loved my work, which motivated me, it didn’t feel right. For me painting and drawing is my escape. Trying to turn a hobby into a business was taking most of the pleasure out of it for me so I took a step back. I bought some beads because I remember making all kinds of bracelets as a kid and I always found it relaxing. Something clicked, I moved from string and beads to chain and pendants. I enjoyed the whole process from picking out charms and chain styles, categorizing drops, taking photos of everything and just really making it my own. Once I realized how happy it made me, how fun it was and that I could actually do something with it, I went for it.
How long has it been open?
One month as of November 30th!
Have you always made jewelry?
I used to make all sorts of friendship bracelets and beaded bracelets when I was younger that’s about it, until now.
How did you get inspirations for your designs?
I get ideas from a lot. I’m really inspired by celestial pieces, simplicity, simple joys in life. I make pieces that reflect that. I like being able to layer and stack, because of this a lot of pieces are calm enough to not overpower one another when combined but stand out just fine when wearing alone.
What materials do you use?
Gold plated and gold filled. Though it’s a few extra bucks, gold filled is better quality, durable and any tarnish can be cleaned, making it look like new. Gold plated will eventually tarnish off showing the brass underneath. However, when taken care of properly gold plated can last a very long time and still hold its shine! I like offering both for price range and purpose.
What items in your shop would you recommend for a gift?
All! Just kidding. (sort of) I would say the Turquoise minimal dangle earrings or Celestial pendant necklace. Both are simple enough for everyday wear, gold plated, super cute and affordable.
Do you have any jewelry care tips?
Try your best not to wear it in water to help it last longer! Especially gold plated. Pieces can be cleaned with a proper cleaning solution. Store in a safe, cool environment.
Will there be any restocks before Christmas?
Yes! I post an update once a week.
What is some advice for someone that wants to get started with their own Etsy shop?
Have a game plan for your listings, target market things like that, have fun with it and be Y O U ! Etsy is pretty simple to learn, I was very nervous at first and honestly it was all for nothing. There are little things to work out along the way but you can always adjust things to your liking!
Be sure to also check out the Made by Aniela Instagram for updates for drops
A few weeks ago on my Instagram, I asked for some questions for a Q and A. I did this last time during Blogtober, which was very successful. I wanted to do it again because it was such an interactive post that I enjoyed doing. Also, if you haven’t, you should totally follow me on Instagram. #insertshamelessplughere
That said, here are some questions that I got for this post!
Any holiday shopping tips?
Honestly, if you’re doing any online shopping, the sooner the better! It’s always better to have it early than to have to print a picture of it. Other than that, just trying to break it up in smaller pieces than do everything at one — it’s easier on your budget and less overwhelming.
What made you want to start a blog? When was the moment you knew you would pursue it?
I always wanted to be a writer or do something with writing. I don’t remember why I started my first blog (which was a diary and a bunch of reflections) over 10 years ago. What keeps me blogging is just having a chance to do something that I love and a space to write whatever is important to me.
I’ve seen you write about Milford, Connecticut a lot, what are your top five shops in there?
Happy Wednesday everyone! The Christmas season is in full swing and I am less than two weeks from my vacation. I am really excited to further indulge in Christmas movies and music for the foreseeable future.
That said, I’ve been wanting to share some of my favorites from this past week. This week, I have a few diverse list of favorites, so let’s get right into it.
Music:
Lately, I’ve been listening to a ton of new music. After getting my Spotify annual wrap-up, I realized that I have not been listening to as music as I once did. So, I made a playlist of songs that I’ve been wanting to listen to and that everyone raves about. And, I discovered some new favorites, including the 1975, Ashley Tisdale’s new album, Megan THE Stallion, and Billie Elish’s new song. I hope to listen to more music in 2021, but I’m enjoying the songs that I’ve been listening to.
Nitendo Switch:
I recently purchased a Nitendo Switch. I’ve mentioned that I had the Lite version that I purchased prior to the pandemic. One thing that I was disappointed in was the fact that I couldn’t play any of the fitness games, including the Ring Fit Adventure and Fitness Boxing 2 that came out last week. Since getting it, I’ve been obsessed with the device. I love being able to play some of the fitness games, and the kickboxing game has done wonders for my stress levels. In addition to these games, I’ve been playing Animal Crossing as well, and really enjoying it.
The Princess Switch and the Princess Switch 2:
This movie has been on my list of things to watch for a while, and I finally sat down to watch them. I love these movies. It is about a duchess Magaret and a regular American baker Stacy. The two switch places, and fall in love with the other’s best friend/partner. I ended up enjoying the first one so much that I ended up watching the second one the next night, which premiered a few weeks ago. If you’re looking for a fun holiday movie, then this is the movie to watch.
Organization:
I’ve been on an organization kick lately, and have been decluttering to the point where I am really excited to continually do so.
In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren:
I’ve been obsessed with Christmas Lauren’s latest book. It is giving me all of the Groundhog Day vibes, with our main character Mae who has been reliving the same holiday over and over again. Every year, her family would venture to this Christmas house and spend the holidays together. However, it was announced that it was her last Christmas there. On her parents’ way home from the airport, they get into a car accident. Mae then wakes up back on the plane going to the house, and relives that day over and over again. I am a huge fan of Christina Lauren, and so I’m really happy to finally get to their latest book.
Fireplace:
I recently discovered the TV fireplace on YouTube, and have been loving it. It is perfect for when I need some noise for reading, and gives the ultimate cozy vibes. And, since I don’t have a fireplace, this is a great option.
Sugar Rush:
I discovered this a few days ago, and have binge watched a few episodes. It is basically a baking competition where they compete for a prize of $10,000. And, the competitions have been putting me into a such a Christmas mood with all of their themes. You can catch this show on Netflix.
I am a jewelry obsessed fanatic, and so I love receiving it as a gift, as I’m sure others are too. Jewelry is a gift that everyone would love, however sometimes it can get a little pricy.
All of these gifts are perfect for anyone on your list from mom, girlfriend, sister, niece, and cousin.
The pieces I feature today range in price, and metal. As an FYI, all of them are either plated with sterling silver or sterling silver, with the exception of one piece. All of these pieces are pieces that I own and love as well.
So without further adue, let’s get into talking about the pieces themselves!
Amazon Beaded Bracelets: I am obsessed with these, and I am very much obsessed with price. Despite the price, the quality is amazing. Beaded bracelets are very trendy this year, and this is a great way to get the look at a great price.
SV Decker Good Luck Necklace: I have two of these necklaces — one in silver and one in gold. I love this necklace, because it’s good on it’s own and it’s amazing layered. What I also love is the meaning. The necklace has all of the classic good luck symbols, such as elephants, the number 13, and a four leaf clover. I think that this is an amazing gift, because for many 2020 has been a rough year, and this is a great little good luck charm.
Diamonique Hoop Earrings: I am obsessed with these earrings to the point where I bought a second set. These are a set of three hoops that are individually wrapped. These are great because you get three pairs of earrings for less than $70. This can be three gifts, or a mixture of gifts and for you. I really love these because they are lightweight and they are so easy to wear.
Pandora Heart Ring: I don’t remember the last time that I did not wear this ring. I use it to stack, I use it on its own, and I wear it on many different fingers. I’ve had it for almost a year and it’s so easy and comfortable to wear. And, the price is pretty good for a ring of it’s quality. I highly recommend this for anyone who is looking for a great gift that is affordable.
Tiffany and Company Bean Necklace: This is the most expensive gift on here, but this is one of my favorite pieces of jewelry that I wear daily. This is a 16-inch necklace, but it’s a necklace that I wear all of the time with anything. This necklace is also one of the most meaningful pieces of jewelry, because it’s the orgin of all things. When I bought this necklace, I was going through the roughest year of my life, and wanted something to start new. While this is pricy, the quality of this is amazing since I wear it so often, and is a piece that you will have for a lifetime.
SV Decker Bubble Hoops: I love these earrings. They look like they are heavy, but they are actually really lightweight. They are gold-filled, but if you message the shop owner, Steffi, you may be able to get them in sterling silver. These go with anything, and since hoops are also trendy this year, this is an amazing gift.
Diamonique Stud Earring Set: I received this set from my mom a few years ago, and really love these. For that price, you get five pairs of earrings in all different sizes. This is an amazing gift to give as one, and to spilt. I love these because I use the smallest size for my second hole almost all of the time. I’ve had mine for at least two years, and they actually have held up quite well. This is a great gift for someone that has a lot of piercings, or if you don’t know what to get someone.
Little Words Project: These have become the ultimate form of encouragement for me in 2020. They are honestly one of my favorite bracelets, because each of them are little reminders. And, their message is so amazing. This is like a friendship-style bracelet, which is perfect for your best friends. And many of the bracelets are less than $30. My favorites are breathe,self-love, and grateful.
thenutmegmillennial.com 