We all have that one friend or family member with discerning taste who is very challenging to satisfy. Maybe they are eccentric, or they may be a picky eater. They may be allergic to certain scents, or will only use USDA certified organic products. Whatever the quirk, you dread this time of year because finding the right gift is more often than not an effort in futility.
I have some ideas for you though.
Being a bit of an eccentric myself I may be able to guide you. These are some of my favorite things, and websites that may have just what you're looking for.
Fun Fashion Online Boutique
If you know someone who loves to wear what no one else dares, this company offers loads of fun and quirky fashion to satisfy them. The designer labels they offer include Desigual, Christian LaCroix, Free People, Dolcezza, EverSASSY, IVKO, Savage Culture and more. These particular designers create really unique pieces in bold and crazy prints for women, men, and even kids. They have a huge range of accessories as well. People with dramatic personalities who like to stand out will absolutely love their clothing lines. Check out their Tax-Free Event on now and sign up to get 10% off your first purchase of $100 or more. Use checkout code "HolidayFun". Free shipping to Canada and the US on orders over $250. Their website can be found at www.funfashion.com.
Cle de Peau Beaute
Cle de Peau is the "creme de la creme" of luxury makeup and skincare. Any discerning woman would love to receive a rich moisturizer or iridescent, hydrating serum from this brand. Their lip colours are highly pigmented, as are their eye shadows. The new "Garden of Splendor Collection" is beautifully packaged so is perfect for holiday gift-giving. They also have a great range of beauty sets to choose from that are well worth your money. If you make a purchase from their official website at www.cledepeaubeaute.com you will receive $25 off your first $350 purchase. You can also find their products at Holt Renfrew, Neiman Marcus, and Bergdorf Goodman.
AVEDA Comforting Tea
You may be familiar with AVEDA's amazing range of natural botanical hair care and skincare products but their "Comforting Tea" is one of my favorites. It is a certified organic herbal infusion of licorice root, peppermint leaf, sweet fennel, and basil that tastes really good and calms the nerves. At about $26 a box it is something you drink when you want to treat yourself and makes a great gourmet gift for any tea lover who has discerning tastes. Get it at any Aveda salon or online at www.aveda.com.
Essante ORGANICS
Some people are really concerned about the food they consume and the products they put on their skin. These people are well aware of the number of toxins in our drugstore products and the health effects of using them long-term. If they have never heard of Essante Organics they will be pleased to learn about them. This company is based in Phoenix, Arizona and produces only USDA Certified Organic and wildcrafted products from whole foods. The bath and beauty products are completely toxic-free and the supplements and beverages are alkaline to keep your body pH balanced. They carry pure organic essential oils that are some of the best in the world, and a line of household products that are completely eco-friendly. My favorite product is their "Hand Candy" Hand Soap, a great non-toxic anti-aging hand soap loaded with vitamins, minerals, amino acids, antioxidants, and hydrating botanicals. It makes a great addition to a luxury gift basket as no one else makes anything like it. Check out all their amazing products and make sure you sign up for a wholesale account at www.essanteorganics.com/BlissBling.
Natural Health Spa Gift Certificates
You could get your discerning loved one a gift certificate from a franchised spa, or you could look for a natural, botanical spa in your area. Natural health spas typically offer clients superior products and services. They carry the world's best USDA Certified Organic skincare lines and unique services you won't find anywhere else. As well as a day spa, they often offer classes in creating your own DIY skincare products, and an apothecary or refill bar to purchase supplies. They sometimes offer recipes and carry the raw ingredients to make them. You can often purchase them online as well. Your discerning friend or relative will love exploring all the options at these spas so definitely look for one in your area and give them a generous gift certificate!
Dyson Special Edition Airwrap Styler Gift Set
If you have a really generous budget this gift tops everything previously mentioned. Winner of the Glamour Beauty Award, the Dyson Airwrap gift set is a must for anyone who spends hours experimenting and styling their hair. It contains a wand dryer, two barrels and three brushes in a beautiful cobalt blue case. It will set you back $600 but what the heck. It's only money and your recipient will love you forever! Offered at Ulta Beauty.
Name A Star After Them!
If you want to give someone a really unique gift that stands the test of time, name a star after them! They will receive a personal "Star Certificate" and celestial map to help them find the star in the night sky. The star will be recorded in the "Star Register" under the name given. There is an app called the "Star Finder App" that makes the star easy to locate in the night sky regardless of where you are. You can choose from three packages which include naming a guaranteed visible star for $55.00; naming a visible star in a constellation for $82.00; or naming a binary star system (two stars orbiting each other) for $137.00. The brightly coloured certificate is imperishable so makes a great gift that can be passed down. Just go to star-registration.com, click on the link "Name A Star As Christmas Gift" and purchase. It doesn't get more innovative than this!
