Boys’ Holiday Looks That Are Oh-So-Festive

by Kate CartiaNovember 20, 2023

Handsome holiday looks are easy with these boys’ Christmas sweaters and holiday outfits

The holiday season is fast-approaching and we’re trying to get ahead of the game (hey, 2023 is a good year to start, right?). We’ve rounded up some of our favorite boys’ Christmas sweaters and holiday outfits, including pants, vests, and blazers, so you can mix and match and get creative, or buy a set and match head-to-toe. And of course, these aren’t only boys holiday outfits; any kiddo is sure to look dapper in these duds. Our picks of boys’ sweaters, holiday blazers, and cozy sweats are below. (Looking for holiday dresses? We’ve got you covered with this post!)

Wool Argyle Sweater

This modern take on classic argyle makes this sweater a great choice. Plus, it's heirloom-quality, so hand-me-downs have never looked so good.

Wool Argyle Sweater ($109.00)—Buy Here!

Faux Wool Felt Plaid Jacket

With a faux wool fabrication and easy buttons for little hands, this plaid jacket is the perfect holiday layer.

Faux Wool Felt Plaid Jacket ($46.80)—Buy Here!

Elf Sweatshirt In French Terry

We know it's not really 'dressy', but for casual get-togethers and class parties, this Elf sweatshirt is perfect. Also available in adult sizes.

Elf Sweatshirt In French Terry ($27.99+)—Buy Here!

The Velvet Party Blazer

Absolutely swooning over this rich berry blazer. Add the matching pants and button-down shirt and you'll have one sharp kiddo.

The Velvet Party Blazer ($77.00)—Buy Here!

Festive Scene Flannel

Reindeer, log cabins, and sleighs adorn this cozy shirt that can be dressed up or down.

Festive Scene Flannel ($48.00)—Buy Here!

3-pc Sweater Vest Set

This woven button-down shirt comes paired with a fun sweater vest and jaunty tie. One and done.

3-pc Sweater Vest Set ($39.99)—Buy Here!

Glacier Plaid Superfleece Shirt

So, so cozy and ready for any layering, this warm shirt can be dressed up or down easily while keeping him bundled up.

Glacier Plaid Superfleece Shirt ($55.00)—Buy Here!

Geo Snowflake Sweater

This isn't your average holiday sweater. Wear this unique print with black jeans to keep them cozy and cute.

Geo Snowflake Sweater ($40.32)—Buy Here!

Christmas Cabin Fair Isle Sweater

Part of Gymboree's sibling matching options, this sweater tiks all the required boxes for perfect holidaywear.

Christmas Cabin Fair Isle Sweater ($15.98)—Buy Here!

Striped Christmas Tree Poplin Button Up Shirt

Not only is this just too darling, it also comes in adult sizes. Wear it with jeans, slacks, or layer it up.

Striped Christmas Tree Poplin Button Up Shirt ($10.78)—Buy Here!

Christmas Santa Baby Set

Comfy and Christmas-ready? That's the name of the game in this precious set.

Christmas Santa Baby Set ($24.95)—Buy Here!

Long Sleeve Woven Shirt and Pants Set

While we love the whole ensemble but the red pants are everything.

Long Sleeve Woven Shirt and Pants Set ($25.00)—Buy Here!

Tartan Flex Washed Shirt

This classic plaid shirt looks great alone or as a layer under a sweater or jacket.

Tartan Flex Washed Shirt ($24.50+)—Buy Here!

Checked Interlock Pullover & Pant Set

Between the color, print, and classic Ralph Lauren flair, this is an easy favorite.

Checked Interlock Pullover & Pant Set ($69.50)—Buy Here!

Organic Knit Christmas Tree Sweater

This sweater is oh-so-soft and he green-on-green is super festive.

Organic Knit Christmas Tree Sweater ($38.00)—Buy Here!

Santa Bomber Letterman Jacket

If you're interested in taking holiday style to the next level, may we interest you in this jacket (that's also available in adult sizes)?

Santa Bomber Letterman Jacket ($38.99)—Buy Here!

Truck Sweater Vest, Shirt & Pants Set

Everyone loves a one-and-done outfit, especially toddler parents.

Truck Sweater Vest, Shirt & Pants Set ($28.80)—Buy Here!

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

11 Websites for Snagging the Perfect Experience Gifts

by Kate CartiaNovember 12, 2023

No idea what to get them? Experience gifts are the answer

If you’re struggling to find a gift for the person who has everything, or if you’re just looking for a super unique option, experience gifts are the way to go. Why? Because even if they have every single thing on your list of possible ideas, you really can’t go wrong with something for them to do.

Experience gifts are totally customizable. You pick the place, the adventure, the theme, and these 11 websites let you create the perfect gift for your loved ones. Whether it’s a spa experience, a ride in a racecar, virtual classes, or mystery picnics, there’s literally something for everyone—kids included. Some options send vouchers straight to their email, and others allow you to pick out physical packaging so they have something to open, if you prefer. Plus, you’re able to select your recipient’s location, so you can check out availability before you buy. No matter what your favorite people are into, there’s definitely some fabulous experiences packed into these websites. Take a look at our favorite picks.

Giftory

Giftory lets you book by location (including virtual/from home). You select the gift, then the recipient receives a voucher that allows them to pick the date and time of their experience. Pick from cocktail classes, hot air balloon rides, helicopter tours, sunset cruises, Porsche driving, and even baking with the stars of the Great British Baking Show virtual masterclass (shown above).

Giftory—Shop Here!

Xperience Gifts

Candle making classes, axe throwing, cat yoga, and stock car ride-alongs (pictured) are all available across the country with Xperience Gifts.

Xperience Gifts—Shop Here!

Virgin Experience Gifts

Virgin Experience Gifts include in-person experiences as well as virtual options. Zombie scavenger hunts, bungee jumping, horseback riding, and spa experiences are all potential gifts (including an ARTECHOUSE Immersive Art Experience in NYC, pictured here).

Virgin Experience Gifts—Shop Here!

Cozymeal

In-person or virtually, Cozymeal experiences are perfect for foodies. Classes, private chefs, food tours—whatever your favorite home chef or aspiring cook could dream up, it's on Cozymeal.

Cozymeal—Shop Here!

Wonderbox

We're big fans of how Wonderbox packages their experience gifts—these cute boxes hold the key to weekend getaways, Broadway shows, holiday-based experiences—all across the country. Plus, Wonderbox lets the recipients choose how they want to use their vouchers.

Wonderbox—Shop Here!

ClassBento

Fused glass? Macrame? Ceramics, acting classes, and calligraphy. ClassBento is all about creative classes and workshops for the artists in your life.

ClassBento—Shop Here!

Groupon

You know Groupon is one of the best places to save on local outings, so why wouldn't it also be a great place to pick gifts out for the holidays? Escape rooms, restaurants, amusement parks, and more. Just pick the location of your recipiant and select 'Give as a Gift' under 'Add to Cart'.

Groupon—Shop Here!

AmazingCo

Add a little mystery to your experience gifts with AmazingCo's mystery picnics (for couples, friends, and families), or pick from challenge parties, game-a-palooza, sip and solve events, and more.

AmazingCo—Shop Here!

Tinggly

From spa packages to classes and workshops, sightseeing cruises and bike tours, Tinggly has everyone covered. Each individual experience 'collection' has a ton of options for your recipients to pick from, plus we're not mad at the cute packaging.

Tinggly—Shop Here!

Classpop!

Gifting a new skill is the present that keeps on giving. Classpop! lets you choose from pottery classes, art classes, dance classes, and more. Classes are offered in over 70 cities nationwide.

Classpop!—Shop Here!

Uncommon Experiences by Uncommon Goods

One of our favorite destinations for unique gifts, Uncommon Goods offers a whole page of giftable 'Uncommon Experiences'. Each gift comes with the supplies for an upcoming class, with multiple dates and times to choose from.

Uncommon Experiences by Uncommon Goods—Buy Here!

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

Tech Gifts for Teens That’ll Make You Feel Like a Gen Z Guru

by Kate CartiaNovember 11, 2023

We’ve got what they really want. This list of tech for teens will make gifting so easy

Why is it that buying for Gen Z feels so difficult? It’s not like we don’t love them. We think they’re way cooler than we are. They teach us so much. But for whatever reason, we freeze when we start thinking about what to buy them. Don’t worry. It isn’t just you. There are so many choices, and they all claim to be the best. What do we think is the way to go? Tech for teens.

Technology is ever-changing, always making our lives easier, and comes in so. many. different. options. We’ve whittled it all down to the coolest tech for teens that’s incredibly giftable. Not just giftable, of course. Fun. Exciting. Unique. Trust us when we say that these are the gifts they’ll love showing off. So whether the teens in your life are your kids, nieces, nephews, family friends, there’s something on this list for then. Check out our picks below.

Wireless Laser Projection Bluetooth Virtual Keyboard

Works with Bluetooth-enabled smartphones and tablets.

Wireless Laser Projection Bluetooth Virtual Keyboard ($45.99)—Buy Here!

Magnetic Levitation Bluetooth Speaker

A must for Star Wars fans (and probably even non-fans, too).

Magnetic Levitation Bluetooth Speaker ($99.99)—Buy Here!

Charger Bracelet

If you're tired of getting your charger cords stolen by your teens with low batteries, this charger bracelet keeps them connected, no matter where they are.

Charger Bracelet ($49.99)—Buy Here!

Magnetic Ball Perpetual Calendar

This super cool calendar comes in both black and white.

Magnetic Ball Perpetual Calendar ($40.17)—Buy Here!

PMD Clean Acne Smart Facial Cleansing Device

Teenage acne, be gone. The cult classic PMD Clean Acne is an FDA Cleared smart facial cleansing device that uses SonicGlow™ Technology for a deep, daily cleanse. The PMD Clean Acne utilizes blue light therapy treatments for mild to moderate acne. Especially if your teen has tried everything, this is a great, non-chemical option. Make 2024 the year of clear skin.

PMD Clean Acne Smart Facial Cleansing Device ($229.00)—Buy Here!

Google Pixel Watch

We love the round shape of this sleek watch that comes in a bunch of different colors. Track sleep, activity, check email, listen to music, check texts, make and answer calls (you know, from parents), and so much more.

Google Pixel Watch ($285.98)—Buy Here!

Rocketbook Core Reusable Smart Notebook

For your diligent note-taker, or a kiddo who could use a little more organization in their lives, this infinitely reusable notebook will come in handy for sure. It also comes in multiple colors and fits right into a backpack.

Rocketbook Core Reusable Smart Notebook ($30.69)—Buy Here!

AppleTV Remote Covers

It's so easy to lose the AppleTV remote. These silicone covers in multiple colors pop right on, help protect them from damage, and make them way easier to find.

AppleTV Remote Covers ($6.99)—Buy Here!

Magnetic Phone Mount with Face Tracking

Even if you limit or avoid social media, making content is a fave of a lot of kids. This way, you won't have to hold their phone while they do it.

Magnetic Phone Mount with Face Tracking ($69.99)—Buy Here!

Sheet Set with Tech Storage

Help them keep their tech and accessories close with this 3-piece sheet set—2 fitted sheets with storage pocket and 1 pillow case. Available in 3 colors.

Sheet Set with Tech Storage ($17.87)—Buy Here!

Pixel Art Picture Frame with 16x16 LED Display APP Control

Create digital art, show the date and time, and display it anywhere. Works with the Divoom app to customize your frame and change it out anytime.

Pixel Art Picture Frame with 16x16 LED Display APP Control ($64.99)—Buy Here!

XREAL Air AR Glasses

These glasses are actually a 330" screen in your pocket. From streaming to games, you can make your phone, computer, or other smart device into a massive VR screen just by popping on the AR Glasses.

XREAL Air AR Glasses ($339.00)—Buy Here!

Boardless Skateboard

These are a cross between a skateboard and inline skates—no batteries or charging required. Step onto the two rolling units and use a natural 'waving motion' to zip around. Okay, so it's not real tech, but we're standing by it. It's just that cool.

Boardless Skateboard ($94.79)—Buy Here!

Google Pixel Tablet with Charging Speaker Dock

Upgrade their tablet game with the 11in Google Pixel Tablet. Super long battery life, excellent picture, and a one-of-a-kind charging dock that turns it into a display. They can even do, you know, schoolwork with it. Available in 3 colors.

Google Pixel Tablet with Charging Speaker Dock ($499.99)—Buy Here!

LED Nightstand with Wireless Charging Station

It's all-in-one. LED light, drawers, charging tray, power strip. It's even app-controlled.

LED Nightstand with Wireless Charging Station ($84.99)—Buy Here!

3-D Drawing Pen

This pen is so cool. Instead of ink, a melted non-toxic filament flows through and hardens into a solid, 3-D shape. Make sure to snag some extra filament, too.

3-D Drawing Pen ($15.79)—Buy Here!

Apple AirPods Pro Gen 1/2 Case

How cute is this little strawberry? The lightweight silicone case also allows for easy wireless charging.

Apple AirPods Pro Gen 1/2 Case ($14.99)—Buy Here!

PlayStation 5 Media Remote

Easily navigate your PS5 with this ultra-convenient remote.

PlayStation 5 Media Remote ($29.99)—Buy Here!

Color Changing Oil Diffuser

With an 8 hour run time, 6 light settings, and 2 mist modes, this is one of the prettiest oil diffusers.

Color Changing Oil Diffuser ($30.00)—Buy Here!

G733 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset

Almost 14k Amazon reviews love this gaming headset, plus they come in 4 colors.

G733 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset ($119.99)—Buy Here!

Sphero Specdrums App-Enabled Musical Rings with Play Pad

The Specdrums rings let you tap any surface, or the included play pad, to create sounds, loops, and beats. It's great for all skill levels, too.

Sphero Specdrums App-Enabled Musical Rings with Play Pad ($49.58)—Buy Here!

Controller & Headset Organizer

Because they get left everywhere. We know.

Controller & Headset Organizer ($21.99)—Buy Here!

Glass Touch Light Bluetooth Speaker

This Bluetooth speaker is also a super fun bedside lamp.

Glass Touch Light Bluetooth Speaker ($22.39)—Buy Here!

GoCube Connected Electronic Bluetooth Cube

The GoCube + app include exciting lessons, games, online competitions, and mental exercises with friends and cubers from all over the world.

GoCube Connected Electronic Bluetooth Cube ($79.95)—Buy Here!

AstroAI Mini Fridge

Whether it's keeping a couple of sodas and a snack or keeping cosmetics chilled and refreshing, this mini fridge is ideal for a tween/teen bedroom. Comes in multiple colors.

AstroAI Mini Fridge ($39.99)—Buy Here!

Retro Wireless Keyboard & Mouse Combo

This darling combo comes in multiple colors, too.

Retro Wireless Keyboard & Mouse Combo ($39.99)—Buy Here!

smART sketcher 2.0 Projector

Combined with the app, this projector lets you take a photo image and sketch it, totally by yourself.

smART sketcher 2.0 Projector ($89.99)—Buy Here!

Anker Portable Charger with Built-in Lightning Connector

One of the best-rated portable chargers on Amazon, this comes in several colors, too.

Anker Portable Charger with Built-in Lightning Connector ($29.99)—Buy Here!

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

2023’s Best Screen-Free Toys to Gift Kids of All Ages

by Kate CartiaNovember 10, 2023

Team Screen or not, these screen-free toys are fun for all the kiddos on your list

We don’t have an issue with screen time. After all, devices are entertaining, sure, but they also offer educational and convenience benefits. But regardless of your stance on the subject, everyone needs time away from screens and devices (grown-ups included). It can be so easy to forget to look up from our digital lives. That’s where our work, communication, entertainment, banking, researching, and, well, really most things throughout our days. We don’t think there’s anything wrong with that…until we forget to take in our surroundings. That’s why we also make sure to focus on screen-free toys around the holidays.

While there are some hot high-tech gifts this year, we think it’s a great idea to include some screen-free toys in the mix. And they’re really anything but boring. Creativity, relaxation, and imagination are all nudged when we aren’t looking at our screens. They’re great for flexing little ones’ minds, and they also prevent them from becoming a little too reliant on their iPads. There are a lot of fantastic screen-free gifts out there, and these are some of the absolute best that are definitely on our “Buy” and “Give” lists.

Slice & Bake Cookie Set

Includes 12 sliceable cookies, 12 toppings, knife, spatula, cookie sheet, and kitchen mitt, plus a storage cookie tube.

Slice & Bake Cookie Set ($27.99)—Buy Here!

Nuts and Bolts 24 Piece Sensory Set

Color-matching, coordination, and fine motor skills are all used to play with these super fun toddler-ready nuts and bolts.

Nuts and Bolts 24 Piece Sensory Set ($17.97)—Buy Here!

Little Tikes Adventure Rocket

For kiddos who need something a little different from the classic playhouse, this rocket includes all the tools and activities they need to explore outer space.

Little Tikes Adventure Rocket ($174.99)—Buy Here!

Volcano Expedition Base Camp

Screen-free fun is erupting in this schleich® play set where dinosaurs roam the land. Featuring molten lava, volcanic ash, and action-packed play functions, like glowing lava, cool vapor, realistic tremors, and a ground-shaking eruption, kids will get lost in their imagination for hours on end.

Volcano Expedition Base Camp ($130)—Buy it here.

Rody Horse

Rody Horse is smooth, bouncy, and designed to stay sturdy while your little one hops. Rody can be inflated and deflated to adjust as kids grow, and can support up to 100lbs. Comes in multiple colors.

Rody Horse ($64.95)—Buy Here!

5pc Fine Motor Fun Set

Gator tweezers, a water dropper, scooper, cup tweezers, and plastic fine-tip tweezers give little ones the tools to play with sand, water, pom poms, different foods, and all sorts of other objects (with parent supervision, of course).

5pc Fine Motor Fun Set ($16.00)—Buy Here!

Wooden Busy Board

This hand-held busy board includes LED lights to really hold their attention.

Wooden Busy Board ($25.99)—Buy Here!

Warmies

What's better than their favorite stuffy? Warmies are fully microwavable to provide hours coziness. They're scented with real dried French lavender and perfectly weighted, too. Choose from so, so many different loveable characters.

Warmies ($29.99)—Buy Here!

Magnetic Building Blocks

We love these blocks since they're ideal for building together with your littles.

Magnetic Building Blocks ($29.99)—Buy Here!

TubeLox Deluxe Set

A life-sized construction set makes for literally years of fun. Kids can create forts, cars, playhouses, castles, jungle gyms...the list goes on and on.

TubeLox Deluxe Set ($425.00)—Buy Here!

Automatic Laying Domino Train

This domino-laying train lets your minis create fun domino patterns over and over again, thanks to the train's automatic placement.

Automatic Laying Domino Train ($36.99)—Buy Here!

Outer Space Sensory Bin

A self-contained galaxy sensory bin where they can scoop, sort, and play.

Outer Space Sensory Bin ($19.99)—Buy Here!

Slumberkins Shine Bright Kin & 'Bigfoot Shares His Gift' Board Book

Slumberkins is a Tinybeans fave. Each sweet 'Kin' and book combination helps kiddos learn social and emotional skills (confidence, positive self talk, and healthy relationships), plus they're adorable and include an affirmation card for littles to help remember the most important messaging. This season, Bigfoot is sharing his gift and learning self-acceptance.

Slumberkins Shine Bright Kin & Bigfoot Shares His Gift Board Book ($58.00)—Buy Here!

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Ready to Grow Garden

No one loves a good sticker decoration activity like kids, and this terrarium gets decorated and also includes potting mix, decorative gravel, plant mister and quick-grow chia seeds.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Ready to Grow Garden ($15.39)—Buy Here!

Wooden Water Blocks

Odin Parker makes heirloom toys that are perfect for gifting, and the water blocks teach them colors, shapes, shadows, and more.

Wooden Water Blocks ($75.00)—Buy Here!

Randimals

Meet Hork. He's a shark-horse hybrid, along with his friends Zangaroo, Seadog, Squiger, and more. Randimals are designed to remind little ones that 'what makes us different, makes all the difference'.

Randimals ($37.95)—Buy Here!

Plan Toys Balancing Cactus

Made from rubberwood, this cute cactus teaches balance and coordination through a stacking game the whole family can play.

Plan Toys Balancing Cactus ($35.00)—Buy Here!

Modern Museum Architecture Set

Complete with easy-to-decorate pieces—86, to be exact—that are reusable and ready to help little ones complete their museum build.

Modern Museum Architecture Set ($27.99)—Buy Here!

Nesting Rainbow Stacking Blocks

Even though they all nest together, these stacking blocks can be used individually for open-ended play.

Nesting Rainbow Stacking Blocks ($26.99)—Buy Here!

Shop Local & Support Small Businesses with Our Holiday Gift Guide

by Meghan Yudes MeyersNovember 26, 2021

‘Tis the season for giving! Shop local and do double-duty giving; find sensational stocking stuffers and thoughtful gifts right for your loved ones while supporting these DC small businesses. From toys for kids to the best gifts for DC parents, here are our favorite places to check off a holiday shopping list locally.

Stocking Stuffers

For Glam Girls (and Guys!): Janet & Jo

Tuck a little bottle of beauty in your favorite glam girl (or guy's) stocking. Black woman-owned nail polish company Janet & Jo was named as one of the top nail lacquers on the market by beauty magazines like Allure, Nylon and Cosmopolitan; this DC-based business boasts bright, vivid colors perfect for your next holiday bash. You can purchase Janet & Jo at The Wharf's Shop Made in DC shop or online at JanetandJo.com.

Online: janetandjo.com

For the Matching Family: Tea Collection

These snuggly, footed pajamas can be rolled up and tucked in baby's stocking with coordinating PJs in mom's and dad's stockings (perfect for Mama Bears and Papa Bears!). Tea Collection even has scarves for your pup, so the whole family can be coordinated for Christmas morning pics! Other pajama party picks include Swedish-inspired prints, like these winsome reindeer. Matching pajamas aren't just fun on holidays; family game nights and move nights are also a great time to be twinsies with your mini me. Mom-and-Pop shops Wee Chic in Fairfax, VA and Kindhaus Toys in Alexandria, VA carry the line.

Online: teacollection.com

For the Outdoor Enthusiast: City Bonfires

how to host a bonfire party — City Bonfires

When two Maryland Dads unexpectedly found themselves home with their children once their jobs took a hit from pandemic-related closures they knew it was time to get creative. Chris McCasland, a sports and concert industry broker and restaurateur, and Michael Opalski, a senior restaurant industry salesman, wasted little time learning new skills. They put their heads together and founded City Bonfires, a portable, reusable mini bonfire that you can take on all of your outdoor adventures or trips to your backyard. These small bonfires, created from a non-toxic soy wax, are perfect for making s’mores even if you don't own a firepit. Because they are made in Maryland each purchase helps support multiple local families. And their pint-sized packaging makes them the perfect fit for stockings!

Online: citybonfires.com

For a Gift that Keeps Giving: A Local Membership Pass

Fill 2022 (and those stockings) with more family adventures! Tuck a membership card to a favorite museum, zoo or play space in a stocking (with care) and give the gift of family fun all year long. For the best deals on family memberships, go here.

Online: tinybeans.com

Gifts for Kids

For Pint-Sized Puzzlers: Little Likes Kids

Up your problem solving with an illustrated educational game by DC company Little Likes Kids. These picture puzzles come packaged in their own cardboard tote so you can easily pack an activity when you visit relatives or head for your winter break vacation. Joyful Carousel is a 24 piece set perfect for kids 3 & up featuring a whimsical carousel with a ride-on zebra, horse, rabbit and more.

Online: littlelikeskids.com

When You Want to Celebrate Black Girl (and Boy!) Magic: Epic Everyday

When a couple of DC Moms got tired of seeing only fair-skinned princesses and could not find many images portraying Black and Brown girls and boys in positive ways they decided to do something about it. The result is Epic Everyday, a collection of backpacks, t-shirts, towels and more featuring kids in a range of mocha-hued skin tones and hair types. Epic stands for Empowered, Positive, Innovative, and Creative!

Online: shopepiceveryday.com/

For the Stuffie Obsessed: Hooked and Loopy

Hand-crocheted from 100% cotton, these winsome stuffed animals, Sheroes, Creatures of Politics and dinosaurs make great gifts for babies, toddlers and even adults! You can even have a custom doll created to match your favorite furry friend, resemble your favorite star or honor an extinct animal.

Online: hookedandloopy.com

For Kids Under 7: Finding Feelings

Penned by Ashburn, VA mom and former teacher Jennifer Gafford, Finding Feelings is a must-read for kids 7 & under, but even adults will find this delightfully illustrated children's book enlightening. Each page presents daily scenarios where readers have to search-and-find emotional clues; it's an excellent springboard for helping little ones tackle big feelings.

Online: amazon.com

For Your Favorite Foodie

For Moms-to-Be: The Mocktail Club

Skipping cocktails because of pregnancy, being the designated driver or staying sober for whatever reason used to mean sipping Shirley Temples or another bland drink. One DC Mom said no more and founded Mocktail Club to ensure that everyone has access to tasty drinks weather they want alcohol or not. A four-pack of Mocktail Club’s bold flavors makes a great gift to get any parent who doesn’t drink through the holidays. Bonus: kids can upgrade from juice for a festive holiday toast! Mocktail Club is sold at local Whole Foods and served in some restaurants so look for it in the wild.

Online: mocktailclub.com

For Gluten-Free Fans: Pure Love Macarons

Mom-on-a-mission Kim Moehnke started this home-based, gluten-free bakery business after wrestling with food allergies in her own home. Choose from an assortment of flavors or custom order a batch of an inventive flavor for a true aficionado (custom orders require at least 3 business days). Moehnke recently competed in the World Food Championship with chocolate macarons filled with Bacon Fleur de Sel; it's the perfect sweet treat to fill a bacon lover's stocking with!

Online: purelovemacarons.com

A Gift They'll Flip Over: Wilma's Pancake & Waffle Batter

Wilma’s Pancake and Waffle Batter was inspired by owner Tamara Cole's grandmother's southern cooking. Cole has perfected her late grandmother's recipes and now offers the original mix in gluten-free and sugar-free options. You can also find sweet mixes with blended ingredients like blueberries, chocolate chips and butter pecans, as well as savory mixes, like garlic and herb and cheddar bay.

Online: wilmasbatter.com

For Tea Lovers: Ivy's Tea Co.

Not a coffee drinker, but still need a caffeinated kick in the morning? Ivy's Tea Co. is a MD based pop culture and Hip-Hop inspired holistic tea company. Owned and operated by first-generation herbalist Shanae Jones, she aims to introduce African holistic health remedies into the holistic health industry. Her goal is to make the industry as inclusive and reflective and accepting of all cultures as Hip-Hop.

Online: ivystea.com/collections/tea

Distinctly DC

For Pet Lovers: Naked Decor

Play I-Spy a Presidential pup with this playful tea towel from Naked Decor. George W. Bush's Scottish Terrier Barney makes an appearance, as does Barack Obama's Portuguese Water Dog, Bo; a hound represents the twelve beagles that lived with George Washington and a German Shepherd as a nod to Joe Biden's dogs.

Online: nakeddecor.com

For Your Furry Friend: Beasties & Besties

If you have a beloved dog, you have to include something under the tree for your most faithful companion! Beasties & Besties lets you coordinate with your pet by matching you dog's bandana to you mask. So very 2021!

Online: etsy.com

For the Best Dressed: Bailiwick Clothing Company

From raglan tees to hoodies and knit hats, Bailiwick Clothing Company celebrates all things 202. Choose from clothing emblazoned with Douglas Commonwealth (in honor of Frederick Douglas), District of Champions, The 51st State and more. These gifts showcase hometown pride in the hippest way.

Online: wearbailiwick.com

That’s a Wrap

Wrap It Up in Local Love

From holiday recipe cards to gift tags to wrapping paper, local artist Erica Nordberg has created a whimsically winter-themed paper suite that is Santa-approved. From a North Pole Postal Service wrap to Nordic Dala horse-themed gift tags to candy cane recipe cards, you'll find everything you need to get your gifts Christmas Day ready.

Online: ericanordberg.com

—Meghan Yudes Meyers, Wendy Miller and Jamie Davis Smith

featured photo: iStock

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We Just Found the Purrfect Gifts for Your Kitties This Christmas

by Karly WoodNovember 21, 2021

If you’ve started making your list and checking it twice, remember to add your fur babies! Since they’ve been our ride or die throughout the pandemic, our pets deserve some holiday love.

Target has every cat parent covered this year with a slew of new cat scratchers that will keep those kitty claws in check. Coming in at $40 and under, you can even afford to spoil your feline a little more than usual this holiday.

Toy Kingdom Holiday Train

$25 BUY NOW

Christmas Tree Multilevel Cat Scratcher

$30 BUY NOW

3 Pack Christmas Village

$40 BUY NOW

Santa's Sleigh

$35 BUY NOW

Classic Christmas Camper

$15 BUY NOW

Double Decker Cat Scratcher House

$17 BUY NOW

Present

$13 BUY NOW

––Karly Wood

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Disney’s Toy Drive Is the Perfect Way to Share Magic This Holiday Season

by Karly WoodNovember 2, 2021

Disney has always been the go-to resource for magic and none more so than during the holidays. Continuing with its tradition of over 70 years, the Walt Disney Company and the Marine Toys for Toys Foundation are launching this year’s Disney Ultimate Toy Drive!

From Nov. 4 through Dec. 14, you can help spread Christmas cheer by donating a new, unwrapped toy in several ways. Visit shopDisney.com to donate online, or stop by in person at Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort or Disney Springs at Walt Disney World.

photo: Disney

To kick off the event, Disney is making a $500,000 donation to Toys for Tots to help provide toys and the spirit of hope during the holiday season. Once you donate, be sure to share with #DisneyUltimateToyDrive on social media and inspire others.

––Karly Wood

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