5 Must Have: Gift-Giving Web sites

Meet Carly. She loves giving gifts. And, really personal, distinctive gifts at that. Even her recent move to London can't keep her from sending creative finds to her loved ones across the pond. And as a side note, do you know what it means that she's one of our "5 must have" gals?? TAGG is international, baby! I'll admit it. I'm kind of having a moment. Sorry, I digress.

Back to Carly: a native Floridian, she's an adorable, super sweet and funny, semi-newlywed who lived in New Jersey before going global. Now that she lives in London, she spends most of her shopping-for-others hours online... so much easier with shipping and whatnot! Gift giving has always been a passion of hers. {I'm sure her recipients appreciate!}. So, without wasting any more time because I know all you readers are eager..

Here, in Carly's words, are her 5 must have web sites (and ideas!) for gift giving!
Little brings me more excitement than finding the perfect gift. I am completely anti-gift card and totally pro-spending days (even weeks) finding a great gift! I even spend a lot of time putting together a grab bag gift – knowing that the recipient is a complete stranger sends me into a whole new dimension. I stress over something that is appropriate for males or females and work on it until I think it is perfect. Since I've spent countless hours searching for the best sites and gifts, I'm excited to share my top 5 FAVORITE gift-giving website with you and also show you my most favorite gifts!

Housewarming

Buying a new house is a really exciting time. And now that we're getting older, our friends are getting married, having children and moving into new homes! While housewarming gifts are not as popular as they once were, I always like to give something special to help commemorate the occasion. One of my favorite web sites, Uncommon Goods, has so many incredible gifts – but my absolute favorite are the city pillows. What an awesome way to celebrate your friends new house – everyone needs pillows! I have bought this pillow for friends, for my parents and for co-workers who get jobs in new cities – it’s a hit every time! This site also has amazing gifts for parents, grandparents, sisters, friends, expecting parents, etc… Spend some time exploring- you will be amazed by the unique gifts offered on this website.
TAGG tip: if the pillow price tag is too steep, check out these dish towels, a bargain at just $20!

New baby/new mom

Before moving to London, my husband and I lived in New Jersey. Since I'm all for supporting local businesses, I often frequented Silly Pickles for Kids. It's amazing and the owner, Erica Rothkoff, is incredible. When you place an order you can feel confident that it will be perfect, and arrive quickly! My favorite gift for new babies are the burp-cloths. At $10 a piece, you can get several to make a great gift! There are gifts for older children as well – this website is sure to please!

TAGG tip: Carly's right! As a new-ish mom, burp cloths were my salvation the first six months or so, and since you're lugging them everywhere, it's nice to have cute ones. And, $10 for a personalized one like this? A steal.  

-- Need one more super-personalized option? There's no web site, but Texas-based LaineyBug Baby offers one-of-a-kind onesies, bibs, hats and burp cloths. My favorite is the "year in onesies" ($250 for 12, plus one with the baby's name on it) – great for monthly pictures that all new moms love to take! The last month can say either “12 months,” “one year” or “birthday girl/boy.” Ask for pics, or place orders via email.

For the bride-to-be

Now this is one we can all agree on – spoiling a bride-to-be is the best feeling in the world! There are so many incredible gifts out there and all help to make the big day feel even bigger! Etsy is a terrific website for gift ideas – many creative designers post their items on this website. It is a great way to find a unique gift that not everyone has seen before! My favorite gift for the bride-to-be has to be personalized wedding hangers This gift has to be planned in advance, as they are all made by hand and the maker can only produce a certain quantity each month. I promise you, these are worth planning for – they are amazing and every bride will love getting one!

For your husband

Man have always been hard to shop for – it’s just who they are! I have not yet found the perfect gift-giving website for men and to be honest, I am not sure one even exists. What I have found is a great gift for my husband that I think all men who travel will enjoy. It is the Burton Sleeper Hoodie.

Check it out: this hoodie comes with a custom luggage tag, a passport pocket, a removable/inflatable neck pillow, a toothbrush, ear plugs, a sleep mask and so much more! For women like me, don’t worry – they make a female version also!


For YOU

It's always important to spoil yourself every once in a while! And besides, online shopping is way addicting! My favorite shop for online shopping is Rue La La. I wish I could pick just one item from this site to show you, but I love so many things it would be impossible! This members-only website gives you access to private sales - you can always find so many things at great prices! The private sales are only open for two days so you have to keep your eyes open and act quickly! The best part? Get your friends to sign up and you will receive $10 credits for each one that makes a purchase! Trust me, you will love this website.

Happy Shopping!