Coastal Collective Co.

Holiday Gift Guide: Etsy Shops and Supporting Handmade

Christmas, Gift Ideas, HolidayAnneke McConnell

Happy November!  I'm excited to be kicking off a "slow release" of Gift Guides for the Holiday season and couldn't think of a better way to do that than by highlighting some amazing small business owners and handmade goods.

By the way, if you're looking to create Coastal Christmas, see more from Etsy shop owners HERE -  

These handmade, often custom items really need the time to be ordered and created! Most etsy shop owners do not take last minute orders and close shop to enjoy the holidays with their families.

Now is the time to send in your orders to get custom, handmade gifts for your friends and family.

With that said, from here on out, every gift guide created and posted on the blog will be easily found on the page linked through the button below AND I'll be updating when necessary and as possible - bookmark for easy reference!


Up first is this custom handwriting bracelet. You guys! I about died when I saw this!!  What a special treasure for anyone, but the example of a father to his daughter is amazing.  If you didn't know, I lost my dad to a heart transplant rejection when I was just 20 years old.  A bracelet like this with his handwriting and a note would mean the WORLD to me!  Custom gifts like this truly keep giving over time.

 

Another custom option is creating jewelry with a fingerprint or multiple fingerprints.  I love how this necklace is also the shape of a heart.  If I had a necklace like this with my kiddo's and husband's fingerprints on it, I'd probably never take it off! Here is another option that includes custom handwriting as well. So cool you guys!

 

Ok so if you LOVE the tassel trend like this necklace here and all things colorful, you'll love Nest Pretty Things Shop in Vermont!  There is the trendy aspect, but uniqueness as well.  Check out another one of their beautiful amethyst necklaces below!

Etsy is such a phenomenal resource for finding handmade handbags, totes, camera bags and more.  This wool messenger bag above caught my eye and is a great gift option with a padded laptop holder - especially if you're going big and gifting someone a laptop!  Also, can I just note that I love, love LOVE those cool, nautical stripes on the inside!

 

Anything customized if a sure-fire winner when gift giving.  This customizable anchors phone case is just one of 270 options that can be made to order.  These are great stocking stuffers too!

Speaking a monograms - how cute are these monogrammed keychains with a little tassel action on the side?!  These are an affordable price point with a lot of style and great holiday gift or stocking stuffer!  They also come with a gift box option that I'd highly recommend - one less thing to worry about.

Have someone that love's to decorate for the Holidays and is an amazing host?  Now's the tim to order custom wreaths as a way to say Thank You and Happy Holidays! This 16" Bay Leaf Wreath will go with any style of home decor. 

Have new little niece or nephew in the family this Christmas?  A custom monogrammed quilt is a great gift and may turn into their favorite blanket from childhood. ;-)  There are a lot of options on Etsy with different fabrics to choose to your liking.

 

If you're looking for more Home Decor gifts like these soy candles above, I'd encourage you to check out these stylish decor items under $30 - too many great options to share here on my blog, but worth a browse! 

One last thing that caught my eye is this ADORABLE Seaside Spreader SetWhat do we do more during the holiday season than spend time in the kitchen and eating good food with friends and family? I love this reminder in a coastal chic way to spread peace, cheer, love, and joy!

 

I hope you've found this Gift Guide helpful and it gets you thinking about supporting local shops, handmade goods, thinking outside of the box for Christmas gifts and stocking stuffers!

xo,

Anneke

Follow along on Facebook where we occasionally get to chat and do projects LIVE!

 

12 Holiday Dresses Under $100

Christmas, Fashion, Fave Picks, Handbags, Holiday, Shoes, Styling TipsAnneke McConnell

What I love about November 1st is the feeling of officially ushering in the holiday season.  In this month of Thanksgiving, I am reminded of how thankful I am for Christmas. ;-)  It's truly my favorite holiday.  While Jesus is the reason for the season, I love how this time brings friends, family and strangers alike together to celebrate life together. 

If you have some upcoming events that call for a little cocktail dress wardrobe, this is a great place to start getting ideas for those nights at work parties, charity events, date nights, and even mommy daughter dates to the Nutcracker.

Also, sometimes we like to chat LIVE about these things on Facebook so I invite you to join the fun!

 

OK! So, for under $100 each, one or more of these will carry you through the season and beyond! High fives to that!


1. Classic Fit and Flare Dress

Up first is this pretty little lace fit and flare dress is gorgeous in this Evergreen color, but comes in 12 color options total at only $88.  It's a classic shape with a modern gorgeous lace pattern.


2. Lace Fit and Flare with Cap Sleeves

Another lacy option shown in a beautiful aubergine color (one of my FAVES), this fit and flare version has the slightest cap sleeve to it with subtle eyelash lace edging.  This dress is $98 and comes in 11 color options.


3. Tea Length Hi-Low Dress

If you're looking for something with a little more length and stylish flare, this Hi-Low Dress is a beautiful option that comes in red, navy, and black for only $82.  Pair it with strappy heels and some statement earrings and you're ready to celebrate!


4. Long Sleeved Lace Fit and Flare Dress

If you love the fit and flare style of dresses and the lacy touch, but longer sleeves, this dress is for you.  It comes in classic colors Oxblood and Black at $92.


5. Gorgeous Black Shift Dress with Fancy Collar

Also available in white, this beautiful black shift dress has a slight bell sleeves, forgiving waist line (indulge in those tasty treats stress free!), and gorgeous embellished collar. I love the longer sleeve, simple classic shape, and touch of glam.  This dress comes in at $99.


6. Scalloped Sequin Dress

If you have an upcoming holiday party that calls for some fun metallics, this scalloped sequin dress is the perfect fit.  Although the dress is lined, the longer sleeves are sheer, just fyi.  This is a great dress for the holiday season at only $45.


7. Red Strapless Lace Gown

Love at first sight with this gorgeous gown! With the bright red color, it's sure to be a show stopper! At $88, it is fully lined with a thigh high slit so if dancing's your thing, you can still bust some moves. ;-) 


8. Metallic Sequin Sheath Dress

This black and gold sequin dress is just $88 and will take you from girl's night out to your family gatherings and a night on the town. It's perfect for those of you that prefer a v-neck style and asymmetrical lines.


9. Off the Shoulder Red Dress

This dress is a simple and stunning choice with a bit of edge in the neckline.  It is $70 and features a back hidden zipper, wired neckline (no shifting!), and is fully lined.  The red is perfect for the holiday season and would look beautiful with a trending sparkly choker necklace.

10. Long Black Lace Gown

If you're looking for a more formal option at an affordable price, this gown (currently available for $60) is a beautiful option.  When looking for more affordable options on fancier dresses like this, lean toward items that have higher star ratings and great reviews!


11. Sea Blue One Shoulder Ruffle Ball Gown

Anything in this beautiful cobalt blue color is a winner in my book!  Add that gorgeous one shoulder ruffle detailing and this dress is a great option at only $49!  It's a nice step away from the classic black without going into the warmer red colors. 


12. Lace Strapless Dress in Forest Green

If you lean toward this beautiful green color, this strapless dress with lace detail is a great option and $99 (and currently 25% off with code OMGYES).  You can pair it with classic black or gold heels and accessories or gold bold with some color!


I hope this helps you ladies kick off some pre-party shopping and find the perfect fit for your needs!  I know this may seem like a lot, but I've tried to pair things down after going through literally hundreds of items!  That's the research loving part of me coming out. ;-)

Below are some more dresses and ideas for "finish the look when it comes to shoes, bags, and jewelry.

 

DRESSES

 

JEWELRY

 

SHOES

HANDBAGS


***Current Home Decor Pre-Season Kick Off Sales

Joss & Main - In Demand Furniture, Lighting, Blankets, and Thanksgiving Table items on sale

Overstock - Up to 70% off Home for the Holidays steals (great place to find rugs!)

Pottery Barn - Up to 60% off all rugs, 20% off flatware, and Free Shipping

Serena & Lily - Up to 30% off select rugs

One Kings Lane - featuring a FANTASTIC Coastal Christmas sale, including my fave silver crab figurine for only $28

 

 

Thanks for catching this massive post ladies! It's quite the roundup, but I wanted it to be easy to find and all in one place!  Happy shopping and have a BLAST at your holiday parties beautiful friends!!

 

xo,

Anneke

Follow along on FACEBOOK. 

***A "Must-Know" tip to when shopping Amazon Prime - read and share!

HolidayAnneke McConnell

***the following post contains affiliate links. Items do not cost more if you choose to purchase them and I personally  thank you for supporting this blog in this way when you find something that helps you!


As someone who loves to share not just what I love and am wearing personally, but also great deals and styles I find out there for you amongst the mass of options, I HAD to share this must know tip when shopping Amazon Prime. (fyi.....prime membership is the bomb.com and we use it for streaming video and music as well).

You see, our family loves the convenience of the free two-day shipping, free returns, items backed by Amazon, etc.  There are some listings out there that you should be aware of as a buyer though.

I made a video for you below so you can see what you need to watch out for when going into this holiday season of buying items for your family gatherings, work parties, gifts for friends and kids, etc.

When you expect something as a Prime owner within 2 days, and that turns into 1-2 weeks, that is sure to add more stress than you need for the holidays.

Let's keep the season as stress-free as possible, right ladies?!

I hope this helps you avoid any disasters not only this holiday season, but in general as an Amazon shopper!

If you've found this helpful, please share it with a friend!

Thanks for following along!

 

xo,

Anneke

 

P.S. Exciting thing happening on the furniture side of things!

Grab my FREE Furniture Painting Guide by clicking below and stay in the loop for upcoming online workshops!

 

 

 

How To Seal Furniture with Matte Creme

DIY, Furniture MakeoverAnneke McConnell

Hello friends!

Today I was on Facebook LIVE sharing more about one of my FAVE sealing products, Vintage Market and Design Matte Finishing Creme.

The console table was painted with Rustoleum's Chalked Paint in Serenity Blue and I couldn't be more happy with the outcome.  All that was required for this furniture makeover was a quick cleaning with baby wipes, two thin coats of paint, minor distressing, and sealing with this matte cream. 

I LOVE it and think it will make a great addition to my home office. ;-)

If you're interested in getting started with painting furniture, I invite you to get a FREE copy of my Furniture Painting 101 eBook below!

 

Pin for later reference!

Also, if you have any questions or comments about this topic, ask away in the comments section below or on this Facebook video.

Happy painting friends!

 

xo,

Anneke

Follow along on Facebook