Make Holiday Gifting Easier Next Year

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We've all experienced the stress of gift giving around this time of year. Most of the time, I'm pressed for time and scrambling to get everything together at the last minute and aching with the pains of a low bank account. I've learned my lesson and figured out a few ways to save myself from the stress next year. With a few simple suggestions, you can turn it around and get ahead of it all next time!

Look Festive and Chic In Sweats (YES, I Said Sweats!)

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My family doesn't get really dressed up for Christmas, so I like to make sure I'm comfortable, but still somewhat put together so I can jokingly say "I woke up like this."

I saw this sweatshirt a couple weeks ago at J. Crew and I knew it was an insta-buy. I love it because I'm literally wearing a sweatshirt (a sweatshirt!), but the lace detailing makes it kinda fancy. What's not to love? Unfortunately, it's now sold out (sad face), but I've rounded up a few others that I think would be perfect to wear to Christmas dinner. Comfy without sacrificing style – and plenty of room for that post-dinner food baby.

'Tis The Reason (And an Advent Playlist, Have a Listen!)

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Happy Friday, friends! I hope you’ve enjoyed my gift guide series these past couple weeks and I hope it’s sparked some ideas on what to get a few people in your life.

But real talk for a minute. I’ve got to admit – my head was so buried in preparing this series, that I quickly lost sight of what the Christmas season really means to me. But by God's grace, I was humbly reminded by family, friends, and many others what this season is truly about. (PTL for community!)

It’s more than the excitement of the first snow, twinkly lights, perfectly wrapped presents under the tree, and the return of holiday drinks (in plain red cups). Don't get me wrong, I love seeing all the lights, Christmas shopping in my PJs (Ebates, anyone?) with a gingerbread latte in hand. But most days, my joy has become dictated by Pinterest-perfect decorations and Instagram-able moments instead of capturing the beauty of what this season really represents.

Gift Guide: The Neat Freak

This one might as well have just been named "Rachel's Ultimate Wishlist." For the organization aficionados, for the type-A personalities, for the creatives, or just for the person who appreciates beautiful design – these gifts will fit that bill. I think they'd also be a great gift for co-workers too!

Gift Guide: The Jet Setter

This is for the person who is always moving from one place to the next and racking up those frequent flyer miles like a boss. These gifts are not only practical, but they'll really appreciate the thoughtfulness that went into it because these are things they'll use time and time again.

Gift Guide: The Fitness Buff

As the new year quickly approaches, I know I'll say working out will be a resolution (yet again). So whether they're already a fitness guru or they're trying to reach #fitgoals, these pretties will hopefully give them more motivation to hit the gym more often and be healthier!

Gift Guide: The Beauty Lover

For the friend you always go to for beauty tips and ask to borrow their lipstick. There's a few tried and true staples that they'll love and a few new products that they'll be dying to get their hands on. Ready, get set, swatch.