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Gifts for Women

Gift Guides

Gift Lab:
Can Combining Scents Create the Perfect Perfume?

July 15, 2016

Tanya | UncommonGoods

Product:

Mixologie Blendable Perfume Collection

Research:

I have a habit of switching perfumes pretty frequently. I can’t seem to be satisfied with the same aromas for too long because, well, I just get bored. I have never repurchased a scent for myself. I always wonder how some people have that one fragrance that they’ve worn for 15 years. I am always in search of the best scent that describes my mood and my life which is forever changing. I’ve dabbled in perfumed oils, luxury fragrance brands, body mists, and even heavily perfumed lotions. My nose immediately perked up when the Mixologie Perfume Collection joined the UncommonGoods assortment. Some features that got my attention were that the individual bottles are travel friendly and upon first sniff, I was enthralled with the 8 scents on their own. I jumped at the chance to experiment with the different cocktails that this kit suggests and make up a few dozen scents for myself!

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Gift Guides

Celebrate Sisterhood – Gift Picks for Your Sis

July 31, 2015

Gifts for Sisters

Sister can mean the one who was born into your immediate family or the “sister” who is your closest friend. Sisters are the ones that nurture you, support you, and laugh and grow with you. Any way around it, you’re definitely more than a little similar, probably look a bit alike, and have definitely gotten on each other’s nerves a few times.

In honor of Sister’s Day – August 2nd – we’ve put together a collection of our favorite gifts for the world’s best sister. Sister’s Day is a day to surprise your sister with something special – or meet up with your girlfriends for a night out! But most of all, it’s a time to simply enjoy each other’s company, which doesn’t require a special day. Whether she’s younger, older, or not even officially related to you, we’re sure you’ll find something she’ll love.

 

Gifts for Women | UncommonGoods

Big Gifts For Little Sis
Your little sister is someone who looks up to you (and helped teach you to be someone to look up to), taught you how to be patient (despite driving you a little crazy), and inspires you to be responsible (and have some fun while doing it). Her oh-so dramatic entrance into your family may have changed the dynamic a bit, but she’s a gift deserving of being spoiled with a great gift of your own. She’ll love it!

 

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Because her presence in your life is simply invaluable. No matter where the next years take you and what changes occur, you’ll always have a special connection that will never break. | Connected Hearts Necklace

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No matter which one of you was icier towards the other from time to time during the occasional spat, she’ll love the cute decor! | Ice Pops

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Now that she’s old enough to appreciate some personal space, she’d appreciate the Door Harp as an added seal against pesky little intruders… even though you suffered the hard way when she was littler: “Ugh, get out of my room!”

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No matter if she’s a tea lover, coffee guzzler, or she’s still sticking with hot cocoa, the Zenguin Mugs are a cute and witty appeal to your mutual need to chill from time to time.

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Whether she’s young enough to curl up next to you as you read along or she’s been reading legal briefs for a few years (but you read author Laura Numeroff’s If Your Give a Mouse a Cookie  with her as a kid), she’s sure to appreciate the adorable sentiment of What Big Sister Does Best (customizeable with the name of big sis!).

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The Bedside Smartphone Vase celebrates the person you’ve helped her blossom into while giving her a place to dock the smartphone your parents definitely let her get at an earlier age than you.

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Even though she’s a different beast, you’ve learned to each find your niche and rely on each other for support – your relationship is, in a word, Symbiotic.

 

 Sister, Sister!
Maybe you were actually born on the same day, or maybe you’re just close enough in age that people can’t believe you’re not twins. Either way, it doesn’t hurt to let her know you’re happy to have her by your side with one of these sweet gifts. 

 

You are Beautiful | UncommonGoods

Because no one can be told too many times. | You Are Beautiful

Butterfly Puddler | UncommonGoods

You spent mornings fighting over the bathroom when you were kids. The Morning Glory Butterfly Puddler is a great way to tell her that you appreciate that time she let you have the first shower. (After all, waking up to fluttering butterflies in the garden is much more fun than waking up to find that someone’s already used all the hot water.)

Wine Pairing Towel Set | UncommonGoods

You two already make a great pairing, but this Wine Pairing Towel Set ensures that the wine and food selections you choose to enjoy during your hangout time are equally well coordinated.

Seven Sister's Necklace | UncommonGoods

This stellar necklace depicts the “seven sisters” astral collection, inspired by Greek Mythology. They’ll keep it close, so they’ll never seem light-years away. | Seven Sisters Necklace

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The macaron is pretty close to perfect. It’s colorful, sweet, and there’s nothing else quite like it. Does that sound like someone you know?  | Les Macarons II

You Help Me Grow Planter | UncommonGoods

The You Help Me Grow Planter is a great way to let her know you appreciate all of the seeds of inspiration she’s planted in your life.

 

 A Sister is a Forever Friend Necklace | UncommonGoods

Nothing beats one of those sisterly heart-to-heart talks, but if a busy life has you behind on bonding moments, you can sum up what you want to say in a single line: A Sister Is A Forever Friend.

 

She’s Got It All
Your big sister is someone to look up to. She helped you become the person you are today. Be it her graduation, a new job, an engagement, or the birth of a child, you’re looking for a way to express how proud you are of her. Restorative, elegant, and sentimental, any of these gifts are sure to do just that – and give you a leg up to make up for all those times you had to (literally) look up to her.

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An excellent way to catch the attention of your ever-reading book-lover of a sister. She’ll get her nose out of the pages at the scent of one of the Literary Candles – themed to the scent of a favorite novel – before returning afresh with new olfactory inspiration.

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Artfully crafted, these alluring, colorful coasters are made from Brazilian agate rock under a philosophy of bringing elements of nature closer to the everyday home. | Agate Coasters – Set of 4

Sisters Globe | UncommonGoods

This radiant Recycled Glass Tree Globe molds shattered glass into a timeless symbol of your relationship with your sister. Even if things have broken in the past, the tree encapsulated inside the globe voices the impervious and always-growing nature of your relationship.

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Reminiscent of memories of summer playtime, the Dandelion Paperweight captures a fleeting moment with your sister forever  in a beautiful glass sphere.

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Celebrating Matisse’s artistic adage, this print is a reminder to always look for beauty and inspiration in your life – else you won’t see it. With a sister in your life, there are always flowers to be seen. | There Are Always Flowers

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Perfect for leavening up the kitchen decor, this Baking Duo Embroidery Hoop Art is a callback to childhood memories of baking with your sister – the true baking duo.

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Spritz up your sis’ routine with this collection of therapeutic-grade essential oils, aromatic medleys, and pleasant vibes. Each scent is hand-blended and suited for a specific place in your sister’s daily routine. | Aromatherapy Deluxe Gift Set

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You’ve always put her on a pedestal. Let her put her earrings, necklaces, and more on the Pedestal Jewelry Holder.

Garden in a Can | UncommonGoods

She watched you grow up and took care of you when you needed a little help along the way. After that, watching the Garden in a Can grow into fresh herbs will be easy peasy. (Or should we say easy leaves-y?)

 

Love You Like A Sister
So, you’re not technically siblings. Big deal! She’s been there for you through thick and thin, and that makes her family in your book. Celebrate your sister from another mister with a gift that says, “thanks for sticking around, even though you totally didn’t have to.”

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For a classic brunch date, you and your de facto sis reach for the tomato juice, vodka, and horseradish to make spicy, savory Bloody Marys, made intuitive by Alyson Thomas’ graphic representation of the classic eye-opener. | Bloody Mary Diagram Glassware

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She’ll love the vibrant cherry blossoms delicately shed from the tree evoked in this beautiful spring scene. | Cherry Blossom Snow Globe

See Myself In You | UncommonGoods

They say opposites attract, but you and your “sister” see everything the same way. The I See Myself In You Pendant offers a simple, reflective expression of the affinity between both sisters and best friends – one in the same in your case. | I See Myself In You Pendant

Love Grows Here

If a relationship is a living thing, none is more vibrant and healthy than what the two of you have. The Love Grows Here Terrarium acts as a microcosmic manifestation of that relationship – lush, living greenery encapsulated in a stylish jar – complete with a customizable figure holding the sign “I <3 You.” | Love Grows Here Terrarium

Butterfly Spikes | UncommonGoods

She’s always willing to help you see the bright side of any situation. Help her see some brightly colored butterflies. | Butterfly Attracting Garden Spikes

When Life Gives You Lemons | UncommonGoods

When Life Gives You Lemons, you make lemonade, so it’s only natural that when life throws a great gal your way, she becomes an honorary inductee to your family. | When Life Gives You Lemons by Jodi Kostelnik

Four Seasons | UncommonGoods

In the yearlong cycle from Winter, to Spring, to Summer, to Fall, the only constant seems to be that you’re perennially drawn to each other’s company. The Four Seasons Necklace celebrates the unique beauty of her favorite season while embodying the spirit that keeps you as close as sisters.

 

Treat Yo Sis 
Maybe she’s always been the most industrious of the litter and she deserves an aromatic day of restorative relaxation – or maybe she’s always been the spoiled one. (And you’re fine with that. Heck, you’ve helped do the spoiling.) Either way, treat your sister to a set of scrubs and spreads or a centerpiece for quiet reflection.

 

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Perfect if a hot cup of aromatic goodness is her quickest route to serenity, the Green Tea Herbal Kit includes nine herbs and three varieties of eco-certified, organic green tea from Japan, India, and Sri Lanka. Plus, it puts the tea in sisTer.

 

Flavor Infuser Water Bottle | UncommonGoods

Show your sis that it is possible to indulge without throwing health out the window. | Flavor Infuser Water Bottle

 

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Bring the spa right to her and treat her with the works – she deserves it! The Spa Experience Tin boasts “farm fresh,” all natural approaches to revitalization with ingredients like goat’s milk, lavender, truffles, and whipped shea cream.

Check out our gift lab so see a member of our team see just how spa-worthy the tin is!

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If she’s shea obsessed, indulge her in the Shea Butter Gift Set. Each blend of soothing salve is hand blended and contains all natural ingredients – and an especially high shea content for an extra smooth finish.

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Inspired by the ancient Indian theory of acupressure, this mat and pillow supply the perfect amount of pressure that releases endorphins similar to those we receive after an intense workout. If not for providing a bit of productive pressure, what are sisters for? | Acupressure Mat and Pillow

Thumb Waterer | UncommonGoods

 

Is her garden her happy place? Let sis take tending to her flowers to another level of tranquility with the Thumb Waterer and it will be almost like her troubles are washing away in the rain.

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Sisters nurture each other as lifelong sources of inspiration and encouragement, and this attractive journal is a place to ground those feelings. The journal itself is motivating, made from  thin strips of sustainable-sourced alder wood engraved with the message “Do What You Love, Love What You Do.” | Do What You Love Wooden Journal

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This low-tech tablet allows your zen-seeking sister to peacefully reflect on thoughts before they disappear into the sands of time. | Meditation Box 

 

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Gift Guides

Gifts for Women: 19 Finds for the Zen Seeker

November 28, 2014

Gifts for Women: 19 Finds for the Zen Seeker

Getting a daily dose of relaxation can be difficult when we’re surrounded by a hectic world, but some women are so passionate about finding balance that they seem to make the most of every moment. These zen seekers can teach us a lot about doing what’s best for our bodies and minds if we would just listen to them as well as they listen to their Chakras. This collection of 19 gifts celebrate self-awareness, meditation, and the yoga lifestyle.  So, while we may not all be as in-touch with the universe as these wise women are, we can still let them know that we appreciate the lessons they’ve taught us about connecting with our surroundings and our inner selves.

yogamatbag

1.Yoga can take a load off the body and the mind, but lugging a mat isn’t always relaxing. This Upcycled Sari Yoga Bag makes the commute to class as peaceful as Lotus pose.

Meditation Box | UncommonGoods

2. Even those who seem the most calm may need to take a moment to reflect every now and then. This low-tech “tablet” is the perfect place to write down thoughts and watch them fade into the sands of time.  | Meditation Box

Yoga Poses Poster| UncommonGoods3. Whether she’s just starting her practice or is a long-time yogi, she’ll love this artful collection of illustrated Asanas. | Yoga Pose Poster

Zenguin Mugs | UncommonGoods

4. Zenguin Mugs— Because the quest for zen doesn’t have to be without humor.

Yoga Tote | UncommonGoods5. The Yoga Tote carries everything she needs before she lets go of the days extra baggage in Shavasana.

Yoga Pose Pendants | UncommonGoods

6. She may not be able to break into Bow pose in the middle of an important business meeting, but she can wear a Yoga Pose Pendant as a comforting reminder to stay calm even when things get stressful.

 

Chakra Flag Chime | UncommonGoods

7. The Chakra Flags Chime is a handmade reminder to stay in touch with the 7 Chakras, or “windows to the soul.” The pretty sounds  made by its rustling bells are reminders that beautiful art goes beyond what the eye can see.

Ganesh Chain Chime | UncommonGoods

8. If vertical art fits more easily into her personal space, she’ll love the Ganesh Chain Chime.
Chakra Bath Salt Set | UncommonGoods9. A long, hot bath can be one of the best ways to de-stress, and this Chakra Bath Salts Set makes soaking even more serene.

Teabag Tub Soaks | UncommonGoods

10. If bath salts aren’t her cup of tea, she might enjoy a soak enhanced with herbs. | Teabag Tub Soaks

Cherry Blossom Snow Globe | UncommonGoods11. Give her springtime in the middle of winter with this tranquil scene. | Cherry Blossom Snow Globe

Recycled Wine Bottle Candles | UncommonGoods12. She may already have a soundtrack for her daily yoga routine, but eucalyptus and lemon or lavender will add a lovely scent-track. | Recycled Wine Bottle Candles

Many Moons Screenprint | Uncommongoods

13. She may be the earthy type, but she’ll be over the moon when she opens this gift. | Many Moons Screenprint 

Silk Wrapped Soul Bracelet - Consciousness |UncommonGoods14.  Those who seek zen must find a connection with the present; this Silk Wrapped Soul Bracelet – Consciousness symbolizes awareness of the moment.

Chai Tea Kit | UncommonGoods

15. Enjoying a cup of tea is a great way to loosen up after a long day, and this loose-leaf collection with make that cup even more enjoyable. | Chai Tea Kit

Glass Teapot with Stand | UncommonGoods

16. Of course, that moment of zen doesn’t have to end when the first cup is empty. | Glass Teapot with Stand

Healing Stone Mugs | Uncommongoods

17. Add yet another level to that soothing tea-time experience with a handmade Healing Stone Mug.

Zen Cat Garden Sculpture | UncommonGoods

18. Whether she prefers to meditate in an outdoor garden or in a corner of the den, these calm kitties will fit right into her quiet space. | Zen Cat Garden Sculptures

Balance Necklace | UncommonGoods

19. The busier her lifestyle gets, the more amazed you are that she always manages to find balance. Show her how much you appreciate this special quality with charming necklace says it perfectly. | Balance and Harmony Necklace

 

 

Gifts for Women | UncommonGoods

 

Gift Guides

Gifts for Women: 16 Designs She’ll Show Off in Her Home

November 27, 2014

Designs She'll Show Off In Her Home | UncommonGoods

We’ve all heard the expression “home is where the heart is.” Initially, this expression can be interpreted to mean that “home” is wherever you are surrounded by the people you love. That is a very true sentiment, whether “home” describes the place where you grew up, or the new dwelling that you’re building with your growing family. But we think that this expression can be interpreted even further. Some people pour their hearts and souls into their homes. For true home decor lovers, walls aren’t just infrastructure that hold a roof, but a canvas for daily inspiration. Shelves display timeless pieces, not dusty picture frames. Clocks don’t just tell time, they also tell a story. Chances are, the mothers, grandmothers and other special ladies on your wish list share heartwarming pride for the decorative details that make up their homes. We’ve picked out 16 pieces that will add even more love and personality to her home, and give her another reason to show off her digs this holiday season.

 

Wooden Wrap Lamp | UncommonGoods

1. Clap-on lights are so 1980s. Introduce a gorgeous natural touch to your lady’s living room with a lamp that blends fine craftsmanship with modern design | Wooden Wrap Lamp

 

Handmade Sparrow Pillow | UncommonGoods

 

2. Can’t keep up with her idea of feng shui? Gift her positive vibes with this flock of sparrows, which are said to be harbingers of good news and good luck. | Handmade Sparrow Pillow 

Agate Desk Clock | UncommonGoods

3. In ancient times, agate was thought to bring pleasant dreams and protection to its owners. Time to ditch that raggedy dream catcher! | Agate Desk Clock

Gold Leaf Upcycled Bowl | UncommonGoods

4. One woman’s wine bottle is another woman’s treasure (or bowl, in this case). | Golden Leaf Upcycled Bowl 

 

Succulent Living Wall Planter Kit | UncommonGoods

5. Give a kit that will display the beautiful perks of being a wallflower. | Succulent Living Wall Planter Kit

 

Orange Peel Spiral Coaster Set | UncommonGoods

6. Next time she’s exchanging stories around the coffee table, she’ll jump at the chance to describe the juice-to-table origins of these coasters. | Orange Peel Spiral Coaster Set

Lumino Gilded Multicolored Coasters | UncommonGoods

7. When your favorite hostess stands-in as the house party bartender, these vibrant cuts of agate will provide a breathtaking backdrop to any muddled cocktail. |  Lumino Gilded Multicolored Coasters

 

 

Earth Science Stacking Cups | UncommonGoods

8. Show the girls in your life the creative side of STEM with these colorful stacking cups, which combine science with sophisticated design to display the planet’s geographical and marine layers. | Earth Science Stacking Cups

 

Well Read Women: Juliet Capulet | UncommonGoods

9. Spark inspiration at her next book club gathering with this elegant portrait of one of literature’s beloved star-crossed lovers. | Well Read Women: Juliet Capulet 

 

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10. Any interior designer in the making knows that lighting makes a room. | Upcycled Bottle Pendant Lamp 

 

Kantha Shower Curtain | UncommonGoods

11.  Your globetrotting gal might long for her backpacking days, but she certainly doesn’t miss those hostel showers! This worldly shower curtain will remind her of exotic destinations in the comforts of her home base. | Kantha Shower Curtain 

 

Recycled Wine Bottle Candles | UncommonGoods

12. Setting the perfect mood is about getting the little details just right, all the way down to scent, lighting and aesthetics. |  Recycled Wine Bottle Candles

 

Inspiration Bent Wood Planter | UncommonGoods

13. Help her make a statement in her home with this coiled planter. |  Inspiration Bent Wood Planter 

 

 

Perching Bird Bookends | UncommonGoods

14.  Even if you’ve already left the nest, these Perching Bird Bookends will remind your crafty Mom that home is always just a flight away.

Birds of a Feather Sculpture | UncommonGoods

15. For an added touch of home decor magic, this sculpture can also remind your empty nest-er that your flock will always stick together. | Birds of a Feather Sculpture 

 

Moon Phase Pillow | UncommonGoods

16. For the nights when your favorite decorator sits on her furnished porch and marvels at the natural sparkle surrounding her home. |  Moon Phase Pillow 

 

Home Decor | UncommonGoods

Gift Guides

Uncommon Gifts for the Earth Mama

November 21, 2012

The Earth Mama is a special lady. She’s in touch with her surroundings. She’s down with nature–whether it’s the wind, grass, and trees encapsulating her country hideaway, or the energy of the bustling city streets and other people, all sharing the planet and working with one another. She’s been called a hippie, a new ager, a granola girl, and a bohemian. But she doesn’t mind, because she dances to the beat of her own music and knows that her tune is just one song on the universe’s eternal playlist. So what do you gift someone with such deep love for the sublunary world? One of the organic, handmade, responsibly-created goods on this list could be the perfect uncommon gift for an unconventional gal.


Zen Elephant Garden Sculpture / Inspirational Totem Necklace / Embroidered Belt / Roaring Fork Valley–Renee Leone / Hand of Buddha Jewelry Stand / Agate Coasters / Stone Finish Organic Bowls / Garden Pens / Wool Landscape Scarf / Beer Soap 6 Pack

Maker Stories

Mother’s Day Gift: Retro-inspired Garden Art

May 5, 2011

Whether Mom loves gardening, has an impeccable yard filled with great decorations or just loves colorful art, Reclaimed Record Pinwheels make a great Mother’s Day gift. And if Mom’s a music lover, well that’s an added bonus!

Since she began painting in 1994, artist Christine Claringbold has embraced the use of reclaimed and recycled materials in her work. Her reclaimed record mandalas, the basis of these pinwheels, are now her signature design.

Christine took a break from painting her vibrant mandalas to tell us more about her process.


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