Give the Gift of Design

At this time each year my Mom usually asks me to start thinking about what I'd like for Christmas. Invariably, my list consists mainly of things for my home. I'll tell you why. I love decorating my house for the holidays. I have boxes and boxes of decorations, but after the decorations are put away, the house looks so bare. It's nice to start the new year off with a few new things for my house.

If you are stumped about what to get someone for Christmas, consider buying something they can use to spruce up their home after the holiday season is over. I've made things a little easier for you too. Look at what you can get for under $30:


Starting right at the front door, this small doormat from Ballard Designs is currently only $26 and is available in red or green too.

I love fresh flowers in my home, especially during the cold winter months. A vase is the perfect gift.

I couldn't believe the price on the Ingenus Vase from Z Gallerie. It is only $9.95. Yes, you read that right, $9.95! I hope my husband is reading this. Honey, you know what to do!

The Genie Vase from Luna Baazar is also just $9.95.

I adore these mini gourd vases from Libastyle.com. $20 each.

After a long day at work it's nice to get out of the January cold and into a bath with a scented candle nearby. Williams-Sonoma Home has the most heavenly candles. At $30.40 they are just over the $30 limit, but they are currently offering free shipping on this item!

There is no way that I know to brighten up a home quicker than new pillows. All of these pillows from Tonic Home are only $19.95. Find them here.

A 4" X 6" picture frame, $12.95 from Barnes & Noble, would be a thoughtful gift. Don't we all snap a few pictures of friends and family during the holidays? I love the bright colors.

When I don't know what to get someone for Christmas, I take mental notes about items in their home that are looking a little tired and need replacing. Since it is technically not yet the holiday season, you have plenty of time to start investigating!

Most of us could use new linens for the kitchen or bath. Take a look at your own kitchen towels, potholders and bath towels. Are they ready to be replaced?

These colorful dish towels from Amazon come in well under $20.

Images from Amazon.com

I wouldn't mind a new set of towels for the bathroom either. It's always nice to have at least one set that you can let company see, right?


What would we do without Target? This set of towels from Dwell Studio for Target is just $25.49.

There you have it, my friends. I hope I have given you a few ideas and maybe a little motivation to start your shopping early this year.

Happy shopping!