A Midwestern Girl’s Gift Guide

Kristine Kruse a Midwestern Mix - Christmas 2015 Gift Ideas - A Midwestern Girl's Gift Guide 01

Post by aftcra Guest Blogger, Kristin Kruse of A Midwestern Mix

The hustle & bustle of the Holidays is quickly approaching and the window of opportunity to get your shopping done is dwindling just as quickly. These next few weeks are sure to be packed with work deadlines, parties, family time and more. While picking the perfect gift for your mom or husband may not be too difficult, nothing is worse than feeling ‘lost’ on what to get your significant other’s sister, your boss, or whomever you randomly drew in this year’s Secret Santa Exchange. This is where aftcra can sweep in to save your day AND your sanity! 🙂 With everything from clothing to jewelry to home goods and more, Aftcra’s items are unique and handmade in the United States. You can feel good about your purchases because you’re supporting local artisans and giving one-of-a-kind gifts!

With a husband, 4 sisters, parents, in-laws, numerous extended family members, co-workers, and friends whose names fall on our ‘to buy’ list this year and with my pride of having half of my Christmas gifts already purchased, I am certain that my gift guide can point you in the right direction on ideas for any of those more difficult ones to buy for! As a blogger for A Midwestern Mix, it is always my goal to stay on-top of the best trends and happenings throughout the Midwest. While we may not have as many brick-and-mortar stores here in the Heartland as those in bigger cities, or on the coasts, a large majority of my shopping is done online. I love to scour websites for amazing deals, new arrivals, and stylish pieces you may not usually see around you.

Partnering up with aftcra, I have compiled a list of 7 MUST-BUY items in this Midwestern Girl’s Gift Guide. Don’t be surprised if you end up buying a duplicate of these awesome gifts for yourself as well 🙂

 

Kristine Kruse a Midwestern Mix - Christmas 2015 Gift Ideas - A Midwestern Girl's Gift Guide -You Are So Loved Cuff Bracelet

1) ‘You are so loved’ Cuff – I adore this bracelet

It’s a subtle reminder that no matter what you’re going through, you are loved. The coolest thing about the quote is that it can mean something different to everyone.

Buy this here: http://www.aftcra.com/cynicalredhead/listing/153057/you-are-so-loved-bracelet

 

Kristine Kruse a Midwestern Mix - Christmas 2015 Gift Ideas - A Midwestern Girl's Gift Guide -INFINITY SCARF Cowl Loop Light Solid Grey Gray 100 Soft Bulky Ac

2) Solid Light Grey Gray Infinity Scarf

Who doesn’t need another scarf? This is great for any lady in your life and for any occasion. Perfect with a wool dress coat for some added warmth in the winter or over a basic long sleeve tee for style.Plus it’s so cozy and grey is the perfect neutral.

Buy this here: http://www.aftcra.com/MicheleMade/listing/28754/infinity-scarf-cowl-loop-light-solid-grey-gray-100-soft-bulky-acrylic-thick-crochet-knit-winter-eternity-circleready-to-ship-in-3-days

 

Kristine Kruse a Midwestern Mix - Christmas 2015 Gift Ideas - A Midwestern Girl's Gift Guide -Large Handmade 16oz. Rustic Star Jar Soy Candle 68 fragrances

3) Rustic Star 16oz. Soy Candle

With over 65 fragrances to choose from, there is literally one (or multiple!) for everyone’s taste. My favorites are Cafe Caramel and Kathleen’s Spiced Apple but you really can’t go wrong!

Buy this here: http://www.aftcra.com/soycandles/listing/40232/large-16oz-rustic-star-jar-soy-candle-65-fragrances

 

Kristine Kruse a Midwestern Mix - Christmas 2015 Gift Ideas - A Midwestern Girl's Gift Guide - 3 PACK- Goat's Milk & Citrus Bar Soap

4) Oatmeal Goat Milk Soaps

Handmade soaps are the perfect gift for anyone’s home. They’re personal and luxurious at the same time. These 4 fragrances are universal and would be a great addition to any bathroom or kitchen.

Buy this here: http://www.aftcra.com/JunebugSoapCo/listing/15419/3-pack-goats-milk-citrus-bar-soap

 

Kristine Kruse a Midwestern Mix - Christmas 2015 Gift Ideas - A Midwestern Girl's Gift Guide -Modern Beach house clock. MODERN Numbers. Rustic Yet Hip.

5) Modern Beach House Clock

This clock is the perfect rustic touch to a white kitchen, casual home office, or cozy family room. A muted, neutral color palette allow it to blend in with current home accessories or stand out on its own.

Buy this here: http://www.aftcra.com/terrafirma79/listing/124675/modern-beach-house-clock-modern-numbers-rustic-yet-hip-recycled-reclaimed-repurposed-pallet-wood-wall-clock-custom-color

 

Kristine Kruse a Midwestern Mix - Christmas 2015 Gift Ideas - A Midwestern Girl's Gift Guide - Perfect Circle Flat Notecards - Monogram Stationery Correspondence

6) Monogrammed Notecards

Nothing beats handwritten notes & thank you’s and having your monogram add an even more personal touch. With multiple color options, you can find something for everyone.

Buy this here: http://www.aftcra.com/palmbeachpapery/listing/140597/perfect-circle-flat-notecards-monogram-stationery-correspondence-cards-preppy-bright-personalized-note-card-stationary-writing-paper-set

 

Kristine Kruse a Midwestern Mix - Christmas 2015 Gift Ideas - A Midwestern Girl's Gift Guide - Blue Mosaic Dish - 6 x 3 Inches

7) Blue Mosaic Dish

Catch-all dishes, especially ones as vibrant as this, add a punch of instant interest to any shelf or table.

Buy this here: http://www.aftcra.com/EarthMotherMosaics/listing/157554/sapphire-blue-mosaic-glass-dish-6-x-3-inches

Hopefully one, or more, of these items will help you beat the uncertainty you may be experiences with someone on your gift-giving list. From mom to grandma and everyone in between, there is something that anyone can appreciate!

 

Kristine Kruse A Midwestern Mix 11.13.15About aftcra’s Guest Blogger, Kristin Kruse: I’m Kristin! I’m a mid-twenties wife, Labradoodle mom, daughter, sister, entrepreneur, and friend. I was born, raised, and currently live in the Midwest. I have always had a passion for fashion, fitness, and writing and combined those things to create A Midwestern Mix. My goal is for my blog to be a mix of clothes, workouts, life experiences, travel, and more. I’m in IT by day and all things creative by night. I enjoy spending time with those I love, running, reading, cooking, traveling, and being outdoors. I’m a lover of coconut milk lattes, oversized sweaters, warm weather, new workout crazes, and wearing minimal makeup.

 

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