If you have a sinking feeling that you've forgotten someone even though you've checked your list at least twice there is a solution. Smitten Boutique on Madison Street in the West Loop has perfect gifts for everyone you've neglected to remember!
First scenario: you're packing up for your trip back home and start to think about the friends you'll have time to see because you'll be home for a whole week. You haven't seen your BFF from high school in ages and as you begin to recall facebook posts of hers over the last few months you realize something... she's got a baby now.
As you try to come to terms with this you can rest easy and know that with a quick visit to Smitten you'll be all set. You can choose from an array of adorable outfits like this tank and tutu set ($56) or the suspender onsie ($26) but if you want to discourage pictures on your newsfeed give consideration to the hippo or puppy book ($12.50 ea) and stuffed animals that go along with it ($20-$23).
Alternately, if your friend, cousin, coworker is expecting a Cassie*Lu blanket is the perfect way to give and give back at the same time. Founded by a Mother and Daughter team, Cassie*Lu has partnered with Kopila Valley School in Surkhet, Nepal. Every blanket purchase ($62) helps to send a child to school for an entire year including essential supplies like a backpack, uniform, books and supplies, and a hot meal every day and medical and dental care. It is an amazing way to give a beautiful gift and contribute to the education of a child in need.
Second Scenario: Now that you've gotten a gift for your new Mom friend your mind wanders to the good times you two used to have playing at your grandparent's house after school. Ugh oh, grandparents... your sister always manages to get a gift for your grandpa that is just perfect and your box of candies and word-a-day calendar can never measure up.
Smitten has a range of gifts that are perfect for Grandpas, Uncles, and Dads. These Autobiographical books start at $12.95 and are filled with questions to help prompt the author to spark creativity. They're a delightful gift for the man in your life, especially the ones who love to tell stories. But, they say, a picture is worth one thousand words. A silk tie picture frame ($25) will provide a place for him to display his most treasured moments.
If Dad/Uncle/Grandpa would rather spend his time on the golf course or at the ball park you can give him a piece of sporting history to help him pass the time in between rounds. Tokens & Icons has a wide variety of sport related items that make unique and thoughtful gifts. Cuff links made from stadium chairs, bottle openers made from bats ($85) or old clubs ($75), and pens featuring some of history's greatest ball parks.
Scenario Three: Okay, you're glad you stopped in and grabbed gifts for the last two that were on your mind but not on your list. But were they really the last two? Rack your brain... there's gotta be someone else. Then it dawns on you. Your Mom had mentioned that she'd love a new bulletin board for the desk in the kitchen so she can keep track of all her lists. Smitten Boutique carries a line of Magnetic Art Boards by Mikey Lin's. These boards range in size from 12x12 ($45) to 30x40 ($225) and come with customize-able backgrounds. Everything from chevron, to quotes about family, to the notebook page below.
Scenario Four: PHEW! So many great gifts that are unique and thoughtful and all from one store. Before you go you should take a look around at all the adorable displays. You're likely to find the perfect reward for yourself and your savvy shopping!
You certainly don't have to reward yourself, these gifts are perfect for a sister, coworker, or cousin too. But if you're responsible for any dishes at the Christmas feast you'll want to pick up a copy of Stephanie Izard's Girl in the Kitchen cookbook. Smitten is selling them with some of her sauces and marinades as well so this really is a no-brainer.
If you've got fellow Chicago-phile friends these porcelain coasters ($45) are a fantastic gift. Pair them with a bottle of wine as you make your way over for New Year's Eve and ring in 2014 by learning something new about our fantastic city!
Smitten Boutique | 1047 W. Madison Street, Chicago, IL 60607
http://smittenboutique.com
I'd like to thank Smitten owner, Kirstin Martin and her team, Erin and Chelsea, who helped direct me towards these lovely gifts, restored the displays after I poked around and for their willingness to work with me on this post. If you're in town tonight, come visit the shop, get your last minute gifts, and see me... I'll be there for a Wine Tasting event and will likely snatch up many of these last minute items just because... so come and get them while you can!
