Local Ideas for Dad's Big Day

Ummmm Father's Day is on Sunday....yeah...THIS Sunday. Luckily for us, Boston has some awesome last-min gifts to offer, like Bully Boy White Whiskey (its clear...sorry...wrong photo above) which is available in most liquor stores, but is special because it is distilled right in Boston and is USDA certified organic. If your dad is more of a beer drinker, treat him to a locally brewed six pack of Plum Island Belgian White. It is the perfect summer beer...you should probably ask dad to share with you upon opening!

If your father is a foodie, a gift certificate to Karl's Sausage Kitchen in Peabody would be perfect! Their gourmet European market has everything you need for a summer BBQ. Plus, Karl's can deliver your gift certificate within 24 hours --- whew! Another idea, of course, is to cook for dad yourself. Try out this Whiskey Caramel Bacon Bark recipe. I know this one is 100% dad-approved because my dad is the one who sent me this recipe!

Finally, there is the old standby: Red Sox tickets. Our boys may not be doing so well this season, but there is really nothing like going to Fenway with your dad.

Happy Father's Day gals!
- Cameron

Holiday Gift Guide Vol. 7: The Unknown

For our last installment of gift guides we are featuring the perfect gift for "the unknown." What we mean is, for that person that you barely know, or if you do know them, seems to have it all, is extremely picky and is just all around impossible to buy for. Let's be honest, we've all got somebody that fits into this category. And if any of you are turning to gift cards this year, here's a little information to make you feel less guilty: according to Mashable, gift cards are the hottest gift item for 2013. 

To complete the perfect gift card purchase we've got the round up of the best cards to give and receive. After all, no one wants one that they'll never use!

1. First off, the ultimate gift card for all is the American Express card that can be used virtually anywhere. No need to say more.

2. For foodies and health nuts we recommend cards to William Sonoma or Whole Foods. Trust us, these are great for purchasing any guilty pleasure food items that you wouldn't necessarily buy yourself on an average day (hello, tis the season to 'treat yoself').

3. For a tech enthusiast or student, an Amazon or Apple card is sure to get good use towards a larger, much wanted item. Like the AmexCard, an Amazon card can be used purchase nearly anything.

4. Lastly, for that girl or woman that is impposibly picky - a Sephora card (hello, the candy story of pampering products) or a Piperlime card (good for Piperlime, Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic, and Athleta) will be much appreciated. 

- Suzanne

Holiday Gift Guide Vol. 6: The Girl Who Has Everything

We all have those friends or family members that are simply impossible to shop for. They either have a shopping addiction of their own, or make more money than you, or are just plain picky. But, even though these girls are kind of a pain in the rear, we still love them! So here are a few JUGs approved experiential and subscription gifts: Celtics Tickets // Classes at Health Yoga Life // Gift Certificate for a Mani at MiniLuxe // Gift Certificate for a Blowout at DryBar // Subscription to Real Simple // Starbucks Giftcard // Birchbox Subscription.

- Cameron

Editor's Essentials: Cameron's Lust List

I ALWAYS make a holiday wishlist. It has gotten to the point where my parents actually ask me for it because it makes it easier for them (and the rest of the fam) to shop for me. I am a huge fan of wishlists and believe everything would be easier and less wasteful if everyone made one! Included on my list this year are some of my latest Etsy obsessions like the Neon Set of Mini Succulent Planters from Wind & Willow Home and the gorgeous Chevron Nature Prints from VillaVera. And while we're on the nature theme, I LOVE these Anthropologie Cicada earrings. I am also a huge fan of experiential gifts, so I'd love a North End Yoga pass or a spa treatment at G2O on Newbury. Finally, my ideal stocking stuffers are makeup favs like Tarte  Matte Lip Tint in Lucky and Essie nail polish in Going Incognito.

- Cameron

Holiday Gift Guide Vol. 5: For the Parents

Mom and Dad... always there for you, always say that they don't "need" anything, but where does that leave you to show your gratitude at the holidays?  I've rounded up a few gifts any parent would love to entertain with, or treat themselves with since they should be traveling more with an empty nest at home these days!

makeup bag, $35 // holiday tumbler glasses, $24 // wine cooler, $60 // east coaster coaster set, $36

slate cheese board, $30 // hi-rise iphone/ipad dock (great for the kitchen or use as a stereo), $35

neck warmer, $48 // #nomnomnom oven mitt set, $14 // anti-wrinkle kit, $53 // needlepoint clutch, $78

dopp kit, $58 // ipad case, $42.50 // custom leather luggage tag, $45 // hoodie, $75

countertop bottle opener for the deck, $40 // gym bag, $70

classic v-neck sweater, $60 // cedar shoe trees, $30 // handbook for his favorite drink, $20 // USB charger, $34.50

In case you missed our other gift guides...
for the hostess // for your secret santa (all $25 or under!) // shopping local // for your favorite guy


- Meredith

Editor's Essentials: Meredith's Lust List

In addition to bringing you weekly gift guides, the three of us decided we'd follow suit like other bloggers and share our ultimate wish list items.  Attainable or otherwise, it's fun to snoop around and pick items somewhat out of reach from one's daily spending or items worth saving up for on your own.

I'm trying to buckle down and get back to basics in my wardrobe, but could not leave out a few fun items that I've sprinkled in...it is my birthday month, after all!

Clockwise, from top left // 1, because I love a monogram // 2, to be seen in the "black hole" that is most purses* // 3, daily shiny reminder of my heritage* // 4, timeless statement piece // 5, slouchy winter gear // 6, basic yet satirical T // 7, no reason necessary // 8, cross-season cape and cozy layer // 9, timeless loafer // 10, because...you can get seasons 1-3 for under $30 // 11, it's never too early to defy aging // 12, the only way to drink whiskey // 13, mine in black are wearing thin...such an easy work/commuting flat* // 14, the mirrored trend // 15, neutral yet mixed materials // 16, wardrobe staple in silk*

Stay tuned for Cameron and Suzanne's picks in the coming weeks!  What is on your lust list?


- Meredith

*items currently eligible for at least 15% off on shopbop.com.

Holiday Gift Guide Vol. 4

So far our Holiday Gift Guides have included local lusts, affordable picks for your secret santa, and gifts for the hostess. Today we touch on one of the hardest subjects to buy for, the guy in your life. Whether it's the boyfriend, brother, dad, uncle or friend...guys are so much harder to buy for than girls! Or is that just me? Anyways, after much consideration here is a round up of gifts that I think any guy would be thrilled to receive...

Saturday Surf T-Shirt $40  //  Ball and Buck Cramberton Chino Shirt $178  //  J.Crew Elbow Patch Shirt $98  //  Patagonia Retro-X Vest $179  //  RVCA Beanie $24  //  American Wool Flag Throw $125  //  RH LED Hat $24  //  West Elm Monogram Slate Coaster $12  //  Moscow Mule Glass $15  //
Zippo Flag Lighter $22 //  TOPO Light Daypack $89  //  Best Made Co. Toolbox $94  //  Deus Ex Machina The Mono Poster $65  //  Whole Beast Butchery $28  //  The Meatball Shop Cookbook $20  //  Best Made Playing Cards $8


- Suzanne

Gift Wrap Inspiration

Most from PaperSource // Etsy sources 1 // 2 // 3 // 4

As much as I do not miss hustling family members to buy Sally Foster gift wrap to support the hometown PTO (where the sales "skills" start for most elementary children of the 90s, but I digress...), I still do love me some decorative paper.  While I do not have this "art" down to a science, I admire those who are skilled in having their thoughtfulness of the gift translate to its packaging.  My family members always put a lot of effort into this, and I think it might just come down to having "the eye."

You don't even have to spend that much!  Last year, I wrapped all of my holiday gifts in Trader Joe's shopping bags and adorned them in glittery ribbon (basically so they were not mistaken for trash!).  See, easy to do on a budget, and easy for guys who might not want to be in a line at Paper Source picking up some glitzy rolls of gift wrap.  Here are some examples of skilled wrappers I've come across to be my inspiration this gift giving season:

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Have you found other styles that you'll be emulating this holiday season?  We'd love to see!  Happy wrapping!

- Meredith

Holiday Gift Guide Vol. 3

Over the past two weeks we've gotten some great ideas of gifts for the hostess and secret santa gifts, but what about the rest of your family and friends? It is hard to even know where to begin shopping, so why not start right here in Boston? Local holiday shopping is a great way to support small businesses and keep money within our local economy. There may even be some wonderful sales around the city as part of Small Business Saturday. But shopping locally doesn't limit you to boutiques either - experiential gifts like museum passes, theater tickets, and Bruins & Celts tickets are always a hit!

Jane Iredale Just Kissed Lip Stain (made in Western MA, available at Follain) // Leap Organics Lavender Bar Soap (Made in Concord, MA, available at Whole Foods and Online) // adjewelry Sunset Bay Post Earrings (made in Boston, available on Etsy) // Bully Boy Organic Whiskey (made in Boston, available widely throughout the city) // Bruins Tickets // Jill Rosenwald Chester Bloom Bowl (made in Boston, available at Twelve Chairs and Online)

Holiday Gift Guide Vol. 2

Last week, Suzanne brought you hostess gifts.  Today, I present gifts for that special friend without breaking the bank.  To me, the images alone appear to be more expensive, but they are all $25 or under!  A "secret Santa" is a great way to get in the holiday spirit as a group without buying for all of your friends.  As much as I would want to do that, it is simply not affordable.  Luckily, there are ways to not spend a lot but still give something personal to your gal pal.  This is the time of year to stop ignoring those emails you might filter from daily view, and do some online "window" shopping to see how many budget-friendly options are out there... you'll be surprised!

From top left, clockwise: hands down, THE best party game, $25 // mantra for her gallery wall or office, $25 // return address stickers, $25 (down from $42!) // for the morning commute, $25 // to tame her never-ending jewelry collection, $19.50 // for the out-of-state friend/relative who misses Boston, $25 // statement cuff to go with everything, $25// for the not-so-subtle road soda at all future book club picnics, set of 2 for $14.60

- Meredith

Holiday Gift Guide Vol. 1

Ready to get in the holiday spirit? We are! While we do think it is a little absurd that some stores already have their Christmas decorations up, we do appreciate the go-getters that come prepared for the season. After all, no one likes to be stressed out on Christmas Eve, which is why we thought we'd help you out. In the upcoming weeks we will comb through the best gifts for the holiday season and every Thursday right up until December 25th we will be bringing you our own JUGS Approved Gift Guides, each guide with it's own theme. Today, we kick off with the an easy, but necessary one, a small gift for any hostess, whether it's your best friend, sister-in-law, your mom, your boyfriend's mom or a friend of a friend, we're sure you'll be asked back!

Good Thing Quote Print $25  //  Organic Maple Syrup $72  //  Animal Rectangular Ceramic Plate $38  //  Leopard Coffee Cup $10  //  Glitter Bow Shoe Clips $20  //  Mrs. Lillien's Cocktail Swatchbook $14  //  Thank You Boxed $24  //  Bubbly Cheers Coasters $30  //  Winter Cocktails Book $15

- Suzanne

Planning for 2014: Agendas

clockwise from top: Lilly (mini) // May Books // Lilly (jumbo) // Graphic Image // Erin Condren // Kate Spade

I know, I know, there is no need to jump ahead to 2014.  I still can't believe how fast the summer sped by, and that we are well into the fall.  The shift of seasons has me evaluating changes I want to make.  I believe that changing something starts with a concrete plan, which got me thinking about agendas and how I am in the market for something new!

As our loyal readers might remember from the archives, I have featured the planner I currently use.  Since I change bags often, I do not always carry it on me, and am constantly trying to coordinate a written record of plans that I jot in my phone for convenience.  I would go with a May Designs planner again, they're thin, simple and colorful.  Although, I like to switch it up and want something with a bit more substance.  For 2012 I used one by Erin Condren which is amazing, but is better fit for those with busier days than the average 20-something and is just too heavy duty for my needs.  I just cannot decide (although I don't think spending over $30 is necessary...)!

These options above range the spectrum of price and style, and I feel the need to purchase it in the near future so I start the new year off right.  What do you think?  It is a real Goldilocks-type situation.  #firstworldproblems.  At any rate, please spill!  Do you have a favorite you'd recommend?

- Meredith

JUGs approved: Country Living's Homes by Home

I know, I know...we've gone a bit heavy in the home decor realm recently.  Can you blame us?!  There is just so much information, visual and written, out there for home improvement.  I'd like to introduce you to another seemingly endless source of inspiration, Country Living.  They put out a fantastic magazine, throughout the year, but I was lucky enough to snag an advanced copy of their newest coffee table book, coming out next month.  There are not enough hours IN.THE.DAY. to soak in all of the fantastical pictures this book exhibits!

The author, Vinny Lee, should not be a new name to you home decor fanatics.  She is the Interiors Editor of The Times Magazine, specifically the lifestyle/interior design arenas.  She is the author of over 25 books, including The Essential Guide to Decorating, Recycled Spaces, and Innovative Interiors, to name a few.

Lee's latest takes you on an adventure of over 300 color photographs for the ultimate daydream of your oasis on land or by sea.  The book is split into two main sections, one focusing on "Huts and Hideaways" (homes that tend to blend with their surroundings) as well as "Homes to Go" (more mobile accommodations).  It is clear that each homeowner's style is illustrated in each featured domain, and transports its reader to a world of serenity.

This is a must-have coffee table book for you or would make a great gift for a loved one this holiday season!  Be sure to look for it on bookshelves this November or pre-order it here!

- Meredith

This book was complimentary.  All opinions are author's own.

Trendy Tortoise

Neutrals in fashion and home are no longer the traditional black, tan or white.  Patterns, specifically tortoise, are popping up everywhere this year!  Here are some of my favorites for your summer-to-fall transitioning:

top // clockwise from top left: 1 // 2 // 3 // 4 (for the *hopefully* new iPhone 5S out this fall) // 5 (new apartment keys!)
bottom // clockwise from top left: 6 (monogrammed!) // 7 (Warby!) // 8 // 9 // 10 // 11 // 12 // 13 (for your bar cart!)

- Meredith

Play if You Dare!

base photo via

Does your gaggle of gals need a new game to spice up your next get together?  Look. No. Further.  Cards Against Humanity is THE party game.  In reading up on its history, it was developed and released a few years ago by some admittedly awkward dudes in the Chicago area and has been a hit ever since. 

I first played with cousins during a get together this past winter.  After a few short rounds of hysterically perverse phrases, I was instantly hooked and decided I had to own this game.  Panic was about to set in when I saw that the game was sold out online, until noting the option to download a pdf and print a homemade set.  The timing could not have been more perfect, as I was about to head north for a JUGs (après) ski weekend with a large group and wanted to bring some entertainment.  Needless to say, this game is quite the icebreaker.  Card combinations continue to be endless with the creators releasing extension packs (*adds to shopping cart*).

base photo via

Be sure to brush up on your pop culture, current events and maybe try a few practice rounds in their lab before playing... you don't want to admit to "never have I ever" [heard of this].  The game is just $25, with optional extension packs for $10 each you'll surely need soon after sifting through the first 500 cards with your revelrous group! 

We'd love to hear a (clean) recap of your CAH playing experience!

- Meredith