stocking stuffer guide

Yesterday I realized that it was December and I had not yet purchased one gift!  I dislike last minute Christmas shopping, and usually buy little things throughout the year, because I find holiday shopping to be a bit stressful even without the rush.  I am also really picky about buying things that have meaning or feel really special, (you will receive no gift cards from me!) and that is difficult to do in a crunch.  So, I decided to meander through one of my favorite stores in the West Village - C.O. Bigelow Apothecaries - to see if I could find any sweet little presents for my grandma, mom, and sister.  I was in luck!

I could spend hours in C.O. Bigelow Apothecaries because I love searching for new bath products.  The shop carries many amazing brands - including popular lines like Nars, Clarins, Bumble and Bumble, Fresh, and Tocca, and smaller, more obscure European lines like Mistral, Blanc Lila and Spuma de Sciampagna.  After marveling at the shelves and shelves of aromatic treats, I settled on a few well priced stocking stuffers.

• Dream Time Amethyst Sachets: When I was little, my mother would occasionally give me little rose scented sachets or bundles of lavender to place in my drawers.  I remember loving the way it would lightly fragrance my clothes and how special it made me feel.  I decided to return the love by sending her some of these little lavender and ylang-ylang scented sachets.  At 5- a packet, they're a wonderful little indulgence.
• Tocca Baci Lip Gloss: As a die hard Tocca lover, I immediately fell in love with this lip gloss.  It's basically the adult version of the thick, roll-on Strawberry flavored Smackers Gloss that I used in grade school, but filled with hydrating ingredients that your lips will love (including aloe, shea butter, vitamin e, and olive oil).  The gloss wears for a long time and has a gentle vanilla flavor.  It's so lovely I had to buy two!  One for myself...  (14-)
• Mistral Mer de Sud Bath Salts: Another little luxury my mother always encouraged was a nice hot bath infused with sea salts.  This little mineral-rich sachet is certain to please.  (5-).
• Blanc Lila Petite White Lilac Soap Set:  Lilacs remind me of my Grandma's house in the summer.  As a child, I would pluck a bunch off the bush and suck the pollen out of each little blossom.  As an "adult," I bury my nose in a bunch every chance I get.  I love the scent and thought, why not enjoy the lovely fragrance in the winter too?! (12-)

For more fun options, I would also suggest:

• Tocca mini-candles: My favorite scents areYma (guava, red-current) and Cleopatra (grapefruit, cucumber) (16-) 
• Tocca Laundry Delicate: Stella (blood orange) and Touch (pomegranite, tiare flower) will leave your underthings smelling seductively delightful.  I like to use the delicate when washing bedding as well.  (15-)
• C.O. Bigelow Rose Salve: Amazing for cuticles, lips, and chapped skin. (5.50-)
• Marvis Jasmine Mint Toothpaste: A specialty Italian toothpaste that freshens your breath and tastes like tea!  Delicious. (6-)

http://www.bigelowchemists.com/