Last Minute Christmas Gifting

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Holiday shopping can be so hard.  You want to get something useful, something memorable, or just something that your recipient does not already own.  So you think long and hard, you make plans, you finally make or purchase something and then, just 12 short months later, you're right back where you started.  At least that's how it all goes 'round in my brain...

If you've ever thought about giving 100% American made leather shoes, then you're in luck.  Giving an Aurora Shoe Co. gift certificate has just gotten easier.  Instead of contacting us and waiting for a certificate in the mail, you can now follow the link to our website and purchase one with a few clicks.  You'll be sent a coupon code via email and can give the gift of comfort and joy at your convenience.  We've pre-set a few different gift amounts and are open to suggestions if you find that the amount you'd like to give is not listed.

Thank you all for your support in 2013.  We've continued to gain exposure all over the globe and know that it is in large part thanks to you, our loyal customers and friends.  Thank you and Merry Christmas!

Small, Local, Handmade Gift Guide: JEWELRY

I asked my friend Jasmine Crowe to put together a small, local, and handmade jewelry gift guide for us.  Jasmine lives in Upstate New York with her husband, who farms, and her two adorable young children.  You can find her beautiful pottery (and now jewelry, too) at Jasmine Pots on Etsy.

Fan Pendant Necklace via Jasmine Pots on Etsy

The pieces that Jasmine chose are beautiful to look at and carry the added advantage of being made by independent artisans such as herself.  Take a look... 

Black Abstract Flower Necklace $58, via Laurel Obrien on Etsy

I have known Laurel for a long time and she has always been a wonderful nature artist.  Her jewelry is beautifully crafted and can easily be dressed up or down.  I LOVE this necklace.  I would wear it with a white T-shirt and jeans, or my little black dress.  Or maybe my little red dress...

Banana Boat forged brass hoops $89, via See Green on Etsy

Before I had my babies, my earring motto was 'go big or go home'.  Now I have to save my big earrings for when I am not toting around 20 pounds of grabby baby hands and let me tell you, these are worth the wait.  Elegant enough for your mother, but fun enough for your girlfriend, these earrings could go anywhere.

Hammered Copper Cuff $42, via C Star Studio on Etsy

Sometimes you just need a little something.  A little shine, a little bling, a little copper cuff.  I will admit, I am not a huge bracelet girl, but when I choose to don some wrist adornment, I want something just like this.  Clean, simple and fabulous.

Pearl Bib Statement Necklace $148, via SavageSalvage on Etsy

Ok, so this is not for your every day.  But I do not know any woman who would not feel like the bell of the ball in this decadent, pearl bib necklace.  Right up my ally, a feast for the eyes, I see this being a date-night staple.

Solace Ring $110, via Windfall Designs on Etsy

I have been a fan of Karin's work for years.  Her work is impeccably made with this subtle beauty that makes you feel beautiful wearing it.  This ring is on my wish list.  I love the private wording on the inside band, the natural shape of the stone.

Starry Sky Sterling Silver Earrings $44, via Elisabeth Space on Etsy

I have a slight fascination with the night sky myself, and have referenced it in my work again and again.  So it is no surprise that I am drawn to these simple silver earrings that beautifully and simply evoke a starry night.  These could be my every day earrings, baby hands or not...

Take Flight Handmade Deep Purple Swallow Earrings $45, via the Red Caravan on Etsy

These are a statement all by themselves.  Put them on and you have lift-off.  I fantasize about wearing these, to tell you the truth.  The two swallows circling my face as I move through my day.  What could be more pleasing?

Tiny Gold Dot Necklace $25, via Roundabout on Etsy

This is a necklace I could wear with my baby on my hip or my husband on my arm.  Sweet and classic, this tiny gold dot is enough adornment to make you feel adorned even when it is not the focus of your outfit.  I find myself drawn to this necklace now.  I crave simple, elegant lines without the need for an occasion.


Thanks so much, Jasmine!



 

Small, Local Handmade Gift Guide: Hand Knits

There's a reason I'm starting with the knit gifts - those who take their knitting seriously know that holiday knitting begins in July.  BUT... those of us who have waited until after Thanksgiving for the holiday "inspiration" (read: pressure) to strike, still have plenty of gift-worthy options to consider.

For example...

A gorgeous infinity cowl pattern or any of these exquisite knits by Elena Rosenberg.

A cute little knitted hedgehog by Yarnigans on Etsy (it ships for free!)

Simple and classic wool mittens for every person on your list (these are very local and unbelievably affordable).

An adorable child-sized hat on Etsy.

This less-tricky-than-it-appears mug cozy (the pattern is FREE at yarn.com).

The perfect slippers pattern by Elizabeth Murphy on Ravelry

Or, alternatively, for that friend or family member who has always wanted to give it a try...

A Learn to Knit Kit from the always stylish, Purl Soho, and a budget friendly version from Fiber Wild on Etsy. 

2012 Holiday Gift Guide and Holiday Order Details

Starting with Small Business Saturday, and running until the middle of December, we'll be sharing our favorite small, local, and handmade gift ideas.  We hope that this list inspires you to buy or make something that honors the gifts that you and your area can provide.

For those who have asked, our gift certificates are available all year round and are a great way to give the gift of shoes without giving away the surprise (it's hard to get a foot tracing on the sly).  You can email Dave directly (info@aurorashoeco.com) to order a certificate.  Orders placed before Monday, November 26th should arrive before the start of Hanukkah.  Orders placed by Friday, December 14th should arrive in time for Christmas.  As always, we are happy to include free shipping on all of your gift certificate orders.

Those who would like to purchase shoes can receive free shipping through the end of the year with the promo code "Elias" in honor of Dave's (very) new baby son.  Orders received by December 4th should ship in time for Christmas.

Happy Holidays!

p.s.  Our 2011 gift guides including one for your brother, your sister, your parents, and someone special.

Meet the Neighbors: Unite Two Design

At the Aurora Shoe Company, we passionately support small business and handmade and local goods. As a visitor of our blog, we thought that you might feel the same way. In our Meet the Neighbors series we're featuring businesses and people who reflect our own values and whom we feel lucky to call neighbors and friends.

 It was a real treat to visit the gallery and workshop belonging to Keith and Theresa of Unite Two Design.  I had seen their work in a recent newspaper feature, but the detail and charm of their work is best appreciated in person.  Described as "farm punk", the furniture, home goods, and jewelry at Unite Two Design are a fresh blend of old materials and innovative design.  

Having grown up on an old farm, I know all about old wood, rusty pipes, and random pieces of ancient equipment.  It takes a real visionary to take those discarded elements and to give them a new and stylish life.  There is only so much that I can say - you have to see it for yourself...

It was really inspiring to see all of this functional art and to hear the stories behind the different pieces.  Keith and Theresa are constantly working on new projects, but they always welcome the chance to work with clients on commissioned pieces.  I can just imagine all of the personalized gifts that could be created using a board from Grandpa's old barn, or a tool from Dad's workshop.  The blend of old materials and new design presents so many interesting opportunities.

 

 

Keith and Theresa couldn't have been more friendly or more welcoming.  They invited us to check out their workspace as well, but I took way too many pictures and will save that for another post (it's such a cool space).

You can view more of Keith and Theresa's designs by visiting their website. You can also stay up to date with their unique shop offerings by following their page on Facebook.  If you're local, consider stopping by on your next trip to Skaneateles.  They're next door to Creekside Books, at 37 Fennell Street (you can find gallery hours on their Facebook page).

Final Gift Guide - Someone Special

With Christmas looming, I thought it might be a good time to share a gift guide with ideas that you still have plenty of time to work on.  No order by deadlines or expedited shipping charges to worry about, and you don't have to stress about which size or color to choose.  Merry Christmas!

Unlike your siblings or your parents, you chose your special someone, and through good and bad you've made it together.  You know them better than anyone and depend on them in ways that you probably don't even realize.  As Christmas swiftly approaches, here are some thoughtful "gift" ideas for your someone special...

Presence

When life gets hectic and the expectations of the holiday season start to feel oppressive, it helps to have the support of your partner, even if that means nothing more than having another set of hands in the kitchen, a person to bounce ideas off of, or another set of eyes on the kids. 

A few years ago my husband wanted to make me a piece of furniture for Christmas.  He spent many December evenings in his shop and was even there until 3 AM on Christmas Eve to (almost) finish it for Christmas morning.  The table is beautiful and his intentions were so good, but all of that work left me chasing a toddler around alone on Christmas day while his exhausted Daddy dozed off as soon as he hit my parents' recliner.  I love the table, but I would have gladly traded it for a present and well rested husband.

Cooperation

With all of the traditions and obligations it's sometimes easy to complain about having to watch another pageant or attend another party or whatever, especially with all of the last minute preparations that you have on your shoulders.  It's great to edit out the stuff that isn't important or that doesn't fit, but try to remember that we all have our own sense of what makes a complete and fulfilling holiday. 

I know that my husband does not have the same appreciation for religion as I do, but he knows how much I love Christmas Eve, so he puts on his churchy clothes and sings along with the hymns and keeps the kids quiet so that I can enjoy my favorite tradition.  When he does it all without a single complaint and even looks as though he's enjoying it too, I feel very blessed. 

Ask your someone special what they're ideal Christmas would look like and see what you can do to help make that vision happen.  It could be as simple as whipping up a batch of grandma's cookies, taking a late night drive to look at lights, or downloading a certain song on itunes.  You won't know until you ask...

Patience and Understanding

As much as we try not to let things get out of hand at this time of year, there are all kinds of stressors that are beyond our control.  Expect delays, hold-ups and deadline anxieties and when you can, step in and help each other out.  I have a whole list of things that I'd like to do this week, but that probably won't get done.  My husband likely has a list just as long if not longer.  Neither of our lists is more or less important than the other, so we'll have to work to be understanding and patient with each other as the week goes on and our lists begin to compete with each other. 

A Willingness to Let Go

Didn't make those stars you had in mind?  Your truffle recipe was a bust?  Those jammie pants didn't make themselves?  With all of the gift giving and receiving that goes on no one will notice the difference. 

I remember being a kid and getting so excited to open each present.  It all seemed so great, but by the time we'd made our holiday rounds, I'd search my brain to try and remember all the stuff I'd been given.  I still have this feeling and try to remember it when I'm not able to come through on one of my "perfect" ideas.  Chances are that we're all being bombarded by Christmas cheer, so if your perfect something doesn't work out, let it go; chances are nobody will feel like it's missing.  Share this thought with your special someone.  It's liberating.    

Enjoy!

I speak for everyone at the Aurora Shoe Co. when I say that we wish you a very merry Christmas.  We'll "see" you again in the new year!

Small Business Shopping Guide - Your Brother

In the weeks leading up to Christmas we'll be sharing gift guides focusing on small businesses and organizations that we feel good about supporting. We only recommend gifts and products that we would actually consider ourselves and hope that you find inspiration. Please feel free to add other ideas in the comments section - there are so many great businesses out there and we would love to know about your favorites!

He is straightforward and keeps things simple which somehow makes him hard to shop for.  He enjoys a good meal, an interesting design, and has always been curious about how things work.  Here are some gift ideas for your brother.

A waxed canvas pouch from Peg and Awl becuase everyone needs a stylish and practical place to keep their essentials.   ($38)

A shave kit with handmade beer soap by Dirty Deeds Soaps.  The beer aroma will take him back to his drinking, I mean rugby playing college days.  ($25)

A brass bottle key from Makr because it's cool, compact, and strung on a keychain, it will always be at the ready. ($11)

A vintage plaid shirt like the ones your dad probably wore from funkomavintage on Etsy.  ($24)

In paperback at this independent bookshop.  ($25)

Some other ideas:

• Build him a personalized deck of cards using photos from your parents' albums
• Buy him a gift certificate for the local bakery that brews his favorite cup of coffee
• Save him time and money by getting a certificate to cover his next oil change
• A Zingerman's Food Coma Gift Box.  Just follow the link; it sounds amazing. 

Small Business Shopping Guide - Your Sister

In the weeks leading up to Christmas we'll be sharing gift guides focusing on small businesses and organizations that we feel good about supporting.  We only recommend gifts and products that we would actually consider ourselves and hope that you find inspiration.  Please feel free to add other ideas in the comments section - there are so many great businesses out there and we would love to know about your favorites!

You know her better than anyone because you share the same crazy family.  She's allowed to call at any hour and you always trust her insightful advice.  She's seen you at your best and your worst and she still loves you anyway.  Here are some gift ideas for your sister.

Cute crocheted slippers from White Noise Maker travel well, get worn all the time and keep those winter feet toasty.  ($19)

The products and service at LuSa Organics are everything you'd exepect from a small, family owned business.  This Delight Gift Collection is just right for giving.  She'll get to sample some of LuSa's best sellers and you'll feel good about these little chemical free luxuries. ($24.75)

Jewelry is always a safe bet with my sisters.  These brass zulu shield earrings are fair trade and distributed by the good folks at serrv.org.  ($15)

Poppy towel by Madder Root ($18)

I remember joking with my sisters about how lame we thought my mom was for giving tea towels and house plants as gifts (they seemed so boring).  Now that we're all in homes of our own, we totally get it. 

Holiday succulent centerpiece by The Little Succulent Shoppe.  Wouldn't this be a great gift to send ahead of time to a sister who can't be with you for the holiday? ($25)

Tina Fey's new(ish) release is hysterical and unless your sister is obsessed with her (like me) she probably hasn't read it yet.  Shop here and support an independent bookstore.  ($15.99 for paperback)

A very new release that also guarantees laughs.  This one is so new that I haven't gotten my hands on it yet *wink, wink*.  You can find it at the same independent book shop. ($25)

Some other ideas to consider...

• Planning girls' day out at her favorite small crafty supply shop
• Buying a gift certificate at her local hair salon
• Giving her a night out by arranging for a babysitter and sending her on a date with her husband
• Giving her a night in with a basket full of home meade movie snacks and a DVD she's been meaning to check out
• Pulling a classic family photo out of the archives and sizing and framing it for her wall
Or, if all else fails, do what my sister did for me last year.  Give her a beautiful card with some money inside and tell her that it's an Etsy gift card, to be used for her alone.  Sometimes this is the BEST gift ever. 
I'd love to hear of any other suggestions that you might have...




p.s.  The photo of my sisters and I was taken about 10 years ago on my parents' front porch.  My mom took the photo on our header in the exact same spot.