Thinking About a Gift Card for Mom? Think Etsy!

 Still need a last-minute gift for that special mom in your life?  Lots of people steer away from gift cards because they think they are impersonal, but those people probably have never received an Etsy gift card.  Etsy gift cards can be printed or emailed directly to the recipient, which will open up a magical world of endless possibilities for her.  Not only can she shop for just about anything handmade or vintage on Etsy, she can have something custom made just for her.  I'm totally going to use myself as an example . . .

I shop on Etsy A LOT.  The sellers are always wonderful, and a lot of them will customize items to fit your needs and your tastes.  One of my favorite Etsy sellers is Trish, the owner of CaliCatBoutique.  She sells handmade handbags, totes, clutches, backpacks, wallets, and more.  Everything you see pictured here, Trish has made just for me.  How awesome is that?!!

These are coordinating mother-daughter Mabel tote bags.  My daughter and I could not agree on a fabric, so we decided that having coordinating bags is just as good as having matching ones.  Trish also created matching accessories according to our specific needs.  I cannot wait for the weather to warm up, so we can start carrying these babies!

Both of the bags above and the ones shown below were not bags the CaliCatBoutique offered in its shop.  Do not assume what you see in any Etsy shop is all there is to offer.  Many sellers will create something just for you.  That is something you cannot get at the mall or your local department store.  I should also add that these custom bags cost a fraction of what designer bags cost.

The two bags shown above are mother-daughter Disney Princess-inspired Marianne clutches.  I fell in love with this fabric, but thought it would suit a smaller bag because it was so colorful.  My daughter wanted glitter on her bag and I wanted something purple.  I love how these turned out, and they are perfect for when we want to travel lightly.

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Above you'll find a larger version of the Denver Backpack and custom Clematis Clutch. Both accompanied me to Utah last year, where my oldest competed at the USA Taekwondo National Championships in Salt Lake City.

These two are the very first custom handbags I ordered from the CaliCatBoutique.  Above is a custom Star Wars Rey-Inspired Sublime Bag.  Below is a custom Disney Princess-inspired Everyday Tote Bag.

Am I stopping there?  NO WAY!!!  I currently have a Disney Mulan-inspired bag and clutch in the works with the CaliCatBoutique.  As you can see, the possibilities are endless on Etsy.  Give mom what she wants, which we all know is to have things her way. Am I right?

What are your favorite Etsy finds for Mom?

Tell us in a comment here.

Custom Made Disney-Inspired Handbags for Star Wars & Disney Princesses Fans

When I went to Walt Disney World in Orlando earlier this year, I was determined to find a designer Disney bag that I loved.  Alas, it just didn't happen.  There was no magic between me and any of the bags I found.  Did I find some that I liked? . . . Sure!  I just couldn't bring myself to spend a few hundred dollars on a bag I didn't absolutely love.  During the weeks following our trip, I looked around online for a bag because I was told that not all styles were carried in the shops at the park stores.  That's when I happened upon this little Etsy shop called CaliCatBoutique.

After taking a look at the various styles of bags available in this shop, I realized that this Etsy seller offered custom bags, where I could choose the fabrics, vinyl color, zipper color, and more.  I could actually create a bag that I loved!  And, you know what? . . . I ended up creating TWO for much less than it would have cost me for just one high end bag at Disney.  It's been awhile since I wrote a Shop 'n' Share post, but I just couldn't not share about my two new bags!

The first custom handbag is a Star Wars-inspired Sublime bag.  I chose a Rey fabric paired with an off-black vinyl and contrast zippers for a bold accent.

I love the touches of silvertone hardware on this bag, right down to the six metal feet that protect the bottom of the bag from wear.

For the interior, I chose a fun star patterned fabric that picks up the colors of the exterior fabric.  I was pretty pleased with how well the two prints coordinated.

For the zipper, I chose black over a brightly colored one.  I think it worked well.

To complete the look, I found this Star Wars: The Last Jedi Rebel Logo Tassel Keychain to use as a purse charm.  Even though the keychain is goldtone, it worked well with the colors of the bag.  It's almost as if it was made for this Star Wars-inspired bag!

The second bag is a custom tote bag inspired by Disney Princesses.  I first saw this Everyday Tote in purple and fell in love with it.  As I looked around, however, I was extremely infatuated with this subtle Disney Princesses printed fabric.

I paired this pretty fabric with the same off-black vinyl that was used for the Star Wars-inspired bag.

For the interior, I chose a contrasting fabric.  I had a tough time deciding on the color.  Thank goodness the CaliCatBoutique owner is a patient woman.  Ultimately, I ended up with the fuchsia, and I am very pleased with my decision.

When I had mentioned that I never zip my tote bags up, the owner offered to make the bag with a magnetic snap rather than a zipper.  I'm so happy that she did because the functionality of the bag is just as important as the style to me.

Originally, I had purchased a fuchsia leather rose purse charm to hang on this bag, but it didn't look quite right, so I returned to Etsy to find an alternative.  I just think the bag needed a little splash of color.  Finally, I came upon the AnaBeeCreations Etsy shop, where I spotted a mouse head key fob.  I requested to have the pink dotted fabric against the black vinyl.  When the key fob arrived, I replaced the swivel lobster claw clip with a ball chain in order to hang it from my bag.  I love the way this bag turned out, and it's what I'm carrying now for spring!

I'm really just thrilled with my two new bags!  I had also been eyeing the Bonnie Bucket Bag.  Maybe I could have a Buffy the Vampire Slayer-inspired bag made?  Although I did see a beautiful stained glass Beauty and the Beast fabric recently . . . the possibilities are really endless!

NOTE: Be sure to ask for a quote on custom orders, as the cost may vary depending on the fabrics and details you choose.

What theme would inspire your dream handbag?

Tell us in a comment here!

3G2S "Top Picks" 2012 Holiday Gift Guide for Women

1.  Epson LabelWorks LW-400 Label Maker ($49.99) - This label maker by Epson is not only the perfect gift for the organized woman, but also for the crafty woman.  Unlike the basic label makers, this advanced unit allows you to experiment with 14 font types, 10 font styles, over 300 symbols, more than 75 frames, and can even print bar codes and tab-style labels.  The tapes available include classic white, black, clear, metallics, fluorescent, reflective, and glow-in-the-dark tapes.  The LW-400 can print up to 4 lines of text.  Unlike more basic label makers, this one has a back-lit screen, a QWERTY keyboard, and can hold up to 50 label designs in its memory.  Just think of all the possibilities for scrapbooking, labeling and tagging handmade goods and gifts, DIY note cards, and more.  There are even iron on clothing labels available!  You may think that a label maker that can do all that must be difficult to master, but the LW-400 is extremely user-friendly.  I was able to do quite a bit without having to refer to the user's manual.  This label maker requires 6 AA batteries, so be sure to include some with your gift.  To learn more about the Epson LabelWorks LW-400 Label Maker visit www.Epson.com.  The LW-400 is currently selling on Amazon for just $36.63 with Free Shipping!

2.  Zazzle Customizable Rickshaw Medium Messenger Bag ($104.95) - If you know a woman who loves bags, especially unique ones that truly reflect her personality, then a bag from Zazzle might be the perfect Holiday gift for her.  Not only are there over 130,000 Rickshaw messenger bags to choose from in different designs and 3 different sizes, you can even design your own bag using your own images and photos.  Prices will vary slightly depending on the size and design of each bag.  I have wanted an owl-themed bag for years, but have just never found the right one.  When I searched for owl Rickshaw bags on Zazzle.com, I almost fell over when I saw how many owl bags there were to choose from.  It took me forever to look through them all, but I finally fell in love with this Luv Bird Owls bag.  When it came time to customize it, I kept the interior color Black, but changed the binding color to Black as well.  I love this bag because it is artistic, whimsical, but slightly sporty at the same time.  That is a rare combination.  The Medium Rickshaw bag measures 18"W x 11"H x 6"D, has a Velcro closure, is water-resistant, and is machine washable.  In addition to a handbag, it would also make a great schoolbag or diaper bag.  To find or design the perfect messenger bag for the woman in your life, visit www.Zazzle.com.

3.  Caboodles "Goddess" Train Case ($39.99) - Train cases are not just for traveling anymore and they are definitely not only for storing cosmetics anymore.  This modern take on the classic train case would also be perfect for organizing jewelry, artists supplies, craft supplies, keepsakes and important documents, and much more.  It measures 12"W x 9"D x 10-1/2"H while closed.  To make this gift even more special, you could hide a piece of jewelry inside or a gift card to buy art or craft supplies to put inside the case.  There are two latches on top that lock with an included key to keep her belongings secure.  The Goddess Train Case is currently selling at Target.com for just $29.89.  You can also find this Caboodles case at Meijer and Ulta stores.  Visit www.caboodles.com for more stylish and functional train cases.

4.  SHOLDIT Clutch Wrap Purse ($49.00 - $79.00) - This is an ingenious way to keep your hands free while looking fashionable.  The SHOLDIT is an infinite scarf with a hidden zippered clutch built into it.  You can wear it as a crossbody sash, as a single or double loop scarf around the neck, as a hooded cowl, or even as a shrug.  You can also tuck the SHOLDIT into itself to create a regular zippered clutch.  There are currently 22 different SHOLDITs available.  The blue and tan SHOLDIT shown above is the Earthy from the Premier Series and is priced at $79.  All current styles are 100% polyester with a polyester/spandex lining.  This neat little gift can be hand washed and laid flat to dry.  SHOLDIT is currently offering Free Standard Shipping on all orders within the U.S.  Visit www.sholdit.com to view all 22 styles and for tips on how to wear your SHOLDIT.

5.  The Macbeth Collection Petite Vase ($35.00) - This galvanized double handled vase from The Macbeth Collection stands 8-1/2" tall and measures 5" across at the widest point.  Although the vase would make a beautiful gift on its own, it would make an even lovelier hostess gift filled with fresh flowers or wrapped with cellophane and ribbon with a bottle of wine tucked inside.  Like most items from The Macbeth Collection, this vase can be personalized with initials, a name, or a word up to 16 characters long for an additional $10.  You can also add an icon or a stripe for an additional $5 each.  There are currently over 500 patterns to choose from in the Design Collection Gallery that would fit into almost any decor style, including modern, shabby chic, and French country.  The hard part will be choosing which pattern you like the best.  The one shown above is the Blake Hot Pink.  In addition to holding flowers or a bottle of wine, the Petite Vase could also be used as a utensil crock in the kitchen.  Visit www.themacbethcollection.com to view all their stylish items for decorating and organizing your home and home office.


Although complimentary product samples were sent to facilitate this gift guide, all opinions expressed are my own.

Top 18 Products of 2010

Since 2010 has come to an end, it only seems fitting that my family shares with you which products were their favorites from the many we had the privilege to review last year.  There were so many impressive products that we could have easily made a top 40 list.


1.  Guidecraft All In One Play Kitchen

2.  Melissa & Doug Pretend Play Workbench

3.  Black & Decker Wall-Mounted Paper Shredder and Message Center

4.  1154 LILL Studio Custom Handbag

5.  Slix Closer Boxer Briefs

6.  Angeles Baseline Table and Chairs Set

7.  LeapFrog's Leapster Explorer

8.  Imaginext BIGFOOT The Monster

9.  Paper Jamz Guitar & Amp

10.  Monster Cable Lil' Jamz Headphones

11.  Teagan and Mack Child's Pearl Bracelet

12.  ThermaPAK HeatShift Pad Laptop Cooler

13.  Mouthman Hoodies

14.  Dazzle Dry 3pc Vegan Nail Polish System

15.  Orsani Robby Wash Laundry Ball

16.  The Polar Express Hot Chocolate with Peppermint

17.  Lazoo Incredible Stickers Activity Book

18.  Two Sisters Gourmet Garlic Parmesan Vinaigrette

Although I have received complimentary product samples from either the brands or retailers associated with the products above, I did not receive any compensation for including these products on this list.  This list was put together collectively by the members of my household based on our personal experiences with these products.

Holiday 2010 Giveaway: "1154 LILL" Design Your Own Custom Designer Bag (ARV $154) [CLOSED]

Although I have a love for bags, I have become extremely selective over the years about what bags will make it into my collection. I just do not have the room and do not want to spend the money on a bag I will not be using for at least 6 months. That is why the custom handbags offered by 1154 LILL are a wonderful concept. With these bags you no longer have to struggle with the dilemma of loving the bag shape, but not the color (and Vice versa). If you are local, then you may have seen or visited their boutique on Newbury Street in Boston.

I have experienced ordering from a few smaller custom handbag businesses in the past. Most only offer the basic bags, such as a tote, a demi, a messenger, and a clutch or wristlet. The bags offered by 1154 LILL are leaps and bounds beyond that. The bags are designed with both fashion and function in mind. All details are fashion-forward, including the bag shapes, hardware, handle designs, and fabric choices.

I designed a Custom ANDI bag online. The software on the website was very intuitive and allowed me to try over 20 different combinations of fabric choices for the bag's exterior, strap, interior, and interior pocket lining before I settled on the one you see below. I knew I wanted something gray or silver. Some say it is the new black after all!

I have to say that the preview of the bag on the website does not do the bag justice. I was completely floored when I received this bag.

The custom made bags I have experienced have always been made of mostly cotton solids and prints. The upholstery-quality fabrics used by 1154 LILL add weight, texture, and elegance to the concept of the "custom bag" that I never knew existed.

I have to say that I am extremely happy with my choice of fabric for the interior pocket lining. I know I am the only one who sees that little splash of color, but it makes me smile every time I do.

One of my favorite details on the ANDI is the handle. The subtle ruching at the center of the strap and where it connects to the chrome hardware really gives this bag dimension, in addition to the two pleats on the body of the bag on each side.

Before I used my bag, I purchased Scotchgard to treat the fabric both inside and out. I love this bag and would be so upset if it was ruined by the unpredictable New England weather or my equally unpredictable children.

You need to know that if you are ordering a custom bag, it will take 3 to 4 weeks to create. So if you are considering the ANDI or one of the other 34 styles of custom 1154 LILL bags as a gift, you may want to consider gifting a pre-designed bag, an 1154 LILL gift certificate, or a Design a Bag Kit, which is available for 10 different styles. During the colder (or hotter) months of the year when you like to plan your "girls night in" activities, you might consider hosting an in-home handbag party. If you are lucky enough to live in the Chicago or Boston area, then you can even schedule a party to be held in-store.

To learn more about these custom designer handbags, custom handbag kits, or scheduling a handbag party, visit 1154LILL.com . Currently you can receive Free FedEx Ground Shipping on orders totalling $150 or more.

Thank you to 1154 LILL for providing a complimentary product sample to base this review upon and for providing a second product for our contest prize.

What you can win:
One lucky reader will receive an 1154 LILL Design a Bag Kit ANDI (ARV $154).

Limitations:

This giveaway is open to U.S. entries only. You do not need to be a blogger to enter, but you must have a valid email address and be age 18 years or older. If you enter anonymously and do not include a valid email address in your comment entries, I will not be able to notify you should you win this random drawing.

How to Gain Entries:

Browse the selection of Design Your Own Handbag styles offered by 1154 LILL. Then leave a comment telling me the name of the style you would like most to either own or give as a gift. You MUST do this to be eligible to win this contest.

Extra Entries:

1) For 5 extra entries, leave a relevant comment on one of my non-giveaway posts. Then leave FIVE separate comments with the name of the post on which you commented. You will earn 5 extra entries for each different non-contest post you comment on.

2)

For 5 extra entries, enter one of my other contests. Leave FIVE separate comments here telling me which contest you entered. You will earn 5 extra entries for each contest you enter.

3) For 10 extra entries, join the 1154 LILL e-list. Then come back here and leave TEN separate comments telling me you did.

4)

For 1 extra entry each, if you are a Friend of mine on Facebook and/or if you have "liked" the 3 Garnets & 2 Sapphires Facebook page, then leave a separate comment here telling me so with the link to your Facebook profile.

5) For 1 extra entry each, follow 1154 LILL Studio on Twitter and/or "Like" 1154 LILL Studio on Facebook. Then leave a separate comment for each with the link to your Twitter or Facebook profile.

6)

Follow me on Twitter. Then leave a separate comment with the link to your Twitter profile.

7)

Tweet about this giveaway linking back to this post. Then come back here and leave the link to your tweet in a separate comment. You may do this once per day until the end of the contest.

8)

Subscribe to this blog's feed. Or you can follow me through Blogger or subscribe via email (widget is on sidebar). Then leave a separate comment telling me you did so.

9)

Subscribe to A Blog of Goodies' feed (the sister site to 3 Garnets & 2 Sapphires). Then leave a separate comment telling me you did so.

10)

Add my button or blog link to your blog's sidebar. Then leave a separate comment with the link to your blog.

<br /> <a href="http://www.3garnets2sapphires.com/"><img border="0" src="http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd206/Busymonkeez/Graphics4Me/NEWBlogButton125x125.jpg" /></a><br /><br />

(All entries will be verified prior to awarding this prize.)


Random Drawing:

This contest will be closed on Monday, December 20th, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. A random number drawing will be held shortly after. The winner will be announced here and will be contact via email or through their blog. If the winner does not respond within 48 hours, a new number will be drawn.

Good luck in the drawing!