It’s time to plan ahead and start getting your gift list in order. Below are some deals and ideas to get you going on the right foot this holiday. Tune in to ABC Detroit on 11/13 and Fox Chicago on 11/17 to see some of our picks live.

1. Blue Sky Personalized Notebooks (30% off!)

The best part about planning ahead for the Holidays is you can get so many things personalized. Creating something just for them makes it even more special and thoughtful. The popular line of Blue Sky personalized planners and notebooks just launched the ability to completely customize their notebooks with initials, names and really cute pattern options. Perfect to give teachers, friends, coworkers, etc. Create a design unique to them!

Use Code GIFTINSIDER30 for 30% off

2. AVALON Virtual Reality Headset (20% off!) 

AVALON is a brand new affordable virtual reality headset. VR or Virtual Reality is super popular but, most current VR options aren’t accessible to the masses and require an expensive computer or specific game console. What’s great about AVALON is that it’s universal for all smartphones & has loads of user friendly comfort. Perfect for your favorite gamer! $59

Use code GIFTINSIDER20 for 20% off

3.Ghoftdrone 2.0 (10% off)

No experience needed to fly the coolest Drone on the market, GHOSTDRONE 2.0. All you need is your smart phone & the Ehang app and you can capture amazing photos & video footage. Ready to fly right out of the box with 3 easy flight modes. Only drone that lets you see what the Drone sees with its cool FPV goggles. Black or White. $899. $200 off 11/20 – 12/31

Use Code GIFTINSIDER10 for 10% off

4. Tile Tracker (20% off!) 

Tile is the perfect gift for the person who tends to forget all their latest gadgets and gizmos. (guilty!) Tile is a tiny Bluetooth tracker and easy-to-use app that finds everyday items like your phone, keys, purse, glasses in seconds. Easily attach it to the things you need most. perfect stocking stuffer! The Tile combo 4 pack includes 2 Tile Slims and 2 Tile Mates.  Normally $110, now $90

20% off for holidays

5. Gift Crates (30% off!) 

Perfectly giftable Gift Crates arrive at your door in a wooden crate & are to be opened with enclosed crowbar. They come in all different themes for all types of recipients. This is their Old School Gift Crate, the gift of favorite memories! Includes Old School toys … Slinky, Rubick’s Cube, Yomega Yo Yo, Pez Dispenser & of course Old School Cand. Tons of cool stuff from your past! $74.99
Use GIFTINSIDER30 for 30% off till 11/26/2016

7. Fin Fun Mermaid Tales

These gorgeous Fin Fun Mermaid Tails are a magical gift whether it’s for swimming or a costume. Swimmable & fun, they also have a flipper/monofin to go under tail. $99 for kids & $109 for adults, which includes a removable Fin Fun monofin, so that you can really swim like a mermaid. Fantasy accomplished.

8. David’s Teas

Cozy and beautifully packaged David’s Tea gift sets are perfect for anyone on your list, clients, coworkers, secret saints. Start a new tradition with their book-inspired tea collections, gift a color changing tea mug, or their warm and cozy tea set. $28

9. Habitree

Help them stay true to their eco values, even with their Christmas tree. Habitree is a new kind of holiday tree created for people whose values such as sustainability are as important as the joy they take in decorating for the holidays. Made from premium, sustainably farmed wood. Love these for apartment dwellers & businesses too. Made of Kebony Wood, available in Clear & Character wood types. 37″, 50″ or 70″ tall. $315 to $581.

Check out our clip on Fox Chicago News chatting about a few of these unique gifts.

We also chatted about this picks on ABC Detroit!

We’d love to hear what you are gifting for the Holidays. Check out our Hanukkah/Christmas gift section for more inspo.

1. Tracey Tanner Backpack ($495, GiftInsider10 for 10% off)  2. Confetti Post Care Packages ($54) 3. Thimblepress Notepads ($18, thimblelove for 10% off) 4. Kiko Leather Cord Wrap ($27, TGI15 for 15% off) 5. Owen and Fred Pen ($7), 6. Owen and Fred Hey Handmade Dopp Kit ($68), 7. Tracey Tanner Pouch ($99, GiftInsider10 for 10% off), 8. Owen and Fred Duffle ($115) 9. Kiko Leather Macbook Case ($65, TGI15 for 15% off )

TGI DEALS + COUPON CODES

– GIFTINSIDER10 for 10% off Tracey Tanner

– THIMBLELOVE for 10% OFF Thimblepress

– TGI15 for 15% off Kiko Leather

Be sure to enter our Sweepstakes below to win one of each products for the brands listed above!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Watch us chat live about these gifts on ABC Detroit below!

Summer is here which means it’s time for Dads and Grads gifting season. We have rounded up some great gifts for Dads, some cool options for grads and some ideas that are perfect for either.

1. Artifact Uprising Photo Gifts (TGI Deal!!)

This hip + modern photo gift company has perfect options for both Dads and Grads. Try their wood calendar, desk blocks or Instagram friendly photo books. Their styles are great for minimalist design-lovers and the site is easy to use and easy to upload. $24

TGI Deal! Use code SUMMERGIFTS for 10% off

Available at Artifact Uprising

2. Kiko Leather Goods (TGI Deal!!)

Kiko Leather goods have a range of practical & sleek leather options. We are big fans of the passport holder, cord wrap and leather backpack. Lovin’ the dual texture of wool & leather on the Passport case. Handmade, 2 card slots on front. $35

TGI DEAL! Use Code: GIFTINSIDER20 for 20% off.

Available at kikoleather.com

3. Olio Smart Watch

This smartwatch is the brainchild of former Apple and HP product designer Steven Jacobs. It syncs with your smartphones and bluetooth devices to give total command over your digital life. It’s powered by Olio Assist, which is basically a cloud-based personal assistant. We love that while it’s a smartwatch it’s still rugged, useable and easy to read. $445

Available at OlioDevices.com

4. Neon Wall Decor 

Neon signs have been a huge trend in home decor lately. Gift the grad a “Hustle” wall sign or trending palm tree desk light or have this talented artist design any custom sign you’d like for Dad’s Man Cave. Hustle, $159.99, custom prices range

Available at neonmfg.com

5. Cologne + Travel Bag Sets

When going the fragrance route for your Dad or Grad, we love the latest gift sets out for men that pair a fragrance with a practical tote or travel kit. Try the bright orange Vince Camuto set that comes with spray, shower gel and a travel kit for $75. Fill the bag with a few extra thoughtful goodies your Dad or Grad might love and you have a perfect under $100 gift for him!

Available at Perfumania

6. Michigan Made Inspirational Keys from Franklin Village Boutique

For the grad who you want to inspire, try these key necklaces from the charming Franklin Village Boutique. Each vintage key is Michigan-made and embellished with an inspirational word or phrase, “Dream”, “Journey”, “Strength” etc. You’ll find a whole shop full of other equally affordable yet one-of-kind clothing, gifts and chic pieces right in downtown Franklin. ~$35

Available at Franklin Village Boutique, 32716 Franklin Rd.

7. Cinema Lightbox Display

A huge trend in insta-worthy apartments and home offices lately are retro-inspired cinema lightboxes. This medium sized style from MyCinemaLightBox can be used on a desk, dorm, office or nightstand and your new grad can easily switch up their inspirational words or messages anytime they like. $49.99

Available from mycinemalightbox.com

8. Blackwood Leather Wallets (TGI DEAL!!) 

Cool gift for any man, Dad OR Grad. Blackwood wallets are 100% European leather, known for their quality, cool minimalist designs and handsomely packaged, many choices of styles & materials. $55 – $85

TGI DEAL! 20% off Father’s Day coupon code BWFD2016

Available at blackwoodonlinestore.com

9. Keurig Bright + Compact Colorful Coffee Maker

Keurig K15 coffee makers are small, come in a huge range of different fun colors and are perfect for a new apartment, dorm, man cave or office. Now the hard part is picking the color! (Insider Tip: for grads, try the color of their alma mater or new university) $99

Available at Keurig

10. Photos Etched in Crystal from 3D Laser Gifts (TGI DEAL!!)

We’re all about photo gifts and this company is a unique spin on the typical frame + photo. You send in a photo and 3D Laser Gifts will mold your photo into a 3 dimensional design and then laser etch into a piece of crystal and comes with a LED light base that accentuates engraving. Prices range, flat is $110

TGI DEAL! Use Code:GIFTINSIDER30 for 30% off

Available at 3Dlasergifts.com

Men’s grooming line with a healthy-living ideology and perfectly gift-able Body and Skin Kit options. Montez Renault was founded by former football teammates & men’s grooming entrepreneurs Christopher Renault Butler & Karlos Montez Dansby. The Body Kit and Skin Kit includes all parabon-free and sulfate-free essentials he needs to stay fresh! Body Kit, $59

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Watch us chat live about these gifts on Fox Chicago and ABC Detroit below. Browse our Fathers Day or Graduation sections for more inspo.

Warm weather is here, school is out, and everyone is celebrating! It’s finally time to toast off the end of the school year with graduation BBQs and parties. We all know that celebrations and gift giving can get quite pricey, so The Gift Insider rounded up our six favorite DIY Grad Gifts that will not break the bank!

1. A Framed Emergency Fund

This idea is not only cute, but it is functional! This is a perfect gift for the grads heading to college in the fall. Trust us, they will thank you when it is time for that late night pizza order.

Via: How Does She

2. Suprise Money Confetti Poppers

A confetti popper always makes things more fun, especially when it always some cash.

Via: studio diy 

3. BFF “Where It All Began” Frame

Starting a new chapter is beyond exciting, but leaving friends behind is arguably the toughest part. This DIY map idea is the perfect gift that will have your BFF thinking about you every time they look at their wall.

Via: Handmade HQ 

4. DIY Origami Money Graduation Caps

Another adorable DIY way to give the always needed cash! Origami them into Graduation Caps and add some cute tassels.

Via: SugarandCharm

5. The Ultimate College Survival Kit

This DIY gift is the ultimate lifesaver. Put together a little package with a bunch of items that will definitely come in handy for the grads’ first year away from home. TGI Tip: Put all of these things into a small wastebasket for their dorm! That way the packaging is as functional as the gift!

Via: Meijer

6. Memory Jar

While going off to college is beyond exciting, it can be a lonely change at first. Help make that transition easier buy having loved ones & friends of the grad write down a special memory and compile them all in a cute & decorated mason jar!

Via: About

Grads, we want to hear from you! What sort of gifts are you hoping for? Check our Dads and Grads Pinterest board for more inspo!

Your mamma gave you life. Give her something good. We’ve rounded up some unique picks for the person who deserved nothing but the best.

1. Fleurings Vase Jewerly

Fleurings vase jewelry is a collection of earrings, necklaces and hairpieces designed to hold water and keep flowers fresh. Designed by Samantha Lockwood, actress and Bikram Yoga teacher who loves wearing flowers. Simply add water & any favorite flowers to match any outfit.  $65-$95. Available at Fleurings.com

2. Pass Down Journal

Cherish Mom or Grandma’s past and help pass on their stories and memories for the future with this hardcover Pass Down Journal. It’s full of 100 life interview questions that guides the writer in capturing their life story so they can pass on for future generations. $29

TGI Deal // Free Shipping & Use Code GIFTINSIDER15 for 15% off on 1 book & GIFTINSIDER20 for 20% off 2 or more

Available at passdownjournal.com

3. Bloom Rose Box That Lasts

 

One of our absolute favorite discoveries this year, we are love everything about these Blooms by Heinau real flower arrangements that are guaranteed to last 6 months or longer. Their new luxury rose box is perfect for moms office, powder room or nightstand.  $148. Available at bloomsbyheinau.com

4. Monogram Photo Notebook by Minted

Get Mom organized with a customizable notebook planner. Minted lets you choose your cover design with a name and any of your own photos. It’s the perfect gift for moms or grandma’s who want as many photos of their kiddies as possible.  All designed by Independent Artists. $16. Available at Minted.com

5. Temperature Regulating Sheets

 

This Detroit based, Reverie, company is all about helping you have a great nights sleep. Their luxe performance bed sheets are temperature regulating, breathable and moisture wicking. They are made with RevTek™ cool knit for luxurious performance. Available at Reverie.com

6. Kiss Instawave Automatic Curling Iron 

 

Genius! We need it. Mom needs it. The Kiss Instawave is an automatic curler that curls hair without you having to twist, fumble or do much at all. You place hair on wand, push button and automatically catches and curls hair. Quick, easy and perfect for Mom who likes a little curl but isn’t a pro at a styling. $45. Available at Amazon

7. Hydration Tracking Mug

For the mom who is always up on the latest health and fitness gadgets, the Pryme Vessyl is the new, genius gift she’ll love. It’s a brand new smart to-go mug that intelligently tracks hydration in real time, so makes sure you are drinking enough water all day long. It integrates with popular fitness apps like Jawbone or HealthKit to make sure you are staying hydrated even when mom’s too busy to think about herself. $99. Available at MyVessyl and select apple stores

8. Circuit DIY Cutting Machine

This is the perfect gift for the DIY, pinterest loving, crafty mom. Mom can use to make cards, invitations, decor, favors, etc. You design a project, pick your material, then cut and assemble. So many amazing DIY ideas we can think of to use this for!
Machines start at $179. Available at Cricut

Watch The Gift Insider on WXYZ Detroit and Fox Chicago sharing our picks. Tune into Fox Chicago on May 4th to see more ideas.

Browse our other favorite gifts for mom in our Mother’s Day and For Mom pages on TGI.

Spring is right around the corner and finally getting us out of our winter funk! Over here at The Gift Insider, we love any and every excuse to celebrate holidays (and warm weather) to the fullest. This year, we’re throwing our own St. Patrick’s Day themed party and wanted to share what we found to be 5 crafty DIY essentials to kickstart the perfect day.

Let’s be honest, St. Patrick’s Day is just an excuse for us to all justify spending an entire day drinking and eating with our friends and families. Between the parades, fireworks, and booze-filled festivities; there is no better initiation to the spring season.

The Essentials: 

1. The Perfect Cocktail 

These HoneyDew, Cucumber Mint Mojito’s are the perfect light and crisp cocktail for day drinking.

Via Thyme Food Blog 

2. Great Decorations 

No party is complete without a little bit of decoration. These fun centerpieces are eye-catching and simple to make!

Via Two Twenty One 

3. A Themed Snack 

These Pot O’ Gold Oreos are decorative and yummy desserts for guests.

Via Happy Hour Projects 

4. Party Favors

Give your guests something to remember the day by. These Mason Jars are simple to make and the perfect party favor for everyone.

Via Uncommon Designs 

5. Jello Shots

What party is complete without Jello Shots? While this recipe gives you the choice of making them kid-friendly, TGI definitely suggests making them boozy!

Via Hoosier Homemade 

Roses are red, violets are blue, Valentine’s Day is here, but you have no boo…

Single and content? Here’s a competition for YOU.

Let’s face it, nobody in this world is there for you like your BFF. Here at TGI, we believe in spoiling your gals just as much as you would your significant other. We decided to team up with Bow & Drape for a fun GIVEAWAY that’ll be the perfect post-Galentine’s day gift to show your BFF just how much you love her. Their “You Had Me At Merlot” Sweatshirt can be yours with two simple steps…

Enter in TGI’s Sweepstakes to win the ultimate present for your favorite friend!

The competition rules are simple:
1.) Follow TheGiftInsider on Instagram
2.) Tag a BFF in the comments and write one word that describes her

We will announce the winner on Monday, February 29th.

Good Luck and Happy Gifting!

XOXO,

The TGI Team

The easiest way to go when gifting to the special man in your life, is to give something he needs, something practical.

For a way to pair practical with personal, try pairing a leather wallet with a personalized wallet insert. It’s thoughtful, yet something he’ll actually use.

– For the wallets, we have a 50% off code for this new line of leather Blackwood Wallets, they start at $55. Use code Blackwoodevent for 50% off that!

– For the wallet insert, we obviously headed straight to Etsy and found not just personalized, but can be personalized with a photo and your very own handwriting from Vintage Branding Co ($20).

And there you have a perfectly personalized + practical gift for him right around $50!

The post is in collaboration with Blackwood Wallets.