giftcards no more... give unique gifts.

The holidays are here and you better believe I've already started my Etsy shopping. I. love. Etsy.

What is Etsy? Etsy is a website to sell and buy things homemade or vintage. The Etsy mission is to enable people to make a living making things, and to reconnect makers with buyers. The vision is to build a new economy and present a better choice: Buy, Sell, and Live Handmade.  

I turn to Etsy before a retail store. You find the most unique, personalized gifts and one-of-a-kind treasures while supporting independent people. Take a look. It can be a little overwhelming at first - especially if you don't know what you're looking for. But, that's the best part - you'll find things that you never knew existed and may just bump into that perfect gift! Start browsing - you'll love it. Don't know where to start? Browse by category or start by searching something you love... French Bulldog, beer, music or specific ideas like engagement gift, shabby chic wedding, birthday card, etc. and see what comes up.

Another reason Etsy is awesome... if you're not finding exactly what you want, contact the designer to see if they'll work with you to make a custom piece, 9 times out of 10 they're more than happy to. Do you want that item in orange instead of pink? Want that greeting card to say Happy Birthday instead of Congratulations? Chances are you can do it on Etsy. It's fab. I promise. 

Tip: Create a free account and add items to your "favorites" list for easy access later.

I practice what I preach - some of my Etsy purchases seen here and here. I'll have to snap photos of our other Etsy treasures which include Danny's wedding ring, Lisa's bachelorette party invitations, my wedding hair broach, Jake & Colby's engagement party invitations, ring holders, artwork... the list goes on and on.

I'd take an inexpensive, unique and thoughtful gift over a gift card any day of the week. Wouldn't you?

{some recent handpicked groupings by Etsy buyers and sellers}