For Mom
Just For Runners
If you’re a runner, you’ll love RunnerCrate (www.runnercrate.com, Price: as low as $20 per month), a subscription box that comes packed with four to six healthy snacks and fitness-related gadgets or gear. Also included in the box are challenges to...
Change is Good
If you’re like me, the announcement of the new iPhone left me perplexed. “You mean I can’t charge my phone and listen with headphones at the same time?” But just like any new version of anything … we’ll all get...
Charge in Style
Worrying about getting your child to school on time to remembering to grab your phone charger on the way out… we all know those days where you’re running late, phone is dying, and you grab all your things and shove...
For Your Eyes Only
Reduce puffiness and dark circles with MEG 21 Bright & Firm Eye Treatment (www.meg21.com, $75) and energize those tired eyes. You’ll see the difference immediately. Company details: MEG 21, a scientifically developed skincare line with a patented ingredient to stop the effects of...
Breathe Easier
If you are an allergy sufferer like me, you’ll surely appreciate the Dyson Pure Cool (www.dyson.com, $499.99), which removes 99.95% of harmful airborne particles by trapping them in a high-efficiency HEPA filter. In other words, the gunk we breathe that...
In the Bag
I absolutely love Bumkins, an eco-conscious company that has a wide variety of products that are great for the environment while remaining hip, fashionable and relevant. Their line includes bibs, smocks, mealtime necessities, cloth diaper systems (they are easier to...
Adults can color, too!
Who said that coloring was only for kids? Coloring Mandalas coloring books by Quarto Books (www.quartoknows.com , $11.99) is the perfect combination of relaxation, fun, and creativity for those of all ages. Whether you are coloring with the kids or...
Stay Dry with Primal Pit Paste
Love the feeling of dry pits but hate using harsh chemicals? Then Primal Pit Paste ($8.95-$12.95) is the deodorant for you! Primal Pit Paste is made with natural and organic ingredients (instead of aluminum and parabens) such as organic coconut...
Must-Have Hair Products from Pravana
With such great scents, the Pravana Nevo Intense Therapy Leave-In Treatment ($18) and the Nevo Replenishing Hair Oil ($38) will sure leave your hair smooth, moisturized, and protected. These products are vegan and free of sulfates, parabens, and gluten. Aside...
Enjoy the Outdoors
The Matador Pocket Blanket ($29.99) is an essential for families who love the outdoors. Aside from its compact design, the Matador is water and puncture resistant, and has weighted corners to prevent it from lifting off the ground. Take it on-the-go...
Tasty Pics
Not sure what to bring to the holiday potluck? Skip the lasagna and make a big impression with Lady Fortunes’ photo shortbread cookies ($2.60 for a 2.5” round cookie, minimum order of 24 cookies, www.LadyFortunes.com). They taste just as great...
Think Outside the Cube
Travel light during your holiday visits with the Polaroid CUBE HD action camera ($99.99, www.PolaroidCUBE.com). This cute, colorful and compact camera fits perfectly in any pocket, making it a snap to capture holiday memories.
Stick It
Forget the hammer and nails! WeMontage (3x2 collage, $59.99, www.WeMontage.com) is a removable, customized photo collage that adds a personal touch to any room! Available in many sizes, it adheres to textured and non-textured surfaces.
Photo Ready
Say goodbye to old-school photo albums and hello to Blurb (starting at $12.99, www.blurb.com). These DIY books are easy to make and a great way to show off your family photos.
Party Ideas: Party Plan On the Go
Need a little inspiration or a few party ideas? The Partyology app (free for iOS, www.partyology.com) lets you design, plan and shop from top retailers with your iPhone or iPad. Get instant access to great party tips from bloggers and...
Trend Setters
Emily Matson and Julianne Goldmark, now college students, founded their fashion forward hair accessory company, Emi Jay (Prices vary, www.emijay.com) back in middle school in 2009. Their collection includes hair ties in a variety of fun colors and patterns, headbands,...
Dancing in the Street
Comfortable ballet flats for everyday wear are now available in infant and children’s sizes from Linge Shoes ($39 for infants and children, $59 for adults, www.lingeshoes.com). Perfect for sashaying around the studio or strutting on the sidewalk, these ballet flats...
Mint Condition
A couple months ago, I said goodbye to my car of 10+ years. Before I let her go, I wanted to make sure she was presentable for her new owners. It had been awhile since I had ridden in the...
Back to School – Reuse, Recycle, Repeat!
Back-to-school shopping is smart, convenient and fun with upscale reseller, Moxie Jean (www.moxiejean.com, prices vary, sizes newborn to 14, plus maternity), a website where you can buy and sell gently used and new children’s clothing and maternity wear. Free shipping...
All Natural: Skin Care for Dad
Keep it Natural Give dad the gift that keeps on giving! All natural, Branch to Nature's Signature Thyme Mens Shaving Collection (www.branchtonature.com) includes skin care products that make the perfect gift set for fathers who want to look and feel their best. Some...
Vegan Polish
Make a bold statement with Lillian Eve ($12, www.lillianeve.com), a vegan and toxin-free nail polish line. Feel even better after a manicure knowing you’ve used an unharmful product! The new collection includes popular pastel and nude colors that will have...
Almost Barefoot
Feel barefoot with shoes on. The SON-R Flex slip-on shoe by Sperry ($75, www.sperry.com) combines style with patented technologies to keep you comfortable and well-balanced. Perfect for on the go lifestyle, this packable flat comes with a mesh zipper bag...
Boot Up
Now that boot season’s over, you’ll want to make sure your boots are stored properly. The Boot Butler (3-pair boot rack is $49.99, 5-pair boot rack is $69.99, www.bootbutler.com) saves valuable closet space and keeps your boot’s original shape. Its...
A Modern Companion
Who doesn't love a satchel? The Modine Trapeze Top Handle Bag by Prima Donna ($42.99, www.shopprimadonna.com) will add a modern flair to your wardrobe with its zippered accents and gold hardware. It also comes with an optional shoulder strap. Available...
What’s Your Mantra?
Promote a lifestyle of optimism, positivity, and mindfulness with MantraBands ($25-35 each, www.mantraband.com). These simple and elegant bracelets are engraved with inspirational messages like “Enjoy the Journey,” “Let Your Light Shine” and “Carpe Diem.” Stack them on for a modern...
An Eco-Friendly Timepiece
Gwen Stefani has partnered with Q&QSmileSolar to create a limited edition collection of solar-powered watches (operational for over three months with just one charge and no battery). The Harajuku Lovers x Q&Q SmileSolar Collection ($50, available at Nordstrom and Nordstrom.com)...
Shades that Finally Fit!
Living in SoCal means having a pair of sunglasses handy at all times. For many, it's not so easy to find the right fit. Worry no more. Make a statement this season with Pacific Rim Eyewear’s line of sunglasses ($110 each, www.pacificrimeyewear.com)....
A Customizable Calendar
Add a splash of color to your office space with the Color Calendar Wall Decal by Paper Culture ($49.99, www.paperculture.com). Made from fabric, each individual decal square is removable, allowing you to get creative and reposition on walls as you please...
For Your Ups and Downs
Tired of sitting at your desk all day? The Varidesk ($275 - $350, www.varidesk.com) is the perfect solution for those looking for an alternative. It works as a riser that sits on top of your existing desk. Easily switch from...
Not Your Typical Diaper Bag
Practical and functional, the Hastings Bag by Paca Pod ($130, www.pacapod.com) is the ideal travel companion for any working mom. It serves as a diaper bag, messenger bag and backpack all rolled into one and comes equipped with a flat...
Walk in Style
Ditch the heels and slip on a pair of Start Flats by Zaxy Shoes ($40.00, www.zaxyusa.com). Stylish and unbelievably cushiony, these flats are perfect for running lunchtime errands or for when you’re ready to switch to a more comfortable look...
A Book for Inspiration and Empowerment
If you’re looking for some inspiration and practical advice for conquering the business world, then Woman UP! Overcome the 7 Deadly Sins that Sabotage Your Success by career expert Aimee Cohen ($16.95, www.womanuppower.com) is the book for you. It’s also...
Sip With Confidence
Ceramic Travel Mugs by Karma ($15, www.karmagifts.com) feature designs and inspirational messages to keep wonderful thoughts top of mind throughout the day. Each mug comes with a secure lid for travel, so you can sip worry free while on the...
Soft as Silk
If you’re having a “take me away” moment, Bombs Away Bath Bomb Powder (www.lulublossom.com, $14 for a 16oz tub) by vegan skin care and bath line company, Lulu Blossom, is sure to be a sweet solution for a little R&R....
Something for Everyone
Inspirational messages, state pride and whimsical images are some of the sweet findings stamped on sterling silver pendants by California-based Lulu Bug Jewelry (www.lulubugjewelry.com, $30 and up). Everything is carefully handmade using .999 silver or .925 sterling silver and packaged...
Love Potions
Nourish and hydrate your body with EO Organic Body Serums: No 01 and No 02 (Small World Trading Co., www.eoproducts.com, $21.99 each). These anti-aging oils are 100% organic, non-GMO and made with essential oils that are naturally aroma therapeutic. Use No 01: Revitalizing...
Get It Together
Find everyday wisdom and organize your thoughts using the Journal Trio by Wordologies ($18, www.wordologies.com). Each package comes with three journals – one lined, one blank, and one with graph-paper. Made of recycled paper, all journals display a meaningful message...
For the Dancer in You
Dance in the New Year and shed a few pounds with GROOV3 ($16.99, www.groov3.com), a dance-fitness workout DVD accessible to all levels. GROOV3 also offers a 30-Day challenge that includes access to two more 30-minute videos that compliment the DVD...
Your Best Accessory
Style and protect your locks with it HAIRCARE products ($44.90, www.freezeithair.com), a premiere collection of hair sprays, mousses, gels, serums and leave-in treatments. If you’re looking for an easy-to-style everyday look, try the Surf Spray. Want to glam-it-up? Add a...
A Dose of Beauty
L.A. makeup artist Felicia Alva has launched Flutter Beauty ($18-$30, www.flutterbeauty.com, available online and at the Butterfly Loft Salon in Encino), a chic and luxurious makeup line to dress up your eyes, lips, and skin. Some favorites are Custom Blended...
Skin Deep
Detoxify, exfoliate and soften your skin with the Glacial Facial Purifying Mineral Mud Masque by Alaska Glacial Mud Co. ($34, www.alaskaglacialmud.com). Hand-carved from the Copper River Delta in Alaska and enriched with certified organic and botanical extracts, the masque will...
Make a Wish
Who doesn't love the element of surprise? Ring Candles from Diamond Candles (www.diamondcandles.com, $24.95) are like two gifts in one. With a variety of scents and made with 100% soy wax, each Ring Candle has a surprise ring embedded in the...
Accidents Happen
KIDS 'N' PETS Instant All Purpose Stain & Odor Remover ($4.99 for 27 fl oz.) is a non-toxic, safe and guaranteed effective solution for tackling EVERY biodegradable stain and eliminating odors on contact. No other single product has the ability to...
Super Mama
Reebok Master Trainer and pre/post-natal fitness specialist helps moms-to-be stay active and fit during their pregnancies in her two-DVD set, Expecting More: Sara Haley's Daily Sweat Pregnancy Program ($39.95). A variety of workouts focus on strengthening the core, with modifications for...
For the Fitness Freak
The makers of P90X and Insantity bring a fun, energetic program led by trainer, Chalene Johnson, Turbo Fire by Beach Body (6 monthly payments of $19.95). This fast-paced 90-day workout comes with 14 classes on DVD, an instructional DVD, a...
Take it Up a Notch
If the winter mornings are too cold for you to endure, join Ariane Hundt’s Brooklyn Bridge Boot Camp ($25) in the comfort of your living room. She‘ll take you across the 1-mile bridge and back with cardio blasts that are...
Good Scents
Got a foodie or two on your list? Tinyhands Scented Food Jewelry (starting at $23) will make hearts sing and tummies rumble. Miniature treats include a lollipop, S’mores, salted pretzel, a variety of cupcake flavors and even a corn dog!...
S’more, Please
A wintertime favorite is packaged beautifully in this S'mores Kit by Whimsy & Spice ($18). Comes with marshmallows (your choice of cardamom or maple), homemade graham cracker shortbread cookies, Valhrona chocolate squares and mini skewers.
Get Packin’
Eliminate the morning rush and get make-ahead lunch box ideas in Katie Morford’s Best Lunch Box Ever: Ideas and Recipes for School Lunches Kids Will Love, ($24.95)
In the Loop
Manage day-to-day activities in one central location with Cozi (free), an app that makes sharing shopping and to-do lists, schedules and calendars a snap through any computer or mobile device.
Freetoes by Freetoes Brand, Inc.
Freetoes ($7.99) were designed by an 8 year old girl named Kate “K8” who loved flip-flops and wanted to wear them even in cold weather. K8 started her own business using her allowance to make and sell hand altered socks. ...
EarZings
EarZings ($14.95) are the NEW PIERCE-FREE earring. They are not clip-ons, magnets or temporary tattoos but are a completely new concept of pierce-free. EarZings use a patent-pending coil design to comfortably secure to the ear. They are easy-to-wear and stay...
DLVR™ Maternity Fitness Capri with ActivEmbrace Support Technology
The DLVR™ Fitness Capri ($72) with ActivEmbrace™ Technology: Our patent pending, ActivEmbrace™ waistband design will help support your belly as it grows while helping to offload your pelvis and low back. You can increase the support to the next level...
Be Well
The latest yoga wear from Gaiam (www.gaiam.com) includes the tummy-flattening Wrap Waist Bootcut Pant ($78), and the Releve Tank ($51),featuring a twisted racer back and mesh banding for breathability. Feel good and look good in your favorite asana.
Tidy Up Your Treasures
Save your child’s artwork digitally with the free app Artkive (Books start at $25),compatible with most iOS devices. Snap a photo of each masterpiece, note the artist’s name and date, and order a keepsake book at the end of the...
Curb Spending, Save Money
Shop without the guilt and save 40-80% on featured items for women and children at Steals.com. Four different sites – “baby,” “kid,” “scrap” (for scrapbookers) and “she” – feature two new deals each day, plus an archive of steals in case you...
Spend More Time With Family
Explore Los Angeles “kid style” with The Kid’s Guide to Los Angeles County, ($12.95, Ages 6 – 12). This pocked-sized travel guide encourages quality family time and reveals the best places to sight see, eat and shop. Filled with fun...
Enjoy Every Last Ounce
Waste no more with the Beauty Spoon (2-pack, $9.99), a cosmetic tool that helps retrieve any of your favorite beauty product that’s stranded in the bottom of the bottle.
Ready, Set, Accessorize!
Add a minor touch of elegance to your usual updo with Bloom Black Ties (2-pack, $34), a fashionable hair-tie alternative that doubles as a bracelet.
Grab a Chic Companion
Enough with scrambling to find a tissue pack at the bottom of your handbag. Uber Mom’s stylish and reusable Wipebox MINI ($6.99) is ideal for anyone on the go.
Shimmer And Shine
Transform ordinary nails with textured shades of purple, pink, turquoise and yellow from OPI’s Beach Sandies Liquid Sand mini nail lacquers ($12.95), a limited-edition set that’s perfect for spring!
Nurture Your Body
Luxuriate from head to toe with Herban (gift sets start at $35), an organic body care line that leaves skin feeling soft and rejuvenated all day long.
Make an Eco-Statement
Attention fashion-forward ladies! UrbanHalo Headbands ($15) get their cool colors and trendy prints from sustainable, waterless ink. Stylish enough for day wear, functional enough for exercise, Halos are also available for men.