I have always wanted to go to The Junior League’s Tinsel and Treasures. I put it on my calendar, but for a variety of reasons, I never made it.
Well, 2021 is the year of preparation for me. I’ve been slowly trying to get ready for Christmas and birthdays early on so I don’t have to scramble at the last minute. There just isn’t enough time in the day for the last-minute scramble!
This year I committed to checking it out with a few of my best girlfriends and it did not disappoint! I have many “nice” names checked off my list and we have months to spare!
Here is your early gift guide that includes many local favorites!
For the Foodie
The Popcorn Hut, located in Houston (AKA, West Lafayette) is officially my new addiction. The popcorn is full and fluffy (if you are a popcorn lover, you know why that makes a difference with flavored popcorn) and the flavor is poppin’! (See what I did there?) I grabbed dill pickle and jalapeño ranch. Think teacher gifts or dirty Santa!
Positioned strategically about 4 mimosas into our shopping adventure, was a delicious oasis. The guys dishing out the soups, cobblers, dips and chicken salad got me exactly what was needed. I sampled nearly EVERYTHING they had to offer and I’m here to tell you that every mix is absolutely delish! And, what is better than a simple dinner that tastes like it was cooked from scratch for hours!
I grabbed the Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Soup, Cotton Country Chicken Soup, Uncle Wade’s “Tater Soup,” Good Luck Soup, River Road Gumbo Mix, and Plantation Chicken And Rice. My sister-in-law gave everyone gumbo pots and soup mix for Christmas last year and I thought that was the most precious gift idea. Perfect for the in-laws or the neighbors! Plus, this is a Louisiana company, so get your local on!
I dream of a day when I can have people over and say “Let me just whip up the perfect gourmet cocktail, no problem”. If you want a ranch water (aka, tequila, soda, and lime), I got you! Anything more complicated and I’m at a loss.
Here’s where Leisuremann’s comes in. This little compact pack of powder, plus follow the simple directions on the canister, add your liquor, and bam! You’re a bartender! The Bee’s Knees and Paloma are my faves. This Louisiana company is perfect for that awesome stocking stuffer for Santa and Mrs. Clause!
For the Kiddo
How to Decorate A Cypress Tree, By Angelle Terrell
If you are looking for the sweetest addition to your local Louisiana author library, look no further. This book is absolutely precious and really brings the meaning of Christmas and family to the forefront. I was able to get my book signed by the author! Not to worry, there will be more signing events as the Christmas season comes closer, so be on the lookout!
For the Party Animal
Vineyard Supply Company Wine Opener Set
To be clear, I love a kitchen gadget. You name to the infomercial, I bought the product. Want to know if the perfect pancake maker works as advertised, I’m your girl. So, I am perfectly aware that a fantastic demo is a way to my heart and wallet. And that’s what hooked me. This wine opener is a breeze to use and empty, plus aerator, plus pourer, plus foil cutter, plus vacuum stopper, plus chill stick?!!!
Yep, I bought it. I bought a few. It makes the most precious gift for your favorite wine connoisseur and/or lovely lady who only gets the box of wine only because it’s a pain to open and seal a regular bottle. And I got the rose gold because if you’re going to be extra like this, best to be extra in rose gold.
“Cheers Witches” Headband from Golden Lily
Me and my #sweatpantskrewe love a matching theme. We all picked up one of these sparkly headbands up from South Louisiana brand Golden Lily to add to our Halloween uniform started last year. I feel like this can be worn pretty much all year, right?
For you!
Is it really even Christmas shopping if you don’t grab a thing or two for yourself? I think it’s a required Christmas assignment to treat yourself!
Sequin Duster from One Hip Mom
What does one wear to the 24 hour CVS to pick up poster board at 9 pm on a Sunday because your kid forgot about their project due on Monday? Obviously a sequin sparkly duster! And grab a bottle of wine while you’re there, you have the opener now after all! My fashionista friend grabbed this gem and I am hella jealous!
Jolene T-shirt from Love Bug Apparel
If you don’t love Dolly Parton, I don’t want to know you. I want this woman’s face and words alllllll over my life. Ruston, LA-based, Love Bug Apparel has the cutest Dolly apparel out there! Check them out!
I had the best time at Tinsel and Treasures! I can’t wait to go back next year and get a jump start on Christmas shopping 2022. What was your favorite buy of Tinsel and Treasures 2021?? Share in the comments!