Holiday Prep: Custom Gifts to Order Way Ahead

You know when it’s December 20th and you think, “I really wish I had thought ahead to order that amazing custom gift for my mom.” Well, that’s why you follow DoSayGive: to remind you about these things! Today I rounded up some amazing custom gift ideas that need to be ordered way in advance. Trust me, if you spread out some of your holiday shopping you will actually enjoy the season with your family (instead of rushing around town trying to get “to dos” crossed off your list!).

Cowboy Boots 

A pair of custom Cowboy Boots is the ultimate luxury gift for Texans. If you are wondering what to get for your husband or father, custom cowboy boots are perfect for the man who has everything. I know I would like some! There are a few destinations that make beautiful custom boots, but some local favorites include Leddy’s in Fort Worth and Roma’s in Dallas on Preston and Royal. If you are looking to place an online order, Micron Crosby and Lucchese sell their boots online. Visit Micron Crosby’s store in Highland Park for the ultimate custom boot experience for men and women. A gift certificate is also an idea so they can design their own!

Personalized Pillows 

Have you seen these pillow from Huger Memories? They are so unique and beautiful. These are the perfect heirloom gift for a family member. Sarah Wiley, the founder of Huger Memories, brings your photograph to life to create lasting memories on a pillow whether it’s a house or a family pet. Keep in mind that since each piece is unique, this process will take time. By ordering in advance, you can ensure that your pillow will be in by the holidays.

Custom Portrait 

There are so many fabulous artists that paint watercolor portraits and this would make a memorable gift. One of my favorite artists is Susan Woodard. A few year ago she painted this watercolor my girls and me at the beach and it is something I have cherished ever since. If are wanting a commissioned piece, make sure you order before September 30 (tomorrow!). If you miss the deadline, you can still order her college prints. Framing a print of your husband’s alma mater would be the perfect gift for him!

For portraits of your children or of your family, Laura Arth is an artist I wrote about in this post. Or for pet portraits I am getting one from Laura Row Studio.

Silhouettes

A silhouette portrait is the perfect gift for a new grandparent or grandparent. There are so many companies that make amazing silhouettes. Dapper and Darling is definitely one of my favorites. Their turnaround times are anywhere between 2-4 weeks after they receive the photo of your choosing. You can choose a traditional framed silhouette or have the silhouette put on wood, an ornament or a piece of jewelry. Their beautiful customization options truly make this piece something to be treasured.

For a more traditional silhouette, Cut Arts is the place to go. Their turn around time is 3-4 weeks but, again, these timelines get longer as we get closer to to the holidays.

Jewelry 

If you are looking to put a bug in your husband’s ear about what you want for Christmas, make sure to include jewelry. There are so many places to find beautiful, one of a kind jewelry. Monica Rich Kosann has so many beautiful pieces. This Petite Initial Locket is one of my favorites and would be such a wonderful Christmas gift. Cannon Lewis is another great destination for custom jewelry that you should definitely keep on your list this Holiday season. See her Instagram page for some of her recent custom work for mothers and grandmothers.  This meaningful bracelet is something that can be engraved and customized with a specific stone.

Peg Doll Family

If you have followed the blog for a while, you may know that these Peg Dolls from Peg and Plum are one of my girls favorite toys. A custom family makes a special keepsake gift for your children or nieces and nephews. By ordering in advance, you can choose the customized family option to have peg dolls made that resemble your family. But if you find yourself running out of time, choose from the collection of adorable peg dolls listed in her Etsy shop.

Sacha Nicholas 

Sasha Nicholas creates beautiful, personalized and timeless pieces for your family or someone in your list. This is a gift that would be perfect for someone who has everything or appreciates unique gifts. Meg, my assistant, received a few pieces as wedding gifts and has appreciated how wonderful they look around her home. The champagne bucket is something you might want to order for yourself to entertain this holidays season. It makes a gorgeous centerpiece with flowers or potted plants as well.

House Portrait 

A custom painting of a home is a thoughtful gift that definitely needs to be ordered ahead of time! There are so many talented artists that offer house portraits, like Susan Woodard. There are a bunch of options on Etsy. The Mackenzie Barber who creates portraits in both watercolor and just an ink option.

---

DoSayGive’s Annual Early Bird Christmas post is coming soon when some amazing small businesses (many with custom gifts!) with offer DoSayGive readers exclusive discounts for shopping early. Subscribe to DoSayGive emails so you don’t miss that post!

What are your favorite custom gifts to give? Make sure to pin this post to reference all holiday season!