Let’s be honest, curbside pickup at everywhere from the veterinarian to the liquor store is easily the best thing to come out of the COVID19 pandemic. Okay, time with family, blah, blah, blah, but also… curbside. This holiday season curbside will be the savior of many a last-minute shopper. But the truth is that it can also help us be saviors of our local businesses and economy. With shipping companies and online retailers all warning of “Shipageddon”, purchasing online and picking up locally is the way to go.

If you live in Houston here are some locally available gift ideas I recommend. You can order online or over the phone and pickup curbside. Shoes optional, masks still required.

Zadok Jewelers is a local, family owned jeweler. They’re always a pleasure to work with and I love that they offer so many different styles and price ranges. Keep a look out for the opening of their new store in February! In the meantime, you can order online and pickup at 1749 Post Oak Blvd, 77056. Special BONUS just for us! If you love these pieces use code SAVE20 at checkout for 20% off!! Even on the men’s watch!

Manready Mercantile is a cool store. As a matter of fact, I think I actually became cooler just perusing the website. It made me want to grow a beard, wear a slim cut flannel shirt and sip a whiskey. Bonus: many of the pieces are handmade right here in Houston. Order online and pick up at the store located at 321 W. 19th Street - Suite B, Houston, TX 77008.

Collectivo is, in my opinion, one of the most unique boutiques in Houston. I love that I can find pieces that I won’t find anywhere else in Houston. The owner, Geraldine Boyer, has a chic eye and has curated a boutique stocked with items made in South America and Houston. The gorgeous shop is in an old home in The Heights at 733 Yale St., Houston, TX 77007. Because this is a standalone store and the farthest thing from a chain or department store, it’s best to call if you see something online that you like. They’ll let you know if it’s in stock or offer up suggestions.

Restaurant Gift Cards can also make an excellent gift and help a hurting industry. Houston has a fantastic food scene with lots of options at all price points and cuisines. You’re sure to find something your recipient will love. Bonus: some restaurants offer eGift Cards if you’re really, REALLY last minute! (Not that I’m speaking from experience or anything.) You may consider a gift card from a restaurant group so your recipient can choose whichever restaurant they like.

Last, but not least, a gift card to JS Personal Styling can help build someone’s confidence and allow them to spoil themselves in a way that they would perhaps not do otherwise. Click here to order or email me at jodi@jsstyling.com for more information. **Holiday Bonus!! Use code BLOG1220 at checkout for 20% off Gift Cards of $200 and up. Limit 3 per customer. And while the gift card doesn’t expire, the offer turns into a pumpkin on December 31, 2020.

I wish you, your family and all those you hold dear a HEALTHY, happy and blessed holiday season!