One of the things I have always been more inclined to do, was find a gift from someone that was truly unique. Or heck, I would make it myself.  I remember when I was young(not sure what age) I made my father a Happy Birthday book on the computer.  Maybe it's because for as long as I remember, my father has hand made our gifts(beautiful wood jewelry boxes, pens, games, etc) and I just caught that creative gene.

So this year I thought it would be fun to compile a list of my FAVORITE shopping places(stores and online) that you can find amazing unique gifts at, or ways to create your own:)  This will also get updated over the next couple weeks as we get closer to Xmas! So make sure to check back.

Store Front Shopping:

When you think of shopping, I know big retailers like Wal-Mart, TJ Maxx, and Toys R Us come to mind, but lets all take a moment to help our community and shop our local brick and mortar stores. 

1.) Beads to Live By:

                If you like the concept of giving jewelry for Christmas, and want to add a personal flare, why not learn to make it yourself!  I love Cassandra Spicer at Beads to Live By and you can take a great class to learn how to make it.  She has a range of different styles, beads and classes you can take to create the perfect piece for that special person!  They are located downtown Jackson at 145 S. Mechanic Street, Jackson, MI 49201   or online www.beadstoliveby.com

1.) A Frame Above and 180 Chic Boutique

                 If you haven't stopped in lately to A Frame Above at 180 W Michigan Ave, Jackson, MI 49201, then you this holiday season you will want to.  Wendy Clifton, owner, has some of the most unique gifts in their store.  Having added purses, jewelry, clothing to her line up, stopping in to see her can really be a one stop shop this season. Or if you have an amazing piece of your family history, or just a beautiful portrait you want framed, Wendy is great at making your special art shine! 

3.) Weatherwax Drugs:

               I remember last year when I was looking for a fun unique gift, I was surprised to see weatherwax drugs came to the rescue and was the only store in Jackson Michigan that had it.  With a wide range of items, from keepsake nicknacks to toys for the kiddos, make sure you stop in to check out their selection. There are 3 locations in Jackson, Spring Arbor and Brooklyn.  Here are the addresses: 201 Hinckley Boulevard, Jackson.  8012 Spring Arbor Rd, Spring Arbor. 105 N. Main St, Brooklyn.

4.) Angie's Attic

             If you want fun unique vintage clothing, or repurposed furniture, then Angie's Attic is a must see.  I go in there frequently when I want to find an item that will be special as a gift or for my own home.  The staff is always friendly and willing to help you find that special piece.  They also sell a variety of chalk paint for your own furniture painting projects.  They are located at 763 W Franklin St, Jackson Michigan.

5.) Anna's Gift and Home Décor

           This store(and amazing porch café) have so many things to look at. From great signs, to furniture, to fun jewelry, you are sure to find the perfect gift for someone on your list.  You can even throw in a gift card to the café.  I have frequented this store for decorations, so you can also find something for yourself:) Head over to 401 N. Mechanic St, Jackson Michigan to shop now!

6.) Salvaged Décor: Brooklyn

          If you are into the Shabby Chic look for your holiday furniture, then look no further.  Salvaged Décor really takes an old piece of furniture and makes it into something new and great.  Or if you know you or a family member, have a piece of furniture they would like redone, they do custom painting for you!  They are located at 124 S. Main St, Suite D, Brooklyn, Michigan.

Beauty Shopping:

If you have a lady in your life who has everything, then a pampered day or service may be just what Santa ordered! Check out some ideas for pampering your xmas list.

5.) Bella Brown Beauty

           If you are looking for that fashion/makeup forward trend girl in your life, then look no further than a gift card to Bella Brown, Lash artist. Not only does Bella do the best eyelash extensions that I have ever seen, she also does an AMAZING job on makeup.  Along with her main services of eyelash extensions, makeup, microblading, waxing and skin care, she has her own Lash Certification course for those who are looking to get into this field.  A gift card to Bella will sure make your makeup lover swoon! Find her at 2108 Horton Rd, Jackson MI or online at bellabrownbeauty.expert

6.) Salon JaDore

             What woman(or man) doesn't want a day of pampering after a stressful work week(or the stressful holidays!)?  Salon JaDore is an amazing salon that has numerous hairstylist that will give your mane the movie star treatment.  Along with hair styling and coloring, you can get gift certificates for pedicures, manicures, facials, lashes and microblading. Find them at 2161 Ferguson Rd, Ste 105, Jackson Michigan

7.) Polished

              This new nail salon is such a cute place to visit.  I took my son with me to get a manicure and pedicure about a month ago and we had a great time.  The nail salon is new in town and is committed to providing safe, sanitary and quality nail care services.  They are located at 1212 Wildwood Ave, Suite C, Jackson MI 49203

8.) Headliners:

        Another community favorite is Headliners Design Studio.  Treating all of their clients like a guest in their home, all of their professionals are trained in the latest in cutting-edge techniques for your tresses.  They also specialize in nails and have some amazing gift items like Hobo the Original bags and fun jewelry.  You can find them at 516 Park Rd, Jackson Michigan. 

9.) Skin Deep Day Spa

           Having a wide range of deluxe spa services, You can truly pamper someone on your xmas list this year.  From Advanced skin care, to facials, and massage therapy, choosing a gift card from Skin Deep Day Spa will surely be one of the best gifts you give.  They are located at 1216 Wildwood Ave, Ste C, Jackson Michigan. Or visit them online at http://skindeepspajackson.com

Online Shopping.

Now I'm not trying to say online shopping is awful and to never do it, but think about buying from someone who may be selling a product or service online and is a local member of your community. Shopping online from them, you are also helping your community by allowing them more freedom to do the same.  Here are some great online gifts that I love and buy from also. 

1.) Lume Cube: 

      For all you photo and video people out there that want to keep shooting once the sun goes down, then Lume Cube is your portable sun.  The company created lume cube for people who love everything photo and video.  These small little lights are controlled by your phone and pack a powerful punch.    You can purchase just one, or a kit for a go pro.  There are so many amazing ways to use these little lights.  If you find a person on your wish list constantly wanting to push the boundaries of their video and photo world, then head over to www.lumecube.com

2.) Stella and Dot.

        For all jewelry lovers out there, and those woman who love to multi-task their wardrobe, then Stella and Dot jewelry is a must.  They have many styles that you can wear multiple ways, it's perfect for those who love to change up a look.  One of my favorite items from Stella and Dot is the Signature Engravable Necklace and bracelets.  I love being able to give someone a personalized gift, and these pieces do just that.  Put an awesome supportive or inspirational word/quote you can remind someone everyday that they are beautiful and amazing.  Head over to www.stelladot.com/carriesglamcorner to see more styles. 

3.) DoTerra Oils

         These oils are perfect for all the people out there who want a natural alternative to their normal everyday healing products. There are so many uses for essential oils that I can't even begin to list them all.  But head over my friends Bethany's website to check them out and ask her how they can help you!  Check them out HERE