A while back, I promised to post about some of my favorite places to shop. Now that gift shopping is moving into high gear, it seems like a good time.

(Note:  While all of these stores have websites, the brick-and-mortar stores may have specials and merchandise not available online.  Plus, I like to see things in person when possible.  On the other hand, some have online specials or merchandise not available in the store.)

Disclaimer:  None of these merchants is paying me for my recommendation.  They are on this list because they are places where I shop.

IKEA: (www.ikea.com) Don’t let the layout confuse you.  (It’s intimidating, I know.)  Great things to buy here are cushions and throws, fun shower curtains, gardening equipment, lighting, basic kitchen implements (wine glasses, silverware, dinnerware, kitchen tools, etc.), and kid’s gifts.  Go on a weekday evening and have the Swedish meatballs for dinner.  They also sell beautiful ornaments and gift wrap, but those tend to be more pricey

World Market: (www.worldmarket.com) A store full of unique items from all over the world.  I especially like the kitchen and dining textiles, baskets and decorative objects, and the wonderful, unique foods imported from all over. If you have a foodie on your list, just step into this store, pick a basket, line it with a tea towel, and fill it with balsamic vinegar, toasted sesame oil, unique pastas, fabulous spice mixes, and amazing cookies, including two of my very favorite ones: Milk Chocolate Digestives and Tim Tams.

Fishs Eddy: (www.fishseddy.com) This store is only in the New York City area, but they ship everywhere. (Note: Shipping is expensive due to the nature of the merchandise.) They sell dishes and glasses.  Sounds boring, huh?  Except they have wonderfully unique merchandise designed expressly for the store.  Where else can you find a lunch set (plate, bowl, and mug) for a friendly dog or cat lover?  Or Heroes of the Torah drinking glasses? Or dinnerware featuring the New York skyline?  And since the majority of their products are designed just for them, there’s minimal chance that folks will get duplicates.  They also sell brightly colored sturdy dinnerware that would be a great gift for anyone just starting out.  It’s tough and inexpensive enough to use every day, but pretty enough to break out for guests.

LUSH: (www.lush.com) This UK-based company is increasing its U.S. presence.  They sell handmade, small-batch cosmetics.  They sell a variety of gift boxes as well as individual things that make excellent stocking stuffers (lip balms, bath bombs, massage bars, moisturizers, etc.)  Be careful if you have to ship things you buy from them since many products require special handling.  Also, since the products are handmade, they have expiration dates, so you’ll want to check.

I hope you’ll enjoy some of my favorite places.