Uncommon Goods: Anything but Ordinary

 

As a blogger I get a lot of requests to feature products or companies. If it doesn't feel organic to this space, I decline. But when Uncommon Goods contacted me and asked if I wanted to review a product from their gift line, I jumped at the chance. I'm a longtime customer and it's always one of my holiday go-tos, especially when shopping for a challenging recipient.  

Here are some of my picks from their wide selection of gifts. Also, you can check out their Christmas collection here, as well as their Christmas gifts for women here.

 

GIFTS FOR THE BOOZEHOUND:

The Barrel-Aged Cocktail Kit is an easy way for home mixologists to explore a cocktail trend that's been enthusiastically embraced by the professionals. Instead of having to purchase a large barrel (and all the liquor it takes to fill it), you get a few wooden staves to age smaller batches in a shorter amount of time (2 weeks instead of months). I have one of these and I love it! Try an aged Negroni or a Manhattan. If cocktails aren't your thing, you can always make beer at home. I selected the Southern Bourbon Stout Brewing Kit, but Uncommon Goods carries several varieties.

 

GIFTS FOR THE FOODIE:
Possession of salt used to signify an owner's wealth. Today salt might not mean much in terms of wealth, but the Flavors of America Salt Collection signifies a palate that's anything but boring. Then for the cheese lover (is there really anyone out there who doesn't like cheese?) or the wannabe cheesemonger, the Artisanal Cheesemaking Kit gives you a chance to make 15 fresh or aged hard cheeses at home.  There's an Italian version as well. 

 

GIFTS FOR THE TECHNOFILE:
The Readycase is one of those gifts I'll have to stuff in my own stocking. There's a metal multi-tool equipped with a bottle opener, screwdriver, and a serrated blade. Then there's a headphone clip, USB storage stick (which doubles as a kickstand for your phone), and 3 add-on lenses for your phone's camera, a Macro, wide lense, and Fish Eye. All of it taking your phone to new heights. For the person who wavers between embracing technology and getting back to nature, this Driftwood iPhone Charging Dock brings the conflict to a harmonious resolution. Crafted from driftwood washed up on the shores of Maine.

 

GIFTS FOR THE IN-LAWS:

Okay, maybe not for your in-laws, but I find mine a bit challenging to shop for (I love them, I just don't always know what to get for them). This Blank Page Pillow, in which all the lines are stitched, would be great with a personal note embroidered on it, especially from a grandchild. I can't imagine any grandmother who wouldn't like that. As for the Eye Glasses Holder, I actually did buy that for my father-in-law who's hopeless when it comes to hanging on to his reading glasses. I bought one for my husband as well, and I appreciate his quirky presence on our coffee table.

 

GIFTS FOR THE CRAFTERS: 

If you loved having glow-in-the-dark stars on your ceiling as a child, you can have a grown-up version with this Stitch the Stars Calendar. It's printed with glow-in-the-dark ink and matching glow-in-the-dark thread for you to stitch your way through the constellations. If your crafty pursuits are more down to earth, the Birdie Yarn Bowl keeps yarn balls in place while you knit, crochet, or weave with a sweet nest like design.

 

GIFTS FOR ALL THE HOMEBODIES:

Bring the outdoors in with this whimsical Mockingbird Birdhouse made from discarded library books. There's currently a Julia Child cookbook version as well. Kids flown the coop? This Personalized Family Pillow is a reminder of those you love. Customize a pillow that reflects all the members of your family or your current household, including beloved pets. 

 

I'm a lover of vintage, industrial, and books, so I couldn't pass up the Vintage Shoe Form Bookends. They would be very happy in my home. For my taste, though, industrial accents are best when balanced by elements from nature. This Terra Table Lamp is living happily in my home, surrounded by vintage and industrial. The mosses and air plants require zero maintenance from me, but I love that the removable bell jar allows me to change the scenery according to my whims or the season. 

This post was sponsored by Uncommon Goods, but all product picks and opinions are my own.

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One last note - Ready for Christmas? I'm in full-blown holiday mode here, so I'm going with it. Starting on Monday, I will begin posting holiday content.  Have a wonderful weekend!

 

Comments

[Shalagh Hogan]

Ah if us little bloggers were approached half as much by half the quality of goods you get offered. You picked nice ones. Now bring on your pro's holiday. Halloween is over. (The Dragon Ninja had a nice haul btw.)
Love,
Shalagh