Holiday Shopping Made Easy

Three under-the-radar sites for all your gifting needs.

by Heather Summerville

I wish I were one of those organized women who have all of their presents purchased and wrapped before the calendar even hits December. Instead, I'm the hopelessly frantic last-minute shopper who's running around on Christmas Eve looking for the perfect, thoughtful gift even though I obviously didn't have time to think about it. Thankfully, this year, I have decided to stick to the Internet. I bought virtually all of my presents from three sites--narrowing it down to three really helped me cut back on shipping costs--that have a cool mix of unique items that you're unlikely to find anywhere else. 

Scandinavian Grace is one of my favorite stores in Brooklyn, and the options on their website are just as stellar. This was my go-to destination for affordable gifts for everyone I work with.























Though it's a bit pricier, Auto has a remarkable assortment of thoughtful keepsakes for your home. I bought most of my family's gifts here, from a tiny radio for my dad to keep in the bathroom to a lovely John Derian tray that my sister has had her eye on for years.






















I have our very talented editor at large Elise Loehnen to thank for uncovering this secret source. LAMA Designs focuses on reinterpreting typical Latin American arts and making them relevant in the modern world, like playful ceramics, limited-edition artwork, and exotic throw pillows made from sacks of grain.