Life, Love, Etc. Archives - A Side of Sweet

2021 Holiday Gift Guide

It’s my favorite time of year! Time to share my holiday gift guide with all of my favorite things that I’m giving this year – or purchased for myself! #TreatYoSelf

I have spent weeks testing each of these gifts rigorously to ensure they deserve my seal of approval! That means I’ve tasted the chocolate, used the beauty products, and even slept in the PJs! The things I do in the name of research. 🙂

I hope you’ll find someone for everyone on your list. If I missed someone, let me know in the comments and we’ll brainstorm together until we find the perfect gift!

Read on for the guide!
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House of Marley Get Together Duo

We are obsessed with House of Marley products. You’ll find them all over our house! I love listening to old records on their Stir It Up Wireless turntable. The experience just got an upgrade because we now have their new Get Together Duo Speakers to pair with the turntable.

House of Marley just released the Get Together Duo Speakers and to say they are mighty mights is an understatement. They pair seamlessly and give a surround sound experience. Each speaker boasts a 20W rating with 3.5″ woofers and 1″ tweeters for high-quality bass and audio clarity. The speakers give 20 hours of playtime from the left and the right plugs into a wall. They are compact enough to fit on her desk, on a kitchen counter, or even in the backyard if you have an outdoor outlet.

We can also use the Get Together Duo outside and still get that surround sound experience thanks to the wireless second speaker.

Besides the quality, the number one thing that drew us to the House of Marley brand is its sustainable approach to audio. Their products are made with Earth-kind materials like bamboo, recyclable aluminum, and FSC Certified wood. They also don’t use plastic packaging!

You can’t get better than beautiful, high-quality products from a company that cares about the environment. Definitely check them out!

What to Get Her for Mother’s Day

Mother's Day Gift Guide

Mother’s Day is coming up quick and I have some great gift ideas for any mom, grandma, or just someone special in your life. You’ll find the perfect products for a little pampering, gifts for the mom who craves adventure, and so much more! Many also have an eco-friendly component so you can feel good about minimizing the environmental impact of your gift. If you tend to be a last minute gift giver, a few are even available on Amazon prime or via express shipping.

Read on for the guide…

2021 Valentine’s Day Gift Guide

Valentine Guide

This year let’s all agree to move beyond the traditional Valentine’s Day present of chocolates and flowers. I’m all for giving and receiving something practical for Valentine’s day instead. If you’re scratching your head, don’t worry! I’ve done the legwork for you with my annual Valentine’s Day Gift Guide! I’ve tested each product personally and can 100% vouch for them and the companies behind them. Many have an eco-friendly or natural ingredient spin so you can feel about supporting the company behind them. A few are even on sale or have a discount offered if you sign up for their mailing list.

Read on for what to get for Valentine’s Day!… Read More »

Holiday Shopping at Westlake Shopping Center

Westlake Mall Shopping Center Daly City, CA

We’re officially gearing up for the holidays! Even though they look different this year, one thing is the same – I’ll be running all of my holiday errands at Westlake Shopping Center in Daly City.

Even though we live in San Francisco, Westlake Shopping Center is less than 15 minutes from our house! We actually prefer shopping there because everything is in one place and it’s easy to find parking. They have a huge variety of restaurants and cafes within the shopping center which makes running errands surprisingly enjoyable! I’m much happier crossing things off my To-Do list when I’m well-caffeinated and have a belly full of pastries.

2020 Holiday Gift Guide

2020. Has there ever been a time when we needed the holiday spirit more? We aren’t going home for the holidays for the first time in eight years, so gifts have taken an even more central role for us.

Everything on this guide has been personally used and tested by my husband and me. I’ve focused on items that are high quality and versatile; that won’t get tossed after the holidays are over. Many of the products have a social or environmentally-friendly component, from plastic-free shipping to empowering artisans in Guatemala. You’ll find something below that is sure to spark joy for everyone on your list. In the spirit of 2020, all of the items can be purchased online and shipped directly to your loved one, letting them know that you’re thinking of them despite being physically apart.

Read on for a holiday gift idea for everyone on your list!