Coastal Collective Co.

Mother's Day Gift Ideas

Spring, Relationships, Fashion Blog Posts, Gift IdeasAnneke McConnell

Mother's Day has become one of those bittersweet holidays for me, recognizing the life-changing, yet AMAZING reality of becoming a mom myself, mourning with those who have lost their mother or even their own child, and those who have struggled with infertility.

There is this unspoken depth to this holiday, with women united in the honor called Motherhood.  So as I share some fun and pretty gift ideas to help you simply say how much you care for the "Mothers" in your life, know that it comes with this understanding.

Truly, the greatest gifts we have are the moments throughout the year together, hugs, experiences, and our health.

With that said, giving gifts as an act of love and appreciation can be downright fun!  If life has gotten a bit crazy (like we did with a kiddo getting sick last week) and you're looking for some last minute ideas, this is for you!

 

 

The Go-To: AMAZON

 

When it comes to quick shipping, I'm a huge fan of Amazon as a Prime Member - BEST thing I did this past year!! Especially since iTunes started charging for service, we now use Amazon music streaming as part of of membership as well.

Ha! Now that I think about it, I probably would be stoked if someone gifted me an Amazon Prime membership. That's just me, but think about it......2-day free shipping from one of the largest online retailers is a GIFT of sanity. Lol

I'm not going to reinvent the wheel, because they've broken gift ideas down into categories for mom's who love fashion, gardening, tech gadgets, photography, craft items, shoes, jewelry, fitness, books, etc.

One of my personal fave gift ideas from Amazon would be their endless options for gifting a magazine subscription. It's literally the gift that keeps giving all year long. And who doesn't love a little monthly Happy Mail?!  My favorites are Coastal Living, HGTVBetter Homes and Garden, and InStyle magazine.

Did you know you can even book home services like home cleaning through Amazon? #mindblown

 

 

THE GIFT OF TRAVEL

 

I don't talk much about travel here, but I can't talk about Mother's Day without saying a trip together would be the ULTIMATE gift!!!  I fondly remember trips with my mom, sister, and girlfriends.  One night away locally to a week long trip abroad would be wonderful!

I've found Trip Advisor to be really helpful and all-encompassing when researching for a trip.   When I was browsing around, I found this STUNNING rental in Maui!  Holy moly!! Grab a crew of friends to split the cost and have some fun together in Hawaii! I usually look for homes to rent so I can cook my own food. :-)

 

 

JEWELRY

 

Jewelry is such a classic go-to gift, and for any fashionista or sentimental mom, you can't go wrong with jewelry as a gift.  It says a lot too if you notice what she does and doesn't tend to wear.  For example, I'm pretty big on earrings (big or small), rings, and necklaces, but rarely wear bracelets or watches.  This is one of my personal FAVE jewelry pieces for daily wear. You can go with something trendy, fine jewelry, or even a coordinating set. Below are just a handful of ideas to get you started!

And how cute is this Mama necklace?! I love supporting small business owners, so be sure to browse around on ETSY!

 

 

Home Decor

I love to see things around our home that have been gifted to us over time from family and friends.  We have special coral from far away travels, frames, blankets, plants, etc. that mean just a little more because they were given in love and with thought for our coastal loving, rustic modern style.  Here are some home decor items to give you an idea for gifts this Mother's Day and beyond.

ShopBop

 

When browsing around I was happy to find that ShopBop is having a surprise sale of 40% off.  They have higher end, great quality items, so 40% off is a BIG deal!!! If you know your mom or friend loves good quality, this is a great place to shop online. 

Browse the Sale

 

 

A few other places I'd check out for gifts:

Kate Spade:  There are so many classic and cute items with coastal flair. I LOVE this pretty clutch with the turtle on the front!

 

Stella & Dot: There isn't much I don't love from Stella & Dot, from their chic (and SMART) jewelry, stylish purses and totes, not to mention some pretty cute tunics like the one below!

fringe tote

 

The Wild and Free Project:  I love how one of my go-to fitness gals, Alexa, has started this clothing line to raise money and awareness toward childhood cancers.  Straight from their website:

"The Wild and Free Project is founded on strong moral principles, dedicated to making a positive impact on the greater community. Through our 'Wild & Free" Movement, we are committed to supporting charitable organizations who fulfill a critical role promoting high quality programs in health-related areas such as childhood cancer. And through The Wild and Free Project, we strive to help these organizations bring encouragement to individuals battling critical health problems. 

We hope that you will join us in our ‘Wild and Free’ movement to raise awareness and support for childhood cancer. 25% of profits goes straight to CureSearch for Children's Cancer and the Kylie Rowand Foundation built on a mission to spread awareness, raise funds for promising, less toxic treatments as well as raise funds for children and their families currently fighting childhood cancer."

I love supporting companies like this that in turn significantly help children and families going through extremely challenging times.  My favorite item from the Wild and Free Project has to be the t-shirt below, but they have options for women, men, AND children! Check it out!

 

Nordstrom: 

Probably one of my favorite online retailers in general, Nordstrom is a great place to find gifts of all kinds and various price points.  If your mom or friend is a coffee lover like me, you need to check out this pretty MOM mug!! And don't forget the chocolate. ;-)

Ok, so here are just a few recommendations to check out at Nordstrom.

 

I personally wouldn't mind a gift card for garden flowers, or DIY supplies, but you know the mothers in your life best, so go with your heart, and spoil her with love this Mother's Day!

Coastal Home Decor

Anneke McConnell

Hey guys! Sorry I've been a little MIA! I have a few projects I've been working on, but can't wait to get back in the swing of things creating design and style posts for you! :-)

Today I'm sharing just a few favorite coastal home decor items I spotted online as I am gearing up for a week of patio inspiration and designs for you! I can't wait for warmer, summer days ahead and know I'm in good company on that thought.  Feel free to reach out with ANYTHING you need in regards to patios and I'll be sure to consider it as I work on the series!

 

Hover and click on any item in the picture to see details! Easy peasy!

 

 

 

 

Have an awesome weekend!

Anneke

 

P.S. Don't forget to check out the Patio Picks HERE and Garden Stools that are out now.

 

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Garden Stools for Spring and Summer

Fave Picks, Home Blog Posts, SummerAnneke McConnell

When we began to downsize into our beach house, versatility became the name of the game, and garden stools have become one item I can't get enough of.  Garden stools are not only a beautiful accent piece; they can go inside, outside, serve as a seat, side table, and a place to kick up your feet.  We admittedly move ours around quite often!

When it comes to the largest variety of options at great prices, Amazon, Wayfair, and Joss & Main are my go-to sources, some top choices which are also sprinkled in below.

This larger garden stool from Horchow has been a favorite for awhile. It has the perfect flat top for use as a side table, a beautiful design all around, but feels a bit understated at the same time. It's the kind of garden stool that could float around and work in a variety of settings.

 

This garden stool, also from Horchow has the most beautiful variation in color. Navy blues and greens are my favorites colors to incorporate alongside neutral whites, creams, tans, and greys.  Again, this is a great larger size that works in multiple settings.

 

Probably my absolute FAVORITE to design with is this double rings garden stool. You can find variations of it on different websites, but I love the rustic texture and color in this one from Wisteria.  It's definitely on my Wish List for our patio this Summer!!

Another place to find the one similar to above and double check pricing is HERE.  And if you're looking for more of a gold shimmery metallic vibe, I'd recommend THIS garden stool.

 

 

 

Now we're off to enjoy some much needed Seattle sun this weekend! Today has been in the 70's and has us ready for playing on the beach, painting projects, and summer patio decorating!

 

xo, 

Anneke

 

P.S. Don't forget to check out the Patio Picks HERE. There are a ton of great deals right now!

 

P.P.S. In my last post, I shared my FAVE Instagram Accounts - these are accounts that are beautiful, inspiring, and relatable. Check them out HERE.

 

Let's Connect!

NOW ON PERISCOPE! @ANNEKEMCCONNELL

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My Fave Instagram Accounts to Follow

Interiors, Dining, Coastal InteriorsAnneke McConnell

Hello friends! We are enjoying some crazy GORGEOUS sunny weather here in Seattle and I'm instantly happy and excited for summer - yes summer!

Surrounding yourself with people who inspire, motivate, encourage, and teach about a particular area of life that you really connect with takes time and effort but is so worth it in the long term.  Over the years, I have found instagram to be an incredible way to find people who do just that in my life.

I have some recent designs shared below that were on my @coastalinteriors account on Instagram, but I wanted to change it up a bit today and share who I personally love to follow on Instagram.

Of course this is difficult with SO many talented friends within the DIY and Home Decor space.  This is definitely personal, and people that I literally look up to see what's new and to help balance out my life. ;-)

 

FASHION

@alyson_haley - Sequins and Things

I love Haley's laid back casual, chic, and simple style.  We have similar values and I love how she brings great fashion ideas, but never talks about how obsessed she is with this or that.  She is constantly inspiring me and I love pretty much every outfit she shares! #literally

How cute is this recent outfit she shared!

 

@laurenkaysims - Lauren Kaysims

Lauren is also on the more casual, chic side, and I also relate to her perspective and the world of fashion.  She has a calm presence on social media which seems rare when it feels like people are shouting at you from their posts sometimes. It's a tough balance as a blogger in this social media driven world!  I love that she says she is "Striving to live every day on purpose and for a purpose". 

One of my fave recent outfit posts from her is this one below. Cute am I right?!

 

 

 

FITNESS

@kayla_itsinesKayla Itsines

There are not ENOUGH words for this woman. I LOVE her!!! Sure, she has almost 5 million followers on Instagram right now, but I've actually been following her on Instagram before she was even at 100,000 followers which to be honest, feels pretty special. Lol

I've stuck around with her because she is down to earth, pushes you with honesty and tough love, doesn't make it about her and her body (which is clearly healthy and strong), and you can see how passionate she is about helping women gain strength and confidence through fitness.

Just to note, I have purchased and completed her guides and the #deathbykayla hashtag is legit.  There are a lot of plyometric, jumping type moves which is not for everyone, BUT I believe her guides are still effective even when exercises are modified. 

I'm getting ready to start another 12-week round - wish me luck, or better yet, join me!

8 Moves For Flat Abs That Aren't Crunches

 

@AlexaJeanFitness - Alexa Jean Brown

I love, love, love Alexa and her sweet little fam. It helps to relate to another mama and getting back into shape after having kids.  I love that her guides are affordable, and include to the point, classic and effective moves.  When I want to switch it up and be doing less HIIT or plyometric training, I come to her guides which feel like a good challenge at an even pace. I love that she also speaks into people's lives about mindset, which is a huge part of positive change. :-)

Summer Ab Challenge

 

 

 

 

FOOD

Because I have lived with and through Hashimoto's thyroid disorder, kidney disease (minimal change disease), and have a rough family history of medical issues, I personally lean toward whole foods, more Whole 30 type recipes, etc.  I'm still learning what works for my body and honestly believe every person's needs are different.  I struggled through this A LOT at first, especially what to feed our kids.  Thankfully I'm in a better place now and LOVE all the food I can eat.

@wholenourishedlife by Emily of Whole Nourished Life

I connected with Emily on Instagram and immediately fell in love with her and her recipes.  How yummy does this Lemon Ginger Shrimp meal look?!! It can be found on her blog HERE.  I feel confident getting recipes from Emily as some who not only "gets it", but is a trained professional striving to help others improve their lives through nutrition.

 

@TenleyMolzahn - Sweet and Free Life

I love how transparent Tenley is about her struggles with nutrition over a long period of time and how she is now helping others as a nutritionist and educator because of it.  I love when people share their answers and help others get unstuck!

I'm still looking for good accounts to follow for hair and beauty if you have recommendations! I'd love to know your favorite accounts in general too!

To wrap up today's post, I'm sharing the sources for recent designs on my @coastalinteriors account and a few style finds.  This sunny weather has me craving bright and flowy outfits lately!

 

 

 

 

 

 

HOME FAVES

STYLE FAVES

 

xo, 

Anneke

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Let's Connect!

NOW ON PERISCOPE! @ANNEKEMCCONNELL

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@annekemcconnell

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