Category: gifting

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Sustainable Return Gift Ideas Under ₹200: Thoughtful, Healthy & Everyday-Friendly

Return gifts are more than just tokens, they’re reflections of your values. If you’re someone who believes in conscious living, wellness, and empowering others through thoughtful gestures, this curated list of sustainable return gifts is for you. Each item is budget-friendly (MRP under ₹200), promotes good health or skincare, and is genuinely useful in daily life. I went through an extensive search to make my goodie bag for Navratri sustainable and useful for those who receive it.


🧘‍♀️ Wellness & Health Boosters


1. Tulsi Seed Balls in Potli Bags
🌱 Eco-friendly and spiritual
Helps purify air and boost immunity
MRP: ₹270 for 10 pieces (₹27 each)
Perfect for nature lovers and home gardeners.


2. Herbal Teas (Single-Serve Packs)
🍵 Detoxifying and calming
Choose blends like chamomile, tulsi, or lemongrass
MRP: ₹150–₹200 for assorted packs
Ideal for self-care routines or morning rituals.


3. Reusable Wheat Straw Cutlery Set
🍴 Lightweight, travel-friendly, and biodegradable
Includes fork, spoon, and case
MRP: ₹244
Great for office-goers and eco-conscious eaters.


💆‍♀️ Skincare & Self-Care Treats


4. Mini Aloe Vera Gel Tub
🌿 Hydrating, soothing, and multipurpose
Works for face, hair, and sunburn relief
MRP: ₹120–₹180
A skincare staple for all seasons.


5. Charcoal Face Wash or Ubtan Combo
🧼 Deep cleansing and gentle exfoliation
Combos available under ₹200.


Thoughtful gift for skincare enthusiasts.


6. Lip Care Scrub or Balm (Natural Ingredients)
💋 Coffee, coconut, or strawberry variants
Repairs and nourishes dry lips
MRP: ₹150–₹200
Compact, cute, and universally loved.


🛍️ Everyday Utility with a Sustainable Twist


7. Plantable Seed Paper Pens
✍️ Write and then grow, how cool is that?
Made from recycled paper and embedded with seeds
MRP: ₹22–₹25 per pen
Great for kids, creatives, and eco-warriors.


8. Jute or Cotton Tote Bags (Mini Size)
👜 Reusable, washable, and stylish
Ideal for groceries, books, or lunch
MRP: ₹150–₹200
A fashionable nod to sustainability.


9. Rice Husk Coffee Mug (Single Piece)
☕ Durable, microwave-safe, and biodegradable
MRP: ₹150–₹200
Perfect for tea lovers and desk dwellers.


🎁 Wrap It Right: Presentation Matters
Use recycled kraft paper, fabric wraps, or newspaper with twine for a rustic, eco-chic look. Add a handwritten note or a mini affirmation card to make it personal and empowering. If you have kids, let them show their artistic and calligraphic talents by making notes.

This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla
in collaboration with Mads’ Cookhouse.

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Festive Season Prep Guide for Women: Navratri to Diwali with Style & Soul

As the air turns fragrant with marigolds and sandalwood, and homes begin to shimmer with diyas and rangoli, it’s time to embrace the magic of the festive season. From the spiritual elegance of Navratri to the sparkling grandeur of Diwali, this is your moment to shine bright inside and out. I decided to make this guide to cater to both women in North and South India.


Whether you’re a South Indian woman preparing for Navratri Golu visits or a North Indian diva ready to dazzle at Garba nights and Diwali parties, here’s your ultimate guide to planning the season with grace, glow, and generosity.

1. Outfit Planning: Tradition Meets Trend


South Indian Style:


For Navratri Golu evenings, opt for silk sarees in jewel tones—think Kanchipuram, Mysore silk, or cotton-silk blends. Also don’t forget the colour code for each day and get ready to flaunt your weaves. Time to take out sarees from your wardrobe and give them the breath of fresh air. Experiment with blouses, crop tops, mix and match and give your sarees a new style statement.
For Diwali, experiment with half-sarees, lehenga-style drapes, or fusion kurtas with temple jewellery. It can be fusion wear by trying different drape styles.
Don’t forget the flowers! Fresh jasmine or kanakambaram in your hair adds instant charm. Try pintresty hairdos for you and the little diva at home.
North Indian Style:
Navratri calls for vibrant chaniya cholis or mirror-work lehengas for Garba nights. Make sure it is also comfortable when you dance away.
Diwali is your runway for embroidered anarkalis, shararas, or Indo-western gowns.
Accessorize with jhumkas, bindis, and bangles—layered and loud is the vibe.
🛍️ Pro Tip: Start shopping early to avoid last-minute chaos. Mix heirloom pieces with new buys for a personalized look. Also on a personal note, shop mindfully. Invest only if you need it badly.

2. Skincare Rituals: Glow That Lasts Beyond the Lights


Pre-Festive Prep:
Begin a gentle exfoliation and hydration routine at least 2 weeks before.
Use natural ingredients like turmeric, sandalwood, and rose water for DIY masks.
Don’t use makeup and let your skin breathe.
South Indian Favorites:
Ubtan made with besan, turmeric, and curd is a classic.
Coconut oil massages for hair and body are both therapeutic and nourishing.
North Indian Staples:
Multani mitti packs with rose water for oil control and brightness.
Almond oil or saffron-infused creams for a golden glow.
🌿 Bonus: Book a facial or spa session a few days before the big events to feel refreshed and radiant.

📝 3. Guest List & Invitations: Celebrate with Your Circle


South Indian Touch:
For Navratri Golu, invite women and children for evening visits. Prepare a thaamboolam kit with kumkum, betel leaves, bangles, and sweets. Choose return gifts that would be used and not just lie around. If you are making a hamper, make sure you have them packed beforehand. Invite them beforehand, make sure they’re available to visit.
Diwali gatherings can be intimate with family or elaborate with extended relatives.
North Indian Vibe:
Navratri Garba nights are perfect for group invites—think WhatsApp e-cards or Instagram stories.
Diwali parties can be themed: ethnic glam, card night, or potluck.
💌 Tip: Personalize your invites with a handwritten note or a voice message—it adds warmth and charm.

🍲 4. Food Planning: From Prasad to Party Platters


Navratri Menus:
South Indian: Sundal varieties, sweet pongal, payasam, and fruit platters. Add healthy twists and make sure they’re kid-friendly too.
North Indian: Sabudana khichdi, kuttu puris, aloo tikki, and vrat-friendly sweets.
Diwali Feasts:
South Indian: Murukku, adhirasam, ribbon pakoda, and coconut barfi.
North Indian: Gulab jamun, samosas, chole bhature, and dry fruit laddoos.
🧁 Hack: Prep dry snacks in advance and freeze sweets to save time. Use festive-themed serving ware for extra flair. In case you are going to send out hampers, plan for items that do not get damaged in transit.

5. Return Gifts: Thoughtful Tokens of Joy


South Indian Ideas:
Brass diyas, kumkum boxes, silk pouches, or handmade soaps. There are a lot of innovative gifts coming up that do not leave out the tradition but also incorporate modern thoughts.
Add a personal touch with a handwritten blessing or mantra card.
North Indian Picks:
Potli bags with dry fruits, scented candles, or mini skincare kits.
Eco-friendly options like seed bombs or terracotta decor are trending.
Wrap It Right: Use fabric wraps, banana leaves, or reusable boxes to keep it sustainable and stylish.


Final Touch: Celebrate YOU


Festivals are not just about rituals, they’re about reclaiming joy, honouring heritage, and expressing your unique style. Whether you’re dancing to dandiya beats or arranging dolls on a Golu stand, let this season be a celebration of your spirit.
So light that lamp, wear that saree, and let your laughter echo louder than the firecrackers. You’re the festival. Enjoy the moment, take pictures, loads of them to look back at memories.

This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla
in collaboration with Mads’ Cookhouse.

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Celebrate Mother’s Day with Unique Finds from The Zappy Box

Mother’s Day is just around the corner, and there’s no better way to show your appreciation than by surprising the amazing moms in your life with thoughtful and heartfelt gifts. Enter The Zappy Box, your one-stop online destination for finding unique, high-quality items that are as special as the love moms give every single day. Gifting people according to their likes is definitely a jackpot hit. The  Zappy Box offers a wide range of gifting options that are sure to impress the receiver.


Why The Zappy Box?


The Zappy Box prides itself on curating a wide variety of gifts that cater to different tastes and interests. If you’re shopping for a mom who loves to cook, a fashion-forward trendsetter, or someone who appreciates the little luxuries in life, you’re bound to find something that resonates. Their highlight is their user-friendly interface and organized categories that makes the whole experience enjoyable and also convenient. They even have hampers in case you find it difficult to choose. They have carefully curated gifts in a box that is categorised as per common likes.


Gift Ideas to Delight Every Mom


Personalized Keepsakes: Nothing says “I love you” like a gift with a personal touch. From engraved jewellery to custom photo frames, these timeless treasures create lasting memories. Their crochet bouquet is an absolute love at first sight.


Self-Care Kits: Help Mom relax and rejuvenate with spa-like experiences at home. The Zappy Box offers indulgent bath sets, luxurious skincare, and aromatic candles to bring peace into her day. The products in the gift box are premium and will definitely be liked by the receiver.


Kitchen Essentials for Foodie Moms: If she’s a culinary wizard, spoil her with stylish kitchen tools, fun cooking gadgets, or artisanal food hampers.


Trendy Accessories: From statement handbags to elegant scarves, their range of chic accessories is perfect for the mom who loves fashion. For someone who loves jewellery, their organizer box is perfect especially with its personalization.


Home Décor Delights: Gift her something to beautify her space—whether it’s a hand-painted vase, unique wall art, or cozy blankets.


Easy Shopping, Joyful Gifting


What sets them apart is the stress-free shopping experience they provide. With detailed product descriptions, customer reviews, and helpful filters, choosing the perfect gift has never been easier. Add to that speedy delivery and attractive gift-wrapping options, and you’re all set to make Mother’s Day extra special.


Final Thoughts


This Mother’s Day, take the opportunity to celebrate the women who make life better with their love and sacrifices. Shop with The Zappy Box to find gifts that truly speak from the heart—and let every mom feel like the queen she is.


Self-appreciation is not bad, it is just an expression of how you see and value yourself. I didn’t want to wait to be given a gift so, I picked myself two of my favourites from their website. Their especially for you crochet bouquet and personalised jewellery box.


So, what are you waiting for? Start exploring ZappyBox today, and let the magic of thoughtful gifting begin!

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Discover the World of Personalized Photo Gifts with Zoomin

If you are looking for a unique way to preserve your cherished memories or surprise your loved ones with something special? Look no further than Zoomin, the ultimate destination for personalized photo gifts and décor!


What is Zoomin? Zoomin is an online platform that offers a wide range of personalized photo products, from photobooks and framed prints to custom accessories and décor items. With over 15 years of experience, Zoomin has become a go-to choice for those who want to add a personal touch to their gifts and home décor.


Why Choose Zoomin?


Customization: Zoomin allows you to create truly unique items by uploading your own photos and customizing the design to your liking. Whether it’s a photobook, a framed print, or a custom accessory, you can make it as personal as you want.


Quality: Zoomin uses high-quality materials and printing techniques to ensure that your personalized items look stunning and last a long time. From glossy photo prints to premium frames, every product is crafted with care.


Variety: With a vast selection of products, Zoomin has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a heartfelt gift for a loved one, a stylish décor piece for your home, or a fun accessory for kids, Zoomin has it all.


Ease of Use: Creating personalized items on Zoomin is a breeze. The user-friendly interface and step-by-step design process make it easy for anyone to create beautiful, customized products without any hassle. Click, drop and create. Voila! It’s ready in a jiffy.



Popular Products:


Photobooks: Capture life’s best moments in beautifully designed photobooks. Choose from a variety of themes, layouts, and customization options to create a keepsake that tells your story. I still remember the first one I made for my daughter when she was born. She’s eight now, and this photobook is part of our time-capsule for the year she was born.


Framed Prints: Turn your favourite photos into elegant framed prints. Whether you prefer classic frames or modern designs, Zoomin has a wide range of options to suit your style. These frames add an aesthetic touch to your home.


Calendars: Add a personal touch to your daily life with custom photo calendars. From desktop calendars to wall calendars, Zoomin offers a variety of styles and sizes. They definitely make my work desk look so cool.


Kids’ Accessories: Surprise your little ones with personalized accessories like photo cushions, bags, and water bottles. Zoomin’s cute and fun designs are sure to delight kids of all ages. These make great birthday gifts.


Décor Items: Elevate your home décor with personalized items like acrylic prints, canvas prints, and photo puzzles. Zoomin’s décor collection adds a unique and personal touch to any space.


Conclusion: If you’re looking to create something special and meaningful, Zoomin is the perfect choice. With its wide range of products, high-quality materials, and easy customization process, Zoomin makes it simple to turn your cherished memories into beautiful, personalized keepsakes. Visit Zoomin today and start designing your perfect gift or décor item!

This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla .

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The Ultimate List of Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Her: From Romantic to Practical


It’s the season of love and since February 14 is not so far, it’s time to get gifts ready. It’s time to celebrate love and show appreciation for the women in your life. Be it your partner, mom, sister, or friend, finding the perfect gift that expresses your feelings can be a challenge. So, if you’re still thinking about what to get, here is a little gifting guide that will save your time.


FOR THE BEAUTY LOVER


If she is the one who loves to try on new beauty products and makeup looks, you can surprise her with a gift that enhances her beauty. Most e-commerce have huge sales at this time so it can be a great time to purchase your surprise gift and also a little less in your pocket.

  • A deluxe makeup collection which features her favourite shades and must-have products.
  • There is a new luxury vegan beauty brand Dear Dahlia that is inspired by the flower and its timeless beauty offering products across all categories like lips, eyes, sun and face. That could be something which might interest her.
  • A viral K-beauty brand rom&nd is here with products for the face, eyes, lips, and brows. I’ve been eyeing this brand for a long time, if not getting this as a gift, I’m going to add this to my cart.



FOR THE SKINCARE GODDESS


If she is someone who loves to pamper herself, you can give her a gift that indulges her senses.
A pampering set that includes high-quality skincare products, bath bombs, and candles is a perfect gift.

  • Nykaa’s CSMS routine has been doing rounds on social media, so it could be her time to try this. They do offer a lot of options on kits that have products in 30-60-90 ml sizes which makes it easier to finish off if this is the first time.
  • If she is someone who believes in age-old ayurveda for skincare secrets, then Nat Habit and TAC products are sure to impress her.
  • If she loves luxury skincare then she can be surprised with ELEMIS London, CLINIQUE, Laneige, and KAMA Ayurveda.


Pro tip: Laneige lip masks can never be a wrong choice.


FOR THE TECH SAVVY


If she is a person who is always on the go but loves to be connected and updated, a gift that combines functionality and style is sure to impress her.
A smartwatch that offers a range of features that enhance her lifestyle like,

  • Tracking her steps and monitoring her heart rate.
  • Playing music and making calls.
  • Managing schedule, and receiving notifications.
  • Customizing watch face and band.


FOR THE BOOKWORM


If she loves to read and learn new things, a gift that stimulates her mind and sparks her curiosity is sure to delight her. A book that suits her taste can be a perfect gift like,

  • A book that reveals the secret of money and how to use it to her advantage.
  • A book that is a practical guide that teaches her how to reduce food waste and make delicious meals.
  • A book that is based on science and explores the biological and psychological reasons on why we procrastinate and how to overcome it.
  • A historical novel that tells the story of a young girl who grows up in the turbulent times of India’s freedom movement.


FOR THE CREATIVE SOUL


If she has a passion for art and creativity, your gift can be something that inspires her to express herself and unleash her potential. Something that matches her skills and hobbies like,

  • A mandala coloring book if she loves to be calm by coloring. I was recently gifted one during a surprise Valentine’s gift exchange.
  • DIY art kits across categories like resin art, Lipan, coaster painting, and much more.
  • A modern mixtape that can be personalized with a Spotify code and a message.


SOME RANDOM FINDS

  • A gorgeous necklace that features a unique design and a high-quality material.
  • A personalized metal bracelet that can be customized with a name or initials.
  • A rainbow rose in a glass dome that lights up and adds a touch of romance to her room.
  • I also noticed that we now have a way to name a star after our partner. That sounded interesting and something new to me this time.


Hope this post has given some useful information and inspiration on how to choose the best gift for Valentine’s day. Always remember, the most important thing is to show your love and appreciation with a thoughtful and meaningful gift that reflects her style and personality. Happy Valentine’s Day.

This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with Bohemian Bibliophile.

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Benefits of drinking water from copper vessels

Just like you need air to breathe to stay alive, the second most important thing that you need is water. 70% of the human body is made up of water. It was an age-old practice to store water in metal containers like copper. The most known reason would be to safeguard the water we use for drinking. But now there is a lot more than just safeguarding drinking water.


Ancient ayurvedic principles support, water stored in copper vessels when consumed offer innumerable benefits. There is a natural purification process that the water undergoes when stored in copper containers that make the water practically fit for drinking by killing microorganisms that might be harmful to human health.


Water when stored overnight or at least four hours in a copper container acquires certain qualities from copper. An essential trace mineral that is very important to human health because of its anti-microbial, anti-carcinogenic, and anti-inflammatory properties.


According to ayurvedic principles, it is believed that consuming water stored in copper containers on an empty stomach helps in balancing the three doshas(Vata, pitta and Kapha). This also ensures the body undergoes proper metabolism and proper functioning of vital organs.


MOST COMMON BENEFITS OF DRINKING WATER FROM COPPER VESSELS


Protects from infections:

Copper is oligodynamic in nature which means it can sterilize the effect of bacteria on metals and destroys bacteria in an effective manner. It is very much effective against E.coli which causes the most severe illnesses in human beings.



ARTHRITIS and inflamed joints:

Copper has anti-inflammatory properties that help heal aches and pains. The bone and immune-strengthening properties are highly beneficial for people affected by rheumatoid arthritis.


Regulates thyroid gland working:

People with thyroid conditions usually have low levels of copper, especially in the case of hyperthyroidism seen most commonly.



Helps maintain heart health:

Copper is known to help in reducing the risk of developing heart disease. It also helps regulate blood pressure, lowers bad cholesterols and triglyceride levels.



Helps in weight loss:

Consuming water from copper vessel helps in making your digestive system work effectively so that it helps in breaking down fat effectively and eliminates it from the body.



Better digestion:

Water from copper vessels helps kill harmful bacteria in the stomach and lowers inflammation which also is beneficial in the case of ulcers and infection. It also helps in cleansing and detoxing so that the liver functions in an effective way to eliminate toxins and unwanted waste from the body. The copper in water helps in effectively breaking down food particles and hence aids better digestion.



Helps in anemia:


Copper is very beneficial for iron absorption in the body and it also plays a vital role right from cell formation to the effective functioning of organs.



Aids better skin health:

Copper plays an important role in melanin production. Not only that it also helps in forming new cells that replenish the top layers of skin. As a result, your skin feels smooth and silky.



As much as we stress drinking water from copper vessels and the benefits being convincible, it is also equally important that we choose quality copper vessels to consume water. I’ve been using the copper bottle and copper mug for over three months and the quality of the vessel seems to be amazing.

Mandala engraved copper bottle . Source: world of ek
Matte finish copper mug. Source : world of ek



I purchased mine, a copper bottle and a mug from EK by Ekta Kapoor, which is a one-stop shop for premium home décor and handcrafted wellness products. Ek was started by Ekta Kapoor to bring home the best of India. Every product has a sense of deep rootedness attached to it and screams good vibes.They also have ethnic wear, home decor, home linens, jewelry, dining and incense.



MAINTENANCE OF COPPER VESSELS:


Add two tablespoons of vinegar, one tablespoon of salt, and a cup of water. Close the lid and shake the bottle, discard the water and wash with fresh water.

This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla.’

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5 Valentine’s Day outfit ideas

We still have few more days for February 14, the date that comes with a lot of stressors and i bet outfit shouldn’t be one .

Takes a lot of planning beforehand the place, the people, the food , the gift and most importantly what you’re going to wear. An outfit that makes heads turn is something what we all dream of. But when I choose my dresses I also keep the affordability factor in mind.

Because it’s no ordinary day and you will definitely make efforts to step up your dressing game. Well I’m here to help you out. You’ve got to look festive but also cheesy.

An intimate date, a galentines day dinner with gang Or stuffing a large pizza in your couch no matter what’s your plan the outfit will definitely need an Instagram selfie.. Don’t you agree?

Pleated flair dress

Who doesn’t love pleated gowns. Though it’s elegant the fit and details will definitely make it a better option for Valentine’s day. Plus if it’s the colour of love your dress up game is sorted. Buy here.

Flared dress with belt

A flared dress with an amp up element like a belt is another showstopper. When there are detailing on the sleeves if they’re cuffed and the entire outfit is self designed it’s win win. Buy here.

The desi girl maxi

Who doesn’t want to rock the desi girl look that’s gonna make you look the hottest on the floor. A flared maxi with a deep V neck line that has exquisite embroidery is sure to make heads turn. Buy here.

Belted jumpsuit

Belted jumpsuit are best in style statement and giving you that chic look. Pair it up with a belt and you’re all set to rock the evening. Buy here.

A line maxi

A line maxi can always be a backup. They never go out of trend and always make a statement. A dramatic sleeve can up the simple A-line maxi to a statement attire. Buy here.

The dresses I’ve put together are all budget friendly. So without burning a hole in your pocket here are five outfit ideas for you to rock this Valentine’s Day.

So all you ladies hurry up and men nothing more than a lovely attire as a gift so you can hurry up too.

This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva andNoor Anand Chawla.’