I’m trying something new this holiday season. I’m going to buy as many Christmas gifts as possible right here in Barrington. To start crossing gifts off my list, I stopped by Angelina, that great boutique at Cook and Station Streets, and asked the shop’s owner for ideas. Her name is Katie Kuempel and you’ve probably seen her in the store before. Katie worked at Angelina throughout college. She graduated last December, with a degree in Business Management, and bought the boutique from the previous owner in January of this year.
Katie offers a great selection of jewelry, artwork, accessories, greeting cards and home accents in her store. Many of the shop’s items are hand-made by local artists. Katie is always changing her inventory to keep things exciting so I thought she’d be a great local gift-guide for my holiday shopping. I told Katie I’m trying to stick to a budget this year and she shared her 2010 “Hottest Gifts Under $30 for Everyone on Your List” list. Now THAT’S making things easy!
Gift: Holiday candles and potpourri
Katie Says: They’re the perfect hostess gift! Will transform any home into a holiday wonderland without the hassle of having a fresh cut Christmas tree or spending hours in the kitchen baking.
Price: $22.50 – $26.50
Gift: Calendars
Katie Says: Jump into 2011 with desk calendars, wall calendars and planners. Designs for the artsy, the practical and for those who need a little daily inspiration.
Price: $12.50 – $24.95
Gift: Mini peace, love & happiness dishes shaped like a silver peace sign, red heart or yellow smiley face
Katie Says: Another great hostess gift or perfect to set out at your own holiday parties filled with nuts or candies
Price: $24.50
Gift: Colorful and Stylish Reusable Bags
Katie Says: I’m dreaming of a green Christmas! Reusable bags in fun colors and patterns make great stocking stuffers or gift bags. We also carry wine bottle gift bags made out of re-purposed sweaters.
Price: $14.50 for reusable bags & $22.50 for wine bottle gift bags
For the Diva
Gift: Hand-dyed silk, velvet and leather Brooches
Katie Says: Beautiful accessory to add pizazz to your LBD (Little Black Dress). Also cute on a coat, scarf, headband or clipped to a necklace.
Price: Ranging from $24.50 to $28.50
Price: All Under $18
For the Paper Lover
Gift: Boxed Notes, Journals and Note Blocks
Katie Says: You can never have too much pretty paper on hand, especially this time of year. They will come in handy when writing those holiday thank you notes!
Price: All under $18
Because we’re compiling a list of Barrington Thanksgiving traditions this month, I also asked Katie about her plans for the holiday and what she’s most thankful for this year. Here’s what she had to say: “This year, I am thankful for all the opportunities and privileges I have been provided in my life. I feel very fortunate to be pursuing my dreams in such a wonderful community…My favorite holiday tradition is sitting in my pajamas all day and spending time with the people I love. Oh, and shopping all the sales on Black Friday! :)” Katie says she’d be happy to help with your holiday gift shopping. Stop by and see her at Angelina any time. You’ll find the boutique at 200 S. Cook Street in Barrington, you’ll find Angelina on Facebook by clicking HERE and you’ll find the shop’s website at ShopAngelina.com.
Good Morning,
What a beautiful website and it looks like there are many interesting things to look at.The store is very beautiful, and knowing your personality would make it even more fun to come and shop there!!! I think it is a great idea to shop locally, and with someone that can help you plan and make that gift special for your special occasion.I enjoyed my gift that you gave me for my 65th birthday!!! I am still using it and thinking of you when I do. Good Luck with your new adventure. Love Annette
I just recently visited Angelina for a donation to Barrington Children’s Charities. I fell in love with Katie’s store! The gifts are so unique and the jewlery is beautiful. Since the end of March, I have purchased gifts for three people that absolutely loved what they received. I am so happy that I finally found a truly unique shopping experience here in Barrington!