Nine Gifts We Love: From Our Members to Your Wishlist

Real recommendations from real people (because gift guides should actually be helpful)

The holidays are here, Christmas is right around the corner, and if you're anything like us, you've still got a few people left on your list.

Good news: we're back with our Second Annual WorkSmart Member Wishlist. After last year's response (you guys loved it!), we asked our members to share the gifts they actually swear by—the ones they love giving, can't stop talking about, or are dropping hints about this year.

Think of this as your shortcut to better gift-giving. We’re here to help you spend less time searching and more time enjoying hot cocoa, cozy nights, and the people who matter most.

So go ahead, trust our WorkSmart gift connoisseurs. Because yes, we work hard… but this time of year, we also shop hard!

Here are our top nine gift recommendations this year:

1. In the Grid Daily Planner: A Personalized Start to the New Year

Photo Credit: Papier

Papier’s In the Grid daily planner has become a popular pick here at WorkSmart. One member loves it so much, she’s gifting it to all her clients this Christmas.

It’s one of those presents that feels personal, thoughtful, and actually useful (not just something to check off a list).

The best part? You get to design it.

Choose between a weekly or daily page layout depending on how the person plans. Pick a color that feels like them, whether it’s the minimal Off White or the bold Dusty Sage. Then add a name, initials, or a meaningful phrase. It’s that extra touch that says: I chose this for you.

Papier also offers premium packaging and gift notes, so the whole thing feels special without any extra effort on your end.

Fun fact: Papier's planners were born out of a coworking space... which obviously makes us love them even more.

2. Flora and Paulo: New York-Crafted Gemstone Jewelry

If you’re looking for something one-of-a-kind with the perfect touch of New York flair, check out Flora and Paul. It’s founded by Tina D'Errico, an interior designer from Clifton Park, NY, and every piece feels like something you'd discover in a boutique you'd never want to leave.

Flora and Paulo jewelry is all hand-knotted on pure silk, a charming detail that gives each piece a timeless luxury feel. You can choose playful combinations of colored beads, or stick with neutrals that'll match everything in their closet.

And here's where it gets even better: they offer an incredible selection of charms you can add to every necklace and bracelet. Whether your person loves meaningful symbols, nature-inspired designs, or something totally unique to who they are, there's a charm that captures it. It's jewelry that tells a story.

This is the kind of thoughtful, artisan-made piece that feels special and unique—perfect for someone who appreciates the details and loves pieces as individual as they are.

3. Downtown Dogs Sweater: Pups Need Presents Too!

Whether you love spoiling your own furry best friend or trying to win over someone else’s four-legged family member, you need to know about Downtown Dogs Spa and Boutique in Glens Falls.

As a brand-new addition to downtown, and it’s a new favorite for local dog owners to pamper their pups. They've got everything from cozy infinity scarves and flannels to puffer vests and sherpa hoodies—basically, your dog's winter wardrobe sorted.

They carry multiple sizes, so whether you've got a tiny chihuahua or a gentle giant, there's something that'll fit just right.

It's the kind of local spot that makes you glad to support a neighbor—and your pup gets to look adorable doing it.

Photo Credit: Babymine Amazon Page

4. Babymine Onesie: Cozy Comfort for Little Ones

One of our favorite winter finds this season? This little fleece bunting suit. It's perfect for chilly walks, car rides, and keeping the tiniest members of our WorkSmart crew impossibly cozy (and adorable). 

If there's a new baby on your list this year, the BabyMine Newborn Onesie is a must. It's soft, fleece-lined, and there's a hood with the cutest little bear ears.

It's the kind of gift that gets used constantly, which is exactly what new parents need.

5. Hello Baby Memory Book: Capture the Moments That Matter

Speaking of little ones, one of our members reminded us how fast those early days fly by, and how important it is to capture them while you can.

The Hello Baby Memory Book by Peachly makes a beautiful gift for new or expecting parents. It's thoughtfully designed with gender-neutral colors and timeless fonts, so you don't have to worry about guessing themes or whether it'll match their nursery. It just works.

The linen hardcover is built to last (because let's be honest, baby books get a lot of love). Inside, you'll find botanical pages and a clean, classic design that won't feel dated in five or ten years. There's plenty of room for photos and written memories - the kind that capture those fleeting moments that blur by way too fast.

6. Precision Multi-Bit Screwdriver: The Ultimate Dad-Approved Gift

Brothers, dads, boyfriends, husbands, let's face it, they can be tricky to shop for. One of our members has a go-to that never fails: a really good screwdriver. (Stay with us here.)

But not just any screwdriver. The Linus Tech Tips Store version is sleek, smart, and actually fun to use. It's got a three-bit storage system built right in, so all the bits you need are there when you need them. Plus, there's a neodymium magnet that keeps everything locked in place—no fumbling, no lost pieces.

It's perfect for the fix-it person in your life, whether they're always tinkering or just getting started. And honestly? They'll probably brag about it.

7. Alaska Bear Sleep Mask: Give the Gift of Rest

Quality sleep is one of the best gifts you can give someone during the chaos of the holidays. The Alaska Bear Sleep Mask has quietly become a favorite in our community, and here's why: it's incredibly soft, lightweight, and actually blocks out light (unlike those flimsy hotel freebies).

It's one of those things people don't think to buy for themselves, but once they try it? Game changer. Suddenly they're sleeping past sunrise, napping on planes, and wondering how they ever survived without it.

​​It works as an affordable standalone gift, a thoughtful add-on, or the MVP of any stocking. Small, simple, and surprisingly life-changing. Everyone deserves better sleep!

Photo Credit: Minky Mink website

8. Minky Mink Accessories: Instant Outfit Upgrade

At WorkSmart, we’ve noticed a trend: Members and guests step out for lunch and come back with a Minky Mink bag in hand. And honestly? We can’t blame them.

Their accessories and clothes just work, whether you're looking for something bold or something simple that makes everything else look better.

It's right in the neighborhood, which makes it dangerously easy to pop in. But also? That's exactly why it's so good.

9. Member DIY Gift: For the Ones Who Matter Most

Sometimes, the most meaningful gifts aren’t bought. They're made. 

One of our members shared a gift she'll never forget: a handmade scrapbook filled with memories, inside jokes, and tiny moments that might have been forgotten if someone hadn’t taken the time to save them. It wasn’t just a book; it was a reminder of shared history and care.

Creating a scrapbook for someone turns ordinary photos and stories into something deeply personal. Every page is filled with real experiences and memories shared, magic that can’t be captured with an ordinary gift. 

It's perfect for friends, partners, siblings, parents, or anyone who’s part of your story. And honestly, it’s a heartfelt gift that will make this Christmas truly special.

Happy Gifting From Your WorkSmart Community 

Whether you're shopping locally in Downtown Glens Falls, making something by hand, or trying out one of these recommendations, we hope this guide makes your holiday shopping easier, more thoughtful, and way more fun.

And hey - if you end up loving (or gifting) any of these, we want to hear about it! Stop by and tell us, or tag us on social media so we can celebrate with you.

From all of us at WorkSmart, here's to a joyful, cozy, and wonderfully low-stress Christmas season!