The holiday season is upon us so whether your family is celebrating Festivus, Chanukah, Christmas, or like this author, you have a December birthday, the month of late-stage capitalism and consumerist hell (also known as December) is upon us. Thus, millions of Americans will be buying gifts, and the Bryn Mawr community is no exception. While you could buy from Amazon (you know you shouldn’t), here is a gift guide to our very own Bryn Mawr bookstore for something for everyone on your list, whether they have been naughty or nice.
For your LDR (long distance relationship) boo thang: Warmies
LDRs are hard, borderline impossible, and ill advisable. Your baefy is probably missing you on these long cold winter nights, and wanting someone to cuddle. Enter Warmies. These stuffed animal-heating pack hybrids for sale at the bookstore perfectly replace you for your partner, and since the Warmies are lavender-scented, they probably smell better than you anyways. Warmies come in many different animal varieties, including a reindeer (very festive), that being said, my personal favorite is the octopus.
For your strict parents: Bryn Mawr Shot Glasses in your class color
Are your parents terrified that you will drink? Do drugs? Have premarital sex? Become a creative writing major? If you answered yes to any of the above then may I recommend a little gag gift of a Bryn Mawr shot glass in your class color. Reasonably priced, and very high quality this shot glass will convince your parents that you are on the straight and narrow, or not, but it will be hilarious watching them open it. If this would horrify your strict parents too much, you can always print out Bryn Mawr’s niche rating where we get a C+ in partying. Conversely, if you have “cool parents” this is another excellent gift and you guys can even do shots together.
For your clueless grandma: a Bryn Mawr pride blanket
Does your Grandma keep on asking when you are going to get a boyfriend or how you meet boys at an HWC? Sounds like she needs it spelled out for her, hence why you should gift her this Bryn Mawr pride blanket. She will be kept warm and full of LGBTQ+ pride. Also if your grandma has clued into your identity, she’ll be stoked to represent it at the knitting club.
For your “I’m With Her” Aunt or Mom: Girl Power socks
The only thing your Aunt or Mom loves more than Hillary Clinton is you, hopefully. Therefore, give her some love back this holiday season with some expletive girl power socks. No doubt she will brag to all her friends about how her niece/daughter goes to a premiere historically women’s college. Plus, it’s winter and socks are cozy.
For Your Classic Dad: A Classic Baseball Cap
I am a strong believer in giving people gifts that they will use and appreciate, even if they are not the most flashy. Many will find a baseball cap that says “Bryn Mawr College Dad” basic, if not lame, but I prefer “classic.” Most Dads I know are the essence of practicality, and what is more practical than this hat. Plus, it will show him that you know him well and care about what he wants, not just what you want him to want. Every time he wears it he will think of you, and every time he wears it you can take it as a little “I love you” from your father.
For your Favorite Grandpa: Cool-Ass Grandpa socks
This one is pretty self-explanatory.
OR: If you had a LOT of fun at SupaFun this is an excellent way to hard launch being a Grandfather to your dad.
For almost anyone: Books
Literature is one of the best gifts we have in life, and what could be better than passing on this gift to a loved one? The bookstore has many interesting books, including a stand of classic hardcovers. If you have a greedy uncle, an overworked cousin, or a sibling on the cusp of leftism, I recommend The Communist Manifesto.
Gifting is overly stressful and expensive, and truly the best gift you can give your family is time and love. While I am aware I just spent pages telling you what to buy them, I also recommend crafting a gift, writing a poem inspired by the family member, making a collage, or choreographing an interpretive dance! Your loved ones will most appreciate a gift that makes them feel like you care and you know them, and only you know what that is.
