‘Twas the night before Chanukah, and all the menorahs were set;
No one was preparing a party,
because everyone was Zooming on the Internet.
While the numbers were spiking, and the donuts were frying,
Let me share with you all the best gifts to be buying.
I’ve divided them up in special sections,
Each carefully picked with certain selections.
To enhance your days sitting in front of Netflix,
Bedazzle with jewels from Israel that my Mama Donna picks.
Comfy sweatshirts that speak of G-d’s love,
Or cozy blankets to warm you from the chill up above.
Everything from homemade challah to gold napkin rings,
All these choices of gifts will surely your Chanukah sing.
Let’s start right here, and please take good notes,
These gifts might count more than your presidential votes!
Aside from all the wonderful local businesses that our area is blessed with, I found some unusual, unique, and useful gift choices for these especially challenging times.
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Cool Chanukah placemats
For your staycation upgrades, as we remain firmly staged in our own domain, Elizabeth Sutton Collection has just launched its Chanukah placemats to enhance your table of limited family members (or until Cuomo tells you otherwise!). These gorgeous deposable works of art are perfectly paired with her butterfly logo napkin rings of gold and silver. Since you might be staring at the walls for a while longer, Elizabeth has released two new prints that are at more affordable prices than her originals or limited editions.
Website: www.elizabethsutton.com
Cozy Sherpa blankets
If you are dining out this Chanukah in a clear bubble igloo or tented sidewalk facility, you’ll need a luxury cozy Sherpa blanket from @sittcozy to keep you warm.
Price $60
Contact: 646-620-5395
Bejeweled mask chains
Since masks are becoming a mandatory staple item, you must have a customized bejeweled mask chain by @beads_by_hailey (IG).
$10-15, includes a donation to Chai Lifeline
Unique sweatshirts
For your at-home gym experience, or if you are lucky enough to have gotten a Peloton for yourself, check out this elevated take on a classic hoody from @theRealEli7Designs (IG).
Price: $56
Website: www.eli7designs.com
Handmade jewelry
Since jewelry is a gift that makes any day a holiday, head on over to The Katonah Museum of Art’s Jewelry show: www.kmajewelryshow.givesmart.com/ My Mama Donna (Donna Schneier) curated KMA’s Jewelry Show. Choose from among a diverse selection of contemporary handmade jewelry pieces featuring a curated selection of artists and a variety of materials, including gold, silver, glass, porcelain, and diamonds.
Custom Challah
When you’ve done all your shopping and have a craving for more than clicking, swiping, scrolling, and ordering, place your order for a custom-made challah of the yummiest indulgence with Sharona Abraham at Sharona’s Dough To Go.
Contact: 516-423-4203
Wishing you the happiest of Chanukah in the strangest of times!
Tobi Rubinstein is a retired fashion and marketing executive of 35 years who currently produces runway and lifestyle events for NYFW, specializing in Israel’s leading artists and designers. She is the founder of The House of Faith N Fashion, fusing culture and Torah. Tobi was a fashion collaboration and guest expert for ABC, Geraldo Rivera, Huffington Post, Lifetime, NBC, Bravo, and Arise. She hosted her own radio and reality TV series. Tobi is a mother, wife, dog owner, and shoe lover.
