Shop 'Til You Drop: Hamptons Gift Basket

Is it just me or are there a ton of wedding and baby showers this season? Even in my small circle of friends, I’m finding myself off to these events left and right. My mail, which usually consists exclusively of useless coupon booklets and LIPA bills, now includes the occasional very pretty envelope with my name printed fancifully on the front. What’s exciting about this is that aside from getting to see your nearests and dearests, there’s the opportunity to get creative with gift baskets! While I can’t speak for the bride, as a bridesmaid who recently cut open an ungodly amount of cardboard boxes in record timing, let me tell you– a basket with clear cellophane makes lives easier. Even with registries, it’s easy to put together something requested with something you thought of on your own.

If you’re putting together a gift for a baby shower, why not start with something that perhaps the mom-to-be hasn’t thought of, like a summer-themed basket with all-natural skin protection from babyhampton? I recently stumbled across this amazing line of sunscreen at Second Nature Market in Southampton. Waiting for my Green Goddess juice to be ready, I was browsing the skincare aisle (obviously, for what else does one do in a health food store?) looking for a mineral-based sunscreen for myself. It’s not easy to find something that is paraben-free, chemical-free and unscented. Once you’ve narrowed that down, it’s even harder to find something that has an even consistency and doesn’t turn your face white. Alas, I came across the babyhampton line. Founded and created by mom Kristen Peterson, who was concerned about the chemicals used in products, babyhampton spf 30 beach*bum sunscreen is safe and effective. We’re all much more sun-savvy these days, but in avoiding skin cancer we also have to think about avoiding the chemicals that lead to a toxic build-up. Toss an assortment of babyhampton products in a basket with a cute little beach ball or sunhat and both mom and baby will be happy. Second Nature Markets is on 70 Main Street in Southampton and on 41 Newtown Lane in East Hampton. Stop by or give them a call at 631-324-5257. secondnaturemarkets.com. To find out more about babyhampton or to purchase online, check out babyhampton.com.

If you want to find a little something extra (and chic) for one of your gift baskets, I’d suggest heading to Erika’s Place—which recently moved to a new location across the street from the Driver’s Seat on Jobs Lane. The charming shop is filled with vintage French furniture, handmade pillows and one-of-kind shell encrusted mirrors, picture frames, lamps and more created by shop owner Joanna Mincarelli. Erika’s Place also features ladies apparel, accessories and an adorable collection of baby gifts and clothing.

Erika’s Place is located at 67A Jobs Lane, Southampton and is conveniently open seven days a week. For information call, 631-283-6126.

Another idea, and this can be for Mother’s Day as well, is to peek inside Roberta Roller Rabbit. Upper East Siders are probably already familiar with Roberta Freymann’s shop on Lexington Ave (you’ve definitely passed it on your way to catch the Jitney), and if you don’t know the shop you’ve seen the fabrics. Each bright and colorful hand-block printed pattern is created and produced by Roberta with artisans in India. Graphic and floral prints as well as popular monkeys, elephants and fish, adorn Roberta Roller Rabbit’s soft textiles in everything from Mommy & Me Kurtas to super-comfy bedding. 53 Jobs Lane, Southampton. Call 631-329-5828 or go online robertarollerrabbit.com.

There you have it! Shoppers, let’s go!