Of all the places and shopping buddies I’ve had, getting to shop HomeGoods with Carson Kressley was probably one of the most memorable shopping dates I’ve had in a while. First off because, I didn’t even know their was a HomeGoods in NYC — it’s right on 99th St. and Columbus, and it’s massive! Secondly, because Carson is every bit as fun, charming and hilarious as you’d expect.

He took me on tour of the store and even picked out a present for me! Now I’m no stranger to HomeGoods or  their sister companies, TJMaxx and Marshalls (all owned by TJX), which I grew up on. All three are great stops for checking just about anyone off your holiday list, however unlike the other two retailers, HomeKids doesn’t have clothing and instead focuses on giftables in the bed + bath, tableware, gourmet kitchen, home office, seasonal, pets, garden and home categories. From kids, to pets, coworkers, friends,