I recently had the joy of chatting with Author and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Catherine O’Brien, from Happy With Baby, to discuss simple decorating tips for busy parents. It doesn’t take much to organize and simplify your home, no matter what size budget or space you have. Check out her Happy With Baby blog here to see the video! I hope you enjoy!
The Enneagram Type 9 is often called “The Peacemaker.” They strive for peace in their relationships and hate conflict; working to avoid it at all costs. If things get too heated, they will want to retreat and take a nap to escape. Nine’s are great at seeing all sides of a discussion and are excellent empathizers. They are also enjoyable to be around because of the calmness in their nature.
Gift Idea #1: Their favorite scented candle
I saw this candle on Amazon called “Peace and Tranquility” and bought it for my Enneagram 9 friend. It was perfect!
Gift Idea #2: A cozy chair that they can sink into
Curled up, mug of coffee in hand, Hallmark movies playing…this is the life!
Gift Idea #3: A walk along the beach or on a hiking trail
I know several Type 9’s and they all have expressed that being outside enjoying nature is one of the most enjoyable and relaxing times for them. If your Enneagram 9 loved one has small children, offer to babysit so that they can take an hour or more to enjoy the outdoors in peace.
Room Remodeling Project for a Type 9: The Master Bedroom
A luxurious bedroom retreat would be the icing on the cake for an Enneagram Type 9. After a long day, they can slip away to their place of relaxation. Bonus points added for creating a cozy reading spot by a sunny window.
What type of Christmas tree would a Type 9 enjoy the most? They would enjoy a tree with meaning and memories. One that allows the Nine to slip into a daydream of reminiscing about past Christmases. Maybe even a Charlie Brown tree!
What a fun journey this series has a been! I hope that you have enjoyed reading about the Enneagram types and enjoyed a laugh or two thinking about the variety of personalities that make up the wonderful human race!
Merry Christmas,
-Elizabeth
“The Challenger” or “The Defender” describes the Enneagram Type 8 personality. They are a what you see is what you get type of personality and are known for their intensity. Whatever they do, they do it 150% and they expect you to give it that much effort also! The 8’s defend their loved ones fiercely and will protect them at all costs. A great quote from Ian Cron’s Book, The Road Back to You, that describes them is “Lead me, follow me, or get out of my way.” I know a couple of 8’s and they challenge me to get going!
Gift Idea #1: A gift card to a home improvement store so that they can get what they want
One of the worst gifts for an Enneagram 8 is something they don’t want or won’t use. It is unnecessary to them so don’t even bother. Gift an 8 a gift card so that they can get exactly what they want.
Gift Idea #2: A message recliner to help them relax
Give the gift of relaxation to help your Eight calm down and decompress. As much as they are intense about work, they are equally as intense about relaxation. So…help them live it to the full!
Gift Idea #3: Something practical that they mentioned to you in the past
Pay close attention, because your Enneagram 8 loved one has definitely told you straight up what they want. Be sure to take note and gift them what they expect. No surprises, please!
Room Remodeling Project for a Type 8: Whatever they want…you won’t get it right anyway!
The Christmas tree can be a bit of a nuisance for an Eight because it gets in the way of their efficiency. They may be a bit non-traditional by having a corner Christmas tree that is not intruding on their space.
Our last Enneagram Type is the 9…be on the lookout for the final blog in this series coming soon!
-Elizabeth
The Enneagram Type 7 reminds me of sunshine. They are bright, cheerful, fun, and energetic. Aside from a “7,” they are also called “The Adventurer,” “The Enthusiast,” or “The Entertaining Optimist.” Adventure, excitement, and exploration are all welcome by the Type 7 while negative feelings, boredom and monotony are not desired at all and are to be avoided. I have several Type 7’s in my life and they challenge me to enjoy life to the full.
Gift Idea #1: A Skylight Picture Frame
I recently had a conversation with a friend who is an Enneagram 7 and she mentioned the Sparklight Picture Frame. What a novel idea that is ever-changing and fresh!
Gift Idea #2: Multi-Functional or Unique Furniture
An inflatable arm chair is sure to get people talking. How about an ottoman that transforms into a twin bed? Keep decor interesting with furniture that is fun and different.
Gift Idea #3: A box subscription so that your 7 gets something new every month or quarter
Is your loved one into art? Try the Sketchbox. How about an escape room adventure. Try the Escape Crate by Cratejoy. Just don’t buy them anything boring!
Room Remodeling Project for a Type 7: A Game Room so that they can have fun!
Seven’s need a place to invite friends, hang out, play and enjoy life. Their perfect remodeling project is a game room which is full of adventure and fun.
A Type 7 Christmas tree is whimsical, interesting, and has little surprises hidden inside. Something that is bright, bold and colorful!
Next up is the Enneagram 8, The Challenger. They are so very different from the Type 7…I think you will enjoy learning more!
-Elizabeth
The Enneagram Type 6 is often called “The Guardian” or “The Loyalist.” They need to feel safe and secure and will often notice when something isn’t measuring up to their safety standards. Sixes can be given to worry, thinking of “worst case scenarios,” but also help make the world a better place as a result of their critique. They are hard workers, loyal and value close relationships.
Gift Idea #1: A Decorative Box (matching their decor) to hold all of their safety manuals
Enneagram 6’s like to have appliance and safety manuals handy in case of an issue. Gift your 6 a decorative box for them to keep their manuals together in one spot. The Container Store and Burke Decor are great resources for beautiful boxes.
Gift Idea #2: A trendy power surge protector
There is nothing more frightening to a six than the idea of a power surge taking out their tv, computer or other major appliance. Give them peace of mind in a stylish way with a decorative power surge protector.
Gift Idea #3: A storage cabinet filled with emergency supplies
An Enneagram 6 will rest knowing that all of their emergency supplies are secure in one place. Why not gift them a storage cabinet that looks like a gorgeous furniture piece, but is filled with first aid kits, batteries, important documents, and flashlights? Here are two of my favorites from Anthropologie.
Room Remodeling Project for a Type 6: A gift to the house and homeowner of a SimpliSafe Home Security System
On the SimpliSafe website, the text reads, “Protection for every window, room and door. Against intruders, fires, water damage, medical emergencies and more. All monitored 24/7 by professionals ready to dispatch police.” I mean… this is peace of mind for a Six!
What type of Christmas tree would a Type 6 enjoy the most? One that they know can’t hurt any human or pet!
Keep an eye out for the Enneagram 7’s Holiday Gift Guide!
-Elizabeth
The Enneagram Type 5 is often called “The Investigator” or “The Observer.” They are often introverted, enjoy alone time and are deep thinkers. They drink in knowledge and can never get their fill. They are experts in their field and often know a lot about many subjects. Calm and level-headed also describe the Five. It is important that Type 5’s have time to “recharge their batteries” by spending time alone. Some of the most thought-provoking conversations I’ve had have been with my 5 loved ones, and I have three Type 5’s in my family!
Gift Idea #1: A New Bookshelf (or Kindle Subscription if they prefer paperless)
Books, books and more books! This is the cry of the Five who loves to get lost in fiction and non-fiction alike. The V Bookcase Room Divider by CB2 is a stunning bookcase that functions as book storage and a room divider making the space feel smaller and more quaint. $799. Another great choice for the book collector is the Beckett 6-High Shelf from Crate and Barrel for $1,499.
Gift Idea #2: An Egg Chair
Oh yes, a place to hide away and get lost in their thoughts or a great book. This type of chair is a winner on so many levels. The Versailles Chair from Restoration Hardware ($3,000) gives a room a vintage look while the Orren Ellis Taneyville Swivel Balloon Chair ($1,900) is reminiscent of the original Eero Aarino Ball Chair.
Gift Idea #3: Acoustic Panels that Look Like Art
Nothing absorbs sound better than soft materials. Give your Type 5 a quieter room by purchasing art inspired acoustic panels. You can even upload your own photos and have them printed on the panels. Acoustimac.com is a great resource.
Room Remodeling Project for a Type 5: A Place to Read (Reading Nook, Library, or Getaway Room)
My son is a Type 5 and he thinks that the Black Villa Home in New York, designed by Reza Mohtashami is the coolest home ever. It is tucked away in nature and is the perfect retreat.
What type of Christmas tree would a Type 5 enjoy the most? How about a tree made of books set in a library? This tree can be found in the Harewood Library. Photo Credit: @yorkshire_brew
I hope you have enjoyed looking through the lens of the Type 5 and that you’ve been inspired by the gift ideas. Our next number is the 6!
-Elizabeth
Unlike any other number, the Enneagram Type 4 is often called “The Individualist” or “The Romantic.” This type wears their feelings on their sleeves, are highly creative, in touch with their emotions, and authentic. They are one-of-a-kind not wanting to look like anyone else and they often see the world through a unique lens. My Type 4 friends challenge me to slow down and enjoy the moments – they are excellent at that.
Gift Idea #1: A Customized Leather Bound Journal
Type 4’s need to express themselves. Whether it be through song, drawing, painting, writing or another creative outlet, they can record their feelings and thoughts in a gorgeous leather bound journal. A bonus to this gift would be a special pen that coordinates. Anthropologie has several awesome journals.
Gift Idea #2: A Statement Furniture Piece
Nothing brings a 4 more joy than having something that no one else does, except maybe another Type 4. Gift your friend a furniture piece that is completely unique. Again, Anthropologie has so many great choices.
Gift Idea #3: An Animal Table Lamp
These lamps are so much fun and definitely bring a smile to any face. What a crazy take on your standard table lamp! Prices start at $120 per lamp from Grandin Road.
A Type 4’s Room Remodel Project would be a He-shed or She-shed that 100% reflects their personality. This will be a place that they can go and be themselves to the fullness of their being. Be sure to include a winding path with beautiful foliage and flowers that lead from the main house to the shed.
The best Christmas tree for an Enneagram Type 4 will reflect their personality, may be dark, may be bright, but will definitely be one-of-a-kind.
I love this green citrus Christmas tree by Tobi Fairley. I mean, when is the last time you saw a citrus Christmas tree?
Unique Pink by @Bohofrisco.
This Christmas, your Type 4 loved one will feel so special with any of these unique gift ideas. The next blog will focus on they Type 5, “The Observer.”
-Elizabeth
The Enneagram Type 3 is also called “The Performer,” “The Charmer,” or “The Achiever.” These folks are full of energy, great at giving speeches, love being the center of attention, are image-conscious, and don’t mind the spotlight. Achievement and goal setting are their love language and they speak it well. My Type 3 friends are energetic, driven and successful.
Gift Idea #1: A Daily Affirmations Calendar
A Daily Affirmations Calendar will keep your Type 3 friend or loved one motivated to take on the daily challenges and goals. They don’t want to just meet the goals, they want to slay them! Barnes and Noble sells the I Can Do It 2021 Calendar for $16.99.
Gift Idea #2: A Glamorous Mirror
Always looking their best is important to the Type 3. Gift them a wall mirror that fits their decor style so that they can do a quick face check before their Zoom call or You Tube recording. Ballard Designs and Pottery Barn have stunning wall mirrors ranging from $199+.
Layne Round Wall Mirror (Pottery Barn)
Jamie Two Tone Oval Wall Mirror (Ballard Designs)
Gift #3: An Alarm Clock
Help your Type 3 by gifting them an alarm clock so that they can get up each morning and chase their dreams. The Clocky alarm clock does just that…this little clock runs away beeping so that you have to get out of bed and chase it to turn it off. This will get a Type 3 going and ready for the day! Find it on clocky.com for $45.99.
Type 3’s Room Remodel Project would be their Closet. Renovating this room and stylizing their clothes organization will make the 3 feel like the star that they are. They will be ready to conquer the day and feel like a million bucks. Here is a design floor plan and perspective of a closet design where I incorporated an ironing station, high and low clothes hanging, and drawers into an L shaped room.
An Enneagram Three’s Christmas Tree must be absolutely spectacular. In fact, when I saw these glam trees (and room decor), I immediately thought they would fit this type perfectly.
I hope you enjoyed learning how to make your Type 3’s Christmas extra special. Next up will be the Type 4, who loves to be unique and different. This blog will be like none of the others in many ways! Look for that to drop on Wednesday.
-Elizabeth
The Type 2 is called “The Helper.” People who identify as a Type 2 are ready to lend a listening ear, bring a meal, offer to help, and are great at knowing just what you need. You can count on them when you are in a bind. They find great satisfaction and purpose in helping others. Often, they give so much of themselves the they wear out without even knowing it. My Type 2 friends are the best gift givers and are so thoughtful.
Gift Idea #1: New Serveware for Entertaining
Williams-Sonoma has gorgeous serveware sets ranging in price. An Enneagram Type 2 would love to own a fresh set of bowls, platters, salad tongs, or even a charcuterie board. The sky is the limit with this gift idea.
Gift Idea #2: An Armless Dining Room End Chair
I have memories of my Type 2 friends getting up quickly from the dining table to help serve the desserts or make coffee. Help out your 2’s by gifting them an armless end chair so that getting up is easy – no fumbling with arms that get in the way. Sliding back into their seat will be just a quick with this chair. The Glendale Upholstered Dining Chair from Birch Lane is sure to be a winner. $236
Gift Idea #3: A Bath Caddy
Relaxation, rejuvenation and retreat are very important for these extraordinary people who serve others so effortlessly. Reward them with a bath caddy and bubble bath. They will be sure to thank you. A great option is the Gardner Bamboo Bath Caddy from Wayfair. $69.99
A Type 2’s Room Remodel Project would be the Dining Room. Not only would they enjoy new furnishings and seating, but they would love newly designed place settings.
The Enneagram Type 2’s Christmas decor will be warm, inviting, and the perfect place to cozy up with a cup of cocoa and appetizers.
When I look at this room by Maggie Griffin Design, I imagine long conversations over cocoa and snacks.
What a stunning Dining Room! Clean and Scentsible posted this room and it captures a Type 2 to a T. If you are a 2, what do you think?
I hope you have enjoyed exploring another Enneagram Type through gift giving. Be sure to watch for the Type 3 next!
-Elizabeth
Type 1’s are often called “The Improver,” “The Perfectionist,” or “The Reformer.” People who consider themselves Type 1’s are all about efficiency, organizing and improving themselves, others and their spaces. They feel most at rest when their homes are tidy and things are in order. Otherwise, they will never feel at rest with the constant “to do” list rolling through their minds. I’m a Type 1, so I can completely relate! Let’s get to gifting!
Gift Idea #1: A Wall Mounted Calendar Organizer
1 Thrive has this awesome wall organizer which would make any Type 1 swoon. This particular set is called the “Susan.” The description on 1 Thrive’s website says “The Susan likes to check all the boxes with a list-friendly format that can accommodate meal plans, schedules, chores, goals and more.” That, my friends, is a 1’s Dream!! The Susan costs $179.
Gift Idea #2: Drawer Organizers
The Container Store is one of the most happy places in the world. It has organization down pat. Check out the Dream Drawer Organizers starting at $15.99 a package. Or the iDesign Linus Large Drawer Organizer Starter Kit for $58.92.
Gift Idea #3: A walk in nature with your 1. If you can’t get out, then gift them a faux Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree.
Being in nature calms the soul and helps us relax. Bringing nature indoors is another way to help the body calm down. One of my most favorite trees is the Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree. I know it has been around for a while but there is something wonderful about those big curvy leaves that I love. Grandin Road sells these beauties starting at $159.
A Type 1’s Room Remodel Project would be the Laundry Room. This is a room that needs to function well and remain tidy. I recently designed a large Laundry Room and can’t wait to post the after pictures after the final installation. For now, here is a sneak peek…
Since we are heading into the Christmas Season, let’s check out an Enneagram 1’s Christmas tree decor… tidy, organized, monochromatic and gorgeous!
Tree by designandstydestudio
Tree by Elle Decor
I hope you enjoyed diving into Christmas ideas for your Enneagram Type 1 friends and family. Keep an eye out for the Type 2’s recommendations next!
-Elizabeth
Elizabeth Hall Designs, LLC 