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Hey you,
Welcome to the final month of 2025.
I’m not really one for resolutions, but I do like to choose a word to set the tone for the year. I’m still pondering my word for 2026, but my word for 2025 was “begin.”
Much has fallen short of what I’d hoped for 2025 (even excluding the garbage fire that is the world right now). However I do feel good that I did begin so much, including this newsletter and the increase to 2x a month publishing.
I’ve managed to send every issue according to the deadlines I set for myself, except this one.
But, Tara, you may ask, what the hell am I reading then?
Well, my regular newsletter and monthly blog post will go out next week, followed by my mid-month note the week after… then I’ll take a short break before 2026.
The end of this year really snuck up on me and I feel tremendously behind. Still, I am giving myself some grace, at least when it comes to this newsletter (and putting my laundry away), which is something I’ve been working hard at (giving myself grace that is - laundry is another story).
So, that’s a super long-winded way of saying that my typical content is delayed until next week.
HOWEVER, another thing I’m feeling behind on is holiday shopping. Since I’ve been spending way too much time thinking about it, here is a small gift guide for those of you, like me, who are struggling and feeling behind (or want to buy yourself a little something). Hopefully, my obsessive research tendencies help at least one of you.
Until next week,
Tara
P.S. Happy birthday to my mom and sister! That’s right - they have the same birthday!
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Stocking Stuffers
Hotel slippers - I’ve been traveling a lot (for me) and lightweight, packable slippers a must for any hotel stay. I keep mine in my suitcase at all times so I can’t forget them! (If you prefer machine washable slippers check these out!)
Pencils - I prefer writing with a well sharpened pencil vs typing when I’m able. These are a great gift for those who are the same.
Bookmarks - A reader can never have too many bookmarks. This one is adorable and can be flashed at those who interrupt your peace.
For my finance peeps - a bit of fun for us Excel lovers.
Lip balm - A popular pick discovered at a recent retreat. Lip SPF is a must!
Books - Always a great gift.
Splurges
Free hands, fashionable, and functional (aka the best purse ever)
👋🏻Let’s Not Make It Weird
Hi, I’m Tara, Founder and Chief Alchemist of Alchemy Advising. I help growing businesses untangle their finances, rethink pricing, and build smarter systems so they can scale without burning out.
With nearly 20 years in operations and finance, including FP&A leadership at brands like HOKA and UGG, I now work with founders and execs who need clarity, not just spreadsheets. Think: budgeting, forecasting, pricing, and big-picture planning that actually connects to how your business runs day-to-day.
If this newsletter made you nod, pause, breathe a little easier, or curse less at your P&L, here’s what’s next:
📬 Forward this to a founder or ops leader who’s buried in numbers but hungry for insight.
💬 Hit reply if something sparked (or you just want to say “Hi!”).
📅 Want to talk shop? Visit www.alchemyadvising.co and learn about working together or book a chat.
“If you don't like the road you're walking, start paving another one.”