Spring and Summer seem to be true seasons of gift giving, if you ask me. Engagement and graduation parties, weddings and housewarming invites - not to mention the block party or barbecue that you’d rather not show up to empty handed.
I pride myself on being a quality gifter - it’s really thrilling for me to see someone appreciate and utilize a gift that was hand selected with time and thought. So when you find yourself in need of the perfect gift idea, here’s a handy cheat list of presents that will reflect well on you and be cherished over and over…
For those that are already living together:
1. Original artwork: I really cherish the idea of a home filled with unique and interesting artwork, which always triggers good conversation. Consider wall hangings, paintings or a unique print that can be welcomed into the recipient’s decor.
2. Appliances: We use our coffee grinder daily, a french press too… plus our kettle, toaster and mixers throughout the week. You might consider a mixer, blender, citrus press or crockpot… but remember that the price easily reflects the durability, so choose wisely!
3. Plants: Greenery goes a long way! Petals die quickly, though I wish it wasn’t so… consider a hanging plant or a planter to add to the green thumb’s space.
4. Stemware: Who doesn’t love a good beverage? Consider the type of cocktail your recipient regularly enjoys and gift a set of beautiful stems, some highballs or margarita swells. Coffee mugs just don’t give the right “feeling” for those red wine nights…
5. Serving Platters: I cannot tell you how important these are, and there are never enough. I wouldn’t consider myself a partier or avid host, but when I know people will be joining us, my go to is a beautiful arrangement on a nice platter or large bowl.
8. Photography Books: It’s the lost art of yesteryear to reminisce and celebrate photography - be the difference with the gift of a nice, coffee table book or tabletop art. So many possibilities!
9. Speakers: If the budget allows, consider outdoor speakers or a great showerhead hookup with mp3 or phone jack accessibility. Outdoor entertaining soundtracks don’t have to be an afterthought…
For those couples who are moving in together, getting married or the graduate:
1. Tools: It’s a very real moment when you have work to do, and don’t have a screwdriver, scissors or a hammer to use… add level or a measuring tape. They aren’t the most sensual of gifts, but they certainly get used, time and time again, year after year.
2. Linens: Simple white or neutrals that will mix and match everything. Patterns can only go so far. Up the thread count and watch the smiles!
3. Pool Towels: On that note, the recipient will always be in need of some great oversized pool towels to dry with. Bath towels are a registry staple, but these will be with the waterside memories.
4. Containers: Trashcans and storage bins are so awesome to have. Maybe they need one for the kitchen, the bathroom, the office… Organization station!
5. Mirrors: They make a space feel larger, they’re ideal for checking one’s self before they wreck one’s self, and they last for (hopefully) an eon! Large floor mirrors get you extra points here…
6. A gift certificate for nice knives? Because I think gifting knives is still very taboo, but why not equip the budding cook with a knife set and let them love the kitchen…
7. Maid Service: There’s just a fundamental difference between the smell of my house when I clean it and the smell of my house when someone else does. Fabuloso! Gifting this is great, because they can choose to use it before a big event or when things get a little too stressful to do the gruntwork.
8. Floor Lamps: They light up a room and they fill awkward corners. One can always find a space for a lamp.
9. Luggage: Because travel is awesome and having a rolling set is even moreso. Look at you, furnishing their dreams!
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