There are a number of gift-giving occasions ahead of me. What do you get for the artsy friend of your mother who is hosting you at her luxe cottage for a few days? What would your bestie-sisterwife cool girl living downtown like for her birthday? What kind of present do you get for your designer friend who has impressive taste and a weak spot for themed parties? The anniversary of my brother-in-law’s birth is rolling around… what do you get a guy who gets everything he needs? What is the perfect gift for a family friends’ anniversary party?
A few other questions to ask:
How much can I spend? How well do I know them? What’s their style? What do you want your gift to convey? (ie. We have one mind and I knew you’d like this immediately when I saw it. Or… You two deserve a special night with a great bottle of wine and a movie).
THANK YOU FOR HAVING ME
Some fun coasters to protect her house from your clumsiness. Perhaps some Tide-to-Go, too.
Herbs for cooking (fresh and potted), or in spice mixes (maybe better for a cottage). Damn Martha Stewart for having such good ideas.
Also, try some yummy blends of tea in pretty tins.
Fresh ingredients, well-presented, to help with dinner. Be mindful of food allergies and lifestyle.
ANNIVERSARY
I am a wine lover and maybe that makes me biased. How about a bottle of sparkling wine, like an Iced Cuvee from Trius, or another bottle that is special to you, paired with a gift card for Itunes – signed with a note that suggests they curl up together for a romantic movie at home? Or get a fun new playlist to listen to as they share the bottle before going out dancing (and taking a taxi there and back)? If you know their style well, perhaps a picture frame and a suggestion to print (or offer your services on this one) a photo from the day of the party to celebrate their love. My wife and I have taken a photo each year of our relationship, standing the same way. One day we’ll need a whole wall for these. Perhaps we’ll make a flip book.
If you know the couple very well, you can play on their personalities and really get inspired to personalize the gift. This pair of prints: https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/124790536/two-2-printable-files-digital-download?ref=market
GIFTS FOR COOL GIRL FRIENDS/ AND COOL OTHERS
When you search ‘hipster gifts for women’ an array of succulents and terrariums come up. If you’ve been reading this blog, you know I love the terrariums from crownflorastudio.com.
A dish of succulents could be the perfect thing for the girl who has everything, especially if she’s a plant killer. Suit the container to her style.
A pretty geometric variation.
Or hang it up – this is a living wall of succulents.
For men apparently anything with a mustache is a go, but for those friends who are girly and particular, the challenge is amplified.
Home brewing materials. If they like to drink…
If they REALLY like to drink: a personalized whisky barrel.
For the foodie: a mobile foodie survival kit.
Pick up some vinyl to add to their record collection!
Ironic taxidermy. Unless they’re into REAL taxidermy.
A funny book you know they’ll like. James, you aren’t receiving this book, but when we saw a book recently, it had YOU written all over it.
If you’re sure your friend REALLY has everything, try something totally unexpected, like a 50 Shades of Gray-inspired play kit (ironic or not), get a plaster casting done of their torso. A great suggestion from Mamamia.com,
“For the discerning art collector, here’s something you probably don’t have at home on your mantlepiece: a cast of the inside of a vagina. What? You do? How progressive. Well done you.”
If all else fails, enroll them in circus school, life drawing, wine tasting… or archery. More on that later.
There are some really great ideas, if you have time to ship, at: http://www.uncommongoods.com/, or on Etsy.com.
Locally, in Toronto, there are some great ideas at The Drake General Store, Crown Flora, Lavish and Squalor – try for local businesses 🙂
Happy Hunting! Any and all suggestions welcome in the comments.
StyleSaVie 