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December 12, 2017
10 Thoughtful Gift Ideas



gifts, thoughtful gifts



Last week I put up a quick poll on Instagram stories to get a sense for what you’d like help with this holiday season. I was surprised to find that most of you guys wanted advice on what to get your parents or siblings!

The great thing about this list is that a lot of these are universally applicable and really aren’t limited to the holidays, but are thoughtful and sweet gestures year round.

1. Framed Photos

You can’t go wrong with a framed photo. It lasts forever and is something that everyone appreciates. If you’re looking for something larger try Framebridge!

2. Photo Albums

For our first anniversary I had photos of our year together made into little polaroid pictures and made MG an album and he loved way more than I was expecting. We’ve done iPhoto albums for my parents and my sister has given us an album of photos of us with my nephew. There are tons of way to do them, and if you haven’t heard of Artifact Uprising you can tailor the design and layout all on your own!

3. Food & Drink Subscriptions

Look up a local cheese shop nearby and they’re likely to do tasting subscriptions often paired with a charcuterie of meats. You can also do a case of wine delivered or another one of their favorite food and drink products. These have become so much more popular and are a great way to surprise your loved one beyond the holiday you are shopping for.

4. Experiences

Whether it’s tickets to their favorite sports game or a day planned just by you, experiences are one of my favorite gifts to give. I usually focus on something they haven’t gotten to do in a while or something they really love. The trick here is to plan ahead! Last minute experiences can get expensive :).

5. Workout Packages

If the person loves to workout, it’s likely that they have a place or two that they frequent – and it’s probably expensive. A lot of studios do yearly sales where you can stock up on all of your classes for the year at a discounted price. It’s such a nice surprise to get to go to your favorite class and have credits in your account waiting for you! You can always check each gym or studio’s site for package deals.

6. Stationary

I admit this one is a little old fashioned, but I believe in handwritten notes and love having at least one set of stationary for any last minute needs. It can easily be a stocking stuffer or a small surprise gift, but personalized stationary has such a warm connotation and is something that they’ll appreciate especially for the next random occasion where they need to write a last minute note.

7. Jewelry with a meaning

It’s one thing to buy her jewelry, but it’s another to put some thought behind it. Perhaps it’s a monogrammed initial necklace, or a small charm from your favorite place you visited together. It doesn’t have to be expensive, but see if there are any personal touches that you can add.

8. Monogrammed Accessories

Not everyone loves monogrammed items, so definitely feel out your audience, but I love giving and receiving personalized gifts. It can be a tote, cosmetic bag, catchall or something small but a monogrammed accessory is usually a layup. Mark and Graham is one of my favorite sites for finding personalized items.

9. Personalized cheese board

I have had these made for a few people and they’re always a hit! My tip is to find something extra important to add (a significant date or memory) along with their name. I found my favorite guy on Instagram (they’re beautiful and handmade in America), but there are endless options for these in all different types of wood and shapes.

10. Focus on their favorite hobby or something special for them
My last idea for thoughtful gift giving is to brainstorm the most special things to the person. It could be a sport, a person, or even a pet. I usually use Etsy or Uncommon Goods and start looking for interesting things that align with their favorite things. For example, if your person loves their pet consider getting them a custom pet portrait (they’re sure to have a photo of them on Instagram for you to submit). Think outside the box, but within their favorite things!
What are your favorite thoughtful gifts to give and receive?

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