You know I love to entertain and have friends over. So with the thought of putting together any kind of gifting guides this season, my mind immediately went to home first. The thoughtful and often homemade gifts… these are also the gifts I tend to give the most. Whether that’s a baked good, a favorite bottle of wine that may take you back in time to a special trip or has a special meaning, a new dish towel with a playful print that reminds you of your sister, an olive oil you want your neighbor to try or fresh goodies from your local farmers market. Sharing below my tried and true gifts to give and a few items topping my list this year as well.
______________________________
1. Instead of a bottle of wine, come carrying a fresh bottle of olive oil. Olive oil is a universal love language if you ask me, and any foodie will especially appreciate! Or along the same lines, if you make a delicious salad dressing, make a batch and give it out in pretty glassware. I’m also loving this stoneware oil & vinegar set!
2. This year I’m all about thrifting for pretty crystal and ceramic vessels to display your gifts. I have found so many crystal pieces–bud vases and glassware that would be great for any hostess / entertainer. They’re crazy cheap too (most of my finds have been under $3). I love the idea of filling a bud vase with blooms or herbs from your garden. If you’d rather buy something new, this ceramic one is beautifully minimal too.
3. Of course candles always top my list. Jo Malone London Velvet Rose & Oud is my all-time, year-around favorite (or Pine & Euculyptus and Jenni Kayne’s Musk for holiday scents) or I’m also really into giving mix-matched pillar candlesticks. Remember this post? I’ve been buying two colors that maybe won’t necessarily go together, but totally work (like a neutral color and a bright). Tie with a pretty ribbon!
4. Specialty coffee. Another go-to of mine is coffee from somewhere local. If I’m traveling I love to pick up local beans as gifts or, if I’m at home, I love to gift beans from Temple or The Mill. The Mill has the most beautiful hand drawn artwork making the package feel extra special.
5. Along the same lines, which my family is big on, is gifting a bundle of your favorite goodies from the local farmers market. It’s always a winner with grandmas and moms or the ideal gift to give a neighbor.
6. Make your own loose-leaf tea blend. And gift in a pretty ceramic mug (Alex Marshall makes my favorite mugs that come in a variety of colors).
7. Topping my personal list this year are dish towels because I’m really lacking in this department. Take into consideration someone’s home and aesthetic before gifting in this area, but if you think you know them well this is always a safe bet. Jenny Pennywood has playful art prints and Heather Taylor Home is another good one for pretty color ways.
8. Palo Santo sticks, sage or a dried floral bundle in a vintage ash tray. * vintage ash tray idea I got from one of you!
