(Gift) Giving The People What They Want
Gift ideas that surprise and delight
I think it’s safe to say I’m a semi-professional shopper at this point. It’s probably my favorite “non-hobby hobby”—whether it’s between meetings or a quick scroll before bed, I’m always online, saving things to Pinterest or making lists of all the pieces I fall in love with. I genuinely enjoy surrounding myself with beautiful things, and I believe we all deserve a little more beauty in our lives.
That said, I’ll admit that the gift-giving gene skipped me. My mom is the queen of thoughtful gift baskets, one of my closest friends is a gifting goddess, and my mother-in-law’s main love language is gift-giving. You’d think someone who loves to shop and curate would naturally excel at giving presents, but for some reason, it hasn’t always clicked for me.
Over time, I’ve picked up some of their tricks, shifted my perspective, and found ways to make gifting feel as enjoyable and effortless as shopping for myself.
This year, I’m reminding myself that the most magical gifts are often the things people wouldn’t normally treat themselves to or might not even think to buy. That’s what this list is all about—whimsical and/or special little luxuries that no one truly needs but almost anyone would love. Gifts that elevate the every day and make living the art it’s meant to be.
Elevate your pajama gifting tradition and gift these pants instead.
My most-worn belt. Sounds simple, but feels luxe.
Stand out from the sea of tennis necklaces. This diamond necklace will take their breath away.
This journal looks at least 3x more expensive than it actually is. Bonus that it’s refillable and customizable.
Any wellness girlie in your life wants these.
A little detail for the ultimate hostess.
You may not even need to gift wrap this because it looks like a little present on it’s own.
This gives travel upgrades a whole new meaning.
Because your most important things should live in something special.
Your headphones deserve a nice home, too.
Already wrapped and ready to eat.
Kick-off Dry January early with this perfect sparkling set.
Because the tools can make or break the look.
Tomato season is a state of mind.
Because they would never treat themselves to this.
As easy as a tech gift will ever get.
The best universal gift goes to… these.
Here to elevate your daily supplement routine to a whole new level.
When in doubt, a luxe beauty set.
A tiny dish for tiny treasures.
Give them something to do and admire later.
A favorite travel case. And an even better gift when personalized.
Leather travel slipper that zip closed for easy packing!
Some of my favorite gifts for the home— and most things from here already come wrapped and ready to gift.
An essential for any everything shower routine.
Pro Gifting Essentials
I keep these three, simple items on hand to make a gift look chic in a pinch.
Craft Paper: I buy mine from Amazon and keep lots on hand at all times.
Raw Ribbon: The best-kept last-minute secret? I buy my raw ribbon from Amazon.
Notecards: Written Ceremony makes some beautiful notecards I love to slip into the gift after it’s wrapped.
I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving and holiday weekend ahead.
Take your time, and take care, always.
Dianna
And now… Three Things I Love and A Haircare Tip:
Sezane Amiel Sweater — This sweater has been a fall and winter staple. Last year, I lived in the red version, and this year I’m all about it in a versatile neutral.
Cheerie Lane Popcorn — My husband (aka Bubs) and I are obsessed with these popcorn pods! Select your custom flavors in a festive holiday tin.
Jennifer Behr Headband — The simplest way to add a festive touch to any look. Jennifer and her team create the most comfortable, elegant headbands—we especially love this one on JLaw. Fun fact: we collaborated on a Crown Affair green version a few years ago :)
Hair Tip, Holiday Edition: Hairspray for Texture and Hold—Without the Crunch
When setting a holiday hairstyle, remember that a great hairspray should do more than just lock everything in place—it should enhance texture, body, and shine. Traditional hairsprays can leave hair stiff and dry, but we formulated The Finishing Hair Spray to be touchable, lightweight, and perfect for layering. Spray lightly from a distance to set your look, and refresh throughout the day without weighing your hair down. It’s ideal for maintaining natural, touchable movement while keeping your style polished and long-lasting. Add a headband or a bow and you’re good to go!
so good